Are SMGs Too Powerful in Apex Legends Season 24 Split 2? An In-Depth Analysis

Apex Legends Season 24 Split 2 is set to revolutionize the gameplay experience by enhancing the performance of submachine guns (SMGs) through increased magazine sizes. While this update might appear minor at first glance, it follows recent damage enhancements made to these weapons at the beginning of the season. By combining their improved bullet count with high damage output, rapid fire rates, and agility, the SMGs could become formidable contenders in the meta.

This season also brings innovative power-ups specifically for the Skirmisher class, including the new Trailblazer and Charged Knock perks. These additions are expected to accelerate the pace of matches, allowing players to benefit from faster time-to-kill scenarios and intensifying the overall gameplay experience.

This article will delve into the implications of these changes and explore the potential rise of SMGs within Apex Legends’ evolving meta.

The Emergence of a New SMG Meta in Apex Legends Season 24 Split 2

The primary goal for Apex Legends Season 24 Split 2 is to enhance the viability of close-range weapons. The developers have strategically buffed SMGs to counter the current dominance of shotguns in tight combat situations. The recent patch has notably expanded magazine sizes across various SMG tiers.

For instance, the Alternator now features a base magazine size of 20, which increases to 29 bullets when equipped with a Purple or Gold magazine. Similarly, the CAR boasts a maximum capacity of 28 bullets, while the R99 and Volt each top out at 27 bullets. It’s worth noting that the Prowler has neither been buffed nor nerfed in this update.

A significant update for Split 2 is the transition of the Accelerator Hop-Up from the Nemesis to the Volt. This change is likely to elevate the status of the energy-ammo SMG within the meta due to its enhanced capabilities during engagements. When paired with the Charged Knock perk, Skirmishers can frequently utilize their abilities to gain advantages in battles.

Legends such as Pathfinder, Revenant, Octane, and Horizon will greatly benefit from these developments, allowing them to engage enemies unexpectedly. The tactical ability charge gained from scoring knocks will enable players to secure eliminations and reposition strategically.

Notably, Octane’s unique power-up works differently, providing him with a charge on his ultimate ability instead of his tactical. This alteration unlocks new aggressive strategies, as Octane can secure a knock and immediately aid his team’s mobility through the deployment of a Jump Pad.

The integration of SMGs into these tactics is essential, as they excel in delivering burst damage during close-range encounters. With enhancements from Season 1, players will find that they can favor close-quarters combat with weapons like the Volt, which inflicts 16 damage with each body shot and carries 20 rounds in its base magazine. This allows for a potential total damage output of 320, sufficient to eliminate opponents equipped with Purple shields.

Nevertheless, the success of SMGs heavily relies on the team’s ability to engage in close-quarters battles effectively. Outside of these scenarios, their effectiveness diminishes significantly. Thus, maintaining a balanced loadout that includes an Assault Rifle or LMG is advisable. Alternatively, equipping a Sniper Rifle as a primary weapon while using an SMG as a secondary can provide strategic support during gameplay.

  • Increased magazine sizes for all SMGs to enhance combat effectiveness.
  • New perks for the Skirmisher class to amplify match tempo.
  • Significant updates to the Volt and other SMGs to reshape the meta.

For further details and insights on how these changes might influence gameplay, check the full coverage here.

© 2021 The Filibuster Blog