Stinger Pick Rates Low After Changes to Alternate Fire in Valorant
The Stinger, a submachine gun in Valorant, has seen a decrease in pick rates following recent changes to its alternate fire mechanic, according to data provided by METAsrc. Currently, the Stinger has a pick rate of 0.38 percent on the attacking side and 0.46 percent on the defending side, averaging out to an overall pick rate of 0.42 percent. These numbers place the Stinger as one of the least popular weapons in the game, trailing behind shotguns like the Bucky which is considered inferior to the Judge.
The adjustment to the Stinger has received criticism from Valorant fans on Reddit, who argue that Riot Games’ gun balancing has made the Stinger the lesser choice in comparison to the Spectre submachine gun. The Spectre currently boasts a 9.32 percent pick rate, making it one of the favored options especially after winning the pistol round.
Impact of Changes on the Stinger and Unexpected Popularity of Other Weapons
Additionally, the Marshall, another affordable weapon, has a pick rate of 2.46 percent in the game.
Riot Games made alterations to the Stinger’s mechanics in Valorant Patch 4.07, released on April 12th. With the update, the Stinger and Bulldog now introduce a delay in firing inputs when aiming down sights (ADS). According to Riot, this change aimed to create a slight adjustment in accuracy when players switch between the classic and alternate fire modes, encouraging players to make deliberate choices regarding their firing patterns.
Riot Games may make further adjustments to the Stinger in the future as they closely monitor various factors, including pick rates, to fine-tune the balancing of weapons in the game.
Valorant, Stinger, pick rates, submachine gun, Spectre, gun balancing, alternate fire, patch update, Marshall