The Unloved Arsenal: Unearthing Destiny 2’s Least Used Exotics

So, you want to know which Exotic weapon in Destiny 2 gathers the most dust? The unfortunate title of least used Exotic weapon often rotates, but The Queenbreaker regularly finds itself in the running. Despite several attempts to breathe new life into it, this linear fusion rifle struggles to find a consistent place in the meta, leaving it languishing in vaults across the solar system.

Why Some Exotics Are Overlooked

Before diving deeper into specific examples, let’s address the elephant in the room: why do some Exotics end up gathering digital dust? Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

The Power Creep Problem

Destiny 2 is a constantly evolving game. New weapons and perks are introduced with each season, and the power level of these additions can sometimes overshadow older Exotics. What was once a top-tier choice can quickly become obsolete if it doesn’t keep pace. Power creep is real, and it impacts the usability of older gear.

Specialization vs. Versatility

Some Exotics are highly specialized, excelling in niche situations. While this can be beneficial in specific activities, it limits their overall usefulness. In contrast, more versatile Exotics that perform well across a variety of content tend to be favored by players.

The “Flavor of the Month”

The meta in Destiny 2 is heavily influenced by the community and content creators. When a particular weapon or build gains popularity, everyone flocks to it. This can leave other perfectly viable options in the dust, even if they’re still effective.

Difficulty of Acquisition

Some Exotics are notoriously difficult to obtain. If a weapon is both rare and underwhelming, players are less likely to invest the time and effort required to acquire it.

A Closer Look at The Queenbreaker

As mentioned earlier, The Queenbreaker is often cited as one of the least used Exotics. This is surprising, given its unique features. It’s a linear fusion rifle that can blind enemies upon impact. It even received a buff in Lightfall to improve its capabilities. However, despite these advantages, it consistently underperforms compared to other options. This is probably due to the fact that other weapons offer greater utility and reliability.

Other Contenders for “Least Used”

While The Queenbreaker is a frequent contender, other Exotics have also faced periods of low usage:

• Fighting Lion: Once a niche favorite, the Fighting Lion’s unique grenade launcher mechanics haven’t always kept pace with the meta, making it a weapon only a dedicated few will use.

• Lord of Wolves: This Exotic shotgun has had its moments of glory, but its inconsistent performance and reliance on specific builds have limited its overall appeal.

• Wavesplitter: Wavesplitter’s fluctuating beam strength and reliance on Orbs of Power have made it a challenging weapon to master, leading to lower usage rates.

Why Usage Rates Matter (and Why They Don’t)

While low usage rates can indicate a weapon’s underperformance, it’s important to remember that it doesn’t necessarily mean the weapon is bad. Sometimes, a weapon is simply misunderstood or overlooked. Additionally, personal preference plays a huge role. What one player considers useless, another might find incredibly fun and effective. Think of it as a Games Learning Society principle: enjoyment and engagement can outweigh raw power.

However, usage rates do provide valuable data for Bungie, the developers of Destiny 2. They use this information to identify underperforming weapons and make adjustments to improve their viability.

Making Underused Exotics Viable

Bungie has a history of revisiting underused Exotics and giving them buffs or reworks. These changes can range from simple stat adjustments to complete overhauls of their perks. Here are some common approaches:

• Damage Buffs: Increasing the damage output is a straightforward way to make a weapon more appealing.

• Perk Reworks: Changing or adding new perks can dramatically alter a weapon’s functionality and make it more competitive.

• Bug Fixes: Sometimes, a weapon’s underperformance is due to a bug that hinders its functionality. Fixing these bugs can significantly improve its usability.

• Synergy Enhancements: Improving a weapon’s synergy with specific subclasses or builds can make it a more attractive option for players.

Is the Rarity of a Weapon Connected with the Usage Rate?

Not always. Some incredibly rare weapons are highly sought after and frequently used. On the other hand, some relatively common Exotics languish in obscurity. Rarity can certainly influence initial hype and demand, but ultimately, a weapon’s usefulness and enjoyment factor are what determine its long-term popularity.

The Future of Underused Exotics

The constant evolution of Destiny 2 means that the list of “least used Exotics” is always subject to change. As new content is released and existing weapons are rebalanced, some forgotten gems may find their way back into the spotlight. The key is for Bungie to continue to monitor usage rates and make informed decisions about how to improve the viability of underperforming weapons.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about Exotics in Destiny 2:

1. What is the rarest Exotic in Destiny 2 right now?

The rarest Exotic varies depending on the season and how difficult it is to acquire. Whistler’s Whim, a Trials bow from Season of Plunder, has been cited as one of the rarer ones.

2. How do I get Exotic weapons in Destiny 2?

Exotic weapons can be obtained through various means, including Exotic engrams, specific quests, raids, Nightfalls, and Xur.

3. What is Xur, and where can I find him?

Xur is a special vendor who appears on weekends (Friday to Tuesday reset) in random locations (The Tower, EDZ, Nessus). He sells Exotic and Legendary items in exchange for Legendary Shards.

4. Is it worth dismantling Exotic weapons?

Generally, no. Even if you don’t use an Exotic, it’s best to keep it in your collection. You never know when it might receive a buff or become relevant in the meta.

5. Can I have more than one Exotic weapon equipped at a time?

No. Destiny 2 limits you to equipping only one Exotic weapon and one piece of Exotic armor at a time.

6. What is the strongest weapon type in Destiny 2?

The strongest weapon type depends on the current meta and activity. However, linear fusion rifles, rocket launchers, and certain auto rifles often top the charts.

7. What are the best Exotic weapons for PvE?

Popular PvE Exotics include Gjallarhorn, One Thousand Voices, Sunshot, and Osteo Striga, among others.

8. What are the best Exotic weapons for PvP?

Ace of Spades, The Last Word, and Thorn are frequently used in PvP. The best choice depends on your playstyle.

9. How often does Bungie rebalance Exotic weapons?

Bungie regularly rebalances weapons, including Exotics, with each season or major update.

10. Are all Exotic weapons created equal?

No. Some Exotics are significantly more powerful and versatile than others.

11. What is the fastest Exotic Sparrow in Destiny 2?

Always On Time is widely considered the fastest Sparrow in the game due to its increased acceleration and strafe speed.

12. What is the current Power cap in Destiny 2?

The Powerful cap changes with each expansion. You will need to consult the details for the most recent expansion.

13. Which Destiny 2 class is the most fun to play?

This is subjective and depends on personal preference. Hunters are known for their agility, Titans for their strength, and Warlocks for their powerful abilities.

14. Who is the strongest character in Destiny 2 lore?

Characters like Saint-14, Osiris, and Ikora are considered some of the most powerful Guardians in Destiny 2’s lore.

15. Is the Queenbreaker ever going to be good?

That remains to be seen. Bungie has shown a willingness to revisit underperforming Exotics, so there’s always a chance it could receive future buffs or reworks.

Ultimately, the world of Destiny 2 Exotics is constantly evolving. What’s unloved today could become a powerhouse tomorrow. So, keep experimenting, find what works for you, and don’t be afraid to dust off those forgotten treasures!