Summary

  • RE-45 Elite received three major nerfs: smaller magazine, higher recoil, and smaller projectile size.
  • These changes aim to restore balance in close-range fights and allow more weapon variety.

Apex Legends had important changes in the recent patch this August 2025. After the players pointed out how dominant the RE-45 Elite pistol is, Respawn Entertainment decided to nerf it. This is to make the gameplay or matches more balanced and fair for all players. With that, here’s a walkthrough about the Apex Legends RE-45 nerf.  

Apex Legends RE-45 Nerf Details

Casual and Pro players have recently pointed out the imbalance with the RE-45 pistol, so Apex legends made some adjustments. Below is the table of the changes made with the weapon in the patch:

Feature

Changes

Magazine Size

Reduced by 3 rounds at all tiers, including base pistol

Recoil

Increased horizontal and vertical kickback

Projectile Size

Reduced to match hitboxes of other pistols

These changes mean that the RE-45 has fewer bullets now than before, it recoils more when you use auto-fire and requires more precision in aim. Adjustments like these are done to decrease the dominance of the weapon and give room for other weapons. 

Why RE-45 Elite Nerf is Necessary

Without doubt, the recent changes may receive mixed emotions from players. Some may think that it will be a waste to nerf such powerful weapon, while some may think that it is the right thing to do so. If you are wondering, here’s why these nerfs are significant to the game:

Nerfs

Explanation

Close-Range Balance

RE-45 was too reliable in tight fights. Now, traditional SMGs like the R-99, C.A.R., and Volt get more opportunities to perform well.

More Weapon Variety

Previously, many players felt forced to pick the RE-45 to stay competitive. These changes promote more variety of loadout combos.

Energy Ammo Use

Energy-based weapons like the Devotion LMG were overshadowed. So, a weaker RE-45 may rebalance weapon choice.


The RE-45 Elite’s fast fire and bigger mag made it strong early and mid-game, which results to dominating the battles quickly. In essence, the new changes aim to balance it so players won’t feel like it’s the only weapon they need to use. This update proves that Respawn Entertainment listens to feedbacks and keeps the gameplay fair and even through the season for players to enjoy gaming better. 

The RE-45 Elite Pistol: Before vs After The Nerf

Ultimately, small changes may have a big impact on your gameplay. With that, let’s break down the changes of Apex Legends RE-45 nerf in a side-by-side comparison table:

Features

Before Patch

After Patch

Mag Size

Large (source of high sustained fire)

3 rounds smaller—less sustained output

Recoil

Very manageable

Higher vertical and horizontal recoil

Projectile

Large, easy targetting

Smaller, more precise aiming required

The update makes the RE-45 elite trickier and harder to use for players. Consequently, you will need good aim and great control to stay effective in fast fight and avoid missing shots. 

Final Thoughts

The Apex Legends RE-45 nerf created a major impact in Apex Legends Season 4. The RE-45 that was once the most powerful close-range weapons in the game, is now balanced and in level with other SMGs. Although most fans may miss the pistol’s dominance, this update surely makes the game fair and even more challenging. 

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Hi there, it’s Stal! If you loved that article, make sure to check out these other articles I’ve written just for you. See you there!

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