Apex Legends Brings Back Hitscan Weapon in Season 23: Select Fire Havoc Returns

Apex Legends has continuously evolved, with new updates and meta shifts that introduce unexpected changes to its gameplay. One of the biggest surprises in Season 23 is the return of a hitscan weapon – the Select Fire Havoc. This marks an exciting return to form for a weapon that had a brief yet unforgettable reign in Apex Legends' early days. While the weapon is now exclusive to the care package, its return has the potential to redefine battles in the final circles. In this post, we’ll dive into the mechanics, history, and implications of the Havoc rifle’s return as a hitscan weapon in Apex Legends Season 23.

The Select Fire Havoc: A Glorious Return to Form

The Select Fire Havoc isn’t just any weapon; it’s a legendary piece of Apex Legends’ history. Initially, the Havoc wasn’t a top contender in the game, but after receiving a series of buffs, it became one of the most feared weapons in the game. By Season 5/6, it had reached its full potential, becoming a must-have weapon for any player who mastered its charge-up mechanics. The power of the Select Fire Havoc lies in its ability to switch between a charged, slow-firing mode and a rapid-fire automatic setting. However, the key feature that made it so iconic was its hitscan capability, which effectively made it feel like a laser beam that could hit targets with pinpoint precision, regardless of range. Fast forward to 2024, and Season 23 has brought the Select Fire Havoc back to the forefront with a much-anticipated update. It now exclusively drops in the care package, removing it from the standard loot pool. While this means you won’t encounter it as often as other weapons, it also means that those who do get their hands on it will have a significant advantage.

Hitscan: Why It’s a Game-Changer in Apex Legends

In Apex Legends, players are constantly battling for precision and accuracy. Hitscan weapons are valuable because they allow for instant hits, unlike projectile-based weapons, which require a lead time to predict where a moving target will be. This gives hitscan weapons an edge, especially in high-stakes encounters where every millisecond counts. The return of the Select Fire Havoc as a hitscan weapon introduces a new dynamic to the game. In contrast to the slower, more methodical Charge Rifle, the Select Fire Havoc offers a quicker, more aggressive playstyle. The ability to fire without worrying about projectile drop or travel time is incredibly powerful, particularly when poking at enemies from a distance in the final circle. In Apex’s modern meta, the lack of hitscan weapons outside of the Charge Rifle has made distance engagements feel cumbersome, especially for players who rely on consistent damage output. The return of the Havoc adds a reliable option that fills a crucial gap in the arsenal, especially when you need to land consistent hits at medium to long ranges.

Changes to the Havoc: What’s Different This Time?

While the Select Fire Havoc’s return is undoubtedly exciting, there have been some noticeable changes compared to its prime form. The damage per shot has been slightly reduced, with the weapon now dealing 53 damage to the body. While this reduction may sound concerning, it’s important to remember that the Havoc still possesses that vital hitscan capability, which makes it just as dangerous, if not more so, than it was before. Additionally, the headshot damage has also been toned down, meaning you won’t be able to achieve those massive one-tap kills that made the Select Fire Havoc so terrifying in earlier seasons. However, these changes are balanced by the fact that the Havoc is now more accessible through the care package and can potentially come with attachments like the Turbocharger, further improving its performance. Ultimately, the Select Fire Havoc’s return isn’t just about raw damage numbers; it’s about how the weapon’s unique mechanics make it an incredible choice for skilled players who know how to use it effectively. For those who prefer long-range poke and can manage the weapon’s charge-up, the Havoc is an incredibly potent choice in Season 23.

The Care Package: A New Dynamic for the Select Fire Havoc

Apex Legends has always had an interesting relationship with the care package, often using it as a way to introduce powerful, game-changing weapons that shake up the meta. The addition of the Select Fire Havoc to the care package for Season 23 means that it will be rarer to come by, adding an extra layer of excitement to the endgame. Players will need to think strategically about how to approach the care package drops. With the weapon now tied to this limited resource, getting your hands on it can make a significant difference in the outcome of a match. The rarity of the weapon means that players will have to fight for access, and whoever gets it will have a distinct advantage over others who are using standard loot. While this does make the weapon less accessible to the average player, it also means that those who are skilled enough to secure the Havoc in the care package will be rewarded with a tool that can potentially change the tide of battle. In the chaos of final circles, where the pace quickens and every shot counts, having a hitscan weapon in your hands could make all the difference.

The Evolution of Apex Legends’ Weapon Balance

The introduction of the Select Fire Havoc as a hitscan weapon in Season 23 is a nod to the game’s continuous evolution in weapon balance. Apex Legends has gone through several phases of weapon buffs, nerfs, and adjustments, with the developers constantly tweaking the game to keep things fresh. For example, the Charge Rifle, once a dominant force in the game due to its hitscan capabilities, has been significantly nerfed in recent seasons. This left a gap in Apex Legends’ weapon pool, with few options for players who wanted that same reliable hitscan experience. The Select Fire Havoc steps in to fill this void, offering a solid alternative that’s perfect for those who want to pick off enemies from a distance without the need for complex mechanics. This balance shift also plays into Apex’s broader strategy of keeping the game dynamic. By periodically bringing back older weapons and adjusting their mechanics to fit the modern game, Respawn Entertainment ensures that there is always room for new strategies and playstyles. The return of the Select Fire Havoc is just one example of how the game’s meta continues to evolve while paying homage to its roots.

The Impact of the Select Fire Havoc on Apex’s Final Circles

Apex Legends’ final circles are notorious for intense, close-range firefights that often come down to a single mistake. In these moments, a weapon like the Select Fire Havoc can be a game-changer. Its hitscan nature allows players to effectively poke at enemies across long distances, providing consistent chip damage as the circle closes in. Unlike other weapons that require tracking or leading shots, the Havoc provides instantaneous results, which can help you keep pressure on enemies and force them into difficult positions. As players scramble to secure the best positions in the final circle, a player armed with the Select Fire Havoc can stay at range, landing shots with ease and contributing to the chaos without ever needing to get too close. Additionally, its relatively high fire rate compared to other hitscan weapons makes it ideal for poking at enemies and finishing off weakened targets. Whether you’re trying to whittle down enemy shields or go for that final elimination, the Select Fire Havoc’s combination of range, accuracy, and versatility makes it a standout weapon in the late stages of the game.

The Return of the Hitscan Havoc—Is It Worth It?

The return of the Select Fire Havoc in Season 23 of Apex Legends marks a significant shift in the game’s weapon meta. While it’s not without its adjustments, including lower damage and headshot multipliers, it still stands as one of the most reliable hitscan weapons in the game. Its presence in the care package adds a layer of strategy, ensuring that only the most skilled players will be able to wield its power. As the game evolves, the Havoc’s return highlights Apex Legends’ dedication to keeping the gameplay fresh and engaging while offering players the tools they need to dominate in the final circles. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to Apex, mastering the Select Fire Havoc can be the key to securing that victory.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. What is a hitscan weapon in Apex Legends?

A hitscan weapon in Apex Legends is a type of firearm where bullets instantly hit their target, without any travel time. This mechanic is critical in fast-paced combat, as it eliminates the need for leading your shots, making these weapons especially effective at long range. Unlike projectile weapons that require a timing adjustment to account for travel time, hitscan weapons are "instant." Apex Legends had limited hitscan options, but with the return of the select fire Havoc in Season 23, players now have a valuable tool for precision shooting in competitive scenarios.

Q2. What changes have been made to the select fire Havoc in Season 23?

The select fire Havoc has been reintroduced in Season 23 of Apex Legends with several changes, including a reduction in its damage and headshot potential. While it previously boasted high damage and fast fire rates, it now deals 53 damage per body shot. However, it remains a hitscan weapon, which makes it invaluable for long-range combat. Although it is no longer available in the regular loot pool and is now part of the care package, it is still a highly sought-after weapon for players looking to dominate at range, especially in late-game scenarios.

Q3. How does the select fire Havoc compare to other weapons in Apex Legends?

The select fire Havoc is unique in Apex Legends for its hitscan mechanic, which makes it a powerful weapon in long-range fights. Unlike the Charge Rifle, which also serves as a long-range option but suffers from projectile travel time and nerfs, the Havoc offers instant impact, allowing players to land more consistent shots. While its damage per shot is lower than some other weapons, its rapid-fire capability and lack of travel time give it an edge, especially for players who are skilled at managing its charge-up mechanics and engaging from a distance.

Q4. What strategies should I use when using the select fire Havoc in Season 23?

When using the select fire Havoc, one of the best strategies is to focus on precision and positioning. Due to its hitscan nature, you can effectively engage enemies at long distances with little worry about leading your shots. However, the weapon’s charge-up delay can leave you vulnerable if you’re not careful. Position yourself in areas that provide cover and wait for the perfect moment to take out enemies at range. In final circles, the Havoc becomes especially useful for poking at opponents without the fear of missed shots, making it great for both defense and offense.

Q5. Why did Apex Legends reintroduce the select fire Havoc in Season 23?

Apex Legends reintroduced the select fire Havoc in Season 23 to add a unique dynamic to the current meta. In a game where hitscan weapons have been scarce, the Havoc offers a fresh and exciting option for players. With the Charge Rifle receiving significant nerfs over time, the return of the Havoc gives players a tool for long-range combat that’s still capable of producing consistent hits. Additionally, the weapon’s limited availability in the care package adds an element of rarity, making it a desirable weapon that rewards skilled players who can adapt to its charge-up mechanics.