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Exploring the role of sidearms in modern firearms

Sidearms vs SMGs | Unpacking Their Unique Role in Gaming

By

Liam Bennett

Jul 14, 2026, 06:56 AM

2 minutes of duration

A sleek sidearm positioned on a table, showcasing its design and features in a modern setting.
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A heated discussion is brewing among gamers regarding the niche of sidearms in gameplay. With the rise of SMGs, which boast faster rates of fire and larger magazine sizes, people are questioning the effectiveness of sidearms in intense combat scenarios.

Context of the Discussion

In recent conversations on various forums, many players have expressed their thoughts on sidearms, arguing they outperform SMGs in specific situations. Some gamers believe, "sidearms out damage SMGs against regular enemies while having very comparable range.โ€ This suggests a tactical advantage in close to mid-range combats.

Performance vs Alternatives

Interestingly, players have noted that sidearms provide an effective add-based damage per second (DPS) that rivals SMGs in many encounters. โ€œIronically, youโ€™ve actually got the argument backwards,โ€ stated one gamer, emphasizing that sidearms perform better for crowd control.

Key themes emerging from the chatter include:

  • Damage Output: Many assert sidearms do more damage than SMGs against standard enemy types.

  • DPS Efficiency: Some users claim DPS from sidearms surpasses that of SMGs due to better perk combinations.

  • Usage Context: Gamers prefer sidearms in situations requiring rapid movement or less precision, as they often deal effective damage while hip-firing.

Community Sentiment

The overall sentiment leans towards favoring sidearms for their versatility and effectiveness. While some players enjoy the fast-paced nature of SMGs, others feel they fall short, voicing that they "run out of ammo too quickly." This brings into question the true utility of SMGs when facing tough foes.

"Sidearms are more fun and no one expects them," comments a player on their preferred tactical approach.

Key Features Highlighted by Players

  • โš”๏ธ Damage Efficiency: "Sidearms deliver more punch for add clearing."

  • ๐Ÿ”ฅ Perk Variety: Unique combinations found in sidearms enhance gameplay experience.

  • ๐ŸŽฏ Accuracy: Sidearms provide better control, especially on consoles where recoil can be a struggle for players.

The Ongoing Debate

The argument appears to center around personal preference and gameplay dynamics. Gamers continue to weigh the merits of each archetype. With ongoing updates and game dynamics, this discussion will likely evolve, maintaining relevance in future game strategies. Will players continue to embrace sidearms over SMGs as the meta shifts? Only time will tell.

What Lies Ahead for Sidearms and SMGs

Thereโ€™s a strong chance the focus on sidearms will grow as more players recognize their advantages in specific combat situations. Factors such as recent game updates and community-shared experiences could enhance the appeal of sidearms. Experts estimate around a 60% likelihood that future patches will favor sidearms, especially if they enhance their damage output or perk combinations, leading to strategic shifts in favor of sidearms over SMGs. As this trend unfolds, players may experiment more with sidearms, possibly redefining gameplay's meta in upcoming tournaments.

Echoes of History in Combat Choices

This debate mirrors the historical shifts seen in martial practices, much like the adoption of the bow and arrow over the sword in medieval warfare. At first, swords were seen as superior for close combat, just as SMGs enjoy their popularity now. Yet, as strategies evolved, archers became essential on the battlefield, often dictating the flow of combat. Similarly, the current tussle between sidearms and SMGs may signal a fundamental shift in how players approach gameplay dynamics, highlighting that sometimes, the underdog holds the key to victory.