When Call of Duty Mobile introduced the NA-45 sniper rifle during its anniversary season back in 2020, it sent shockwaves through the community. Players quickly realized this wasn't just another addition; it was a game-changer that redefined how snipers could be used in the mobile shooter. With its unique two-bullet mechanism and explosive potential, the NA-45 became infamous for its overpowered nature, leading to immediate bans in competitive tournaments. Fast forward to 2025, and the rifle's legacy still echoes in the game, though significant balance patches have tempered its dominance. The journey of the NA-45 showcases how a single weapon can disrupt the meta and force developers into action, making it a fascinating case study in mobile gaming evolution.
Players were immediately drawn to the NA-45's innovative design. Unlike traditional sniper rifles, it holds only two rounds, requiring frequent reloads after every shot pair. But the real twist lies in its ammunition behavior: the first shot drops a charge on impact, and the second detonates it, creating an explosion. This means users don't need pinpoint accuracy; they can fire at the ground near enemies and trigger a blast for easy kills. As a result, the weapon encouraged a whole new playstyle, shifting from long-range precision to aggressive close-quarters tactics. đź’Ą
In the early days, the community adapted swiftly. Many opted for the Sleight of Hand perk to speed up reloads, but this wasn't the core issue. The explosive combo allowed for spamming tactics, where players could rush forward and spam shots at the ground, similar to the infamous "noob tubing" strategy from older Call of Duty titles. This approach negated the need for skill in aiming, leading to record-breaking kill streaks even in casual matches. For instance, some players reported achieving 20+ kills in a single round with minimal effort, highlighting the imbalance. The weapon's variants—though cosmetically different—operated identically, amplifying the problem across all game modes.
By 2025, the NA-45 has undergone several transformations. After widespread complaints, developers released balance patches that tweaked its damage output and explosion radius. Now, it's no longer the unstoppable force it once was, but it remains a popular choice for those who enjoy high-risk, high-reward gameplay. Players still prioritize mobility and reload speed attachments, but the tactics have evolved. Here's a quick comparison of the NA-45's key aspects before and after the updates:
| Feature | Pre-2023 (Original State) | Post-2025 (Balanced State) |
|---|---|---|
| Explosion Damage | Extremely high, one-shot kills common | Reduced, requires precise timing for kills |
| Reload Time | Fast with perks, but still a weakness | Slightly slower to encourage strategic play |
| Competitive Use | Banned in all tournaments | Allowed with restrictions in some modes |
| Community Reception | Overwhelmingly negative due to imbalance | Mixed; some love the challenge, others find it fairer |
Despite the nerfs, the NA-45's influence persists. Players in 2025 often reminisce about the chaos it caused, using it in custom matches for fun. The strategy of ground-based explosions has inspired other weapons, but none have replicated its initial impact. Developers have learned from this experience, incorporating better testing for new additions to avoid similar disruptions. As one veteran player put it, "The NA-45 taught us that innovation can backfire without careful balance."
Looking back, the rifle's rise and fall offer valuable lessons for the Call of Duty Mobile ecosystem. It forced the community to adapt and developers to listen, leading to a more polished game today. While it's not as dominant now, the NA-45 remains a symbol of how a single update can reshape an entire shooter experience. For newcomers in 2025, mastering this rifle is a rite of passage, blending nostalgia with modern tactics.
