Home
/
Gaming news
/
Industry trends
/

Proposed balance changes for season 10: what's needed?

Players Demand Balance Tweaks for Season 10 | Melee and Meta Under Fire

By

Sofia Chang

Feb 20, 2026, 09:00 PM

Edited By

Alex

2 minutes of duration

Players discussing weapon adjustments and gameplay improvements for Season 10
popular

A faction of gamers are rallying for significant balance changes ahead of Season 10. Key adjustments proposed have stirred up controversy, with many advocating for a shift in the current combat dynamics.

Proposed Changes Ignite Discussions

Comments on various forums reveal a mix of frustration and hope among the player base. Notable suggestions include:

  • Thermal Bore explosion damage increased to 50-70

  • Tracking Dart amplifies damage by 5%

  • Breach Drill to deal 100 damage, but with clearer hazard indicators

Interestingly, one user echoed a common sentiment: "Bring back melee!!! Sledge beloved." This highlights a push for melee combat re-emphasis, indicating dissatisfaction with current ranged meta strategies. Others wish to curb the overpowered poke meta, which has been labeled "unrewarding and boring."

Melee Combat in the Spotlight

Opinions on melee adjustments are strongly polarized. Suggestions to return to melee-centric gameplay reflect an urgent desire among many to enhance player experience. Gamers have remarked, "Make red canister great again" as yet another appeal to revive previously favored gameplay mechanics.

Key Themes from the Community:

  • Melee Reinstatement: Calls for a return to robust melee combat.

  • Condemnation of Current Meta: Many find the existing poke meta stale.

  • Nerfing Awful Adjustments: Discontent with recent nerfs, particularly the pyro mine.

Key Takeaways

  • โœ… A significant number are requesting a combat refresh before Season 10 begins.

  • โŒ Criticism of poke meta continues to spark intense conversations.

  • โญ "Some users argue itโ€™s time for a new balance direction."

This conversation is a crucial indicator of player sentiment as developers head into the last phases of preparation for Season 10.

Anticipating a Shift in Gameplay Dynamics

As Season 10 approaches, there's a strong chance developers will implement at least some of the proposed balance changes, primarily driven by player feedback. Given the intense discussions and widespread calls for melee combat adjustments, experts estimate around a 70% possibility that adjustments will focus on enhancing melee options while curbing the poke meta. The response from the community suggests that these changes may boost engagement, as players seek a refreshed combat experience. A balanced blend of melee and ranged strategies could not only satisfy long-time fans but also draw in new players eager for a dynamic gameplay environment.

A Refreshing Echo from History

In looking back at the music industryโ€™s evolution, one can draw parallels between the current gaming discourse and the rise of grunge in the early '90s. Just as grunge emerged from a desire for authenticity and depth, gamers today are calling for a return to a style of combat that emphasizes skill over mere mechanics. This cry for a deeper, more visceral experience resonates with a segment of players who seek meaning beyond flashy moves and opaque strategies. This historical echo highlights the cyclical nature of entertainment, where audiences frequently crave simplicity and authenticity during complex gaming eras.