Crypto Could Be Getting a Makeover, Says Apex Legends Dev
By Jack O'Dwyer
Crypto, one of the least popular picks in Apex Legends, could be receiving some big changes according to Respawn Live Balance Designer, John Larson.
Larson recently appeared on the Apex Uncut podcast hosted by The_FortniteGuy, Owner of Box Fight Championships, and Cloud9's Zach Mazer. He answered a variety of questions from changes to coming to Ranked mode, thoughts on the EVA-8 meta, and legends in desperate need of an overhaul—for one reason or another.
One such legend is Crypto, the tech-based drone-flying hero.
Apex Legends Devs are 'Actively Working On' Crypto
Currently, Crypto's pick rate last month had him near the bottom of the barrel, barely outshining Rampart by one-tenth of a percentage—1.7 to her 1.6. Mazer, himself, noted that Crypto has a lot to offer competitive players often overlook. At times, he may even have too much. He partially attributed the legend's less-than-groundbreaking playtime to Bloodhound's popularity and ease.
According to Larson, however, Crypto's low pick rate may not be a bad thing. A low pick rate doesn't necessarily mean a legend is poorly configured or is necessarily a poor legend. In fact, he's acutely aware of Crypto's strength when handled by the right player and situated within the right team. The drone-pilot is a "niche, off-meta pick," that tends to be unpopular in a straightforward shooter like Apex Legends.
"Crypto is far too cerebral," Larson said.
He noted how much time would need to be spent in Crypto's "drone mode" in order to get the most out of the legend. This is part of the problem, Larson explained. His solution would be "streamlining the flow between Crypto mode and drone mode." If the team could distribute the power more evenly between the two—disrupting that "binary" play structure—it's possible the legend could see an uptick in popularity.
"Yeah, it's something to keep in mind," he said, "something we are definitely, actively working on."
Larson did make an offhand comment about possible issues regarding a more balanced Crypto, but neglected to mention whether this was a current issue on the development table. For now, the legend will remain a situational pick, at best.