Summary
- Apex Legends reversed a controversial tap-strafing nerf due to player feedback.
- Respawn acknowledged unintended negative consequences from the Season 23 mid-season update change.
- The community celebrated the reversal, appreciating the preservation of skillful movement.
Following player feedback, Apex Legends has reverted a controversial change to tap-strafing. This nerf, introduced in the Season 23 mid-season update (released January 7th with the Astral Anomaly Event), was part of a larger balance patch affecting Legends and weapons.
While the update significantly altered Legends like Mirage and Loba, a seemingly minor "buffer" added to tap-strafing in the bug fixes section sparked considerable backlash. Tap-strafing, an advanced technique allowing for rapid mid-air directional changes, was impacted negatively. Although Respawn intended to counter automated movement at high frame rates, the community felt the change went too far.
Fortunately, Respawn responded to this feedback by reversing the tap-strafing alteration. They acknowledged unintended negative consequences and stated that while combating automated workarounds remains a priority, preserving skillful movement techniques like tap-strafing is also important.
Apex Legends Reverts Controversial Nerf to Tap-Strafing
This reversal has been widely praised by the community. Apex Legends is renowned for its fluid movement system; while lacking Titanfall's wall-running, players utilize advanced techniques like tap-strafing to create impressive plays. Positive reactions flooded Twitter following Respawn's announcement.
The long-term impact of this reversal remains to be seen. The number of players who quit due to the nerf is unknown, as is the potential for the reversion to attract returning players.
This tap-strafing reversal comes amidst other significant events in the battle royale landscape. Besides the mid-season update, the Astral Anomaly Event introduced new cosmetics and a revamped Launch Royale LTM. Respawn's emphasis on player feedback suggests further updates addressing other concerns are likely in the coming weeks.
