The RE-45 is set to make waves in Apex Legends as it transforms from an old favorite to an innovative energy pistol with a three-round burst feature. Respawn Entertainment is delivering exciting changes with this weapon, making it the first Elite weapon in the game—a significant shift since its origins in Titanfall.
As lead battle royale designer Eric Canavese explained, the term “Elite” isn’t merely a skin level; it represents a new gameplay experiment that aims to breathe new life into the weapon roster. As part of Ballistic’s collection, these Elite weapons will challenge preconceived notions of what a weapon can do, enhancing the overall gaming experience.

Mark your calendars, as Showdown will launch on August 5, and with it, the RE-45 Elite will take the place of its base model across the entire game, vaulting the standard version. Future Elite weapons will follow a similar pattern, essentially replacing their base counterparts. While this change might seem permanent, Respawn has the flexibility to unveil the classic versions again if the gameplay dynamics call for it.
The RE-45 is undeniably a groundbreaking first step into the world of Elite weapons. Nevertheless, it remains “intentionally open-ended,” as Canavese mentioned. There’s currently no expiration date for the new RE-45 or any announced release window for another Elite weapon. Players can expect this revamped pistol to stick around for at least one season, but its future will evaluate community feedback and its impact on the game’s meta.
As Canavese elaborated, they will monitor community responses and the evolving gameplay. The game’s meta will guide when it’s the right moment to introduce or retire Elite weapons. This dynamic approach not only keeps the game fresh but ensures that players are engaged and excited about their weapon choices.
The introduction of Elite weapons opens up fascinating opportunities for Respawn to explore innovative weapon concepts. By reimagining old weapons like the RE-45, they can provide renewed gameplay experiences, such as altering the ammo type and firing mode, which positions the RE-45 as the game’s first energy sidearm—even if it’s not entirely a new weapon.
What is the RE-45 Elite and how does it differ from the regular RE-45? The RE-45 Elite is a revamped version of the original weapon that now uses energy ammo and features a three-round burst firing mode, enhancing its gameplay potential compared to the standard model.
How will the community affect the future of Elite weapons in Apex Legends? Respawn will closely monitor community feedback and game dynamics to determine when to introduce or phase out Elite weapons, ensuring that they align with players’ preferences and gameplay needs.
What can we expect from future Elite weapons in Apex Legends? Future Elite weapons will likely follow the model set by the RE-45, replacing standard versions with innovative gameplay features, while also remaining adaptable based on community feedback.
How long will the RE-45 Elite be available in the game? While the exact duration is uncertain, the RE-45 Elite is expected to remain available for at least one season, with its usage continuously assessed based on player reactions and game conditions.
With these exciting changes on the horizon, there’s never been a better time to dive into Apex Legends. Keep an eye on future updates and weapon overhauls, as they might just give you the edge in gameplay. For more engaging content about the latest in gaming, visit Moyens I/O.