Really not going to post any spoilers many of know already having completed the the normal raid mode. Hard mode will likely be very familiar with key level differences and possibly a few surprises. This thread is to provide general help and advice I don't want to spoil the pure gaming experience of fun and surprise the raid provides. So it's high level and probably can be used in most missions and raids. Helpful guardians chime in with thoughts and advice for the uninitiated and those diving into the darkness for the first time. 1. Have fun. This is a game. If it isn't fun what's the point. 2. Be prepared. This is the toughest mission Destiny has to offer. Bring your best gear and strongest weapons. You will probably need synths and since it's Hive you probably know weapons with arc and solar will help. If you have done the normal raid Crota gear and weapons have special perks so those will come in handy. 3. If possible buddy up. I recommend playing with familiar faces. Generally you have established roles and communications and will be better coordinated. You can even assign roles. If you don't have a regular raiding part...make sure to mix up and communicate prior to starting the Lamps. This way you have some idea you want raid with these people and work out who does what and what skills and equipment you are bringing to the table. Hard mode can be unforgiving and communication even if you wipe is really helpful. Especially if you aren't very familiar with players or the raid. An essential part of this is game chat. 4. Be the right level. I'm saying this because generally it just makes the fight harder. Especially if you are playing with randoms or doing it for the first time... Less wiping, more damage, more killing. Nothing wrong with dragging people through do it all the time. The first week maybe the wrong time...especially with level 33 ads trying to hack and claw you to death. That's all I could think of. Have fun... I can't wait to dive in next week. I'm itching to get the rewards. The Word of Crota I must have that gun. Guardian please chime in. Help our brother and sister guardians. Also if you need to find good and helpful people to play with on Xboxone Take a look at the Olde Guard Destiny clan