Destiny 2 SMGs: Why Players Are Calling for More Than Just a Slight Magazine Increase

In Destiny 2, a massive number of players have been captivated (both emotionally and physically), yet one type of weapon seems to be lagging. The quiet murmurs on discussion forums have grown into a powerful outcry, urging a reconsideration of Submachine Guns (SMGs). Players are expressing their concerns that these swift weapons are struggling in the current game environment. From being perceived as cumbersome to grappling with an identity crisis compared to other weapon categories, gamers are advocating for more than just a minor adjustment to ammo capacity – they want changes aimed at rekindling the charm of SMGs.

SMGs will need more than a slight mag increase to draw players to them.
byu/NoctisNoctua inDestinyTheGame

Summary

Simplistic tweaks like a magazine size bump aren’t enough to resurrect SMGs in players’ eyes.
Overlapping weapon classes contribute to the perception that SMGs have lost their niche.
Recoil and handling issues make SMGs feel clunky and hard to use compared to other weapon types.
Concerns about balance between PvE and PvP gameplay weigh heavily on the proposed changes.

Clunky Feel and Handling Issues

Among many players complaining about the efficiency of Submachine Guns (SMGs), there’s a common theme: they find the weapons overly bulky and difficult to handle. User NoctisNoctua initiated a discussion by proposing that SMGs should have quicker handling, reloading, and lower recoil rates. This suggestion addresses a widespread dissatisfaction. In close-quarters combat, players anticipate these guns to feel swift and agile. However, numerous users report that the compact size of SMGs results in awkward handling, making them seem more like carrying a boat than using high-tech equipment. User RND_Musings shared similar thoughts, expressing, “I would certainly use them more if Bungie decreased the recoil on controller.” Essentially, we’re facing a whirlwind of contrasting feelings—a strong desire for the smooth and stylish performance that SMGs once offered.

The Overlap of Weapon Classes

As a gamer, I’ve noticed the issue that both CelestialShitehawk and ahawk_one have been vocal about – the overlapping capabilities of different weapon categories. While each type should ideally serve its unique purpose, it seems like they’re starting to blend, especially with sidearms stealing the spotlight from Submachine Guns (SMGs) in close-range combat. It’s a bit like navigating an IKEA without a map – everything looks so similar and it can get frustrating! ahawk_one puts it well when they say, “There are too many categories that overlap.” This is a common complaint because high-end enemies with spongy health can quickly discourage the use of anything other than the most lethal option, often the SMG. The battlefield feels overcrowded with similar weapon archetypes, and players are asking for a clearer distinction in functionality to let SMGs stand out again.

The Great Balance Act—PvE vs. PvP

The discussion on whether to strike the ideal equilibrium between Player versus Environment (PvE) and Player versus Player (PvP) situations is a contentious one, as gamers are all too familiar with the dilemma: when adjustments are made to weapon handling, they frequently favor one side, resulting in a scenario where one mode seems excessively dominant while the other feels unbalanced. In light of this, AlericandAmadeus suggests that reducing recoil could render weapons overpowered for PvP when using mouse and keyboard. This statement encapsulates the core issue: any enhancement to weapon efficiency must be handled with care to prevent undue advantages in competitive play. The desire is to revamp Submachine Guns (SMGs) without disrupting the balance that Bungie has carefully established among weapon types. The question remains, can they give SMGs a stronger impact while ensuring PvP interactions remain fair and competitive? This tightrope walk keeps many awake at night.

The Need for a Damage Boost

A significant number of players are advocating for an enhancement in damage, stating that the gameplay at present feels somewhat lackluster. User Axelz13 emphasized this issue particularly with the Ikelos SMG, pointing out that it takes almost an entire magazine to take down a single enemy, suggesting they need around a 20% increase in base damage against higher-level enemies. This underscores the importance of damage output in clearing large numbers of enemies. Players aren’t just asking for more ammunition; they want each bullet to deal substantial damage because the current risk often doesn’t align with the reward when it comes to SMGs. Additionally, SrslySam91 voiced a similar concern, stressing that any adjustments should be made thoughtfully to avoid disrupting balance, as overpowering SMGs could lead to their dominance and overshadowing lower-tier content enjoyment. This presents a challenging predicament in terms of finding a balance between player satisfaction and fair gameplay in a game where offense plays a crucial role.

In summary, both Bungie and dedicated players find it challenging to reconcile all aspects related to SMGs in Destiny 2, including improving their performance, streamlining categories, maintaining balance between PvE and PvP, and enhancing damage profiles. The community yearns for SMGs to regain their former glory, understanding that this won’t be achieved through minor adjustments; instead, Bungie needs to undertake a comprehensive overhaul. Numerous discussions on forums demonstrate the community’s dedication to the future of SMGs and desire for them to coexist harmoniously with other types of weapons. Ultimately, players seek a diverse arsenal that is both satisfying to use and effective in combat, hoping that SMGs can re-establish their position as key components within Destiny 2’s weapon collection.

2025-01-10 23:44