How does Checkmate Control work in Destiny 2’s Crucible?

Announced back in February 2023, Bungie has finally implemented Checkmate Control into Destiny 2's Crucible Labs. Here's how it works and what weapons will help set you up for success.

Destiny 2's Checkmate Rules and Modifiers

Checkmate Control is a mode that focuses heavily on gunplay instead of abilities and feels much more like a contemporary shooter than any other mode in the sci-fi title. It drastically reduces the charge time of Guardians' supers and abilities. Unless you're employing a very specific build and have the skills to charge up that super meter through kills, odds are you won't get a super the entire match.

Additionally, there is a longer time to kill, and Special ammo isn't reset on death. This prevents people from guarding lanes with sniper rifles and encourages a little more weapon variety. However, Special ammo can still be picked up from kills and by capturing points. While still in its infancy, there is a meta-evolving, and Bungie is quickly making adjustments.

Otherwise, it's your standard Control match. Capture points and nab kills. The team with the most points wins. It feels a lot like PvP when Destiny 2 launched, as teams tend to move as a pack to offset the longer Time to Kill (TTK). I'm personally a fan, as it means you're not being murdered repeatedly by the same Guardian with a roaming super.

Related: How does Gunsmith Focusing work in Destiny 2?

Best Weapons for Checkmate Control in Destiny 2

• Igneous Hammer (Adept): This 120 RPM Trials hand cannon continues to dominate across the board in PvP and cleans up well in Checkmate.
• Conditional Finality: This is a common pairing with Igneous Hammer. Since Special ammo doesn't deplete on death and can be earned by capping points, Guardians can always quickly swap to it instead of reloading.
• Vex Mythoclast: This auto rifle performs exceptionally well in its default mode, but unleashing the Temporal Unlimiter Perk has the potential to one-shot a Guardian.
• The Immortal (Adept): Another Trials weapon and an SMG that allows one to get in close and shred a Guardian. It's not as risk-free since the 9/28/2023 update, but it's still a viable strategy.
• Dead Man's Tale: This Exotic scout rifle is great at dominating from range, thanks to the reduced presence of snipers in Checkmate. As always, it's a dream to shoot.
• Spare Rations: Another 140 RPM hand cannon, it's a solid pick for those that don't have Igneous Hammer. It was most recently available for those who wanted to do a little fishing.
• No Time to Explain: This Exotic pulse rifle has the ability to open portals to other timelines where bullets will pepper your target. It's a great tactic for eating away opponents' increased health.

For more Destiny 2 goodies, check out Destiny 2 The Bladed Path Guide - All Quest Steps on Pro Game Guides.