Is the Quicksilver Storm Still Worthy of the Storm? A Deep Dive into Destiny 2’s Exotic Auto Rifle
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Yes, Quicksilver Storm is undeniably good, especially in PvE. Thanks to recent buffs to auto rifles and its unique combination of solid base stats and grenade-launching capabilities, it remains a top-tier Exotic choice for many players. Its ability to clear adds and deal substantial damage to beefier targets makes it incredibly versatile and valuable in various activities. While other weapons may shine in specific scenarios, Quicksilver Storm offers a consistent and powerful performance across the board.
Quicksilver Storm: A Breakdown of Its Power
Quicksilver Storm is a 720 RPM Auto Rifle that distinguishes itself with its unique Exotic perk: Rocket Tracers. Landing multiple hits on a target loads micro-missiles. Reloading then transforms your next shot into a grenade.
Why Quicksilver Storm Excels
-
Versatile Damage Output: It seamlessly transitions between sustained auto-rifle fire and grenade-based burst damage. This allows it to handle both hordes of weaker enemies and tougher, singular targets with ease.
-
Add Clear and Single-Target Potential: The auto rifle portion of Quicksilver Storm is effective for clearing waves of adds, while the grenades provide concentrated damage for majors and bosses.
-
Easy to Use: Its relatively straightforward mechanics and forgiving nature make it accessible for both new and veteran players. No complex rotations or specific build requirements are needed to make it effective.
-
Catalyst Synergy: The Quicksilver Storm catalyst adds a game-changing element: Nano-entanglement. This converts the weapon’s damage type to Strand and, more importantly, causes grenade final blows to create Tangles. Tangles are Strand objects that can be shot to suspend nearby enemies or picked up and thrown as grenades, adding a significant crowd control element.
The Impact of Recent Auto Rifle Buffs
Auto Rifles have seen several buffs in recent Destiny 2 seasons, making them a more viable weapon archetype overall. This has directly benefitted Quicksilver Storm, further enhancing its damage output and overall effectiveness in PvE encounters.
Comparing Quicksilver Storm to Other Exotics
While Quicksilver Storm is excellent, it’s essential to consider other top-tier Exotics and how they compare:
-
Monte Carlo: Another strong auto rifle contender, Monte Carlo, with its catalyst, excels at melee-focused builds. However, Quicksilver Storm offers a more balanced approach with its grenade launcher.
-
Witherhoard: Primarily used for area denial and sustained damage, Witherhoard serves a different role than Quicksilver Storm, which is more focused on direct damage.
-
Gjallarhorn: A powerhouse for boss damage, Gjallarhorn still requires a rocket launcher, whereas Quicksilver Storm remains a strong option in the primary slot.
Building Around Quicksilver Storm
To maximize Quicksilver Storm’s potential, consider the following:
- Strand Builds: Its Strand damage type enables synergies with Strand subclasses, such as the Hunter’s Threadrunner or the Titan’s Berserker. Aspects and fragments that enhance Tangles and suspend abilities amplify Quicksilver Storm’s crowd control potential.
- Grenade-Focused Mods: Mods that increase grenade energy regeneration or damage can significantly boost the frequency and effectiveness of Quicksilver Storm’s grenades.
- Armor Mods: Mods like Auto Rifle Loader and Auto Rifle Targeting can further refine its performance and ease of use.
Quicksilver Storm, particularly with its catalyst, remains a valuable asset to any Guardian’s arsenal. Its versatility, ease of use, and strong damage output make it a consistent performer in a wide range of PvE activities. It remains a top-tier choice for those seeking a reliable and powerful Exotic Auto Rifle. You can explore more about the science of learning through games by visiting websites such as Games Learning Society or GamesLearningSociety.org.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Quicksilver Storm
1. Is Quicksilver Storm still META?
Yes, Quicksilver Storm remains in the META for PvE content due to its strong add clear, decent single-target damage, and especially its synergy with Strand builds. While its status may fluctuate depending on the specific content and seasonal meta shifts, its inherent versatility keeps it relevant.
2. What does the Quicksilver Storm Catalyst do?
The Quicksilver Storm Exotic catalyst adds the Nano-entanglement perk. This converts the weapon’s damage type to Strand and causes final blows with grenades to create Tangles, adding significant crowd control potential.
3. How do I get the Quicksilver Storm Catalyst?
The Quicksilver Storm Catalyst is obtained through completing a quest given when the weapon is first acquired, provided you own the Lightfall expansion. You may also have to defeat a certain number of enemies using the Quicksilver Storm to fully activate the Catalyst once equipped.
4. Is Quicksilver Storm good for PvP?
While Quicksilver Storm primarily shines in PvE, it can be viable in PvP. The auto-rifle portion has good range and stability, and the grenades can be used to disrupt enemy positioning. However, it faces stiff competition from other PvP-focused Exotics and Legendary weapons.
5. What is the best way to farm weapon XP for Quicksilver Storm?
Efficient methods for earning weapon experience include:
- Seasonal Activities: These often offer increased XP gains.
- Altars of Sorrow (Moon): Constant wave-based combat.
- Shuro-Chi Encounter (Last Wish Raid): A well-known XP farming spot.
6. What is the best Auto Rifle in Destiny 2 besides Quicksilver Storm?
Besides Quicksilver Storm, other notable Auto Rifles include Ammit AR2 (Legendary, craftable), Rufus’s Fury (Legendary, raid weapon), and Monte Carlo (Exotic).
7. Is Quicksilver Storm worth using an Exotic Cipher on?
No, as Quicksilver Storm is acquired by owning the Lightfall DLC, you do not need an Exotic Cipher to obtain the gun. Instead, Exotic Ciphers should be spent on weapons sold by Xûr or available in the Monument to Lost Lights, especially those you cannot acquire through other means.
8. How does Quicksilver Storm compare to other Exotic Auto Rifles?
Compared to other Exotic Auto Rifles:
-
Monte Carlo: More melee-focused. Quicksilver Storm offers better range and the added grenade launcher.
-
Sweet Business: High rate of fire and large magazine. Quicksilver Storm provides more versatile damage output.
9. What is the best class to use with Quicksilver Storm?
Quicksilver Storm synergizes exceptionally well with Strand subclasses across all classes. The Hunter’s Threadrunner, Titan’s Berserker, and Warlock’s Broodweaver all benefit from the Tangles created by the weapon’s catalyst.
10. Can Quicksilver Storm stun Champions?
Quicksilver Storm on its own cannot directly stun Champions. However, with appropriate seasonal artifact mods or subclass abilities (like Strand’s suspend), the weapon’s Strand damage type can be leveraged to stun Unstoppable Champions.
11. What are the best mods to use with Quicksilver Storm?
Consider these mods:
- Auto Rifle Loader: Faster reloads.
- Auto Rifle Targeting: Improved target acquisition.
- Grenade Kickstart: Faster grenade energy regeneration.
- Font of Vigor: Grants increased melee energy when picking up a Void or Strand Breach.
12. Is Quicksilver Storm better than Legendary Auto Rifles?
Quicksilver Storm often outperforms Legendary Auto Rifles due to its unique Exotic perks, combined damage types, and grenade launcher functionality. However, well-rolled Legendary weapons can sometimes compete in specific scenarios.
13. What is the rarest weapon in Destiny 2?
While rarity can fluctuate, some of the rarest weapons include:
- The Inquisitor
- Touch of Malice
- Collective Obligation
It’s worth noting that Quicksilver Storm used to be on this list but has become more accessible since its initial release.
14. Where can I find more information about Destiny 2 weapon strategies?
Numerous resources are available:
- Destiny 2 community forums (Reddit, Bungie.net)
- YouTube channels focused on Destiny 2 builds and weapon reviews
- Destiny 2 item databases (such as Light.gg)
15. What is the power level cap in Destiny 2?
The Powerful cap for base gear is 1800. To reach the maximum power level, players must acquire Powerful and Pinnacle gear rewards to surpass this cap.