Mastering the Ace of Spades Gameplay in Destiny 2: A Comprehensive Guide

The Ace of Spades. Even its name evokes a sense of power and precision. In the sprawling universe of Destiny 2, this exotic hand cannon has cemented its place as a guardian favorite. But owning the Ace of Spades is one thing; truly mastering its gameplay is another. This guide will delve deep into every facet of wielding this iconic weapon, transforming you from a casual user into a true Ace in the Crucible and beyond. Whether you’re aiming to dominate in PvP or maximize your effectiveness in PvE, we’ll cover everything from optimal builds and strategies to in-depth analysis of its unique perks and hidden potential.

Unveiling the Ace of Spades: A Hand Cannon Legend

The Ace of Spades isn’t just another hand cannon; it’s a symbol of Cayde-6’s legacy and a testament to the power a well-crafted weapon can hold. Its journey from a quest reward to a staple in the inventories of seasoned Guardians is a story worth exploring. It offers a unique blend of high damage, impressive range, and game-changing perks, making it a formidable weapon in the hands of a skilled player.

A Brief History and Lore

Originally introduced as part of the Forsaken expansion, the Ace of Spades quickly became a must-have weapon, not only for its performance but also for its connection to the beloved character Cayde-6. Obtaining the weapon involved completing a questline that served as a poignant tribute to the fallen Hunter Vanguard. This emotional connection, combined with its exceptional in-game capabilities, solidified its legendary status.

Core Stats and Intrinsic Perks

Let’s break down the Ace of Spades’ core statistics:

• Impact: 84
• Range: 68
• Stability: 52
• Handling: 70
• Reload Speed: 68
• Rounds Per Minute: 140
• Magazine: 13

These stats paint a picture of a hand cannon that prioritizes damage and range, while maintaining decent stability and handling. However, the true power of the Ace of Spades lies in its intrinsic perk, Memento Mori. Reloading after a kill loads the magazine with extra-damage bullets. This perk is the cornerstone of its gameplay, rewarding aggressive and skillful play.

Ace of Spades in Action: Gameplay Strategies and Tactics

Understanding the Ace of Spades’ strengths is crucial, but knowing how to leverage them in different scenarios is what separates the average user from a true master. Let’s explore some key gameplay strategies for both PvE and PvP environments.

Dominating in the Crucible: PvP Tactics

In the fast-paced world of the Crucible, the Ace of Spades can be a devastating weapon in the right hands. Here’s how to maximize its potential in PvP:

• Engage at Mid-Range: The Ace of Spades excels at medium distances. Avoid close-quarters engagements where shotguns and fusion rifles dominate.
• Master the Headshot: Precision is key. Aim for headshots to maximize damage output and trigger Memento Mori more frequently.
• Aggressive Reloading: Don’t be afraid to reload after securing a kill, even if your magazine isn’t empty. The extra-damage bullets from Memento Mori are worth the reload time.
• Utilize Cover: Use cover strategically to peek and shoot, minimizing your exposure to enemy fire.
• Teamwork is Essential: Communicate with your team and coordinate your attacks to overwhelm opponents.

Success with the Ace of Spades in PvP hinges on precision aiming, strategic positioning, and aggressive reloading habits. Mastering these elements will allow you to consistently outgun your opponents.

Conquering PvE: Optimal Strategies for PvE

While the Ace of Spades shines in PvP, it’s also a viable option for PvE activities. Here’s how to optimize its performance against AI opponents:

• Prioritize Red Bar Enemies: Focus on quickly eliminating weaker enemies to trigger Memento Mori and deal increased damage to tougher targets.
• Maintain Memento Mori: Keep the Memento Mori buff active as much as possible by chaining kills.
• Pair with a Special Weapon: Complement the Ace of Spades with a special weapon like a fusion rifle or sniper rifle to handle different enemy types and ranges.
• Exploit Enemy Weaknesses: Target enemy weak points to maximize damage output.
• Use Mods Effectively: Equip mods that enhance hand cannon performance, such as targeting adjuster or unflinching hand cannon aim.

Build Optimization: Synergizing with Subclasses and Armor Mods

The Ace of Spades is a powerful weapon on its own, but its potential can be further amplified by synergizing it with specific subclasses and armor mods. Let’s explore some optimal build options for each class.

Hunter Builds: Gunslinger and Nightstalker

Hunters can leverage their agility and precision to maximize the Ace of Spades’ effectiveness. Two popular subclass options are Gunslinger and Nightstalker.

• Gunslinger: The Gunslinger subclass provides access to powerful abilities that complement the Ace of Spades’ aggressive playstyle. The Golden Gun super can be used to quickly eliminate high-value targets, while the Throwing Knife can be used to secure kills and trigger Memento Mori.
• Nightstalker: The Nightstalker subclass offers utility and crowd control options that can enhance the Ace of Spades’ survivability. The Shadowshot super can be used to suppress enemies, while the Smoke Bomb can be used to disorient and create openings for attack.

Titan Builds: Sunbreaker and Striker

Titans can use their resilience and offensive capabilities to create powerful builds around the Ace of Spades. Two viable subclass options are Sunbreaker and Striker.

• Sunbreaker: The Sunbreaker subclass provides access to powerful solar abilities that can burn enemies and create area-of-denial zones. The Hammer of Sol super can be used to clear out groups of enemies, while the Sunspots can provide healing and damage buffs.
• Striker: The Striker subclass offers aggressive melee abilities and powerful arc damage. The Fists of Havoc super can be used to quickly eliminate enemies, while the Seismic Strike can be used to disorient and create openings for attack.

Warlock Builds: Dawnblade and Voidwalker

Warlocks can utilize their support abilities and powerful ranged attacks to create effective Ace of Spades builds. Two popular subclass options are Dawnblade and Voidwalker.

• Dawnblade: The Dawnblade subclass provides access to healing and damage buffs that can enhance the Ace of Spades’ survivability and damage output. The Well of Radiance super can provide a safe haven for your team, while the Daybreak super can be used to rain down fire on your enemies.
• Voidwalker: The Voidwalker subclass offers powerful void abilities that can control the battlefield and deal massive damage. The Nova Bomb super can be used to eliminate high-value targets, while the Handheld Supernova can be used to clear out groups of enemies.

Essential Armor Mods

Regardless of your chosen subclass, certain armor mods can significantly enhance the Ace of Spades’ performance:

• Hand Cannon Targeting: Improves target acquisition and accuracy.
• Hand Cannon Loader: Increases reload speed.
• Unflinching Hand Cannon Aim: Reduces flinch when taking damage while aiming.
• Dexterity Mods: Improves weapon handling.
• Ammo Finder/Scavenger Mods: Increases ammo availability.

The Advantages of Mastering the Ace of Spades

Why invest the time and effort into mastering the Ace of Spades? The rewards are significant, offering distinct advantages in both PvE and PvP scenarios. Its unique blend of damage, range, and perks makes it a versatile and powerful weapon in the hands of a skilled Guardian.

Unmatched Versatility

The Ace of Spades is not a one-trick pony. It excels in a variety of situations, from long-range engagements to close-quarters skirmishes. Its adaptability makes it a valuable asset in any loadout.

Consistent High Damage Output

With Memento Mori active, the Ace of Spades delivers exceptional damage, allowing you to quickly eliminate enemies and secure crucial kills. This consistent damage output makes it a reliable choice for both PvE and PvP activities.

Enhanced Accuracy and Range

The Ace of Spades boasts impressive accuracy and range, allowing you to engage enemies from a safe distance and maintain consistent damage output. This is particularly advantageous in PvP, where positioning and accuracy are paramount.

A Legacy of Excellence

Beyond its statistical advantages, the Ace of Spades carries a legacy of excellence, reminding players of Cayde-6’s sacrifice and inspiring them to strive for greatness. Wielding this weapon is a statement of skill and dedication.

The Drawbacks: Limitations and Considerations

While the Ace of Spades is a formidable weapon, it’s important to acknowledge its limitations. No weapon is perfect, and understanding the Ace of Spades’ drawbacks will help you make informed decisions about when and how to use it.

Reliance on Precision

The Ace of Spades relies heavily on precision aiming. If you struggle to land headshots consistently, you may not be able to fully utilize its potential. This can be a significant drawback for players who prefer a more forgiving weapon.

Dependence on Memento Mori

The Ace of Spades’ damage output is significantly reduced when Memento Mori is not active. This means you need to constantly secure kills and reload to maintain its effectiveness. This can be challenging in situations where enemies are scarce or heavily armored.

Vulnerability at Close Range

The Ace of Spades is not ideal for close-quarters combat. Its slow rate of fire and reliance on precision aiming make it difficult to compete with shotguns and fusion rifles in tight spaces. You’ll need to rely on your secondary weapon or tactical maneuvering to survive close-range engagements.

Competition from Other Hand Cannons

The hand cannon archetype is well-represented in Destiny 2, with numerous viable options available. The Ace of Spades faces stiff competition from other hand cannons that may offer similar or even superior performance in certain situations. It’s important to consider your personal preferences and playstyle when choosing a hand cannon.

An Expert’s Verdict: Is the Ace of Spades Still Worth It?

Despite its limitations, the Ace of Spades remains a top-tier weapon in Destiny 2. Its unique blend of damage, range, and perks makes it a versatile and powerful choice for both PvE and PvP activities. While it requires skill and precision to master, the rewards are well worth the effort. For players who enjoy a challenging and rewarding weapon, the Ace of Spades is an excellent choice. However, if you prefer a more forgiving weapon or struggle to land headshots consistently, you may want to consider other options.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use the Ace of Spades comes down to personal preference. But, based on extensive testing and community feedback, the Ace of Spades holds a strong place in the meta.

Alternatives to the Ace of Spades

While the Ace of Spades holds a special place in many guardians’ hearts, several strong alternatives exist. Here are two to consider:

• The Last Word: A close-quarters hand cannon that excels at hip-fire engagements. It’s a great option for aggressive players who prefer to get up close and personal.
• Eriana’s Vow: A special ammo hand cannon that deals high damage to shielded enemies. It’s a valuable asset in PvE activities where shields are prevalent.

Tips for Mastering Ace of Spades Gameplay

Ready to elevate your Ace of Spades gameplay? Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Practice your aim: Consistent headshots are crucial for maximizing damage output.
• Master the reload timing: Learn to reload quickly and efficiently to maintain Memento Mori.
• Utilize cover strategically: Minimize your exposure to enemy fire.
• Experiment with different builds: Find a subclass and armor mod combination that suits your playstyle.
• Watch experienced players: Learn from the best and adapt their strategies to your own gameplay.

Level Up Your Destiny 2 Experience

The Ace of Spades stands as a testament to strategic gameplay and precision aiming within Destiny 2. By understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and optimal usage, you can significantly enhance your effectiveness in both PvE and PvP activities. Remember to experiment with different builds, practice your aim, and adapt your strategies to the ever-changing landscape of Destiny 2. Share your favorite Ace of Spades builds and strategies in the comments below and let’s continue to refine our gameplay together.