No, you don't have to play Destiny first to get into Destiny 2.
No, you don't have to play Destiny first to get into Destiny 2.
Don't stress the Destiny community isn't really about competition, and there won't be as much salt or toxic players as in other games. Based on my experience with Destiny 1 on PS4, it felt very friendly and supportive. You probably don't need to play the first game because everyone starts fresh. Just take a few weeks to get used to the ups and downs. Once you're comfortable, check out the Bungie forums and enjoy an amazing time. Go for it, Guardian!
According to what I've learned, the two storylines take distinct routes. I don't believe playing Destiny is necessary for any narrative goals, though it could be enjoyable if you're looking to gain more insight.
Refresh your understanding of the game's atmosphere and background—it really enhances the experience when you grasp its history!
Having tested the beta version and never used the original, I believe you won't need it.
Destiny wasn't made for PC, which means you won't be able to play it if you're in the #pcmasterrace group. While the story might not be crucial, understanding the gameplay systems really helps. Over the past decade, my main FPS experiences have been Halo, Halo 2, Overwatch, and a bit of CS:GO. Playing Destiny 2 Beta feels completely unfamiliar to me beyond the shooting mechanics, especially after seeing teammates succeed so easily.
Destiny 1 narrative: Eliminate dangerous alien creatures.
Destiny 2 narrative: Eradicate hostile alien species.