H1 How to Reach Shadow Keep Back Gate in Destiny 2: A Comprehensive Guide
The Shadowkeep expansion for Destiny 2 brought players back to the Moon, a location filled with secrets, challenges, and rewarding loot. One of the more enigmatic areas is the Shadowkeep Back Gate, a hidden entrance that leads to valuable resources and interesting encounters. However, reaching this location isn’t always straightforward. This comprehensive guide provides detailed steps and instructions on how to get to the Shadowkeep Back Gate, ensuring you can access all it has to offer.
## Understanding the Shadowkeep Back Gate
The Shadowkeep Back Gate isn’t just a simple doorway; it’s a portal to a unique part of the Moon. It connects the surface to the interior of the Scarlet Keep, allowing for faster travel and access to specific activities. Knowing its location and how to reach it will significantly improve your navigation and efficiency on the Moon.
## Prerequisites
Before embarking on your journey to the Shadowkeep Back Gate, ensure you meet the following prerequisites:
* **Own the Shadowkeep Expansion:** Accessing the Shadowkeep Back Gate requires ownership of the Shadowkeep expansion. Without it, you won’t be able to access the required areas.
* **Complete the Shadowkeep Campaign:** While not strictly mandatory, completing the Shadowkeep campaign will give you a better understanding of the Moon’s geography and unlock certain areas that can make your journey easier.
* **Recommended Power Level:** A power level of 1200 or higher is recommended, as you might encounter enemies along the way.
* **A Sparrow:** Having a sparrow will significantly speed up your travel time across the Moon.
* **Weapons and Armor:** Equip yourself with weapons and armor that are effective against Hive and Nightmare enemies.
## Step-by-Step Guide to Reach the Shadowkeep Back Gate
Follow these detailed steps to successfully reach the Shadowkeep Back Gate:
### Step 1: Landing at the Sorrow’s Harbor
Your journey begins at Sorrow’s Harbor, a central location on the Moon.
1. **Open the Director:** Access your Director by pressing the corresponding button on your controller or keyboard (usually the touchpad on PlayStation, the View button on Xbox, or the Tab key on PC).
2. **Navigate to the Moon:** Select the Moon from the destinations map.
3. **Choose Sorrow’s Harbor:** Choose Sorrow’s Harbor as your landing zone. It’s the most convenient starting point for reaching the Shadowkeep Back Gate.
4. **Spawn In:** Confirm your selection and spawn into Sorrow’s Harbor.
### Step 2: Traversing to the Anchor of Light
Once you’re in Sorrow’s Harbor, you need to head towards the Anchor of Light, a Fallen settlement that is crucial for navigating towards your destination.
1. **Summon Your Sparrow:** Immediately summon your sparrow to expedite your journey.
2. **Head Northeast:** From your spawn point, head northeast. You’ll see a large, dilapidated structure in the distance – that’s the direction you want to go.
3. **Follow the Path:** Stay on the main path, avoiding the deeper, darker areas to the sides. The path will curve slightly to the right as you approach the Anchor of Light.
4. **Pass Through the Fallen Territory:** As you enter the Anchor of Light, be prepared to encounter Fallen enemies. You can choose to engage them or simply ride past them on your sparrow. However, caution is advised, as they can easily knock you off your sparrow.
### Step 3: Navigating Through the Anchor of Light
Once you arrive at the Anchor of Light, navigate through the settlement to reach the path leading towards the Scarlet Keep.
1. **Continue Northeast:** Keep heading northeast through the Anchor of Light. You’ll pass through the main Fallen camp, which is usually bustling with activity.
2. **Look for the Exit:** On the far side of the Anchor of Light, you’ll find a path that leads upwards and towards the Scarlet Keep. This path is often guarded by more Fallen enemies.
3. **Ascend the Path:** Take the path that ascends towards the Scarlet Keep. The path is winding and can be a bit treacherous, so be careful not to fall off.
### Step 4: Heading towards the Scarlet Keep
After navigating through the Anchor of Light, follow the road to the Scarlet Keep. Be mindful of the enemies that may be present.
1. **Follow the Main Road:** Continue following the main road leading towards the Scarlet Keep. The Keep is a massive structure that dominates the horizon, making it easy to stay on course.
2. **Engage or Evade Enemies:** You’ll likely encounter a mix of Fallen and Hive enemies along the road. Decide whether to engage them or try to evade them based on your power level and confidence.
3. **Stay on the Road:** Stick to the main road to avoid getting lost. Straying off the path can lead to dead ends and unnecessary encounters.
### Step 5: Identifying the Lunar Battlegrounds Entrance
As you approach the Scarlet Keep, look for the entrance to the Lunar Battlegrounds on your left.
1. **Watch for a Large Opening:** On the left side of the road, you’ll notice a large opening that leads into a new area. This is the entrance to the Lunar Battlegrounds.
2. **Mark the Location:** Take note of this entrance, as it’s a crucial landmark for finding the Shadowkeep Back Gate.
3. **Prepare for a Change in Scenery:** As you enter the Lunar Battlegrounds, the environment will become more desolate and battle-scarred.
### Step 6: Entering the Lunar Battlegrounds
Enter the Lunar Battlegrounds and continue towards the area where the Back Gate is located.
1. **Enter the Opening:** Head into the opening that leads to the Lunar Battlegrounds. The landscape will change from the Fallen-occupied Anchor of Light to the war-torn environment of the Battlegrounds.
2. **Summon Your Sparrow (Again):** If your sparrow despawned, summon it again. The Lunar Battlegrounds are vast, and a sparrow will make traversing them much quicker.
3. **Head Straight:** From the entrance, head straight into the Lunar Battlegrounds. You’ll see a large, open area ahead.
### Step 7: Locating the Cliffside Path
Within the Lunar Battlegrounds, you need to find a cliffside path that leads up towards the Scarlet Keep. This path is somewhat hidden and requires a keen eye to spot.
1. **Look to Your Left:** As you enter the Lunar Battlegrounds, keep an eye on the left side. You’re looking for a narrow, dirt path that ascends the cliffside.
2. **Spot the Elevated Terrain:** The path is located on a slightly elevated section of terrain, making it stand out from the flatter areas of the Battlegrounds.
3. **Beware of Enemies:** This path is often guarded by Hive enemies, so be prepared for a fight.
### Step 8: Ascending the Cliffside Path
Follow the cliffside path upwards, eliminating any enemies in your way.
1. **Mount the Path:** Carefully ride your sparrow (or walk) onto the cliffside path. The path is narrow and uneven, so proceed with caution.
2. **Engage Enemies:** As you ascend, you’ll likely encounter Hive enemies. Engage them carefully, using cover to your advantage.
3. **Follow the Path Upwards:** Continue following the path as it winds upwards towards the Scarlet Keep. The path is relatively linear, so it’s hard to get lost.
### Step 9: Reaching the Back Gate Entrance
At the end of the cliffside path, you’ll find the entrance to the Shadowkeep Back Gate.
1. **Look for a Dark Cave Entrance:** The path will lead you to a small, dark cave entrance carved into the side of the Scarlet Keep.
2. **Identify the Back Gate:** The cave entrance is the Shadowkeep Back Gate. It’s often marked by Hive architecture and a sense of foreboding.
3. **Prepare to Enter:** Before entering, make sure your weapons are loaded, your abilities are charged, and you’re ready for any potential encounters inside.
### Step 10: Entering the Shadowkeep Back Gate
Once you’ve found the entrance, step inside the Shadowkeep Back Gate. You’ve successfully reached your destination.
1. **Approach the Entrance:** Walk or ride your sparrow towards the cave entrance.
2. **Enter the Cave:** Pass through the entrance into the Shadowkeep Back Gate. The environment will change, indicating that you’ve entered a new area.
3. **Explore and Discover:** Once inside, explore the area and discover its secrets and rewards. The Shadowkeep Back Gate is a valuable location for farming resources, completing quests, and engaging in challenging encounters.
## Tips and Tricks for Reaching the Shadowkeep Back Gate
* **Use a Guide:** If you’re having trouble finding the path, consider using a video guide or a map to help you navigate.
* **Team Up:** Partnering with other players can make the journey easier and more enjoyable. A fireteam can provide additional firepower and support.
* **Be Patient:** The path to the Shadowkeep Back Gate can be confusing at first, so be patient and don’t give up. With practice, you’ll be able to reach it quickly and easily.
* **Clear Enemies:** While it’s possible to evade enemies, clearing them out can make your journey safer and less stressful.
* **Upgrade Your Sparrow:** A faster sparrow can make the journey significantly quicker. Invest in a sparrow with good speed and handling.
* **Check Your Map:** Regularly check your map to ensure you’re on the right track. The map can provide valuable information about the terrain and the location of the Back Gate.
* **Utilize Waypoints:** If you are in a Fireteam, set a waypoint on the map to guide your team and keep everyone on the same page.
## What to Expect Inside the Shadowkeep Back Gate
Once you’re inside the Shadowkeep Back Gate, you can expect to find:
* **Hive Enemies:** The area is heavily populated with Hive enemies, so be prepared for combat.
* **Resources:** The Shadowkeep Back Gate is a good source of resources, such as Helium Filaments and other crafting materials.
* **Secret Areas:** There are several hidden areas within the Back Gate that can be discovered by exploring thoroughly.
* **Access to the Scarlet Keep:** The Back Gate provides an alternative route to the Scarlet Keep, allowing you to bypass some of the more challenging areas on the surface.
* **Nightmare Hunts:** Occasionally, Nightmare Hunts can take place in or around the Back Gate area.
## Troubleshooting Common Issues
* **Getting Lost:** If you get lost, retrace your steps and consult a map or guide. Pay close attention to landmarks and use them to orient yourself.
* **Dying Frequently:** If you’re dying frequently, consider lowering the difficulty or teaming up with other players. Also, make sure your power level is high enough for the area.
* **Sparrow Problems:** If your sparrow is destroyed, summon a new one immediately. Having a sparrow is essential for traversing the Lunar Battlegrounds.
* **Enemy Encounters:** If you’re struggling with enemy encounters, try using different weapons or abilities. Also, consider using cover to your advantage.
## Benefits of Reaching the Shadowkeep Back Gate
Reaching the Shadowkeep Back Gate offers several benefits, including:
* **Faster Travel:** The Back Gate provides a quicker route to the Scarlet Keep, saving you time and effort.
* **Resource Farming:** The area is a good source of resources, allowing you to gather materials for crafting and upgrading gear.
* **Secret Exploration:** The Back Gate contains several hidden areas that can be discovered by exploring thoroughly.
* **Challenge Completion:** Some challenges and quests require you to visit the Back Gate, so knowing how to reach it is essential for completing these objectives.
* **Improved Moon Navigation:** Understanding the layout of the Moon and the location of the Back Gate will improve your overall navigation skills.
## Conclusion
Reaching the Shadowkeep Back Gate in Destiny 2 can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following the detailed steps and instructions in this guide, you’ll be able to navigate the Moon’s treacherous terrain and access this valuable location. Remember to be patient, use a guide if needed, and team up with other players to make the journey easier. Once you reach the Back Gate, you’ll be able to explore its secrets, farm resources, and complete challenging encounters. Happy hunting, Guardian!