In Destiny 2’s evolving world of secrets, puzzles, and hidden collectibles, the introduction of the Starcats during the ‘Echoes’ episode has added a new layer of exploration for dedicated Guardians. One of the more elusive collectibles among them is theCell of the Sycophant Starcat, a uniquely hidden item that requires careful attention to the environment, timing, and mission progression. For players who are completionists or simply enjoy hunting down every secret the game has to offer, locating this Starcat can be both challenging and rewarding.
Understanding Starcats in Destiny 2
What Are Starcats?
Starcats are hidden collectibles introduced in Destiny 2 as part of the episodic content following The Final Shape. These feline-like entities are scattered across various locations, often tucked away behind puzzles, secret areas, or specific mission segments. Each Starcat contributes to seasonal triumphs and lore entries, offering a deeper look into the universe’s ongoing narrative.
Purpose of Collecting Starcats
Finding and collecting Starcats not only satisfies the urge to explore every nook and cranny but also contributes to progression in certain seasonal challenges. These objectives can reward you with upgrade materials, lore entries, or even exclusive cosmetics when completed.
Location of the Cell of the Sycophant Starcat
Where to Begin
TheCell of the SycophantStarcat is located within theCell of the Sycophantmission a special Echoes mission in Destiny 2. Before attempting to find this Starcat, make sure you have unlocked the mission via seasonal progression. It is typically available from the H.E.L.M. or through the seasonal node on the map once you’ve advanced far enough in the storyline.
Mission Environment Overview
Cell of the Sycophant is a dark, tight environment filled with Hive enemies and traps. It emphasizes stealth and observation. Players should take their time moving through the mission to ensure they don’t miss hidden paths or visual cues that can lead to the Starcat’s location.
Step-by-Step Guide to Finding the Starcat
Progress to the Midpoint of the Mission
As you move through the early stages of the mission, focus on staying alive and clearing Hive threats. The Starcat is not immediately visible in the first few rooms, so there’s no need to search too early. The collectible is found later in the mission, once you’ve passed a series of Hive-infested chambers.
Enter the Chamber with Suspicious Lighting
You’ll eventually reach a large room dimly lit with eerie green light and a high ceiling. This area contains several ledges, platforms, and pillars that can be used for traversal. It’s here where you’ll want to slow down and explore more thoroughly.
- Look for side passages or vents near the room’s ceiling.
- Use movement-enhancing abilities like Icarus Dash, Blink, or grapple to reach out-of-the-way ledges.
- Watch for subtle visual cues, such as glowing cat-like eyes or a faint outline resembling a small figure.
Finding the Hidden Ledge
Near the top of one of the pillars, you’ll notice a barely visible platform that juts out from the wall. Jump up carefully, using any subclass abilities that grant additional control or verticality. Once you land, proceed into a narrow corridor tucked behind the ledge.
Spotting the Starcat
Inside the corridor, you’ll come upon a tiny chamber that glows faintly. The Starcat will be resting here still and silent. You’ll receive an on-screen prompt to interact with it. Once collected, the Starcat is added to your triumph progress and can be reviewed in the seasonal collectibles tab.
Tips for Collecting the Cell of the Sycophant Starcat
Be Patient and Thorough
This Starcat is well-hidden and designed to reward players who explore methodically. Avoid rushing through the mission, and take time to look up, around corners, and in unexpected places.
Use the Right Subclass and Build
Vertical movement is crucial in this search. Consider equipping:
- Warlock: Use the Heat Rises aspect or Blink for tricky vertical traversal.
- Titan: Catapult Lift or Thruster can help you reach high ledges.
- Hunter: Triple Jump or Grapple can grant the mobility needed to reach hidden platforms.
Solo or Fireteam?
While it is possible to collect the Starcat solo, having a fireteam can help with exploring multiple paths quickly. Teammates can help identify areas that might otherwise go unnoticed or provide cover while you look around.
What Happens After Collecting the Starcat?
Tracking Progress
After collecting the Cell of the Sycophant Starcat, open your seasonal triumphs menu. You should see progress tracked under the collectibles or lore section tied to the Echoes episode. Each Starcat brings you one step closer to completing the associated seasonal title or unlocking lore pages.
Unlocking Rewards
When you collect all available Starcats in the season, you may be eligible for rewards such as:
- Bright Dust
- Unique emblems or shaders
- Seasonal lore entries
- Triumph Score or title progress
Lore Significance
Though Starcats may seem like simple collectibles, they are often linked to broader themes in Destiny 2’s narrative. In the case of the Cell of the Sycophant, the Starcat may be connected to the mental prisons the characters find themselves in or the psychological manipulation employed by the Witness and its followers.
Why You Should Care About the Starcat Hunt
Deepening the Experience
Collectibles like the Starcats encourage players to engage more deeply with the world design and storytelling. Rather than just following quest markers, players must examine the level geometry, remember clues, and act on subtle environmental hints.
Encouraging Exploration
In a game as rich as Destiny 2, it’s easy to fall into a loop of grinding. Starcats, on the other hand, give a purpose to slower-paced play and reward curiosity. They help break the monotony and reignite the joy of discovery.
Flexing Completionist Muscles
For Guardians who aim to 100% every piece of content, finding the Cell of the Sycophant Starcat is an essential step. Whether you’re going for a seasonal title or just want that triumph score to climb, this collectible is part of the journey.
TheCell of the Sycophant Starcatis one of Destiny 2’s hidden treasures that blends gameplay with exploration. While not a core mechanic, it adds flavor and challenge to the Echoes content. Whether you’re in it for lore, triumphs, or the thrill of the hunt, tracking down this elusive Starcat is a worthy task for any Guardian. Take your time, explore with intent, and enjoy the secrets the game continues to offer beneath its surface.