Warzone expert Swagg reveals why the buffed P90 is now the top SMG pick for Season 5, with build optimization tips and meta analysis
Warzone’s Season 5 Meta Shift and the P90’s Unexpected Rise
Season 5’s arrival on August 25 brought more than just fresh content to Warzone—it fundamentally altered weapon viability. While expected adjustments targeted Vanguard-era guns, the update surprisingly breathed new life into legacy weapons from Modern Warfare and Black Ops Cold War that had languished for seasons.
Among these revived classics, the P90 (designated as Submachine Gun Bravo in patch notes) emerged as the standout beneficiary. Its overhaul wasn’t minor tweaking—developers substantially boosted both damage output and effective range. The mid-range damage jumped from 20 to 22, while minimum damage increased from 18 to 19. These changes transform its time-to-kill profile, particularly in the 10-30 meter engagement band where SMGs typically struggle.
Content creator Swagg immediately recognized this transformation, declaring the P90 has evolved from forgotten relic to meta contender. “With over 120 weapons in Warzone, many guns fade from memory,” he noted in his August 26 analysis. “The P90 is an SMG with deep Call of Duty heritage that finally received the buff it deserved. I was dominating lobbies with it—this weapon is finally getting the appreciation it merits.”
Why the P90 Challenges Current SMG Hierarchy
The Armaguerra 43 has dominated Warzone’s SMG category for months, but Season 5’s adjustments create legitimate competition. Swagg specifically highlighted how the buffed P90 could “oust the Armaguerra 43 as the game’s most meta SMG” based on its enhanced performance characteristics.
Three key advantages now favor the P90:
1. Extended effective range: The damage buffs extend its competitive distance beyond typical SMG limitations.
2. Superior bullet velocity: Compared to other close-quarters weapons, the P90’s projectiles reach targets faster.
3. Minimal recoil pattern: Its predictable kick makes follow-up shots more consistent than many meta alternatives.
Practical tip: The P90 excels in hybrid roles. Pair it with a sniper for versatile loadouts, or use it as your primary in aggressive squad pushes where its large magazine (50-round default) provides sustained fire without frequent reloads.
Optimized P90 Loadout: Attachments and Configuration Strategy
While Swagg didn’t reveal his exact class setup, he confirmed his build represents “the most meta” configuration. According to WZRanked usage data, the community has coalesced around several core attachments:
These three components form the non-negotiable foundation. The Monolithic Suppressor maintains stealth while boosting range, the FORGE TAC Retribution barrel further enhances damage distance, and Stippled Grip Tape improves ADS speed crucial for close-quarters reactions.
For the remaining two attachment slots, consider these situation-based options:
Aggressive playstyle: 5mW Laser and Collapsed Stock for maximum mobility
Balanced approach: Tac Laser and Fly Strap stock for improved accuracy without sacrificing speed
Range-focused: Operator Foregrip and VLK 3.0x Optic for mid-distance engagements
Common mistake: Avoid over-investing in recoil control attachments. The P90’s pattern is manageable, and excessive stabilization sacrifices essential mobility stats that define SMG effectiveness.
Season 5 Meta Context and Strategic Implementation
The August update didn’t just buff the P90—it recalibrated Warzone’s entire weapon ecosystem. The Grau 5.56 and Vargo-S received noticeable boosts, while previous staples like the KG M40 and Armaguerra 43 faced intentional nerfs. This created space for overlooked weapons to emerge.
Despite the P90’s improvements, the Armaguerra 43 maintains top usage statistics—for now. As players experiment and discover the buffed P90’s capabilities, this hierarchy will likely shift. Early adopters gain significant advantage by mastering the weapon before it becomes ubiquitous.
Optimization tip for advanced players: The P90’s unique strength lies in its versatility. Instead of using it as a traditional close-range SMG, build it as a hybrid weapon that competes at 20-40 meters. This unexpected engagement distance catches opponents off-guard, as they anticipate SMG users pushing aggressively rather than holding strategic angles.
During Season 5’s formative period, make the P90 your primary SMG selection. Not only will you outperform players clinging to pre-update metas, but you’ll develop proficiency with a weapon poised for continued relevance as the meta solidifies.
Related Content and Further Reading
All weapon buffs & nerfs in Warzone & Black Ops 7 Season 1
All buffs and nerfs in Black Ops 6 & Warzone Season 6
Fan-favorite Warzone AR hit with big stealth nerf & it’s totally unusable
No reproduction without permission：SeeYouSoon Game Club » Swagg claims Warzone buff helps iconic Modern Warfare SMG dethrone meta Armaguerra Warzone expert Swagg reveals why the buffed P90 is now the top SMG pick for Season 5, with build optimization tips and meta analysis