Epic Games is full of surprises when it comes to weapon balance, and one hidden gem that often gets overlooked is the new Fortnite Collateral Damage AR. Despite not being the talk of the town, this weapon packs some serious punch in close-to-medium range encounters. Here’s why the collateral damage AR deserves a second look.
One of the standout qualities of the collateral damage AR is its impressive damage-per-second (DPS) output. Even the common variant is dishing out higher DPS than legendary counterparts like the Hollow Twister AR and the Striker Burst AR. Coupled with the highest fire rate in the loot pool—topping out at 12 rounds per second—this weapon offers an aggressive edge over others such as the Precision SMG and the laser weapon. For players who thrive on spray tactics, this makes the collateral damage AR a formidable tool in your arsenal.
Filling a Unique Role
A key reason behind its under-the-radar status is the role it fills. The collateral damage AR is designed primarily as a close-quarters or “spray” weapon. Its high fire rate and DPS make it deadly in short-range skirmishes, but its design comes with a caveat: significant Bloom. This means that while it can dominate in spray-based engagements, its performance drops off in long-range or precision scenarios. For many players, the idea of dedicating an inventory slot solely to a weapon that isn’t as versatile might seem like too much of a trade-off.
Strategic Setups and Team Synergies
The collateral damage AR truly shines when paired with complementary weapons. For example, if you favor using a sniper or the mammoth pistol for long-range engagements, the collateral damage AR can cover your back in close-quarters combat. This setup covers the AR’s weakness in long-range fights and makes your loadout more versatile. Some players even advocate for running two ARs—one for spray and another for versatility—to maximize close-range dominance.
Tips for Optimal Use
- Close-Range Dominance: In tight environments like vaults or crowded third-party encounters, the collateral damage AR can decisively turn the tide of battle.
- Ammo Management: While using two ARs might raise concerns about ammunition, maintaining a steady stream of kills and smart looting can alleviate this issue.
- Black Market Availability: The Mythic version of the collateral damage AR is easier to obtain, often found at Magic Moss’s Black Market. This ease of access can be a strategic advantage, ensuring that you consistently have the best version of your weapon without too much competition.
In-Game Experiences and Match-Ups
Personal gameplay experiences underscore the effectiveness of this weapon. Even when matched against top-tier zero-build players, the collateral damage AR has proven to be a reliable choice. In scenarios where every millisecond counts—like quick swap animations in pump battles—the collateral damage AR often edges out other options due to its sheer spray power.
The collateral damage AR might not be the flashiest or most versatile weapon in Fortnite, but its high DPS, rapid fire rate, and strategic potential in close-range fights make it a valuable pick. Whether you’re a fan of aggressive play or prefer to balance long-range sniping with up-close spray battles, adding this underrated weapon to your rotation might just give you that extra edge in combat.
If you haven’t given the collateral damage AR a try yet, now might be the perfect time to shake up your loadout and see firsthand how it can dominate in the right hands. Happy hunting, and may your spray be ever accurate!
