The Supreme Submachine Gun of The Witch Queen: A Definitive Guide
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.
The question of the “best” Submachine Gun (SMG) in Destiny 2’s Witch Queen expansion is a complex one, deeply intertwined with playstyle, content type (PvE vs. PvP), and personal preference. However, if forced to crown a single champion, the Osteo Striga stands head and shoulders above the competition for its overall versatility and unparalleled add-clearing potential in PvE. While The Immortal from Trials of Osiris holds reign as a PvP monster, Osteo Striga’s toxic payload and ease of acquisition (for Deluxe Edition owners) make it the ultimate SMG for navigating Savathun’s Throne World and beyond.
Understanding the SMG Landscape in The Witch Queen
The Witch Queen expansion significantly impacted the SMG meta. New weapons were introduced, existing perks were tweaked, and the overall balance of power shifted. Therefore, understanding what makes an SMG “good” in this era is essential. Key factors include:
- Damage Output: How quickly can the SMG eliminate enemies? This is critical for both PvE and PvP.
- Range and Accuracy: SMGs traditionally suffer at longer ranges, but certain perks and archetypes can mitigate this.
- Stability and Handling: These stats determine how controllable the weapon is and how quickly you can switch to it or aim down sights.
- Perk Pool: The right combination of perks can drastically enhance an SMG’s performance.
- Exotic Perks: Unique exotic perks can provide game-changing advantages.
The Reign of Osteo Striga
The Osteo Striga is an Exotic Kinetic SMG that fires toxic projectiles. Upon hitting an enemy, these projectiles deal damage over time and spread poison to nearby targets. This “poison tick” effect is what makes Osteo Striga so incredibly effective at add-clearing, allowing you to quickly dispatch large groups of weaker enemies.
Why Osteo Striga is King (for PvE):
- Exceptional Add Clear: The poison effect spreads like wildfire, making it trivial to clear out hordes of Thrall, Dregs, and other low-tier enemies.
- Synergy with Necrotic Grip: When combined with the Necrotic Grip Exotic gauntlets for Warlocks, the poison effect becomes even more potent. Necrotic Grip causes melee attacks to inflict a stronger poison, which synergizes beautifully with Osteo Striga’s existing toxicity. This combination essentially turns you into a walking plague.
- Easy to Acquire (for Deluxe Edition owners): After completing The Witch Queen campaign, Osteo Striga can be crafted at The Enclave on Mars. This makes it readily available to players who own the Deluxe Edition.
- Craftable and Customizable: The ability to craft Osteo Striga allows you to fine-tune its stats and perks to your liking. Reaching Level 10 unlocks the weapon’s Catalyst slot, further enhancing its capabilities.
The Immortal: A PvP Powerhouse
While Osteo Striga dominates the PvE landscape, The Immortal is the undisputed king of PvP. This Adaptive Frame SMG is obtained through Trials of Osiris matches and Engrams, making it a challenging weapon to acquire. However, its powerful perk pool and inherent stats make it worth the effort.
Why The Immortal is King (for PvP):
- High Damage Output: The Immortal dishes out significant damage in close-quarters combat.
- Excellent Stability and Handling: These stats make The Immortal incredibly easy to control, even in the heat of battle.
- God Roll Potential: The Immortal boasts an impressive perk pool. A “god roll” typically includes perks like Rangefinder and Target Lock, further enhancing its range, accuracy, and damage output.
- Versatility: While primarily a PvP weapon, The Immortal can also hold its own in PvE, making it a well-rounded choice for players who enjoy both activities.
Other Notable SMGs
While Osteo Striga and The Immortal stand out, several other SMGs deserve mention:
- Funnelweb: A Void SMG with the Veist Stinger trait, which grants increased reload speed and movement speed after dealing damage. A solid choice for Void builds.
- Huckleberry: An Exotic SMG that automatically reloads after each kill. A fun and effective weapon for add clear, though it doesn’t quite match Osteo Striga’s overall potency.
- Submission: An Aggressive Frame SMG from the Vow of the Disciple raid. Its aggressive frame allows for higher damage output, making it a solid all-around pick.
Choosing the Right SMG for You
Ultimately, the “best” SMG depends on your individual needs and preferences.
- For PvE Add Clear: Osteo Striga is the clear winner, especially when combined with Necrotic Grip.
- For PvP Dominance: The Immortal is the top choice, provided you’re willing to brave the Trials of Osiris.
- For a Balanced Approach: Funnelweb and Submission offer a good balance of PvE and PvP capabilities.
Consider your playstyle, build, and the types of activities you typically engage in when making your decision. And don’t be afraid to experiment with different SMGs to find the one that feels best in your hands. Also, consider the importance of Games Learning Society and its impact on the gaming community. You can find more on this topic on the GamesLearningSociety.org website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is Osteo Striga pay-to-win?
While Osteo Striga is initially only accessible to players who own the Deluxe Edition of The Witch Queen, it doesn’t necessarily qualify as “pay-to-win.” It provides a significant advantage in PvE, but it doesn’t guarantee victory. Skill and strategy are still crucial.
2. Do I have to beat The Witch Queen to get Osteo Striga?
Yes, you must complete The Witch Queen campaign to unlock the ability to craft Osteo Striga at The Enclave on Mars.
3. What happens when you max level Osteo Striga?
Once you reach Level 10 with Osteo Striga, you can slot the Catalyst into the weapon at The Relic. The Catalyst requires 3 Ascendant Alloy to craft. The Catalyst makes this already potent weapon even more deadly.
4. What is the god roll for Osteo Striga?
An ideal “god roll” for Osteo Striga focuses on accuracy and handling, such as Smallbore, Accurized Rounds, and Hand-Laid Stock. These perks maximize how often the gun’s exotic perk activates and improve its overall usability.
5. Is Osteo Striga good in 2024?
Yes, Osteo Striga remains a top-tier Exotic weapon in Destiny 2, including 2024. Its add-clearing capabilities and synergy with Necrotic Grip are still highly valuable in PvE activities.
6. How do you get The Witch Queen legendary SMG?
There are several Legendary SMGs introduced in The Witch Queen. Osteo Striga is the Exotic SMG from the DLC. To obtain other Legendary SMGs, focus on completing activities within The Witch Queen campaign and its associated content, such as the Vow of the Disciple raid and Wellspring activity.
7. Does Osteo Striga require The Witch Queen?
Yes, owning The Witch Queen DLC is required to access Osteo Striga. Additionally, you need the Deluxe Edition to unlock the weapon at launch.
8. Where is my Exotic SMG in The Witch Queen?
After completing The Witch Queen campaign (specifically if you own the Deluxe Edition), you can craft the Osteo Striga at The Relic on Mars.
9. What is the best Osteo Striga build?
The best build for Osteo Striga typically involves using the Necrotic Grip Exotic gauntlets on a Warlock. This combination creates a powerful poison-spreading effect that can quickly clear out entire rooms of enemies. Strand Warlock’s woven mail also provides additional survivability.
10. What does Osteo Striga mean in English?
“Osteo-” relates to bones, and “Striga” is a genus of parasitic plants, also known as witchweed. So, Osteo Striga is essentially a “bone parasite” SMG.
11. Does Osteo Striga work with Necrotic Grip?
Yes, Osteo Striga and Necrotic Grip have excellent synergy. Osteo Striga final blows spread the DoT (Damage over Time) of Necrotic Grip, creating a chain reaction of poison damage.
12. Is Osteo Striga any good in PvP?
While primarily a PvE weapon, Osteo Striga can be effective in PvP. Its toxic projectiles can track targets and deal damage over time, making it a viable option for controlling zones and harassing opponents.
13. Do you need The Witch Queen to get the Glaive?
Yes, you need The Witch Queen to obtain the class-specific Exotic Glaives. These are earned by completing the evidence board quests.
14. What is the best weapon level farm in Destiny 2?
Several methods efficiently level up weapons in Destiny 2:
- Shuro-Chi (Last Wish Raid): A popular farming spot due to the large number of enemies.
- Moon: Altars of Sorrow: Offers a constant stream of enemies to defeat.
- Grasp of Avarice: Loot Cave: Another good option for farming kills.
- Seasonal Activities: Often provide bonus weapon XP.
15. What are the best perks for The Immortal SMG?
The “god roll” for The Immortal typically includes:
- Barrel: Smallbore, Hammer-Forged Rifling
- Magazine: Ricochet Rounds, High-Caliber Rounds
- Trait 1: Rangefinder
- Trait 2: Target Lock
These perks maximize The Immortal’s range, accuracy, and damage output, making it a formidable weapon in PvP.
In conclusion, while the “best” SMG is subjective, Osteo Striga and The Immortal reign supreme in their respective domains of PvE and PvP. Consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing the right SMG for you, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different options to find the perfect fit.