Destiny 2 for Xbox One buyer's guide: Release date, editions, preorder bonuses and more

Destiny 2, the latest entry in Bungie's sci-fi shooter franchise, is now just around the corner for those on Xbox One. Delivering some notable iterations on the original, the game adds a deeper narrative-driven campaign mode, new subclasses and hours of new content to explore. Hoping to build upon the strengths of its predecessor, Destiny 2 is shaping up to be one of the biggest releases this fall.

Everything we know so far about Destiny 2 for Xbox One

With six different editions at launch, Destiny 2 has several tiers to considers when picking up your copy. We've wrapped up everything you need to about the contents of these additions, to help decide which is best for you.

Destiny 2 release date

Destiny 2 is currently scheduled for release on September 6, 2017, for Xbox One and PlayStation 4 (PS4). While the game was initially unveiled with a release date of Friday, September 8, this date was later moved two days forward, for a mid-week release. Those waiting for the PC version of Destiny 2 will have to wait until October 24, 2017.

Destiny 2 preorder bonuses

Although bonuses are available for preordering Destiny 2, the available content isn't spread widely across retailers. Among the offerings is an Exotic-class Trace Rifle known as the "Coldheart," a special edition Ghost skin, and a unique Emote. Better yet, this content will be available for all players later in the year, making the bonus early access, rather than full exclusivity. Here's a breakdown of how preorders are distributed among major US retailers.

Swipe to scroll horizontally
Header Cell - Column 0 Coldheart Exotic Trace RifleKill-Tracker GhostSalute Emote
Xbox Store
Microsoft StoreRow 1 - Cell 1 Row 1 - Cell 2 Row 1 - Cell 3
AmazonRow 2 - Cell 2 Row 2 - Cell 3
GameStopRow 3 - Cell 3
Best BuyRow 4 - Cell 3

Destiny 2 Standard Edition (physical)

The standard version of Destiny 2 is expected to cost $59.99 at launch, with additional content available alongside preorders. This version of the game is most common and will be stocked by a majority of video game retailers.

Destiny 2 Standard Edition (digital)

A digital version of Destiny 2 is also available, sold in brick and mortar stores as a prepaid Xbox Live code, or via the Xbox Store. Most retailers who stock prepaid codes will distribute the codes ahead of launch, to give players the chance to pre-load the title. These copies of the game will unlock at 12:01 in your time zone. It should cost $60.

Destiny 2 Expansion Pass and Bundle (digital)

While the base version of Destiny 2 will keep you covered at launch, the game's reliance on post-launch content is a major aspect of its business model. Between four paid expansions and free rotations of content, the ever-changing nature of first Destiny was a huge part of its appeal. To ensure you're covered for expansions to come, the Expansion Pass Bundle nets you a digital copy of the base game alongside two expansion packs. It will cost about $90.

Destiny 2 Digital Deluxe Edition (digital)

Stepping up from the Expansion Pass Bundle, the Digital Deluxe Edition is an easy way to unlock an exclusive set of bonuses. Although $10 more at $100, you'll be gaining access to the base game and expansions, alongside content only available in this tier or higher. Included is a Legendary Sword, Legendary Player Emote, and Cabal Themed Emblem.

Destiny 2 Limited Edition (only at GameStop)

Although Destiny 2's special editions mostly focus on digital in-game content, the Limited Edition, available only at GameStop, throws some physical goods into the mix. By purchasing this edition you'll be receiving a physical package, containing a copy of the game in a "SteelBook" case, the expansion pass and bonus in-game content from the Digital Deluxe Edition.

The Limited Edition also comes with a Cabal-themed "Collector's Box," packed with physical items based on Destiny 2 lore. Included is a booklet of secrets surrounding the Cabal Empire, a Cabal schematic, collectible postcards and Cabal Military pawns. Priced at $99.99, this is a great way to get your hands on some physical Destiny 2 items, without the worry of breaking the bank.

See at GameStop

Destiny 2 Collector's Edition (physical)

For truly dedicated fans of the Destiny franchise, the Collector's Edition of Destiny 2 is the ultimate bundle of content. Not only will you be getting all aforementioned items – this version packs a bag full of merchandise, only available through this package.

Building on the Limited Edition content, the Collector's Edition includes a "Frontier Bag," which serves as a hybrid between a satchel and backpack. Packed inside is a solar panel USB charger, paracord and solar blanket, all themed with Destiny-related designs.

The price of these items comes in at a hefty $249.99 – but that's only if you can get ahold of them. At the time of writing, GameStop and Best Buy are currently out of stock, leaving Microsoft and Amazon as the only retailers with Collector's Editions on hand.

Matt Brown

Matt Brown was formerly a Windows Central's Senior Editor, Xbox & PC, at Future. Following over seven years of professional consumer technology and gaming coverage, he’s focused on the world of Microsoft's gaming efforts. You can follow him on Twitter @mattjbrown.