Rework the Redline
Now that's a phrase I haven't heard before, ever.
This doesn't have to be as drastic as the last nine remakes of the Redline, but I want to partially bring it closer to the very first concept of the Redline back when I was considering calling it 'Arc-en-ciel'. Plus I've been thinking about those Amarr laser mechanics from EVE Online.
So! The secret is in the interchangeable lenses. All three (?) of them. They are secondary magazines and modify how the weapon operates, turning the Redline into the ultimate Swiss army knife, especially if you carry two of them. Lenses have their own durability and can break when used. Just like in EVE! They will also be stupidly expensive, something along the lines of $80 for the cheapest up to $300 for the most expensive.
Lenses:
- IR: low-frequency red beam. Low damage (5.56mm), high durability (150 shots). Lowest heat generation. Horrible shield penetration.
- UV: high-frequency purple beam. High damage (.50 BMG), low durability (50 shots). High heat generation. Slightly less horrible shield penetration.
- XR: green beam. Very high damage to shields (~800 a shot), very low damage to enemies. Low durability (30 shots). Two shots practically overheat the rifle.
Heat no longer damages or destroys batteries. but overheating the rifle would result in faster lens degradation. Heat dissipation is also slower (even with upgrade).
Should note that lowering the battery cost for shooting would be a requirement so the Redline becomes more battery-efficient when used vs weaker enemies.
This is going to require adding an additional property for shield damage multiplier. Right now you can't EASILY make a shot that damages shields but not enemies.