Ubisoft’s surprise hit,XDefiant, hasgarnered fans from around the globe, all enjoying the fast-paced action offered by this free-to-play multiplayer shooter. While aiming is important in this game, it isn’t the sole determining factor for success.
Like many first-person shooters,XDefiantoffers a class of weapons that focuses less on precision aiming and more on raw damage. Yes, the topic in question is none other than the shotgun class. Currently, during the preseason, the game features three shotguns:the M870, the Double Barrel, and the AA-12. Although each shotgun has its place, some are clearly better than others.
3Best M870 Loadout in XDefiant
The Reliable Starter Shotgun
The M870 will be the first shotgun most players use, as it’sunlocked by defaultand doesn’t requireplayers to complete a specific challenge. Due to this, all shotgun users will get a feel for the weapon and will likely havesome attachments unlocked.
The M870 is a pump-action shotgun with a low fire rate but high damage output. Two well-placed shots will dispatch any enemy who enters its range. This shotgun also features the best-in-class mobility, although not by much, and it has a decent magazine size.
Like all other weapons in the game, the M870 can be significantly improved with attachments. The following attachments pair perfectly with the player’s first shotgun.
A proper loadout inXDefiantisn’t complete without a suitable sidearm and a gadget. For the M870 loadout, players would be wise tobring a fast-firing handgunlike the M9 or 93R, with the latter being a burst-fire weapon that gives the player an advantage. For a gadget,Proximity Mineis a great choice for players who want to hold down a site, while those who prefer to be aggressive should opt for aSticky Grenade.
2Best Double Barrel Loadout in XDefiant
Instant Demise in Two Quick Shots
Many consider the Double Barrel to be the second-best shotgun in the game, largely due to its best-in-class damage output, even at longer ranges. However, it does have some notable disadvantages.
Unlike the M870 and AA-12, the Double Barrel holds only two shells, though they can be fired in quick succession. Usually, the first shot should do the job, but it’s always a good idea to double-tap. After firing both shells, the shotgun must be reloaded, making it less effectivewhen facing multiple enemies.
The following attachments will make the Double Barrel a force to be reckoned with:
Players who prefer the Double Barrel should choose a sidearm with a decent amount of ammo, as the two shells will quickly run out. Remember, switching to your pistol is faster than reloading. Both the M9 and 93R are suitable choices due to theirlarger magazines. For gadgets, any option other than the EMP Grenade and Flashbang should work well.
1Best AA-12 Loadout in XDefiant
High Capacity and Automatic Fire for Room Clearing
The AA-12 is hands down thebest shotgun in the game. The reason for this is not its damage output or accuracy, but the fact that it is an automatic shotgun and holds eight shells, which can be increased to 20 via attachments. A skilled player can easily clear an entire room with this weapon.
If the player likes torun around the maplike a headless chicken, this shotgun is a great tool to take, as they will spend less time reloading and more time shooting.
This already incredible shotgun can be further improved by attaching the following attachments:
The AA-12 shotgun has less need for a sidearm due to its larger magazine size, but players are forced to bring one anyway. So, ahigh-damage sidearmlike the D50 or 686 Magnum is ideal, as they can offset the automatic shotgun’s lower damage output. For gadgets, aFlashbang is a great choicesince AA-12 shotgun players will likely enjoy running around the map, hunting for enemies.
Shotgun loadouts aren’t as versatile as assault rifle loadouts, but they are most effective in close-quarters combat. Selecting the correct faction can also increase the player’s chances of victory. Choosing either theCleaners or Libertadis a smart idea, as the former excels in CQC, while the latter can provide much-needed healing before or after a gunfight.
