Debate over the Signal 50 Sniper Rifle in Warzone
Ahead of the highly-anticipated World Series finals, numerous Warzone professional players and streaming personalities are advocating for a ban on the Signal 50 sniper rifle. This is in response to growing concerns about gameplay strategies and spectator experience with a substantial $600,000 at stake.
The Controversy Surrounding Signal 50
The Signal 50 has been a primary point of debate among professional players in the recent months as it has maintained a powerful presence in the game meta in spite of balance adjustments. The game's developers, Raven Software, decided against nerfing the Signal 50 in the August Season 5 update. They reasoned out that their data does not indicate that the performance of the Signal 50 is beyond the standard range.
The gap between how weapons are employed by ordinary and professional players, however, has never been clearer. This could very well be a significant problem during the World Series of Warzone (WSOW) finals slated for September 16. In terms of this issue, it is becoming increasingly apparent that the views of professional players differ markedly from those of casual players, from whom Raven likely gathers their performance data.
Professional Players Voice Their Opinions
Numerous competitors, just mere days before the crowning event of the World Series, have voiced their concerns regarding the Signal 50 and its continued utilisation in competitive play, and have requested for the weapon to be banned to improve the event experience for all involved.
'The Tactical Brit', for instance, called for the Signal 50 to be removed or at least limited to a one sniper rifle restriction. In addition, another professional player, Intechs, voiced his concern that the Signal 50, if not banned, is going to spoil the experience both for the viewers and the participants alike.
Thomas 'Tommey' Trewren, Warzone's highest earning and most accomplished player, weighed in on the issue as well, expressing concerns over the stagnant gameplay that the Signal 50 encourages. He cited the necessity for a more dynamic style of play given the significance of the competition, stating, '[...]WSOW will only be worse with so much on the line. Very little movement, grab loadout and post up on a roof. Cracking plates across the map until one team runs out. Understandable some players and teams enjoy this, but it's just not fun.'
With high-profile names from the industry increasing the pressure, it remains to be seen if the tournament organizers will indeed ban the Signal 50 from competitive play. With the tournament day fast approaching, a decision will have to be made soon.