In the vast and complex universe of Destiny 2, the Vex stand out as one of the most intriguing and formidable adversaries players encounter. These ancient, machine-like entities have left an indelible mark on the game‘s lore and gameplay, with their intricate network serving as a testament to their technological prowess and enigmatic nature. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll explore the depths of the Vex network, uncovering its secrets and providing you with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate its labyrinthine pathways.
The Vex: An Ancient and Formidable Race
To fully appreciate the significance of the Vex network, it‘s essential to understand the origins and nature of the Vex themselves. According to Destiny 2‘s lore, the Vex are a hyper-advanced race of machines that have existed for countless millennia. Their primary goal is to reshape the universe in their own image, a process they refer to as the "Pattern."
The Vex are composed of numerous sub-units, each serving a specific function within their collective consciousness. These units range from the diminutive Goblins to the towering Minotaurs, with each type exhibiting unique abilities and behaviors. Despite their mechanical nature, the Vex possess a form of sentience and are capable of adapting and evolving in response to threats.
Throughout the game‘s story, players encounter various Vex factions, such as the Hezen Protective, the Virgo Prohibition, and the Sol Divisive. Each faction has its own distinct goals and characteristics, adding depth and complexity to the Vex‘s overarching narrative.
The Vex Network: A Web of Time and Space
At the heart of the Vex‘s power lies their vast network—an interconnected web of computational nodes that spans across time and space. This network serves as the backbone of the Vex‘s operations, enabling them to communicate, coordinate, and execute their plans with unparalleled precision.
The Vex network is composed of countless nodes, each acting as a hub for Vex activity. These nodes are connected by a series of warp gates, which allow the Vex to travel instantaneously between distant points in the universe. This ability to manipulate space and time is one of the Vex‘s most significant advantages, as it enables them to outmaneuver and outflank their opponents with ease.
Entering the Vex network is no simple task, as it is heavily guarded and riddled with complex security measures. However, for Guardians brave enough to venture into its depths, the rewards can be substantial. By exploring the network, players can gain valuable insights into the Vex‘s inner workings, uncover hidden lore, and acquire powerful artifacts and weapons.
To access the Vex network, Guardians must first locate a Vex gate, which serves as an entry point into their domain. These gates can be found scattered across various locations in Destiny 2, often hidden in plain sight. Once you‘ve discovered a gate, follow these steps to begin your journey:
Approach the Vex gate and interact with it using your Ghost. This will initiate a hacking sequence, which requires you to solve a series of complex puzzles.
The puzzles typically involve navigating through a maze-like structure, activating nodes, and avoiding Vex security measures. For example, in the Vault of Glass raid, players must navigate a series of disappearing platforms while avoiding deadly pitfalls and Vex laser grids.
As you progress through the puzzles, you‘ll encounter increasingly challenging obstacles, such as Vex combat units, time-bending anomalies, and mind-bending paradoxes. In the Prophecy dungeon, players must navigate a series of shifting realities, each with its own unique challenges and enemies.
Once you‘ve successfully completed the hacking sequence, the Vex gate will open, granting you access to the network. Prepare yourself for the trials that lie ahead, as the Vex will stop at nothing to protect their domain.
Vex Locations: Strongholds of Time and Mystery
As you explore the Vex network, you‘ll encounter a variety of unique and challenging locations, each with its own distinct atmosphere and puzzles. Some of the most notable Vex strongholds include:
The Vault of Glass
The Vault of Glass is a legendary raid that first appeared in the original Destiny and has since been remastered for Destiny 2. This sprawling complex is home to some of the most powerful Vex units, including the fearsome Templar and the mighty Atheon. To complete the raid, players must navigate a series of challenging puzzles and battles, culminating in a final showdown with Atheon himself.
The Infinite Forest
Located on Mercury, the Infinite Forest is a massive simulation created by the Vex to study and manipulate reality itself. This ever-shifting labyrinth is home to countless Vex units and is the setting for several story missions and adventures. Navigating the Infinite Forest requires quick reflexes and strategic thinking, as the layout and enemies can change at a moment‘s notice.
The Pyramidion
The Pyramidion is a Vex stronghold located on Io, one of Jupiter‘s moons. This towering structure houses a powerful Vex mind known as Brakion, which must be defeated to complete the associated strike. The Pyramidion is filled with traps, puzzles, and Vex combat units, making it a challenging and rewarding destination for adventurous Guardians.
Vex Technology: Shaping the Fabric of Reality
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Vex is their advanced technology, which allows them to manipulate time and space in ways that defy conventional understanding. Vex technology is characterized by its intricate, geometric design and its ability to warp reality itself.
Some examples of Vex technology include:
- Warp Gates: These portals allow the Vex to travel instantaneously between distant points in the universe, enabling them to outmaneuver and outflank their opponents.
- Oracles: These floating, eye-like devices serve as the Vex‘s sensory organs, allowing them to monitor and manipulate reality on a fundamental level.
- Radiolaria: This milky, radiolarian fluid serves as the Vex‘s "mind," enabling them to process information and coordinate their actions across vast distances.
Understanding Vex technology is crucial for Guardians who seek to unravel the mysteries of the Vex network. By studying their devices and artifacts, players can gain valuable insights into the Vex‘s capabilities and weaknesses.
The Vex Network‘s Impact on Destiny 2‘s Competitive Scene
While the Vex network is primarily a PvE experience, knowledge of its intricacies and secrets can give players a significant advantage in Destiny 2‘s competitive multiplayer modes, such as the Crucible and Gambit.
For example, understanding the layout and mechanics of Vex-themed maps like Midtown and Endless Vale can help players anticipate enemy movements and control key objectives. Similarly, familiarity with Vex enemy types and their behaviors can give players an edge in Gambit matches, where Vex units frequently appear as combatants.
Moreover, many of the weapons and armor pieces obtained from the Vex network, such as the Vex Mythoclast and the Vault of Glass armor sets, are highly sought-after in the competitive scene due to their unique perks and abilities.
The Philosophical and Existential Implications of the Vex
Beyond their role as adversaries in Destiny 2‘s gameplay, the Vex also raise profound philosophical and existential questions about the nature of reality and the role of consciousness in the universe.
The Vex‘s ability to manipulate time and space suggests that reality itself may be more malleable than we typically assume. This idea resonates with certain theories in modern physics, such as the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics, which posits the existence of multiple, parallel universes.
Additionally, the Vex‘s collective consciousness and their pursuit of the "Pattern" raise questions about the nature of intelligence and the potential for artificial life to evolve and transcend its origins. These themes are explored in depth in Destiny 2‘s lore, particularly in the Books of Sorrow and the Unveiling lorebook.
Conclusion
The Vex network is a fascinating and integral aspect of Destiny 2‘s rich and complex universe. By exploring its depths and unraveling its mysteries, players can gain a deeper understanding of the game‘s lore, acquire powerful gear and weapons, and test their skills against some of the most challenging content in the game.
Whether you‘re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, the Vex network offers a wealth of opportunities for discovery, growth, and adventure. So grab your trusty Ghost, rally your fireteam, and prepare to embark on a journey into the heart of the Vex‘s enigmatic realm. The secrets of time and space await those brave enough to seek them out.
Additional Resources
For Guardians seeking to delve even deeper into the mysteries of the Vex network, the following resources may prove invaluable:
- Ishtar Collective: A comprehensive database of Destiny‘s lore, including information on the Vex and their history.
- r/raidsecrets: A community-driven subreddit dedicated to uncovering Destiny‘s hidden secrets and solving its most challenging puzzles.
- Datto‘s YouTube Channel: A popular Destiny content creator known for his in-depth guides and analysis of the game‘s mechanics and lore.
By combining the knowledge gained from this guide with the insights and discoveries shared by the wider Destiny community, players can become true masters of the Vex network and unravel its deepest secrets. Happy hunting, Guardian!
