In the last five months, the PVP data for "Destiny" has been compiled to verify the most dominant subclasses and weapons. It seems surprising that the game did not receive any kind of balance patch ever since the "Rise of Iron" DLC expansion was released. However, Bungie has announced that HotFix 2.5.0.2 is coming to the game next week, which will hopefully balance out the overall PVP performance of certain weapons and subclasses.
Special Ammo
The developer reportedly showcased some of the relevant changes coming to the game through their live stream. The first thing they highlighted was the Special Ammo. Players will apparently start a PVP match with Special Ammo, but lose their stock once their character is killed. However, Special Ammo crates will spawn much quicker from 90 to 60 seconds in between, which aims to offset the lost ammunition upon a player's death, reports Game Rant.
The Destiny HotFix 2.5.0.2 will also bring Special Ammo changes to its Trials of Osiris and Elimination PVP modes. Players will receive the secondary ammunition only for the first round. Getting killed will also forfeit all the Special Ammo, which will continue to remain empty in the succeeding rounds. Players would need to locate the ammunition crates to replenish their supply.
Changes for shotguns
Among the various weapons used in the game, shotguns are reportedly getting the most adjustments. Many players have apparently voiced their complaints about the weapon class being too overpowered in the Crucible. According to Gamespot, here are some of the changes that will affect shotguns. Players must aim down sights in order to activate aim-assist and magnetism perks. Except for the Universal Remote and Chaperone, the precision damage perk has been removed. In-air accuracy is also toned down, while movement reduction when a shotgun is equipped has been removed.
Changes for pulse rifles
Some pulse rifles like The Clever Dragon and Grasp of Malok are quite popular due to their high rate of fire. Changes will include a 7.7% reduction of the fire rate and a magazine size reduction. However, some pulse rifles that have the lowest fire rates are reportedly getting an increase of 5%.
Changes for other weapon classes
Hand cannons have been reportedly buffed with its accuracy being reset back to its Year One performance. On the other hand, their range has been reduced by 5 meters to allow for damage drop off. Auto rifles and scout rifles will get a small boost to in-air accuracy, while the High Caliber Rounds perk will function more consistently on scout rifles.
Changes to subclasses
The final tweaks detailed in the HotFix 2.5.0.2 for Destiny pertain to its subclasses. Hunters on the Bladedancer subclass will no longer get an instant health and shield regen upon Hungering Blade activation. Titans on Striker subclass will have the Juggernaut perk lose in-air activation, while Warlocks on the Stormcaller subclass gets super duration reduced when Landfall is activated as well as a reduced melee range.
