Rebalancing Suggestions for Binary Rifle/IC

Games Other Halo
1

I’ve been happy (a little too happy, considering my drop in productivity) with my time with Halo 4 MP so far. Netcode issues aside, the only real problem I have so far is with two new power weapons, the Binary Rifle and the Incineration Cannon.

Unlike most complaints, however, I don’t want them nerfed. One-shot weapons should feel ridiculously powerful. The problem is there is little to differentiate the new weapons from UNSC counterparts: the Binary Rifle is a more powerful Sniper, the Incineration Cannon a slower but more destructive Rocket Launcher. Thus, tactically they remain the same and, largely, risk free. If you pick up either of these weapons, you’re guaranteed a couple of kills at least.

There are a few obvious changes that can be made, particularly for the Binary Rifle. The existing laser that tracks the user’s aim should be constant, not just when scoped. It should also have a distinctive noise; think Gears of War 3’s Oneshot. The Incineration Cannon could clearly do with being more visually apparent. Make that sucker glow like the sun; I need to know what I’m up against. These would make it fairer on the targets but still wouldn’t particularly change how the user operates.

What I suggest is a more drastic, interesting and, best of all, lore-friendly alteration of the Forerunner power weapons, which could also apply elsewhere in their arsenal. What we have seen of Forerunner tech is somewhat parasitic in nature, so their weapons should reflect this.

The Binary Rifle and Incineration Cannon should drain the shields of the user. Not only does this compensate for their brilliant power, but it adds an exciting tactical dynamic. You’d have to weigh the risk/reward of your shot, making damn sure you are in a position to be able to use it safely. For the target, too, it makes coming up against such weapons far more exciting. Imagine a Binary Rifle shot missing you, letting you quickly scope in and headshot that sneaky sniper.

Personally, I feel this solves just about every current problem with Forerunner power weapons, from their lack of differentiation to their raw power. It could even be applied to other Forerunner weapons, such as the Scattershot, if they were powered up to compensate.

If this mechanic appeals to you, please comment and let 343 know so it gets their attention. If you have any other suggestions, let’s discuss!

Thank you,

GreatBlackthorn

2

Weapon balance is fine as it…especially power weapons. They don’t need balancing.

The Boltshot, however, is a whole other story…

3

I love them how they are, maybe they can add a laser beam aim to the ic like the br?
It makes it easier to spot.

4

The power weapons are fine balance wise,
the BR and the Storm Rifle on the other hand need fairly substantial buffs

5

I’m just of the opinion that one-shot weapons need drawbacks to compensate for their power, as has been the case for all others so far - with the exception of the rocket launcher, perhaps.

But it seems I’m the minority so guess I’ll just have to live with mercilessly killing the other team :stuck_out_tongue:

6

the IC is fine, but 343i made one massive mistake when it comes to power weapons in general.

THEY ARE TOO -Yoinking!- MANY OF THEM IN ANY ORDINANCE GAMETYPE AND EVERYONE -Yoinking!- GETS ONE NOW INSTEAD OF BEING A POINT OF CONTESTATION NOW IT JUST LIKE COD PREDATOR STRIKE, HEY DO SOME -Yoink-, GET SOME KILLS AND HERE SOMETHING TO GIVE YOU A COUPLE OF EASY KILLS BEFORE YOU DIE AND DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN.

seriously, why are vehicles -Yoinked!- by loadouts, why are map designed without power positions, and why the -Yoink- would you destroy the halo bones when you are s’posed to be building upon them, you know, like how every -Yoinking!- sequal the last 35 years have done.

7

ahem

You can slow the enemy teams ordinance drops by simply out playing them, which in turn increases your team’s drops.

You’re welcome.

sips tea

8

i think the only thing that needs change is that the binary rifle cant be fired when not scoped in, its crap when i get the drop on the guy with the binary and he gets a lucky -Yoink- no scope kill because he randomly fired it .

9

> i think the only thing that needs change is that the binary rifle cant be fired when not scoped in, its crap when i get the drop on the guy with the binary and he gets a lucky -Yoink!- no scope kill because he randomly fired it .

The same can happen with a shotgun, and any other sniper rifle really. I don’t think this makes the weapon unbalanced.

10

This thread isn’t about grievances with the ordnance system.

11

> i think the only thing that needs change is that the binary rifle cant be fired when not scoped in, its crap when i get the drop on the guy with the binary and he gets a lucky -Yoink!- no scope kill because he randomly fired it .

Not really a great idea. Limiting someone like that will result in them dying. Having to zoom in to use doesnt really fix the issue. What would be better is if was just a weapon that was earned and didnt spawn on the map all together.

12

> > i think the only thing that needs change is that the binary rifle cant be fired when not scoped in, its crap when i get the drop on the guy with the binary and he gets a lucky -Yoink!- no scope kill because he randomly fired it .
>
> The same can happen with a shotgun, and any other sniper rifle really. I don’t think this makes the weapon unbalanced.

the shotgun doesnt apply here, but the other snipers arent an one hit kill(except to the head) and the chances of that are alot lower when firing in a panic.