Destiny 2’s developer Bungie has recently released information regarding the future of PvP updates and changes coming to their recent Checkmate game mode. While still firmly focused on gunplay, Checkmate aims to promote thoughtful primary and special weapon usage through changes to ammo economy and ability regeneration. Alongside tweaks to melee combat and a new 3v3 playlist, PvP looks to become more balanced and tactical in the coming months.
Primary Weapons Rule the Field in Checkmate
The unique Checkmate mode provides players with set weapon loadouts on small team deathmatch maps. Designed to highlight gun skill rather than ability power, optimal time to kill values with primary weapons will match those used in regular Crucible playlists. However, body shot time to kill times may differ to continue encouraging precision play. Players now begin matches with two kills worth of Special ammo as well, limiting dependence on one-shot weapons.
Abilities and Melees Get Strategic Changes
Beyond primary weapon focus, Checkmate also adjusts cooldown rates for grenades, melees, class abilities, and Supers. The cooldown penalty compared to normal PvP decreases from 30% to only 15%, helping to keep engagements exciting without becoming repetitive shooting contests. Additionally, melee attacks will now take two hits to secure a kill rather than one. Along with extra Special ammo provided for assists and deaths, these changes help prevent snowballing while keeping ability usage meaningful.
The Ever-Evolving Identity of Checkmate
While currently emphasizing primary gun duels, concerns exist that Checkmate will become too similar to standard Crucible over time if not kept truly distinct. However, even if tweaked to be less specialized, the mode clearly provides strong moment-to-moment enjoyment at present. Only time will tell where Bungie takes Checkmate’s identity, but the next few months promise a uniquely tense PvP experience regardless.
