Expert weapon recommendations from ImperialHal for Apex Legends Season 20 with detailed loadout strategies
Season 20 Weapon Meta Shakeup
TSM professional player Phillip ‘ImperialHal’ Dosen has identified the most effective firearms for Apex Legends Season 20 following substantial adjustments to the previously dominant R99 submachine gun.
Apex Legends Season 20 introduced significant gameplay modifications to Respawn’s battle royale title. While no new Legend joined the roster, the season implemented legend upgrades that enable players to modify character abilities throughout matches.
Weapon balancing received considerable attention, with the community-favorite R99 undergoing substantial changes. This SMG has maintained meta relevance since Apex’s early seasons and formed the core of the popular ‘R400’ loadout combination with the R301 carbine that numerous casual and competitive players relied upon heavily.
Season 20’s update dramatically increased both vertical and horizontal recoil patterns when aiming down sights with the R99, making the weapon considerably more challenging to control effectively. These adjustments have prompted many competitors to seek alternative close-range options.
ImperialHal’s Weapon Recommendations
Two-time ALGS Most Valuable Player and TSM in-game leader ImperialHal has curated optimal firearm selections for Season 20 to fill the void left by the R99’s performance decline.
“The most effective weapons currently, in my opinion: Hemlok, Nemesis, Flatline,” Hal stated when addressing community requests for R99 substitutes. “For SMG alternatives, consider the Prowler or Volt. The R99 performs poorly now—avoid using it entirely. The CAR remains serviceable but Volt and Prowler outperform it significantly.
“The 30-30 Repeater maintains its effectiveness for mid-range combat. Additionally, the Havoc remains formidable. Havoc paired with Prowler or Havoc combined with Volt create exceptionally powerful loadouts. The Havoc currently operates at borderline overpowered levels when properly utilized.”
Each recommended weapon brings distinct advantages: the Hemlok offers burst damage potential, the Nemesis provides sustained firepower when charged, and the Flatline delivers reliable damage output with manageable recoil patterns that reward practiced control.
Advanced Loadout Strategies
Building effective loadouts requires understanding weapon synergies and engagement ranges. The Hemlok pairs exceptionally well with the Volt SMG, covering mid-range precision and close-quarters combat effectively. For aggressive playstyles, the Flatline combined with Prowler creates devastating damage output at medium to close distances.
Attachment prioritization significantly impacts weapon performance. For the Havoc, securing a Turbocharger hop-up remains crucial for eliminating spin-up time. The Nemesis benefits tremendously from extended energy magazines and barrel stabilizers to maximize its charged burst potential. The 30-30 Repeater becomes substantially more effective with a Dual Shell hop-up for faster reloading between shots.
Advanced players should master the Prowler’s burst pattern to maximize close-range damage output. The five-round burst can eliminate opponents quickly when aimed at upper torso regions. Similarly, learning the Volt’s predictable recoil pattern enables consistent headshot accuracy during frantic close-quarters engagements.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many players transitioning from the R99 attempt to use the CAR SMG as a direct replacement, but this often leads to disappointing results. The CAR requires different recoil control techniques and excels in different engagement ranges than the pre-nerf R99.
Another frequent error involves underestimating the Havoc’s potential without a Turbocharger. While the spin-up time presents a learning curve, the weapon’s damage output justifies mastering its unique firing rhythm. Practice in firing range sessions to develop muscle memory for pre-firing timing.
Situational awareness remains critical when using the recommended weapons. The Hemlok and Nemesis require positioning that maintains optimal engagement distances—too close and you lose advantage to SMGs, too far and sniper rifles outperform. Develop map knowledge to position yourself in areas that favor your loadout’s strengths.
While ImperialHal advises against using the R99, some veterans may find comfort in its familiar handling due to extensive previous experience. If the weapon falls completely from meta relevance, Respawn Entertainment might consider rebalancing it in future updates, though significant changes seem unlikely in the immediate future.
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » ImperialHal names the best weapons in Apex Legends Season 20 after R-99 nerf Expert weapon recommendations from ImperialHal for Apex Legends Season 20 with detailed loadout strategies