Strand is one of the most exciting additions in Destiny 2, bringing a fresh subclass that introduces a new way to approach combat, movement, and strategy. Introduced with the Lightfall expansion, unlocking Strand opens up unique gameplay mechanics centered around controlling threads of energy to suspend, grapple, and manipulate enemies and the battlefield itself. Unlike the other Light or Darkness subclasses, Strand requires a bit more dedication and progression to fully unlock, especially for those who want access across multiple characters. Whether you’re new to Lightfall or returning after a break, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to unlock Strand in Destiny 2, including key steps, tips, and how to maximize your new subclass abilities once you obtain them.
Understanding Strand in Destiny 2
Strand is a Darkness-based subclass introduced in the Lightfall expansion. It is thematically tied to the idea of unraveling reality and controlling fate through threads. Each class Hunter, Titan, and Warlock receives a unique take on the subclass:
- Huntersgain the Threadrunner, focused on mobility and high-damage melee attacks.
- Titansbecome Berserkers, using blades of Strand energy to cleave enemies in close quarters.
- Warlockswield the Broodweaver, summoning Threadlings and controlling space with woven energy.
Strand comes with new mechanics like Grapple (replacing the grenade slot), Suspend, Sever, and Unravel. These abilities make it one of the most versatile subclasses, especially for players who enjoy fluid movement and crowd control.
How to Unlock Strand in Destiny 2
Step 1: Start the Lightfall Campaign
To unlock Strand, you must own and begin theLightfall campaign. This expansion is set on Neptune, in a city called Neomuna. As you progress through the campaign, you will periodically get access to temporary versions of Strand during key missions. These instances allow you to experiment with the subclass, giving you a taste of its power and potential.
The campaign consists of several missions, each building on the narrative and gameplay elements tied to Strand. It is highly recommended to complete the campaign on Legendary difficulty if possible, as it grants better gear rewards and helps prepare your character for endgame content.
Step 2: Complete the Final Campaign Mission
The true unlocking of Strand happens after completing thefinal campaign mission, titled ‘Desperate Measures.’ This mission provides the climax of the Lightfall story and your full access to the Strand subclass. Once completed, you are rewarded with permanent access to the base version of Strand for the character you used during the campaign.
However, this only applies to that single character. To unlock Strand for your other characters (e.g., Titan if you finished the campaign with Warlock), you’ll need to complete specific objectives or pay in-game currency at the Pouka Pond, discussed below.
Step 3: Visit the Pouka Pond
After completing the campaign, head to thePouka Pondin the Hall of Heroes on Neomuna. This is where you unlock and customize your Strand subclass. Here, you can start building your ideal setup by unlocking various Aspects and Fragments using Strand Meditations.
The Pouka Pond is also where you return to unlock Strand for alternate characters or to expand your abilities with new traits. At this point, the true customization begins, allowing you to fine-tune your build based on your playstyle and class-specific strengths.
Strand Meditations and Unlocking Abilities
What Are Strand Meditations?
Strand Meditations are a form of in-game currency earned by performing activities while using the Strand subclass. They are essential for unlocking new Aspects and Fragments. These include:
- Defeating enemies using Strand abilities
- Completing patrols, public events, and Lost Sectors in Neomuna while using Strand
- Completing specific quests and bounties related to Strand
To unlock the full potential of Strand, you will need to collect a significant number of these Meditations. They can be turned in at the Pouka Pond to unlock traits that enhance your movement, combat control, or survivability.
Unlocking Aspects and Fragments
Aspects are core subclass modifiers that change how your abilities work, while Fragments are smaller modifiers that offer stat boosts or additional effects. For example:
- Thread of Ascent: Activates a reload and air boost upon grenade use.
- Thread of Warding: Grants Woven Mail when picking up an Orb of Power.
- Thread of Finality: Finishers create Threadlings, aiding in crowd control.
Each class has unique Aspects, such as the Hunter’s Ensnaring Slam or the Warlock’s Weavewalk. Unlocking all these options allows you to truly tailor your build for specific activities, whether it’s PvE, PvP, or Raids.
How to Unlock Strand for Other Characters
If you have multiple characters, you don’t need to replay the entire campaign each time. Once you finish the Lightfall campaign on one character, you can unlock Strand on your other characters by doing a short quest or paying 200 Strand Meditations at the Pouka Pond. This saves a lot of time and effort for players who maintain multiple classes.
Tips to Farm Strand Meditations Fast
Unlocking every Aspect and Fragment can be time-consuming. Here are some quick tips to help you farm Strand Meditations efficiently:
- Run public events in Neomuna with your Strand subclass equipped.
- Complete Terminal Overload activities for high Meditation rewards.
- Focus on Neomuna patrols, as they are fast and reward Meditations on completion.
- Equip Strand in Nightfalls and seasonal activities to stack up Meditations passively.
Combining these methods will speed up the process of unlocking the full potential of Strand, making your Guardian much more powerful and versatile.
Why Unlocking Strand Is Worth It
Strand is not just another subclass it introduces a fundamentally different playstyle. With the Grapple ability, you gain unmatched mobility, allowing you to swing through arenas or close gaps quickly in Crucible. Suspend and Unravel offer elite crowd control, especially against Champions in PvE content.
Moreover, Strand adds to the overall power fantasy of Destiny 2 by giving players more freedom to experiment. It’s especially effective in high-end content like Nightfalls, Raids, and Dungeons. Once fully unlocked, Strand can be one of the strongest subclass choices depending on your build and preference.
Unlocking Strand in Destiny 2 is a rewarding journey that ties directly into the Lightfall campaign and continues well into endgame progression. From completing missions and collecting Strand Meditations to customizing your build with Aspects and Fragments, each step opens up more creative possibilities. Whether you’re a PvE veteran or a PvP warrior, Strand offers tools to enhance your performance and deepen your connection to your Guardian’s power. Dive into the threads of destiny, unlock Strand, and take control of the battlefield in a whole new way.