In the enigmatic realm of Destiny 2, Ascendant Shards stand as highly coveted materials, essential for crafting and enhancing the most formidable gear. These ethereal fragments can unlock the true potential of your Guardians, but acquiring them presents a formidable challenge. Tread carefully through the intricate labyrinth of activities that yield these precious resources, for your path will be fraught with both peril and the promise of unimaginable power.
Ascendant Shards are epitomized as enigmatic fragments of the Ascendant Plane, the ethereal realm that exists parallel to our own. To delve into this mystical dimension, you must navigate the formidable Nightfall Ordeals. These high-stakes missions demand unwavering teamwork, strategic prowess, and an unwavering determination to overcome the relentless hordes that lurk within. Conquer these challenges, and you may be rewarded with a glimmer of Ascendant Shards, the remnants of the Ascendant Plane seeping into our world.
Another avenue to acquire Ascendant Shards lies within the enigmatic Grasp of Avarice dungeon. This labyrinthine lair conceals hidden treasures amidst its perilous traps and enigmatic puzzles. Embark on this treacherous journey with a steadfast fireteam, for the rewards that await those who unravel its secrets extend beyond mere loot. The depths of the Grasp of Avarice hold the promise of Ascendant Shards, a testament to your unwavering resolve and cunning intellect. Prepare yourself for a trial that will test the limits of your abilities as you traverse the shadows and claim the spoils that destiny holds in store.
Raids: A Crucible of Ascendant Rewards
Destiny 2’s raids are the ultimate PvE challenges, pitting players against some of the game’s most formidable enemies. As the rewards for completing raids are often some of the best in the game, players will often grind raids to obtain Ascendant Shards, an essential currency for upgrading Exotic gear.
There are currently six raids in Destiny 2, each with its own unique set of rewards, including Ascendant Shards. The following table outlines the number of Ascendant Shards that can be obtained from each raid:
| Raid | Ascendant Shards |
|---|---|
| Vault of Glass | 3 |
| Deep Stone Crypt | 3 |
| Garden of Salvation | 2 |
| Last Wish | 2 |
| King’s Fall | 3 |
| Vow of the Disciple | 3 |
In addition to the guaranteed Ascendant Shards that can be obtained from raids, players also have a chance to receive them as a random drop from raid chests. The drop rate for Ascendant Shards from raid chests is relatively low, but it is still possible to get lucky and obtain multiple Ascendant Shards in a single raid run.
Ascendant Chests: Treasures Await
Unlocking the Hidden Caches
Ascendant Chests are rare and coveted treasures found within the Shattered Throne dungeon. These chests contain powerful rewards, including Ascendant Shards, the rare currency needed to infuse Masterworked armor. To access these chests, players must first complete the dungeon’s first encounter, the Labyrinth. Upon doing so, they will receive an Ascendant Key, which can be used to open one of the three Ascendant Chests hidden throughout the dungeon.
Unveiling the Chest’s Secrets
The three Ascendant Chests are located in the following locations:
- Chest 1: Found in the Chamber of Suffering, accessible after defeating the Ogre boss.
- Chest 2: Located in the Chamber of Sorrows, concealed behind a hidden door that requires a special key
- Chest 3: Hidden within the final encounter, the Throne of Dul Incaru, accessible after defeating the boss.
Each chest requires a separate Ascendant Key to open. Once unlocked, they will reward players with a random assortment of loot, including Ascendant Shards, Enhancement Cores, and Legendary Gear. The chest in the final encounter guarantees an Ascendant Shard, making it the most valuable target for players seeking to acquire this resource.
Weekly Challenges: Prove Your Worth
Weekly challenges are the primary source of Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2. These challenges consist of various activities that test your skills and abilities as a Guardian.
Master and Grandmaster Nightfalls
Master and Grandmaster Nightfalls are the most challenging activities in Destiny 2, and they offer the highest chance of earning Ascendant Shards. These Nightfalls have significantly increased enemy density and difficulty, so it’s important to have a well-coordinated team and high-level gear. By completing a Master Nightfall, you have a chance to earn one Ascendant Shard, while Grandmaster Nightfalls have a chance to drop two.
To participate in Master or Grandmaster Nightfalls, you must have completed the following prerequisites:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Masterwork a piece of armor | Upgrade a piece of armor to level 10 by using Enhancement Prisms and Ascendant Shards. |
| Champion Mods | Unlock Champion Mods from the Seasonal Artifact. |
| High Power Level | Reach a Power Level close to or above the activity’s recommended level. |
Nightfall Ordeals: Test Your Limits
Nightfall Ordeals are pinnacle activities in Destiny 2 that offer a significant challenge for both solo players and fireteams. They are available in different difficulty levels, each offering an increased reward tier. Completing a Nightfall Ordeal with a Gold Tier or higher score is one of the ways to obtain Ascendant Shards.
To increase your chances of earning Ascendant Shards, focus on achieving the highest possible score in Nightfall Ordeals. This involves completing the activity quickly, efficiently, and without dying. Utilize all your weapons, abilities, and strategies to overcome the challenges and maximize your score.
Modifiers: The Path to Success
Modifiers play a significant role in shaping the difficulty and rewards of Nightfall Ordeals. Certain modifiers can directly impact your ability to obtain Ascendant Shards. Consider the following when tackling Nightfalls:
| Modifier | Effect |
|---|---|
| Glass | Shields are disabled, making Guardians extremely vulnerable to damage. |
| Attrition | Health and ability regeneration are significantly reduced, forcing Guardians to conserve resources carefully. |
| Champions | Additional enemy types known as Champions appear, requiring specific strategies to defeat. |
| Famine | Heavy ammo drops are scarce, encouraging Guardians to rely on precision shots and special weapons. |
To optimize your chances of success in Nightfall Ordeals and maximize your chances of earning Ascendant Shards, carefully consider the modifiers active during each run. Be prepared to adjust your loadout and strategy accordingly to overcome the challenges they present.
Ascendant Shards from Dismantling
Dismantling masterworked weapons and armor is one of the most reliable ways to obtain Ascendant Shards, as they are guaranteed to drop from every masterworked item you dismantle. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind when using this method:
- Only masterworked items will drop Ascendant Shards.
- The number of Ascendant Shards you get from dismantling a masterworked item depends on the item’s power level. The higher the power level, the more Ascendant Shards you’ll get.
- Dismantling exotic masterworked items will always give you an Ascendant Shard.
- Dismantling legendary masterworked items will give you a chance to get an Ascendant Shard. The chance increases with the item’s power level.
- Dismantling rare masterworked items will not give you an Ascendant Shard.
Here’s a table that summarizes the chances of getting an Ascendant Shard from dismantling masterworked items:
| Item Type | Chance of Getting an Ascendant Shard |
|---|---|
| Exotic | 100% |
| Legendary | 20% |
| Rare | 0% |
Xur’s Offerings: A Mystery to Behold
Xur, a mysterious and enigmatic figure, has a habit of appearing in various locations throughout the solar system. His inventory is constantly changing, offering a variety of exotic weapons, armor, and other items. While the contents of his inventory are a matter of mystery, there are a few consistent items that he often carries.
Exotic Engram
Xur’s Exotic Engram is a random exotic loot drop that can contain weapons, armor, or even cosmetic items. While the contents of the Engram are random, it can provide an excellent opportunity to obtain new and exciting items.
Ascendant Shard
Ascendant Shards are a rare and valuable currency. They can be used to acquire Exotic Engrams and can also be used to purchase certain items from the Monument to Lost Lights.
Legendary Shards
Legendary Shards are a common currency that can be used to purchase items from vendors and can also be used to infuse weapons and armor.
Exotic Cipher
Exotic Ciphers are a rare currency that can only be obtained from completing specific activities. They can be exchanged for specific exotic items from Xur’s inventory.
Improvement Core
Improvement Cores are used to enhance the stats of weapons and armor. They can be obtained from dismantling Legendary and Exotic gear or from completing certain activities.
Other Potential Offerings
In addition to the previously listed items, Xur’s inventory may also contain the following:
- Exotic Weapons
- Exotic Armor
- Cosmetic Items (e.g., Emotes, Shaders)
- Seasonal Items (e.g., Mods, Armor Ornaments)
- Other Rare and Valuable Items
Prices and Payment Options
The prices of Xur’s offerings vary depending on the item being sold. Some items can be purchased with Legendary Shards, while others may require Ascendant Shards or Exotic Ciphers. Xur accepts the following forms of payment:
| Currency | Accepted Items |
|---|---|
| Legendary Shards | Legendary Weapons, Armor, and Engrams |
| Ascendant Shards | Exotic Engrams |
| Exotic Ciphers | Specific Exotic Items |
Season of the Worthy Rewards
In the Season of the Worthy, Ascendant Shards could be obtained from the following sources:
Seraph Tower Event
Completing a Seraph Tower event rewarded 1-2 Ascendant Shards.
Nightmare Hunts
Completing a Nightmare Hunt for the first time rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard.
Pit of Heresy Dungeon
Completing the Pit of Heresy dungeon rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard.
Garden of Salvation Raid
Completing the Garden of Salvation raid rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard per encounter, for a total of 3 Ascendant Shards.
Last Wish Raid
Completing the Last Wish raid rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard per encounter, for a total of 3 Ascendant Shards.
Scourge of the Past Raid
Completing the Scourge of the Past raid rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard per encounter, for a total of 3 Ascendant Shards.
Crown of Sorrows Raid
Completing the Crown of Sorrows raid rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard per encounter, for a total of 3 Ascendant Shards.
Dreaming City Ascendant Challenge
Completing the Dreaming City Ascendant Challenge rewarded 1 Ascendant Shard.
Weekly Bounties
Completing certain weekly bounties rewarded Ascendant Shards:
| Bounty | Reward |
|---|---|
| Petra’s Weekly Bounties | 1 Ascendant Shard |
| Banshee-44’s Weekly Bounties | 1 Ascendant Shard |
| Zavala’s Weekly Bounties | 1 Ascendant Shard |
Seasonal Artifact Bonuses
The Seasonal Artifact is a powerful tool that can be used to enhance your character’s abilities. Each season, a new artifact is released, which provides different bonuses and mods. Some of these bonuses can help you to earn Ascendant Shards. Here are some of the most useful bonuses to look for:
– Ascendant Shard Bonus: This bonus increases the chance of getting Ascendant Shards from activities.
– Increased Glimmer Gain: Glimmer is used to purchase various items from vendors, including Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the amount of Glimmer you earn, making it easier to save up for Ascendant Shards.
– Increased Legendary Engram Drop Rate: Legendary Engrams have a chance of containing Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the chance of getting Legendary Engrams, making it more likely that you’ll get Ascendant Shards.
– Increased Prime Engram Drop Rate: Prime Engrams have a higher chance of containing Ascendant Shards than Legendary Engrams. This bonus increases the chance of getting Prime Engrams, making it even more likely that you’ll get Ascendant Shards.
– Increased Raid Reward Chances: Raids are a great source of Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the chance of getting Ascendant Shards from raids.
– Increased Nightfall Reward Chances: Nightfalls are another great source of Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the chance of getting Ascendant Shards from Nightfalls.
– Increased Crucible Reward Chances: The Crucible is a PvP mode where you can earn Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the chance of getting Ascendant Shards from the Crucible.
– Increased Gambit Reward Chances: Gambit is a PvE/PvP hybrid mode where you can earn Ascendant Shards. This bonus increases the chance of getting Ascendant Shards from Gambit.
Dreaming City Weekly Missions
Complete the following weekly missions in the Dreaming City to earn Ascendant Shards:
- Ascendant Challenge: Each week, a different Ascendant Challenge becomes available. Complete the challenge to earn an Ascendant Shard.
- Shattered Throne Dungeon: Clear the Shattered Throne Dungeon on any difficulty to earn an Ascendant Shard (once per week).
- Blind Well: Defeat Tier 4 or higher Blind Well bosses to have a chance of earning Ascendant Shards.
Triumphs
Certain Triumphs related to the Dreaming City also award Ascendant Shards:
- Harbinger: Complete the Harbinger mission for the first time.
- Ascendant Champion: Defeat 50 Ascendant Champions in the Dreaming City.
Other Activities
Ascendant Shards can also be earned through the following activities with a lower chance:
- Public Events: Public events in the Dreaming City have a low chance of rewarding Ascendant Shards.
- Strike Chests: Strike chests in the Dreaming City have a chance of containing Ascendant Shards.
| Activity | Drop Rate |
|---|---|
| Ascendant Challenge | Guaranteed |
| Shattered Throne Dungeon | Guaranteed |
| Blind Well (Tier 4+) | Low |
| Triumphs | Variable |
| Public Events | Low |
| Strike Chests | Low |
Triumphs and Bounties: Ascendant Endeavors
Ascendant Endeavors is a Triumph category in Destiny 2: Shadowkeep that tracks your progress in completing bounties and Triumphs related to the Ascendant Realm. Completing these tasks rewards you with Ascendant Shards, a valuable resource used to upgrade Exotic gear.
Here are some specific Triumphs and bounties that reward Ascendant Shards:
Triumphs:
Bounties:
Ascendant Challenge Bounties:
Each week, a different Ascendant Challenge is available in the Ascendant Realm. Completing the Ascendant Challenge bounty rewards an Ascendant Shard.
| Challenge | Reward |
|---|---|
| Aphelion’s Rest | Ascendant Shard |
| Bay of Drowned Wishes | Ascendant Shard |
| Chamber of Starlight | Ascendant Shard |
| Corrupted Ether Tank | Ascendant Shard |
| Garden of Esila | Ascendant Shard |
How to Get Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2
Ascendant Shards are a rare and valuable currency in Destiny 2 that are used to upgrade Masterworked armor to level 10. This can help significantly boost your stats and make your character more powerful. However, Ascendant Shards are not easy to come by, so you’ll want to know the best ways to farm them.
There are three main ways to get Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2:
- Completing Nightfall Strikes on Master difficulty. This is the most reliable way to get Ascendant Shards, but it can be challenging. You’ll need to be well-prepared and have a team of skilled players to complete these strikes.
- Decrypting Prime Engrams. Prime Engrams have a chance to drop Ascendant Shards when decrypted. You can get Prime Engrams by completing activities in the game, such as strikes, Crucible matches, and Gambit matches.
- Purchasing them from the Prismatic Matrix. You can also purchase Ascendant Shards from the Prismatic Matrix in the Tower. However, this is a very expensive option, so it’s not recommended unless you have a lot of Glimmer to spare.
Once you have collected enough Ascendant Shards, you can use them to upgrade your Masterworked armor at the Gunsmith in the Tower.
People Also Ask About How to Get Ascendant Shards in Destiny 2
Can I get Ascendant Shards from the raid?
Yes, you can get Ascendant Shards from the raid. However, the drop rate is very low, so it’s not a reliable way to farm them.
Can I get Ascendant Shards from Gambit?
Yes, you can get Ascendant Shards from Gambit. However, the drop rate is very low, so it’s not a reliable way to farm them.
Can I buy Ascendant Shards from Xur?
No, you cannot buy Ascendant Shards from Xur. He only sells Exotic Engrams, Legendary Shards, and other items.
