Destiny 2 How to Preload & Install Shadowkeep on Steam PC

Preloading Shadowkeep, the upcoming expansion for Destiny 2, is supposed to let you play as soon as DLC launches. It’s a convenience that allows everyone to start at roughly the same time, and it’s available on all platforms. A number of players who have migrated their Destiny 2 characters to Steam are confused, since the preloading doesn’t work the same as it did in other places. This guide will show you how to preload Shadowkeep on Steam PC.

How to preload Shadowkeep content?

If you’re going to start playing on PC, you’ve probably preordered Shadowkeep. You’ve also preloaded the base game – or the New Light package, which includes the base game and a bunch of the expansions. However, there’s no button anywhere that allows you to download Shadowkeep, which frustrates you.

Turns out there’s no reason to worry. The New Light package actually contains the content from Shadowkeep, what you get when you buy the DLC is just the license that unlocks it. This means that, if you’ve downloaded Destiny 2, you already have Shadowkeep installed. The library page for the game might say that the expansion isn’t installed, but that’s only because it isn’t out yet. Once it’s released, you’ll be able to access it immediately.

If you’re migrating from another platform, which most people are, make sure you’ve enabled cross save, so you can transfer your characters, gear and progress between console and PC. That’s pretty much the only preparation you need. If you were previously playing on Battle.net, you’ll need to migrate as well. The process is simple – just follow the instructions on Bungie’s site. Sadly, you’ll have to redownload the game, since you can’t just point Steam towards the install directory and let it handle the rest – differences between the two versions, or some such.

If you need further help with Destiny 2 Shadowkeep, check out our guides on Dead Ghost Locations, Jade Rabbit Locations, and Eyes on the Moon - How to Start Vex Invasion. If it's Exotic Weapons that you're after, we've got you covered with our Pain And Gain Exotic Quest and Deathbringer Exotic Rocket Launcher - Symphony of Death guides. Going back in time for new players, we can offer you guides like Ikelos Weapons - How to Get SMG, Sniper Rifle, Shotgun, or, if you're playing Forsaken content, guides like Corsair Down & Badge - Dead Body Locations.