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Warzone 2 Ranked Play: The Arsenal of the Forbidden – Banned Weapons & Strategic Implications

So, you’re diving into Warzone 2 Ranked Play and aiming for that Iridescent rank, huh? Smart move, but you’ve got to know the rules of engagement, and that includes understanding which weapons are strictly off-limits. In Warzone 2 Ranked, strategic weapon choices can make or break your climb. Knowing which tools are unavailable is just as crucial as knowing which ones are the meta.

Here’s the definitive answer: As of the most recent updates, the following weapons are banned in Warzone 2 Ranked Play:

RPG-7 (Rocket Propelled Grenade)
Strela-P (Rocket Launcher)
X13 Auto (Automatic Pistol)
Snakeshots (Basilisk) (Akimbo Revolver)
M4 (Assault Rifle)
Shotguns (Generally, most shotguns are restricted to promote a more diverse and skill-based combat environment. Always check for the latest restrictions)

These bans are implemented to create a fairer, more balanced, and ultimately more competitive environment. Let’s dive deeper into why these choices were made.

Why Were These Weapons Banned?

The reasons for banning specific weapons in Ranked Play generally fall into a few categories:

Balance and Fair Play: Weapons that provide an unfair advantage due to excessive damage, range, or ease of use are often banned. Think of the RPG-7 and Strela-P: their explosive power can easily wipe out entire squads with minimal skill required.
Strategic Diversity: Certain weapons can limit strategic options. For example, the prevalence of the M4 in previous iterations led to a stagnant meta, where everyone was using the same gun. Banning it encourages players to explore other options.
Competitive Integrity: Weapons that promote non-competitive playstyles, such as camping with shotguns or using overly powerful pistols like the Snakeshots (Basilisk), are typically restricted. These weapons can disrupt the flow of the game and reduce the skill gap.
Meta Control: Banning specific weapons, like the X13 Auto can help balance weapon usage in the game.

The Impact of Banned Weapons on Ranked Strategy

The absence of these weapons drastically alters the landscape of Warzone 2 Ranked Play. Here’s how:

Increased Emphasis on Gun Skill: Without the “easy kills” offered by launchers and overpowered pistols, players are forced to rely more on their aiming skills and tactical decision-making.
Greater Weapon Diversity: The ban list forces players to experiment with different weapon classes and attachments, leading to a more varied and interesting meta.
Shifting Loadout Priorities: Players must consider alternatives to fill the roles that banned weapons previously occupied. This leads to more diverse loadout strategies and enhances the competitive landscape.
Increased Tactical Play: With the removal of explosive spam, players need to focus more on positioning, teamwork, and strategic use of equipment.

Understanding these changes is crucial for maximizing your chances of success in Warzone 2 Ranked Play. Stay informed, adapt your strategies, and most importantly, practice your gun skill!

Warzone 2 Ranked Play: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions to clarify the weapon ban situation and other aspects of Warzone 2 Ranked Play:

1. Are all shotguns banned in Warzone 2 Ranked?

Not necessarily all shotguns are banned, but many are often restricted due to their close-quarters dominance and ability to promote camping. Always check the official Warzone 2 patch notes and Ranked Play rules for the most up-to-date list of prohibited shotguns. The exact list of restricted shotguns can change from season to season as balance adjustments are applied.

2. Why was the RPG-7 banned?

The RPG-7‘s high damage output and ease of use made it a frustrating weapon to play against in a competitive environment. It required minimal skill to use effectively and could easily wipe out entire squads, disrupting the flow of the game.

3. What are the specific restrictions beyond weapons?

In addition to weapon bans, Warzone 2 Ranked Play often includes restrictions on:

Public Events: Events like Firesales and Multicircles are typically disabled to ensure a more predictable and fair game flow.
Gulag Restrictions: Certain actions in the Gulag, like throwing rocks, might be prohibited to prevent unfair advantages.
Global Text Chat: Global text chat may be disabled to reduce toxicity and distractions.

4. Is the M4 still banned in Warzone 2 Ranked?

Yes, as of the last major updates, the M4 remained on the banned list in Warzone 2 Ranked Play. This ban aims to prevent a stagnant meta where everyone defaults to the same weapon, encouraging players to experiment with other assault rifles and weapon classes.

5. What alternatives are there to the banned X13 Auto pistol?

If you’re looking for a fast-firing, close-range weapon to replace the X13 Auto, consider other SMGs like the Vaznev-9K or Fennec 45, or even a well-configured pistol like the P890. Focus on attachments that improve mobility, recoil control, and damage range.

6. Will the ban list change in future seasons?

Yes, the ban list is subject to change with each new season or major update. The developers constantly monitor weapon balance and player feedback, adjusting the rules to maintain a fair and competitive environment. Always check the official patch notes and Ranked Play rules for the latest updates.

7. How does the skill division affect who I can play with in Ranked?

Skill divisions impact party restrictions:

Iridescent & Crimson: Can party with players within 1 Skill Division.
Diamond: Can party with players within 2 Skill Divisions.
Lower Skill Divisions will have more flexible squad-mate choices.

This ensures that matches are as balanced as possible, preventing high-skilled players from carrying lower-skilled players through the ranks.

8. What is the purpose of banning specific weapons in Ranked Play?

The primary purpose is to promote a more balanced, competitive, and skill-based environment. Banning overpowered or easily exploitable weapons forces players to rely more on their gun skill, tactical decision-making, and teamwork.

9. Where can I find the official list of banned weapons and rules?

The official list of banned weapons and rules for Warzone 2 Ranked Play is typically found in the in-game menu, on the official Call of Duty website, and in patch notes released by the developers. Check these sources regularly for the most up-to-date information.

10. Is there a difference between the weapon meta in regular Warzone 2 and Ranked Play?

Yes, the weapon meta can differ significantly between regular Warzone 2 and Ranked Play due to the weapon bans and rule changes. While certain weapons may be popular in regular Warzone 2, they might be banned in Ranked Play, leading players to adapt their loadouts and strategies accordingly.

11. Are there any restrictions on equipment, like lethals or tacticals?

Yes, certain equipment pieces, like Claymores or specific tactical grenades, may be restricted in Warzone 2 Ranked Play to prevent camping and promote more aggressive playstyles. Always refer to the official rules for the complete list of restricted equipment.

12. How do weapon bans impact the overall strategy in Ranked Play?

Weapon bans force players to think more strategically about their loadouts and gameplay. They need to consider alternative weapon choices, adjust their playstyles, and focus on positioning, teamwork, and map control to gain an advantage.

13. Will weapons banned in the beta remain banned in the full release of Ranked Play?

Not necessarily. The beta phase of Ranked Play serves as a testing ground for weapon balance and rule changes. The developers may adjust the ban list based on player feedback and data collected during the beta.

14. What is the most important skill to develop in Warzone 2 Ranked Play given these bans?

Gun skill is paramount. Without relying on overpowered weapons, players need to improve their aim, recoil control, and movement to consistently win gunfights. Tactical awareness and teamwork are also crucial for success.

15. Where can I learn more about the strategies behind gaming?

You can discover more at the Games Learning Society. The Games Learning Society (or GamesLearningSociety.org) provides information and research about the intersection of gaming and learning.

By understanding the weapon bans and their implications, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the competitive landscape of Warzone 2 Ranked Play. Remember to stay informed, adapt your strategies, and focus on improving your core skills to climb the ranks and achieve your desired skill division. Good luck out there!

What weapons are banned in ranked Warzone 2?