When players think about iconic Exotic hand cannons, the Ace of Spades Destiny 2 instantly comes to mind. This weapon is tied to one of the most emotional storylines in the franchise, and even years after its introduction, it remains a powerhouse for Guardians who appreciate precision, consistency, and punchy damage output. If you’ve been wondering whether the weapon still performs, how to unlock it, or how it compares to other exotics, this guide has everything you need.
In the second paragraph, it’s important to reinforce the power and reliability of the Ace of Spades Destiny 2, especially for players who enjoy hand cannon gameplay. Although the meta has shifted throughout several sandbox updates, and discussions like Destiny 2 Ace of Spades nerf gun balancing appear from time to time, the weapon still maintains its place thanks to strong perks and consistent performance.
What is the Ace of Spades Destiny 2?
At its core, it is an Exotic hand cannon associated with Cayde-6, featuring the unique Memento Mori perk (granting extra-damage bullets after a reload) and Firefly (precision kills cause explosions). These traits make the weapon stand out among the various Destiny 2 nerf Ace of Spades threads and comparisons circulating online.
To help you master the weapon, this complete resource covers the lore, how to obtain the weapon, catalyst bonuses, PvP and PvE builds, comparisons with other Exotics, frequently asked questions, and more.
Whether you are chasing a Destiny 2 Ace of Spades replica or just want the best loadouts, this is your all-in-one reference.
Ace of Spades Destiny 2 – Lore & Background
Cayde-6’s Legacy
The Ace of Spades carries deep emotional value because it belonged to Cayde-6. The weapon symbolizes personality, humor, and resilience—core traits of the beloved Hunter Vanguard. Its presence in Destiny 2 reinforces narrative weight and nostalgia for longtime fans.
From Forsaken to Today
The Ace of Spades was introduced with the Forsaken expansion and quickly became a staple of hand cannon gameplay. While some players question its place in the current sandbox, leading to discussions like Destiny 2 Ace of Spades useless now, it continues to offer reliable, mid-range performance and strong feel when paired with the right playstyle.
How to Obtain the Ace of Spades Destiny 2
Standard Acquisition
Players can acquire the Ace of Spades from the Monument to Lost Lights (Exotic Archive) located in The Tower.
The general requirements include:
- 1 Exotic Cipher;
- Glimmer;
- And depending on the Exotic, Ascendant Shards or destination materials.
Some Forsaken Exotics no longer require Legendary Shards consistently, so requirements may vary slightly depending on current sandbox updates.
If you previously owned Forsaken when it launched, you should automatically have access to acquire the weapon at the Archive.
Steps to Get It (Simplified List)
- Go to The Tower and visit the Monument to Lost Lights;
- Enter the Forsaken Exotics section;
- Select Ace of Spades;
- Review the exact materials required;
- Purchase the weapon.
This answers the common question how to get Ace of Spades Destiny 2 quickly and efficiently.
Ace of Spades Catalyst Effects
How to Get the Catalyst
The Ace of Spades Catalyst is obtained from Vanguard playlist activities, including Strikes and Nightfalls. It drops randomly from completions, not kills.
What the Catalyst Does
The Catalyst adds the perk Funeral Pyre, which enhances Firefly when Memento Mori is active — resulting in even stronger explosions and better add-clear.
It also grants small boosts to stats such as reload and handling once fully masterworked, improving overall feel without dramatically altering the weapon’s identity.
This is the correct and up-to-date functionality based on community resources such as Destinypedia, Mobalytics, and light.gg.
PvP vs PvE Builds for Ace of Spades Destiny 2
Best PvP Build
The Ace of Spades remains strong in PvP thanks to:
- High range;
- Consistent accuracy;
- Radar while ADS (Memento Mori active);
- Firefly pressure in group fights.
Recommended PvP Loadout
- Subclass: Solar, Void, or Arc (not mandatory—use what fits your kit);
- Armor Mods: Targeting Mods, Unflinching Hand Cannon Aim;
- Weapons to pair with:
- Shotguns (close-range burst);
- Sniper Rifles (lane coverage);
- Sidearms (aggressive dueling).
- Shotguns (close-range burst);
Why it works: Its 140 RPM profile and strong range allow confident 3-tap eliminations, especially with Memento Mori active.
Best PvE Build
Ace of Spades is an excellent mid-range weapon in PvE due to Firefly and burst damage.
Recommended PvE Loadout
- Subclass: Solar or Strand (good synergy with explosions/mob control, but flexible);
- Armor Mods: Hand Cannon Loader, Firepower, Surge mods;
- Weapons to pair with:
- Wave-frame grenade launchers;
- Trace rifles;
- Energy linear fusion rifles.
- Wave-frame grenade launchers;
Why it works: Firefly chain explosions help clear groups quickly, while Memento Mori melts majors with precision damage.
Secondary Keyword Integrations in Context
Destiny 2 Ace of Spades nerf gun Discussions
Debates around Destiny 2 Ace of Spades nerf gun typically refer to real-world merchandise like the Nerf LMTD Ace of Spades blaster, not to sandbox changes. It’s important to distinguish the physical collectible from the in-game Exotic.
Destiny 2 Ace of Spades Replica Market
Players looking for display pieces often search for Ace of Spades Destiny 2 replica items. These replicas, official and fan-made, are popular collectibles but do not reflect changes to gameplay balance.
Comparisons With Other Exotics Featuring Ace of Spades Destiny 2
vs. The Last Word
The Last Word dominates close-range duels with its hip-fire design, while Ace of Spades excels at mid-range consistency, offering stability and higher damage through Memento Mori.
vs. Thorn
Thorn inflicts damage over time and controls extended engagements. Ace, on the other hand, provides stronger burst damage and better lane control.
Power dynamics can vary based on seasonal meta changes, but the roles remain distinct.
How Ace of Spades Destiny 2 Stacks Up Against Other Exotic Hand Cannons
Before choosing a final build, it’s important to understand how the Ace of Spades Destiny 2 compares to other high-tier Exotic hand cannons. In fact, many players struggle to decide whether Ace is still worth using, especially when weapons like Thorn, Hawkmoon, and The Last Word offer very different strengths.
With that in mind, the table below provides a clear, at-a-glance comparison to help you identify which Exotic best fits your playstyle.
Furthermore, these comparisons make it easier to understand Ace’s unique niche in both PvP and PvE environments.
Exotic Hand Cannon Comparison
| Exotic | Strengths | Weaknesses | Best Activity |
| Ace of Spades | Range, Memento Mori, Firefly | Requires precision | PvP & Mid-range PvE |
| Thorn | Damage over time | Requires steady aim | PvP |
| The Last Word | Close-range duels | Poor long-range | PvP |
| Hawkmoon | High burst | RNG-dependent | PvP |
As you can see, each Exotic brings a unique identity to the battlefield. Ace of Spades excels when you value consistency, explosive add-clear, and strong lane control. Meanwhile, Thorn offers pressure over time, The Last Word dominates close-quarters duels, and Hawkmoon rewards precise timing.
As a result, the Ace sits comfortably as a versatile option for players who enjoy a balanced and reliable weapon in Destiny 2.
Additional Tips for Using Ace of Spades Destiny 2
Before diving into advanced builds, it’s important to focus on the fundamentals that make the Ace of Spades Destiny 2 perform at a high level. Even though the weapon already delivers strong baseline power through Firefly and Memento Mori, refining your mechanics can significantly enhance your consistency in both PvP and PvE. With that in mind, the tips below help you make the most out of every duel.
Movement Matters
Since the Ace of Spades excels in mid-range engagements, mastering movement becomes crucial to your success. Strafing smoothly and unpredictably forces enemies to adjust their aim, giving you an edge during tight duels.
Furthermore, using cover intelligently, especially when reloading to activate Memento Mori, can completely shift momentum in your favor.
To make this easier, try integrating these movement habits into your gameplay:
- Strafe in both directions rather than repeating the same pattern;
- Utilize head-glitches and cover to minimize exposure;
- Re-peek only when Memento Mori is active to capitalize on your damage spikes;
- Slide into lanes to break enemy aim assist and reposition quickly.
These small adjustments collectively improve your survivability and boost your kill potential in nearly every situation.
Aim for Precision
As a 140 RPM hand cannon, the Ace rewards calm and accurate shooting. Precision hits not only trigger Firefly’s explosive chain reactions but also amplify the value of Memento Mori’s empowered rounds. Because of this, pacing your shots becomes more important than firing rapidly.
By keeping your reticle centered and waiting for your recoil pattern to settle between shots, you maintain tighter groupings and more reliable crit chains. This deliberate approach allows the weapon’s perks to shine, especially during high-pressure engagements where every bullet matters.
FAQ
Yes. While metas shift, the weapon remains reliable thanks to its range, Firefly explosions, and strong Memento Mori damage.
Acquire it at the Monument to Lost Lights using an Exotic Cipher, Glimmer, and potentially Ascendant Shards or destination materials.
Yes. The Nerf LMTD Ace of Spades blaster is an officially licensed collectible.
Yes, both official and unofficial replicas exist for collectors.
Because of its connection to Cayde-6 and its powerful synergy between Memento Mori and Firefly.
Ace of Spades Destiny 2 – Final Thoughts & Why ExitLag Helps
Even with ongoing debates about the Ace of Spades Destiny 2 role in the current meta, the weapon maintains its place as one of the most iconic and reliable hand cannons in the game. Its combination of mid-range power, perk synergy, and narrative weight makes it a favorite among both casual and competitive players.
If you want the best possible performance while using the Ace, or any weapon, your connection matters. High ping or packet loss can ruin precision plays, delay shots, and disrupt engagements.
This is exactly where ExitLag steps in: stabilizing your route, improving response time, and strengthening your overall online experience.
Use the Ace of Spades with confidence. Use ExitLag to guarantee the smoothest connection possible.
Got questions or want to connect with other players? Join the conversation at the ExitLag Forum!
