The Warlock class inDestiny 2is definitely the most difficult to master as either a new or returning player. Despite the learning curve, though, theWarlock can be a dominant class if used correctly. Gamers that want to get the best out of the class need to focus on using the character’s rift ability combined with advanced movement techniques. It is also paramount thatDestiny 2players havethe correct exoticsandclass setups to ensure successin PVP.
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Destiny 2’sWarlock class is certainly a fun class to use, but it may take players just a little more time to get a feel for how tomaximize the Warlock’s abilities. Gamers of all skill levels should try toincorporate the following Warlock tips to improve their performancein PVP with the Warlock.
Updated May 31, 2025, by Anastasia Maillot:It’s a new season in Destiny 2, with a new meta. While weapons tend to change quite fast, with hand cannons and shotguns holding strong, subclasses have seen some of the most drastic changes in the last few months. Stasis has become far less relevant in PVP, while Void 3.0 has emerged as a meta subclass for all three classes, especially Hunters. For Warlocks, the Solar subclass continues to be the most powerful, but only because of Daybreak’s long duration. With the new Void changes in mind, this Crucible guide for Warlock mains has been updated, withthe best tips for PVP for Warlocks in season 16 and The Witch Queen expansion.
15Void PVP Exotics For Warlocks
With the new Voidwalker system, some Exotics have become even more relevant in PVP. Though Exotics largely depend on the player’s personal taste and playstyle, Warlock mains should give these items a shot at least once now that Void 3.0 is out.
14Void 3.0 Warlock PVP Tips
The new Void 3.0 changes have made Voidwalkers a force to be reckoned with in the Crucible. Just like with Stasis, players can tailor their own Void build perfectly to their needs, with a few fragments and aspects sticking out as highlights for PVP. Here’s which ones players shouldtry for Voidwalker 3.0 builds.
Fragments:
13Use Ophidian Aspects
Another general Exotic that fits almost any Warlock PVP build is the Ophidian Aspect gauntlets. When worn, players will enjoy a better reload and readying speed. Warlocks also receive an increased melee range, which is fantastic given the Warlock melee is the second best after the Titan melee.
This Exotic best suits players who are still experimenting with the Warlock class and are focused more heavily on gunplay and close combat. It pairs perfectlywith a classic shotgunand hand cannon build where players might want to finish their opponents with a melee hit.
12Burst Glide
PVP players should always have burst glide equipped. Unlike Hunter and Titan jumps, Warlocks can use the burst glide to skate across the map by pressing the jump button while descending. However, Warlocks will not be able to glide upwards after the character is descending. Players mustjump first before the glide can be initiated.
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By using the burst glide correctly, gamers can keep their jumps horizontal and avoid being exposed to open areas of a map. Additionally, theWarlock skating techniqueallows players to move much faster than while sprinting. Skating is also faster than an ordinary glide. Warlocks should only suspend themselves in the air when near a door or as an escape mechanism.
Using Burst Glide while in a duel or combat against multiple enemies can be a terrible idea since Warlocks remain suspended in the air and can become easy targets. Always use Burst Glide strategically and behind a cover.
11Use Karnstein Armlets
Sustain is one of the most important parts of Crucible in the game, and staying alive relies on good gameplay and any additional abilities that let the player generate health. Top tree Dawnblade Warlocks shoulduse the Karnstein Armlets in the Crucible. The armlets will make the Dawnblade Celestial Fire melee even more overpowered.
With these, Warlocks will receive instant health regen thanks to their Vampire’s Caress intrinsic perk, and players can take on up to three opponents at one time. Warlock mains will be surprised how much of a difference the armlets make in both 3V3 and 6V6.
10Find The Rights Stats
Stats can help make a player’s character more powerful even outside ofPVE builds, in the Crucible. While Hunters might want to specialize in mobility, Warlocksshould not stack mobility when using the top tree Dawnblade subclass.As mentioned above, Warlock skating is one of the most effective traits of the class. By increasing mobility, players will also be increasing the jump height of the character.
Players should focus on stacking other traits, as the Warlock is more effective when jumping horizontally. Resilience, Recovery, and Discipline are the three most important stats a PVP Warlock main can specialize in, with Discipline being the most recommended one.
9Angle Slide
Again in regards to mobility, players need to utilize a tactic called angle sliding. Bysliding after jumping at an angle, the Warlock’s body appears to move unpredictably. During the animation, it is essentially impossible to hit the player.
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This tactic works the best when rounding a corner or entering a contested space. Mixing these angle slides with Warlock skating and jumps will trick opponents and help gamers dodge gunfire.
8Using The Rift Correctly
Warlocks should always place the rift near cover. The rift will allow players to peek at enemies without being killed immediately.Destinygamers should use the map to proactively utilize the rift ability and prepare themselves for a gunfight.
Additionally, players can use third-person animation to identify enemies behind a cover. Good Warlocks will always drop rifts near corners and cover to scout opposing teams in third person. Using a more niche Exotic like The Stag can also be great for rift-based builds, as players can wait while their overshield builds before peeking around a corner and tanking damage.
7Top Tree Stormcaller And Discipline
Stormcaller is most effective when players are chaining arc web. Players shouldinvest in the discipline statto decrease the grenade cooldown. Warlocks with high discipline can throw more grenades and chain more enemies.
Depending on the subclass, players should always be asking themselves what the strengths and weaknesses of the subclass are when choosing weapons and abilities.
6Sliding Rift
Warlocks cannot perform the rift while sliding. Sometimes, it’s possible players will hear the rift deployment sound, but the animation and cooldown are never used if they’re sliding too quickly. However, if playersinitiate the rift while sprinting, the character will perform a brief slide before deploying the rift.
This tactic is especially effective when seeking cover. Warlocks taking enemy fire will be able to locate cover and use the rift to recover before re-engaging an opponent.
