In Destiny 2 the Exotics are among the hottest guns in the game. Our author Philipp Hansen takes a look at the weapons that impress with appearance, not power, in this top list.
By now, there are 150 Exotics in Destiny 2, most of which have unique abilities. But you don’t always have to or want to run around with the absolute meta weapon, the craziest damage dealer in your hand.
This list focuses on appearance, not power. I have selected 9 Exotics that deserve a permanent place in my inventory because of their cool looks.
My Top 9 Exotic Weapons that Look Unbelievably Good
You will quickly notice a trend in my Exotic list and know exactly what a weapon in Destiny needs to appeal to me. A little hint upfront: Slim Scouts or skinny SMGs have no place in my top list. Weapons must look powerful and dangerous, preferably dark-themed and have character.
I will briefly introduce the firearm and explain why I find the appearance so great. Afterwards, I have selected the coolest ornament for each Exotic, which either perfectly complements the weapon or gives it a whole new spin.
1. Thorn
What can the weapon do? The exotic revolver Thorn fires no ordinary bullets, but the thorny projectiles that bear its name. These poison your victims and deal damage over time. If you finish off an opponent with the nasty poison shot, the dark weapon feeds on the corruption and becomes even deadlier.
This is what makes the appearance so great: Thorn is rightly considered one of the most famous weapons in the Destiny universe. In addition to its power, the design is as well thought out as few other Exotics. The edges and spikes that jut out harshly from the revolver give it a menacing look and fit perfectly with the exotic characteristics.
The story behind Thorn is also beautifully underscored by the appearance. Originally, the Exotic was the “good” weapon Rose. But it was then corrupted by dark magic.
This ornament refines the gun: Once dark Hive Witches corrupted Thorn. The ornament “Heretic’s Robe” takes the Hive curse to the extreme and is reminiscent of the blood-red fortress of shadows through which we fight on the moon. The skin gives the weapon more thorns and has a connection to the story, as it should be.
2. Wings of Vigilance
What can the weapon do? The exotic pulse rifle Wings of Vigilance heals you when allies around you pass away. If you are the last living fighter in your fireteam, the Exo really amps up. You and the rifle receive many useful buffs to turn the tide in your favor.
This is what makes the appearance so great: The weapon is unmistakably inspired by ancient Egypt. Small Anubis elements, mummy wrappings, and Horus wings decorate the rifle. It fits well that all perks seem designed for the Trials of Osiris. The story behind the weapon also refers to the Trials.
The design thus again stands out by the fusion of lore, perks, and appearance. I fell in love with the look of the pulse rifle back in the early days.
This ornament refines the gun: Thanks to the ornament “Book of the Dead”, the Exo looks even more like a treasure archaeologists unearthed from inside a pyramid. The glow of days gone by is still discernible, but everything is dirtier, more mysterious, and darker.
3. Scarlet
What can the weapon do? The Scarlet is basically a pulse rifle forced into the body of a hand cannon. The characteristic burst shot recalls its origins but is complemented by powerful perks. You heal yourself through kills and also reload automatically.
This is what makes the appearance so great: Just look at it, everything about Scarlet screams danger! You have a bayonet, nasty spikes, and the splatters are certainly not red paint. Once again, the appearance underscores the story behind the weapon, because “According to official Vanguard statements, this weapon does not exist.”
As a Guardian, it is unbecoming to use such a “forbidden weapon” and to keep alive through the “cruel remedy”. When I carry Scarlet, I feel like a soldier who has actually lost the war but will resort to any means to get home. And let’s be honest, the forbidden is usually the most fun.
This ornament refines the gun: The ornament “Silver Ball” gives the weapon a completely different twist. Instead of a dirty gun, you are now using the probably most exquisite of all Exotics.
The delicate engraving and playful flourishes are completely at odds with the dark lore and cleverly break with the theme. Immediately, fantasies of hunting werewolves come to mind.
On page 2, you will find stylish power, special, and primary weapons in all shapes and colors.
