History of Fractured Expanse

Overview

Fractured Expanse is a Crucible map located in Rathmore Chaos on Europa, first appearing in Episode: Heresy. Designed for the Heavy Metal game mode, it is a 3v3 map featuring large-scale vehicular combat in an icy arena.

Heavy Metal Game Mode

Fractured Expanse is specifically designed for Heavy Metal, a limited-time Crucible event featuring experimental vehicle warfare. Teams pilot either Cabal Drake Tanks or Fallen Brigs, engaging in intense 3v3 vehicular combat to reach 50 points.

Gameplay Mechanics

The map supports Heavy Metal's core mechanics:

• Objective: Teams earn points by destroying enemy vehicles (1 point) and collecting coins dropped by destroyed vehicles (1 additional point)
• Leader System: The highest-scoring player glows as the "leader" with enhanced dodge capabilities. Defeating a leader yields a 2-point gold coin
• Resource Management: Collected coins restore vehicle health and reload secondary weapon ammo
• Vehicle Controls: Drake Tanks and Brigs feature primary cannons, secondary powerful weapons, and dodge/melee abilities

Map Design

The frozen terrain of Rathmore Chaos provides a setting rich with ice formations and industrial wreckage, creating a dynamic battlefield for vehicle engagements. The map design supports both tank and brig combat, with layout considerations for 3v3 team-based vehicular gameplay.

First Appearance

Fractured Expanse debuted during the initial release of Heavy Metal in Episode: Heresy, establishing itself as a core map for the vehicle combat experience.

Strategic Notes

Teamwork is essential in Heavy Metal, as solo vehicles face difficulty against coordinated teams. Map knowledge and vehicle positioning play critical roles in securing victory.