Artemis, the real-life dog behind Destiny 2’s Archie, has died

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Cristian Salinas-Skahan, who received a wish through Make-A-Wish, announced the passing of his dog Artemis. Artemis was the inspiration for a beloved companion character in the video game Destiny 2.

Salinas-Skahan shared the heartbreaking news with the Destiny community that Artemis, her nine-year-old dog, was tragically shot and killed by a neighbor after accidentally running onto their property.

You know Archie, that adorable robotic dog hanging out in the Tower in Destiny 2? Well, he’s based on a real dog named Artemis! It’s a really cool story actually. A player named Salinas-Skahan made a Make-A-Wish request to Bungie, and it was all about celebrating the bond he had with Artemis. That’s why they added Archie and even the ‘Loyal Companion’ emote – so we could all stop and give him a virtual pet. It’s a heartwarming detail, honestly.

RIP Artemis
byu/Chef_Beeforoni indestiny2

Artemis passes at 9 years old

Salinas-Skahan shared that Artemis was a steadfast source of support during many years of health issues, including several surgeries, a kidney transplant, and times when he struggled with his mental health. He described Artemis as his “guiding light,” helping him through both physical recovery and big life changes like moving.

Salinas-Skahan also considered how Artemis influenced the broader Destiny player base, not just those she knew personally.

Players often talked about visiting Archie, the in-game dog, in the Tower. They’d use the ‘Loyal Companion’ emote after completing challenging activities, and many found it comforting to virtually pet him after difficult raids, strikes, or Trials matches – it became a little tradition for them.

Bungie began honoring Artemis in Destiny 2 in 2022 with several in-game and real-world acknowledgements. The ‘Loyal Companion’ emote features a Belgian Malinois based on Artemis, and a story connected to the Mind Shard sparrow draws inspiration from Salinas-Skahan and his Guardian.

Bungie released an Artemis plushie, and money from the sales of both it and a special emote will be donated to the Bungie Foundation.

Bungie previously shared the story of Salinas-Skahan as part of their work with Make-A-Wish, explaining how the game Destiny and the character Artemis helped him manage a rare genetic condition that caused serious kidney problems since he was a baby.

Salinas-Skahan shared a message with the community, explaining he wasn’t requesting any donations or fundraising efforts. He simply asked players to pay tribute to Artemis by interacting with Archie in the Tower – either by petting him or using the Loyal Companion emote within the game.

He closed by thanking the Destiny community, calling it one of the best he has ever been part of.

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2026-02-01 00:19