Master underwater combat in Warzone 2 with JGOD’s optimized P890 loadout after the FTAC Siege and X13 nerfs.
The New Underwater Meta: Why the P890 Rises to the Top
The recent balance adjustments in Warzone 2 have fundamentally reshaped the underwater combat landscape. With the July 24 nerf significantly reducing the maximum damage output of the once-dominant FTAC Siege and X13 automatic pistols, a power vacuum was created beneath the waves. Esteemed analyst JGOD has identified the semi-automatic P890 pistol as the primary beneficiary, citing its exceptional damage profile retention in aquatic environments as the key differentiator.
The rebalancing of the FTAC Siege and X13 has catalyzed a major shift in the underwater weapon hierarchy for Warzone 2. JGOD’s analysis positions the P890 as the new cornerstone of the aquatic meta, offering a more reliable Time-to-Kill (TTK) in the game’s unique water mechanics.
Vondel, the latest major battle royale map, integrates expansive waterways as central tactical features. These canals and rivers are not just scenery; they are viable routes for flanking, escaping unfavorable firefights, or repositioning during circle rotations. However, the community’s reception to underwater gameplay has been mixed, with many players criticizing the implementation for feeling disadvantageous.
A primary grievance is the absence of clear enemy presence indicators while submerged. The combination of muffled audio, distorted vision, and lack of directional cues can leave players feeling vulnerable and blind. This, coupled with the restriction to pistol-class weapons only while underwater, has been a point of contention among the player base.
Despite consistent feedback, the developers have maintained the current aquatic gameplay systems. Therefore, adapting to the meta is essential. JGOD has consequently dissected the weapon stats to declare a new champion for underwater engagements, providing players with a concrete loadout to counter these environmental challenges.
JGOD’s Optimized P890 Loadout: Attachments and Tuning
Preparing for an aquatic end-circle is a critical strategic layer. Allocating one of your custom loadout slots to a specialized underwater pistol is non-negotiable for competitive play on Vondel. The X13 and FTAC Siege previously monopolized this role, but their recent depowerment has opened the door for a new contender.
The nerf targeted the core effectiveness of both weapons, lowering their maximum damage potential. Furthermore, the X13 was found to have an incorrect damage profile that was subsequently corrected, further reducing its lethality. In this new context, JGOD’s data mining points to the P890 as the most effective replacement, balancing damage output with the constraints of underwater combat.
JGOD provided a clear rationale: “I think this is the best underwater pistol in terms of TTK because of how water mechanics work.” The interaction between weapon damage drop-off and the game’s water physics is the deciding factor.
He expanded that the P890’s advantage stems from its more forgiving damage range decay compared to other pistols. While other weapons suffer severe damage loss over short distances underwater, the P890 maintains a higher level of consistency, leading to faster and more predictable eliminations.
Below is the exact attachment configuration and precision tuning recommended by JGOD to maximize the P890’s performance in aquatic combat scenarios.
- Barrel: Matuzek Cottonmouth (+0.34 Horizontal Recoil Control, +0.25 Vertical Recoil Control)
- Trigger Action: Bruen Express (-0.09 Trigger Response Time, +0.06 Firing Aim Stability)
- Laser: Series 710 Pistol Laser (-0.27 Aim Walking Steadiness, +39.48 Hip Fire Accuracy)
- Rear Grip: FJX DVF60 Grip (+0.66 Recoil Stabilization, -0.34 Aiming Idle Stability)
- Magazine: 12-Round Mag
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Practical Application: Strengths, Weaknesses, and Playstyle
This loadout is not without its trade-offs. The 12-round magazine capacity demands disciplined shot placement, and the visual recoil can be disorienting for some players. However, JGOD maintains that its raw TTK and damage consistency under water ultimately make it superior to other available options.
He acknowledges that alternatives like the X12 possess smoother recoil patterns. However, capitalizing on the X12’s potential requires rapidly “spamming” the fire trigger—a high-skill technique that is difficult to execute consistently under pressure, especially with the movement penalties of being submerged.
Advanced Tips & Common Pitfalls:
- Positioning is Key: Use water for surprise flanking, not prolonged engagements. Ambush enemies from below the surface near common rotation paths or ladder exits.
- Manage Your Magazine: With only 12 rounds, avoid spraying. Aim for upper torso shots to maximize damage and consider disengaging to reload after a knock if other enemies are nearby.
- Audio Awareness: While sound is muffled underwater, you can still hear faint gunfire and explosions. Use this to locate fights before surfacing.
- Don’t Forget Your Primary: The moment you exit the water, switch immediately back to your main weapon. The P890 is a specialist tool for a specific environment.
- Circle Forecasting: In later circles, constantly check the map. If the final zone is likely to encompass water, position yourself advantageously early and have your P890 loadout selected.
For a comprehensive overview of top-tier setups across all categories, explore our complete arsenal of the best Warzone 2 loadouts.
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » JGOD reveals best Warzone 2 underwater loadout after pistol nerf Master underwater combat in Warzone 2 with JGOD's optimized P890 loadout after the FTAC Siege and X13 nerfs.