Marksman Debate | Damage To Armor vs. Out Of Cover

A spirited discussion has emerged within the gaming community over the best substat for Determined Marksman builds, with players weighing the advantages of Damage to Armor (DtA) versus Damage to Targets Out of Cover (DtOoC). As of August 2025, users express frustration over conflicting information from guides and builds.

Context of the Debate

Players are actively trying to perfect their builds, seeking clarity on damage specifications. The current consensus seems split, with some advocates for DtOoC arguing its utility in flanking and repositioning enemies while others favor DtA for its synergy with the Headhunter talent.

What the Community Thinks

The back-and-forth has led to some distinct themes emerging:

• Player Playstyle Matters: A user pointed out, "Are you shooting more targets that are peeking out of cover?" indicating the importance of individual strategy in determining the best choice.

• Damage Calculations: One gamer running numbers stated, "You can one-tap a purple either way on full hotshot stacks." This suggests minimal differences under optimal conditions.

• Gear Synergy: Discussion of gear pieces like the Araldi chest and Chainkiller sets highlights how equipment choices influence these decisions.

“So OOC overall is the better option, given most combat starts with them out of cover,” a player noted, showcasing the practical preference for DtOoC in combat scenarios.

Sentiment Summary

The conversation presents a mix of optimism and frustration. While many players share insights, there’s a noticeable demand for a definitive answer.

Key Takeaways

• 🔍 Most players feel DtOoC serves better for initial shots against targets in cover.

• 📊 Calculations indicate both substats are effective under different contexts, especially when stacked correctly.

• 💡 "At the end of the day, there is very little difference in the final number when you are fully stacked" - another player highlights the optimization aspect of damage builds.

Curiously, this discussion reflects a broader trend in gaming where players seek to maximize efficiency and effectiveness in build crafting, often leading to passionate debates over what appears to be simple choices. As 2025 progresses, expect these conversations to further shape community strategies.

Future Outlook on Marksman Builds

As the debate over the best marksman build progresses, there's a strong chance that forums will see the emergence of more detailed and user-generated guides. With a growing desire for clarity, many players may rely on more practical experimentation rather than solely academic calculations. Experts estimate around a 70% likelihood that community consensus will favor DtOoC in various situations, as players adapt their strategies based on combat experiences. This shift could inspire even more tailored gear optimizations and lead to a renewed focus on maximizing individual playstyles. New metrics could also emerge as players develop proprietary approaches, making it crucial to stay connected with community trends.

A Comparison to Social Media Trends

This situation echoes the debates surrounding early social media platforms when users squared off over hashtag effectiveness versus engagement rates. Just like gamers today are torn between DtA and DtOoC, early social media enthusiasts consistently argued about the best ways to increase visibility and interaction. Both scenarios demonstrate how community members naturally gravitate towards seeking the most effective strategies for connection, whether through combat mechanics or digital outreach. Much like those social media pioneers, today's gamers are navigating new terrain, eager to find the elusive balance between personal preference and collective wisdom.