NetEase Games has set an August 28th release date for Destiny: Rising, the mobile-exclusive sci-fi RPG shooter that brings Bungie's universe to iOS and Android. The announcement came with the game's first gameplay trailer, showing missions, strikes, PvP battles, and PvE content in action.
The timing surprises some players who expected a Q1 2026 launch at the earliest. NetEase, the Chinese developer behind Marvel Rivals and Diablo Immortal, is handling development as Bungie's partner on the project.
Alternate Timeline Opens Doors for New Players
Destiny: Rising takes place in an "alternate timeline before the events of the original game." This setup lets newcomers jump in without needing knowledge of previous Destiny titles, while existing fans get to explore a different version of the universe they know.
Players can create a fully customizable Lightbearer named Wolf or choose from legendary Destiny characters like Ikora Rey and Iron Lord Jolder. The character options balance fresh content with familiar faces that franchise veterans will recognize.
New Features and Weapon Systems
The game includes single-player content, co-op modes, and competitive multiplayer. Players can customize Primary and Power Weapons, with loadouts that work across different characters in their arsenal.
NetEase has added a new weapon type specifically for Destiny: Rising, expanding beyond the franchise's traditional categories. A new Mythic-tier rarity represents the highest level of gear available, with NetEase promising "tons of exciting loot to gather for your characters."
Development Backed by Major Investment
The project stems from NetEase's $100 million investment in Bungie back in 2018. That partnership has been years in the making, with the game first announced in October 2024.
NetEase conducted a limited playtest in November to gather feedback and generate buzz before the full launch. The developer brings mobile gaming expertise from successful titles like Marvel Rivals and Diablo Immortal to the Destiny franchise.
Pre-Registration Campaign Hits Milestones
NetEase is running a pre-registration event that unlocks special bonuses when the game launches. The milestone system reveals more rewards as player numbers climb, with current registration sitting at five million players and the final incentive target set at 10 million.
Preorders are live on both Google Play and the App Store. The free-to-play model removes barriers for players who haven't tried the Destiny franchise before, potentially expanding the audience beyond traditional console and PC players.
Mobile Gaming Market Expansion
The August 28th launch positions Destiny: Rising during peak summer mobile gaming activity. NetEase's strategy targets the growing mobile market, especially in regions where mobile gaming dominates over console platforms.
The game's performance will likely influence how other major console franchises approach mobile adaptations. NetEase's track record with mobile versions of established franchises suggests they understand how to translate complex gameplay systems to touchscreen controls.
This marks a significant test for bringing shooter experiences to mobile platforms while maintaining the depth that Destiny fans expect. The alternate timeline approach gives NetEase creative freedom to adapt the formula without contradicting established lore.
