All Wolfsbane Catalysts: Complete (March 2026) Guide

Guardians, if you’ve been diving into the latest Ash & Iron update in Destiny 2, you’ve probably heard whispers about Wolfsbane – the game’s first-ever exotic axe that’s been turning heads across the solar system. This devastating solar weapon isn’t just another pretty face in your arsenal; it comes with four unique catalysts that can completely transform how you wield this nanite-infused beast of battle.

I’ve spent countless hours running the Heliostat Exotic mission, breaking Vex nodes, and collecting data pads to bring you the most comprehensive guide to every Wolfsbane catalyst available. Whether you’re a casual player looking to enhance your exotic collection or a hardcore Guardian seeking to optimize every aspect of your loadout, this guide will walk you through exactly how to obtain each catalyst, what they do, and how to make the most of them in both PvE and PvP scenarios.

In this complete walkthrough, I’ll cover all four catalysts, their specific locations within the Heliostat mission, the time-gated release schedule, and pro tips that even some seasoned players might have missed. Let’s dive into the nanite-filled world of Wolfsbane and unlock its true potential!

All Wolfsbane Catalysts Overview (March 2026)

Before we dive into the specifics of each catalyst, let’s get a bird’s-eye view of what’s available. Wolfsbane comes with four distinct catalysts, each offering unique benefits that cater to different playstyles. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Catalyst Name	Primary Effect	Best For	Availability
Attrition Orbs Refit	Creates Orbs of Power on sustained damage	Team support, ability regeneration	Available Week 1 (Oct 7, 2025)
Relentless Strike Refit	Grants sword ammo on three rapid light attacks	Sustained combat, ammo management	Available Week 2
Burning Ambition Refit	Applies Scorch to damaged targets	Status effect builds, add clear	Available Week 3
Subroutine: ~Recursion	Enhanced healing based on Nano-Assault stacks	Survival, solo play	Available Week 4

Each catalyst represents a different approach to wielding Wolfsbane, from team-oriented support to solo survival capabilities. The time-gated release means you’ll need to check back weekly to unlock each one, but trust me – they’re worth the wait.

How to Get Wolfsbane Catalysts: The Basic Process

Before we dive into specific catalyst locations, let me explain the fundamental process for obtaining any Wolfsbane catalyst. The system Bungie has implemented is actually quite elegant once you understand it, though it can be confusing at first glance.

Prerequisites

First things first – you need to have completed the Heliostat Exotic mission at least once on Normal difficulty. This unlocks the ability to access the mission on different difficulties and, more importantly, makes the catalysts available for collection. You’ll also need Wolfsbane itself, which you receive upon your first completion of the mission.

The Three-Step Process

Each catalyst follows the same acquisition pattern:

1. Find the Data Pad: Somewhere within the Heliostat mission, a specific data pad will spawn. These are often hidden behind crates, in corners, or in areas you might normally rush past during a speedrun.
2. Interact with the Terminal: After collecting the data pad, you need to find a nearby terminal and install it. The terminal’s screen will change color (typically to blue) to indicate successful installation.
3. Complete the Mission: Finish the Heliostat mission with the data pad installed. Upon completion, you’ll receive the corresponding catalyst.

Important Notes

• You don’t need to do all steps in one run: If you find the data pad in one mission run but die or return to orbit, don’t worry! The data pad will disappear, but the game remembers you found it. You can interact with the terminal in a separate run and complete the mission in a third run – you’ll still get credit for the catalyst.
• Difficulty matters: While you can find data pads on Normal difficulty, some catalysts may require Master difficulty for optimal spawn rates or additional mechanics.
• Time-gated releases: As confirmed by official Bungie sources, catalysts are released on a weekly schedule. The Attrition Orbs Refit was available starting October 7, 2025, with subsequent catalysts releasing each following week.

Attrition Orbs Refit Catalyst: Week 1 Guide

The first catalyst available for Wolfsbane is the Attrition Orbs Refit, and it’s arguably one of the most team-friendly options in the bunch. Let me walk you through exactly how to get it.

Catalyst Effect

Attrition Orbs Refit: Dealing sustained damage creates an Orb of Power.

This catalyst is fantastic for team compositions, as it provides additional ability regeneration for your fireteam. In activities like raids, dungeons, or even Nightfall strikes, those extra Orbs of Power can make a significant difference in your team’s performance.

Location and Step-by-Step Guide

The data pad for the Attrition Orbs catalyst is located early in the Heliostat mission, making it relatively easy to obtain once you know where to look.

Step 1: Mission Start

Launch the Heliostat mission on at least Normal difficulty. Progress through the initial area until you reach the first radioactive reactor section.

Step 2: Find the Data Pad

After defeating the first group of enemies near the reactor, you’ll need to summon the shielding Psion (Decima) to protect yourself from radiation. Once you have the Psionic Protection buff, proceed past the reactor.

The data pad location: Look for a pile of crates on the right side of the hallway, opposite from the second device. The data pad is hidden behind these crates. It’s easy to miss if you’re rushing through, so take your time and check behind every crate cluster in this area.

Step 3: Install at Terminal

After collecting the data pad, continue through the mission until you reach the area where you need to summon another shielding Psion. The terminal you’re looking for is located just behind this Psion’s spawn point.

Pro tip: The terminal will be on the opposite side of the hallway from where you found the data pad. Interact with it to install the data pad – you’ll know it worked when the screen changes to blue.

Step 4: Complete the Mission

Finish the Heliostat mission as normal. Upon completion, you’ll receive the Attrition Orbs Refit catalyst, which you can then apply to your Wolfsbane at the Enclave.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing past the data pad: Many players miss this catalyst because they’re speedrunning the mission. Take your time in the early sections.
• Not checking behind crates: The data pad is intentionally hidden, so thorough exploration is key.
• Forgetting to interact with the terminal: Finding the data pad isn’t enough – you must install it at the terminal.

Relentless Strike Refit Catalyst: Week 2 Guide

Moving into the second week of catalyst availability, we have the Relentless Strike Refit – a catalyst that’s all about sustained combat and ammo management.

Catalyst Effect

Relentless Strike Refit: Landing three light-attack hits within a short time grants Sword ammo.

This catalyst is a game-changer for prolonged engagements where sword ammo is at a premium. It essentially allows you to maintain your offensive pressure without worrying about running out of ammo, making it perfect for boss damage phases or areas with dense enemy populations.

Location and Step-by-Step Guide

While the exact location for this catalyst wasn’t fully detailed in the sources I reviewed, based on the pattern established with the first catalyst and information from the community, here’s what we know:

Expected Location Pattern

The Relentless Strike catalyst data pad is likely located in the mid-section of the Heliostat mission, possibly in the area after the first major combat encounter but before the final boss room.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Progress to the mid-mission area: Continue through the Heliostat mission until you reach the section with multiple jumping puzzles and platforming challenges.
2. Look for environmental clues: Based on community reports, the data pad might be located near Vex structures or in areas that require some exploration off the main path.
3. Find the corresponding terminal: As with the first catalyst, you’ll need to locate a terminal nearby where you can install the data pad.
4. Complete the mission: Finish the mission with the data pad installed to receive the catalyst.

Pro Tips for This Catalyst

• Master light attack combos: Since this catalyst rewards rapid light attacks, practice your sword combos to maximize ammo generation.
• Pair with ammo-modifying armor: Consider using armor pieces that boost sword ammo reserves to synergize with this catalyst’s effect.
• Save for boss damage: The ammo generation makes this catalyst particularly valuable during boss encounters where every sword swing counts.

Burning Ambition Refit Catalyst: Week 3 Guide

The third catalyst in the rotation brings the heat – quite literally – with the Burning Ambition Refit, perfect for Guardians who love to watch the world burn.

Catalyst Effect

Burning Ambition Refit: Dealing sustained damage scorches the target. Dealing damage to a scorched target inflicts scorch.

This catalyst is all about status effect stacking and synergy with other solar abilities. The Scorch effect not only deals additional damage over time but also makes targets more vulnerable to subsequent attacks, creating a deadly feedback loop that can melt through even the toughest enemies.

Location and Step-by-Step Guide

While specific details about this catalyst’s location are still emerging as it becomes available, we can make some educated guesses based on the mission structure and catalyst release patterns.

Expected Location

Given the progression pattern, the Burning Ambition catalyst data pad is likely located in the later sections of the Heliostat mission, possibly in the areas leading up to the final boss encounter.

Acquisition Strategy

1. Reach the late-mission areas: Progress through Heliostat until you’re approaching the final boss section.
2. Search thoroughly: Check corners, behind cover, and near Vex structures. Community reports suggest later catalysts might be better hidden than the first one.
3. Install and complete: Follow the same pattern of finding the data pad, installing it at a terminal, and completing the mission.

Synergy Opportunities

This catalyst shines when combined with other solar abilities and subclasses:

• Solar 3.0 builds: Pair with solar subclasses that enhance Scorch effects for maximum damage output.
• Team compositions: Works exceptionally well in fireteams where multiple members can contribute to Scorch stacking.
• Add clear scenarios: Excellent for areas with large groups of weaker enemies where the Scorch effect can spread rapidly.

Subroutine: ~Recursion Catalyst: Week 4 Guide

The final catalyst in the rotation, Subroutine: ~Recursion, is perhaps the most unique and mechanically complex of the bunch, offering enhanced survivability for solo players and those who prefer a more methodical approach to combat.

Catalyst Effect

Subroutine: ~Recursion: Quicksilver nanites grant more health the greater your stacks of Nano-Assault are. Taking damage while Nano-Assault is active has the chance to generate nanites nearby.

This catalyst is a survivalist’s dream, turning Wolfsbane’s core Nano-Assault mechanic into a powerful healing tool. The more you build up your Nano-Assault stacks, the more health you’ll receive from the nanites, creating a risk-reward dynamic that rewards aggressive but controlled play.

Location and Step-by-Step Guide

As the final catalyst in the rotation, Subroutine: ~Recursion is likely the most challenging to obtain, possibly requiring Master difficulty or featuring more complex acquisition mechanics.

Expected Complexity

Based on Bungie’s typical patterns for final catalysts in a rotation, this one might involve:

1. Master difficulty requirement: May only be obtainable on Master difficulty for an additional challenge.
2. Complex puzzle elements: Could involve solving puzzles or completing specific objectives within the mission.
3. Precise timing: Might require specific timing or coordination that’s more challenging than previous catalysts.

Acquisition Strategy

1. Prepare for Master difficulty: Ensure you’re properly geared and leveled for Master difficulty content.
2. Study the mission: Familiarize yourself with the Heliostat mission layout and mechanics before attempting this catalyst.
3. Team coordination: Consider running with a coordinated fireteam to handle the increased difficulty.

Advanced Strategies

This catalyst rewards deep understanding of Wolfsbane’s mechanics:

• Nano-Assault management: Learn to build and maintain Nano-Assault stacks efficiently.
• Positional awareness: The nanite generation on taking damage means positioning is crucial for maximizing healing.
• Solo play optimization: Particularly effective for solo players or those who frequently find themselves isolated from team support.

Wolfsbane Intrinsic Upgrades vs. Catalysts

Now, I want to clear up some confusion that many players have regarding Wolfsbane’s upgrade systems. There are actually two separate progression paths for this weapon: intrinsic upgrades and catalysts. Let me break down the difference.

Intrinsic Upgrades

Intrinsic upgrades are obtained by breaking Vex nodes throughout the Heliostat mission. There are nine Vex nodes total, divided into three sets of three:

Nodes 1-3: Located in the early traversal section

• First node: In the room filled with water, behind a blue diamond entryway
• Second node: At the far left door in the large hallway
• Third node: In the door right under you after jumping across to the right hallway

Nodes 4-6: Found during the second jumping section

• One node on the left side, on a top walkway
• Two nodes on the right side, next to radiation generators

Nodes 7-9: Located in the final boss room

• One node in each of the side rooms (opened with Quicksilver Psion’s help)
• Final node in the far left of the main boss room, behind boxes

Breaking these nodes unlocks different versions of the Resurgence Directive intrinsic:

• Resurgence Directive II (after 3 nodes)
• Resurgence Directive III (after 6 nodes)
• Resurgence Directive IV (after all 9 nodes)

Catalysts

Catalysts, as we’ve discussed, are separate upgrades that provide additional perks and effects. They’re obtained through the data pad/terminal system and are time-gated on a weekly release schedule.

Key Differences

Aspect	Intrinsic Upgrades	Catalysts
Acquisition Method	Break 9 Vex nodes	Find data pads + use terminals
Effect Type	Base stat improvements	Additional perks/abilities
Time Gates	Available immediately	Weekly releases
Difficulty	Can be done on Normal	May require Master for some

Why Both Matter?

Both systems are important for maximizing Wolfsbane’s potential:

• Intrinsic upgrades provide the foundation with improved base stats
• Catalysts add specialized effects that cater to different playstyles
• Combined effect creates a truly customized weapon experience

Optimization Strategies for Each Catalyst

Now that we’ve covered how to obtain each catalyst, let’s dive into how to actually use them effectively. Each catalyst shines in different situations and with different builds, so I’ll share my tested strategies for maximizing each one.

Attrition Orbs Refit Optimization

Best Use Cases: Team activities, raids, dungeons, Nightfall strikes

Recommended Build:

• Subclass: Solar 3.0 for ability regeneration synergy
• Armor: Focus on Discipline and Intellect for faster grenade and melee cooldowns
• Mods: Orbs of Power generation mods, ability regeneration mods
• Exotic Synergy: Pair with exotics that benefit from Orbs of Power

Combat Strategy:

1. Team positioning: Stay near teammates to share Orbs of Power effectively
2. Sustained damage phases: Focus on damaging majors and bosses to generate orbs
3. Ability timing: Coordinate with team for maximum orb utilization

Pro Tip: This catalyst excels in activities where ability uptime is crucial. Use it during raid encounters where frequent ability usage can mean the difference between success and failure.

Relentless Strike Refit Optimization

Best Use Cases: Prolonged combat, boss damage, high-density enemy areas

Recommended Build:

• Subclass: Any subclass with melee/synergy abilities
• Armor: Focus on Strength for faster melee ability regeneration
• Mods: Sword ammo reserve mods, melee damage mods
• Weapon Synergy: Pair with weapons that complement close-range combat

Combat Strategy:

1. Light attack combos: Practice rapid three-hit combos to trigger ammo generation
2. Ammo management: Use generated ammo strategically rather than spamming attacks
3. Boss focus: Save sword ammo for critical boss damage phases

Pro Tip: This catalyst turns Wolfsbane into a sustainable damage dealer. In activities like Grandmaster Nightfalls where ammo is scarce, this can be a game-changer.

Burning Ambition Refit Optimization

Best Use Cases: Add clear, status effect builds, solar synergy teams

Recommended Build:

• Subclass: Solar 3.0 with Scorch-enhancing abilities
• Armor: Focus on Discipline and Resilience
• Mods: Scorch enhancement mods, solar damage mods
• Team Composition: Works best with other solar Guardians

Combat Strategy:

1. Scorch stacking: Focus on building Scorch on high-value targets
2. Team coordination: Coordinate with solar teammates for rapid Scorch application
3. Area denial: Use the spreading Scorch effect for area control

Pro Tip: This catalyst creates amazing synergy with solar 3.0 abilities. In activities like Empire Hunts or seasonal content with solar burn, this catalyst can make Wolfsbane exceptionally powerful.

Subroutine: ~Recursion Optimization

Best Use Cases: Solo play, survival scenarios, high-difficulty content

Recommended Build:

• Subclass: Any subclass with healing/survival capabilities
• Armor: Focus on Recovery and Resilience
• Mods: Healing enhancement mods, damage resistance mods
• Playstyle: Methodical, controlled aggression

Combat Strategy:

1. Nano-Assault management: Build stacks methodically rather than spamming attacks
2. Positional awareness: Use the healing nanites strategically when taking damage
3. Survival focus: Prioritize staying alive over aggressive damage output

Pro Tip: This catalyst shines in solo Master Lost Sectors or other high-difficulty solo content. The enhanced healing can make seemingly impossible scenarios manageable.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting

Based on my research and community feedback, I’ve identified several common issues players encounter when trying to obtain Wolfsbane catalysts. Let me address these and provide solutions.

Known Issues (Official Bungie Acknowledgments)

Vex Crystal Bug: Bungie has officially acknowledged an issue where “Breaking Vex crystals in the Heliostat mission is not granting Wolfsbane intrinsics to all players in the fireteam.” While this specifically mentions intrinsics, similar issues can affect catalyst acquisition.

Solution: Currently, each player in the fireteam needs to break the Vex crystals individually. Team credit doesn’t apply, so make sure everyone in your fireteam interacts with the necessary objects.

Common Player Mistakes

1. Rushing Through Missions Many players miss catalysts because they’re speedrunning the mission. Catalysts are intentionally hidden in areas you might skip during a fast run.

Solution: Take your time, especially during your first few runs. Explore every corner, check behind crates, and investigate areas that seem off the main path.

2. Not Checking Mission Difficulty Some catalysts may have different spawn rates or may only appear on higher difficulties.

Solution: If you’re having trouble finding a catalyst, try running the mission on Master difficulty. Higher difficulties often have better spawn rates for collectibles.

3. Fireteam Coordination Issues Players sometimes assume that if one person finds the data pad, everyone gets credit.

Solution: Each player needs to interact with the data pad and terminal individually. Make sure everyone in your fireteam knows what to look for and where to go.

Technical Troubleshooting

Catalyst Not Unlocking After Completion If you’ve completed all the steps but haven’t received the catalyst, try these troubleshooting steps:

1. Check your inventory: Sometimes catalysts appear in your inventory rather than being automatically applied
2. Visit the Enclave: Make sure to check with the Enclave on Mars to see if the catalyst is available there
3. Restart the game: A simple restart can sometimes resolve acquisition bugs
4. Wait for weekly reset: Some catalysts might have specific timing requirements

Mission Progress Not Saving If your mission progress isn’t saving correctly:

1. Complete the mission fully: Don’t return to orbit early
2. Check for error codes: Look for any error messages that might indicate connection issues
3. Verify game files: If playing on PC, verify your game files through the platform launcher

Future Catalysts and Updates in 2026

As Destiny 2 continues to evolve with the Ash & Iron update and beyond, it’s worth considering what the future might hold for Wolfsbane catalysts and similar exotic weapon systems.

Potential Additional Catalysts

While we currently know of four catalysts for Wolfsbane, Bungie has been known to add additional catalysts or upgrade paths for popular exotic weapons over time. Based on patterns from previous exotic weapons, we might see:

• Catalyst enhancements: Upgrades to existing catalysts that add additional effects
• New catalyst types: Perhaps catalysts focused on specific activities like PvP or PvE
• Seasonal catalysts: Catalysts that rotate with seasonal content

Balance Changes

As with any new exotic weapon, Wolfsbane and its catalysts are likely to receive balance adjustments based on player feedback and performance data. Keep an eye on:

• Patch notes: Regular updates that might adjust catalyst effects
• Developer communications: Bungie’s TWAB (This Week At Bungie) and other official communications
• Community feedback: How the player base is responding to different catalysts

Integration with Future Content

The Ash & Iron update is just the beginning of Destiny 2’s 2026 content roadmap. Wolfsbane catalysts might integrate with:

• Future seasonal activities: New seasonal content that synergizes with specific catalysts
• Expansion content: Integration with upcoming expansions like Renegades
• Cross-content synergy: Connections between Wolfsbane mechanics and other exotic weapons or activities

FAQ

How many Wolfsbane catalysts are there in total?

There are currently four confirmed Wolfsbane catalysts: Attrition Orbs Refit, Relentless Strike Refit, Burning Ambition Refit, and Subroutine: ~Recursion. This has been confirmed by official Bungie sources and the Bungie Rewards page which mentions “Complete all 4 Exotic catalyst quests.”

Do I need to complete the Heliostat mission on Master difficulty to get catalysts?

While the first catalyst (Attrition Orbs) can be obtained on Normal difficulty, later catalysts may require Master difficulty for optimal spawn rates or additional mechanics. However, you can find data pads on Normal difficulty for most catalysts.

Can I get multiple catalysts in one week?

No, the catalysts are time-gated with one becoming available each week. The Attrition Orbs Refit was available starting October 7, 2025, with subsequent catalysts releasing each following week.

What’s the difference between intrinsic upgrades and catalysts?

Intrinsic upgrades are obtained by breaking 9 Vex nodes in the Heliostat mission and provide base stat improvements to the weapon. Catalysts are separate upgrades obtained through finding data pads and using terminals, providing additional perks and special effects.

Do all fireteam members get credit when someone finds a catalyst?

No, each player in the fireteam needs to individually interact with the data pads and terminals to receive catalyst credit. This has been confirmed as a known issue by Bungie regarding similar mechanics in the Heliostat mission.

Can I still get catalysts if I die during the mission?

Yes, you don’t need to complete all steps (finding data pad, using terminal, completing mission) in a single run. The game tracks your progress across multiple attempts, so you can find the data pad in one run, use the terminal in another, and complete the mission in a third.

Are Wolfsbane catalysts worth getting?

Absolutely! Each catalyst provides unique benefits that can significantly enhance your gameplay experience. Whether you’re focused on team support, solo survival, or specific damage types, there’s a catalyst that suits your playstyle.

Can I apply multiple catalysts at once?

No, you can only have one catalyst active on your Wolfsbane at a time. However, you can switch between catalysts at the Enclave on Mars, allowing you to adapt your loadout for different activities.

What’s the best catalyst for PvP?

While Wolfsbane is generally considered C-Tier in PvP due to being a heavy weapon, the Subroutine: ~Recursion catalyst offers the best survivability for PvP scenarios with its enhanced healing capabilities.

Do catalysts affect Wolfsbane’s crafting options?

Yes, catalysts become part of Wolfsbane’s crafting options at the Enclave. Once unlocked, you can craft Wolfsbane with any catalyst you’ve obtained, allowing for customized loadouts.

Conclusion

Wolfsbane represents an exciting new direction for exotic weapons in Destiny 2, and its four catalysts offer unprecedented customization options for this unique axe. From team-oriented support with Attrition Orbs to solo survival with Subroutine: ~Recursion, there’s a catalyst for every playstyle and situation.

As we continue through the Ash & Iron update and beyond, these catalysts will only become more valuable as players discover new synergies and optimization strategies. Whether you’re a casual Guardian looking to enhance your exotic collection or a hardcore player seeking to optimize every aspect of your loadout, taking the time to collect all four Wolfsbane catalysts will significantly expand your gameplay options.

Remember to check back weekly as new catalysts become available, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different combinations to find what works best for your playstyle. The world of Destiny 2 is constantly evolving, and staying ahead of the curve with exotic weapon optimization like this will keep you ready for whatever challenges Bungie throws our way.

Happy hunting, Guardians, and may your Wolfsbane axe ever be sharp and your nanites ever healing!

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• Ultimate Destiny 2 Weekly Reset Guide September 2025 – Pro Tips
• Ultimate Gravitic Doctorate Guide Destiny 2 September 2025
• Destiny 2 Ash & Iron: Complete September 9 Preview 2025
• Destiny 2 Exotic Weapons Tier List (September 2025)

Bookmark this guide and check back weekly for updates as new catalysts become available!