TL;DR: Name changes really shouldn't be that hard to bring back, Bungie.
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A while back after the name change and plenty of problems following the implementation of the feature, I had spoken to Bungie Help regarding trying to get it reset. I'm providing this information solely for the benefit of others and hopes that it will catch the attention of those that need to read it to get something done.
There have been many stories regarding things like typos in name changes, but Bungie has maintained a steadfast view regarding getting this reset. When bringing up the issue with Bungie Help, I was told that future name changes would be made available to the public prior to their release. The fact that we're this far along since the implementation of the feature and still no sign of future name changes both worries me but also I'm not surprised.
I don't understand the business decision to leave this in the dust and people with names they wish they could fix are left to sit and wait for something that could be implemented as easy as it was done in the first place. With cross-save's launch prior to cross play, it was possible to have one account associated with two platforms, with one of those (Steam) having the ability to have the screen name constantly changed. While I understand that this was more than likely a client-side thing, the fact remains that it was freely changeable. I see no logical reason why we are limited to one name change and that's final, even if extenuating circumstances would lead Bungie to allow one. They're able to change them on a backend sense if the name is offensive, why not allow us that?
Please Bungie, for the love of all that's holy, make this a priority. I'm hopping off my soapbox now.
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Everyone commenting on this post has a valid point. Is there a possibility we can all come to a compromise? I actually reached out to Bungie on twitter the other day regarding the same topic and basically stated that a lot of us play have creative minds and value the ability to change our names when we switch out our different looks/outfits. It is a shame that those who use inappropriate names and abuse the name changer are ruining it for other players(if that’s the case). What if Bungie charges a reasonable fee for a a name change? More money in their pockets and the players are happy. In addition, I’m no computer techs but is there a way where if a player WAS in the process of making an off e I’ve name, can’t they implement some kind of wall/message that says something like “the name you are requesting contains offensive an character(s)” or something along those lines? You know? Just some thoughts. Thanks