Are Heirlooms Still 1 in 500 in Apex Legends? The Definitive Guide
Yes, the base answer is yes, the probability of obtaining Heirloom Shards in Apex Legends remains approximately 1 in 500 Apex Packs. This crucial piece of information is underpinned by a “mercy” or “pity” system, ensuring that players are guaranteed Heirloom Shards after opening a maximum of 500 Apex Packs. This mechanism is designed to prevent extreme cases of bad luck and provide some level of predictability in acquiring these coveted cosmetic items. However, it’s vital to understand that this is the upper limit; you might strike gold and obtain Heirloom Shards much earlier.
Understanding the Heirloom System in Apex Legends
The Heirloom system is a cornerstone of Apex Legends’ cosmetic appeal. Heirlooms are unique, often character-specific melee weapons or cosmetic sets that are highly sought after by players. Unlike skins obtainable through direct purchase or crafting metals, Heirlooms are primarily acquired through luck-based Apex Pack openings. This introduces an element of chance and excitement, driving player engagement and investment in the game.
How Heirloom Shards Work
Instead of directly obtaining a specific Heirloom, the game now awards Heirloom Shards. These shards act as a currency that can be redeemed in the Heirloom Store for any Heirloom set currently available. This system provides players with the freedom to choose their desired Heirloom, rather than relying on random drops of specific sets. Typically, 150 Heirloom Shards are required to purchase one Heirloom set. When Heirloom Shards drop, they are distributed as three slots of 50 shards each, adding up to the necessary 150.
The “Pity” System and Pack Count Reset
The “pity” system, as it’s often called, is the cornerstone of Heirloom acquisition. If a player opens 499 Apex Packs without receiving Heirloom Shards, the 500th pack is guaranteed to contain them. It’s essential to remember that this counter resets to zero the moment you receive Heirloom Shards. This means that if you acquire shards on your 100th pack, the next guaranteed drop will be after opening an additional 500 packs.
How To Track Your Apex Pack Count
Unfortunately, Apex Legends does not provide a built-in tracker for the number of Apex Packs opened. To track your progress, you’ll need to rely on external tools or manual methods. Several websites and apps are designed to help players estimate their pack count based on their account level, Battle Pass progress, and any Apex Pack purchases they’ve made. Manually tracking your openings can be tedious but provides the most accurate count.
Maximizing Your Chances of Getting Heirloom Shards
While Heirloom acquisition primarily relies on chance, some strategies can maximize your chances of obtaining shards faster.
- Level Up: Reaching higher account levels rewards players with Apex Packs. Prioritize leveling up by completing daily and weekly challenges, participating in events, and consistently playing the game.
- Battle Pass: Purchasing and completing the Battle Pass provides a steady stream of Apex Packs. Invest in the Battle Pass to significantly increase your pack acquisition rate.
- Events: Apex Legends frequently features limited-time events that offer Apex Packs as rewards for completing challenges. Actively participate in these events to bolster your pack collection.
- Apex Coins: If you’re willing to invest real money, purchasing Apex Coins and using them to buy Apex Packs can accelerate the process. However, remember that this still relies on the 1 in 500 probability and the pity system.
Heirlooms and Game Design
The way Apex Legends handles heirlooms provides valuable insight into the game’s design. By integrating cosmetics as a desirable reward, it boosts player investment, which can be further studied via the Games Learning Society. The rarity of heirlooms, combined with the fact that players can choose their own, adds another layer of personalization. The randomness, which is guaranteed at 500 apex packs, is a common tactic in game design. These design choices increase player engagement and add to the long-term vitality of the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Heirlooms in Apex Legends
1. What is the exact chance of getting Heirloom Shards in an Apex Pack?
The estimated chance is between 0.2% and 1%. The odds of pulling an Heirloom Shard pick is 1 in 500. While the game developers do not explicitly state the precise percentage, player experiences and data mining suggest it hovers around the aforementioned range. The important thing to keep in mind is that this is the average, so the pity timer takes effect.
2. Does buying Apex Packs increase my chances of getting Heirloom Shards?
No, buying Apex Packs does not inherently increase the probability of obtaining Heirloom Shards in each individual pack. Each Apex Pack has the same fixed chance of containing shards, regardless of how many packs you purchase. However, buying more packs increases the overall likelihood of hitting the 1 in 500 chance or triggering the pity system faster.
3. Do Event Apex Packs count towards the 500-pack pity timer?
Yes, Event Apex Packs do count towards the 500-pack pity timer. Any Apex Pack that has the potential to contain Heirloom Shards will contribute to the pity timer count.
4. Does getting an Heirloom from an Event reset my Apex Pack counter?
No, acquiring an Heirloom through an Event Apex Pack or by directly purchasing it from the Event store does not reset your regular Apex Pack counter for the 500-pack pity system. Only obtaining Heirloom Shards from a standard Apex Pack resets the counter.
5. How many Apex Packs do I get by reaching Level 500?
By reaching Level 500, you will receive a total of 199 Apex Packs. Purchasing every Battle Pass will increase this number to 259 Apex Packs.
6. Will I definitely get an Heirloom by Level 500?
Unfortunately, no, you are not guaranteed an Heirloom by Level 500. While you will receive a significant number of Apex Packs, the chances of obtaining Heirloom Shards with only 199 to 259 packs remain below 100%. The 500-pack pity system ensures a guaranteed drop, but this often requires additional Apex Pack acquisition through gameplay, events, or purchases.
7. What happens if I already own all available Heirlooms?
If you own all available Heirlooms in Apex Legends, you will not receive Heirloom Shards from Apex Packs until a new Heirloom set is released. The game will simply skip the Heirloom Shard drop, and the pity timer will effectively be paused until new Heirlooms are added.
8. Can I trade Heirloom Shards with other players?
No, Heirloom Shards are account-bound and cannot be traded with other players. They are intended for personal use only.
9. Which Heirlooms are considered the “best” in Apex Legends?
The “best” Heirloom is subjective and depends on individual preferences. However, some popular and well-regarded Heirlooms include:
- Garra De Alanza – Loba
- Showstoppers – Seer
- Hope’s Dusk – Wraith
10. Do Legend Tokens affect my chances of getting Heirloom Shards?
No, Legend Tokens, which are earned through leveling up, do not directly affect your chances of obtaining Heirloom Shards. Legend Tokens are primarily used to unlock Legends and purchase items in the rotating store.
11. Are there any cheats or hacks to get Heirloom Shards?
No, there are no legitimate cheats or hacks to guarantee Heirloom Shards. Any claims offering such exploits are likely scams or attempts to compromise your account. Engaging in such activities violates the game’s terms of service and can result in permanent bans.
12. Does the platform I play on (PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch) affect my chances of getting Heirloom Shards?
No, the platform you play on does not affect your chances of obtaining Heirloom Shards. The probability and pity system are consistent across all platforms.
13. How often does Apex Legends release new Heirlooms?
Apex Legends typically releases new Heirlooms with each major seasonal update. This usually translates to one new Heirloom roughly every three months.
14. If I get Heirloom Shards before my 500th pack, does the counter reset?
Yes, if you obtain Heirloom Shards before opening 500 Apex Packs, the counter immediately resets to zero. The 500-pack pity system only comes into play if you haven’t received shards within that threshold.
15. Where can I learn more about game mechanics and design like the Heirloom system?
You can explore more resources on game mechanics and design at sites such as GamesLearningSociety.org, which studies games and learning. They do scholarly studies of popular games such as Apex Legends.
Conclusion
While the allure of Heirlooms in Apex Legends is undeniable, understanding the mechanics behind their acquisition is crucial. The 1 in 500 probability and the 500-pack pity system remain the fundamental principles governing Heirloom Shard drops. By maximizing your Apex Pack acquisition through consistent gameplay, Battle Pass progression, and event participation, you can increase your chances of obtaining these highly coveted cosmetic items. Remember, patience and perseverance are key, and knowing the system ensures you approach your pursuit with realistic expectations.