High-Level Comp | Ascendant Zero Gamers Embrace Heavy Linear Fusion Weapons
A noticeable shift is happening in high-level Crucible matches, particularly in Ascendant Zero. Competitors are increasingly favoring linear fusion rifles in their heavy weapon slots, igniting discussions among players about their newfound popularity. What’s driving this trend?
The Rise of Heavy Linears
Players are reporting an influx of linear fusion rifles in high-stakes matches, a departure from typical weapon choices seen in the regular Crucible. "It’s craftable, and heavy linears get 5 or 6 ammo from the crate pull," noted one commenter. This burst capability and the ability to secure kills with a single headshot significantly enhance their kill count potential.
Strong Performance in High-Stakes Matches
Heavy linear fusion rifles have gained traction for several key reasons:
High Kill Potential: Any of the three bolts in a burst can lead to a kill with a headshot. Alternatively, three body hits also result in a kill.
Ammo Accessibility: Players are seeing up to five shots available at pick-up, providing a notable advantage in close matches. One player shared, "5 ammo with each bolt one tapping results in way more than 5 very free kills if you are competent."
Skilled Gameplay: "Because it shreds. I’m surprised to see this brought up you can absolutely get 2 or 3 kills per shot at times when people are grouped up," a commenter emphasized, referring to situations with players clustered in wells or rifts.
The Debate on Weapon Viability
Despite heavy linears’ strengths, some argue about their viability compared to machine guns. "Machine guns lose to jiggle peak 120s, which is a big chunk of high-rank Crucible," expressed a player. Another highlighted the risk of granting competitors heavy ammo upon elimination, saying, "I’ve dropped bricks by getting killed and turned the tide of the match." Meanwhile, others are analyzing effective perks, including the Ambush origin trait and Fire and Forget, which enhances gameplay by slowing on the first burst round and making headshots easier.
"This is the only heavy archetype you should run in 3s," claimed a well-regarded PvP commentator in a recent video.
Sentiment Shift Among Players
Players adapting strategies in response to the current meta demonstrate a shift towards heavy linear fusion rifles. While sentiment ranges from positive to neutral regarding traditional firearms, the surge of interest in linears suggests their growing recognition as competitive tools.
Noteworthy Insights
🚀 The introduction of heavy linear fusion rifles is reshaping competitive strategies.
📊 Five shots on pickup significantly boosts tactical options for players.
💬 "Feels like pre-nerf Lorentz," comments one player on the balance of these weapons.
📉 Recent nerfs to machine guns have influenced choices, pushing many to switch to linear fusion rifles.
As players continue to explore this evolving dynamic, can heavy linear fusion rifles solidify their place in competitive play? Time will tell.