Mastering the Spectrum MK2 in Black Ops 3: A Comprehensive Guide

The Spectrum MK2 in Call of Duty: Black Ops 3 is a specialist weapon wielded by Prophet. To effectively use it, you need to understand its core function: disrupting the enemy team with EMP bursts. Activate the Spectrum MK2 to unleash a series of powerful EMP grenades that detonate on impact or after a short delay. These grenades disable enemy equipment, including scorestreaks, and temporarily stun or disable enemy Specialists. Successful deployment requires tactical awareness, predictive aiming, and understanding map layouts to maximize its disruptive potential.

Unlocking the Power of the Spectrum MK2

The Spectrum MK2 isn’t just point-and-shoot; it’s a game-changing ability that demands strategic thinking. Here’s a breakdown of how to utilize it to its fullest potential:

• Activation: Press the designated Specialist button (usually L1 + R1 on PlayStation or LB + RB on Xbox) to activate the Spectrum MK2. This will ready the Prophet to fire EMP grenades.
• Aiming and Firing: Use the right stick to aim and the right trigger (R2 on PlayStation or RT on Xbox) to fire. The grenades travel in an arc, so adjust your aim accordingly, especially for long-range targets. Remember, they explode on impact or after a brief delay.
• Strategic Deployment: Don’t just spam grenades haphazardly. Think about where enemies are likely to be, choke points they are holding, or locations of enemy equipment. Preemptively throwing EMP grenades into these areas can significantly disrupt their strategy.
• Coordinate with Your Team: Let your teammates know when you’re about to use the Spectrum MK2. This allows them to capitalize on the enemy’s vulnerability, pushing forward while they’re disoriented and their equipment is disabled.
• Countering Enemy Specialists: The Spectrum MK2 is particularly effective against other Specialists. Disrupting weapons like the War Machine or Gravity Spikes can completely shut down an enemy’s offensive push.
• Scorestreak Denial: Enemy running high scorestreaks? The Spectrum MK2 can shut them down quickly. Target the area where the enemy is likely calling in their scorestreak (like a rooftop or open area) to prevent them from gaining an advantage.

Advanced Tips for Maximum Disruption

To truly master the Spectrum MK2, consider these advanced tactics:

• Predictive Aiming: Learn to anticipate enemy movement. Throw grenades slightly ahead of their path to ensure they are caught in the blast radius.
• Bouncing Grenades: Use walls and obstacles to bounce grenades around corners or into enclosed spaces where enemies might be hiding.
• Quick Reload: After using the Spectrum MK2, immediately switch to your primary weapon. This minimizes your downtime and keeps you in the fight.
• Combination with Perks: Certain perks can enhance the effectiveness of the Spectrum MK2. Blast Suppressor can help you move more quietly, allowing you to get into better positions to launch your EMP attacks. Tactical Mask reduces the impact of enemy tactical grenades, potentially giving you an edge in a tactical grenade exchange.
• Learn Map Layouts: Familiarize yourself with the maps to identify common enemy positions and routes. This will enable you to target them more effectively with your EMP grenades.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Spectrum MK2

Here’s a comprehensive collection of FAQs to address common questions and concerns about utilizing the Spectrum MK2.

1. How many EMP grenades does the Spectrum MK2 fire?

The number of EMP grenades fired varies based on a combination of factors, including the Specialist’s charge meter upon activation. Typically, you can expect to fire around 3-5 EMP grenades per activation.

2. What is the range of the EMP grenades?

The range of the EMP grenades is moderate, allowing you to cover a reasonable distance but requiring careful aim for long-range targets. The effective radius of the EMP effect itself is also a factor.

3. Does the Spectrum MK2 affect friendly equipment?

No, the EMP grenades only affect enemy equipment and Specialists. You don’t have to worry about disabling your teammates’ equipment.

4. How long does the EMP effect last?

The EMP effect duration varies, but generally, enemy equipment is disabled for 3-5 seconds, and Specialist abilities are temporarily disrupted. This provides a window of opportunity for you and your team to capitalize.

5. Can the Spectrum MK2 destroy scorestreaks outright?

While the Spectrum MK2 cannot directly destroy most high-tier scorestreaks, it can disable them temporarily. This disruption can buy your team valuable time or prevent the enemy from effectively utilizing their scorestreaks. It also disables ground based scorestreaks like sentry guns and guardians.

6. Does the tactical mask perk protect against the stun effect?

Yes, the Tactical Mask perk significantly reduces the stun effect of the Spectrum MK2, allowing players to recover more quickly. This makes it a valuable counter-pick against Prophet.

7. Is the Spectrum MK2 effective against all specialists?

It’s generally effective against most Specialists, but its effectiveness varies. For example, disabling a Reaper’s Scythe or a Nomad’s H.I.V.E. Gun is far more devastating than disrupting a Ruin’s Overdrive.

8. How can I improve my accuracy with the Spectrum MK2?

Practice makes perfect! Spend time in private matches experimenting with the trajectory and timing of the grenades. Focus on predictive aiming and learn how to bounce grenades off surfaces to reach targets in cover.

9. What’s the best time to activate the Spectrum MK2?

The best time to activate the Spectrum MK2 is when you anticipate a large concentration of enemies or when you know an enemy is about to use a powerful Specialist ability or call in a scorestreak.

10. How does the overclock perk affect the Spectrum MK2?

The Overclock perk speeds up the charge rate of your Specialist ability, allowing you to use the Spectrum MK2 more frequently. This can provide a significant advantage in objective-based game modes.

11. Can the Spectrum MK2 disable an enemy using the Gravity Spikes?

Yes, the Spectrum MK2 is an excellent counter to the Gravity Spikes. If you can hit the enemy before they slam down, you can disable the Spikes and leave them vulnerable.

12. What is the reload time after using the Spectrum MK2?

The reload time for the Spectrum MK2 is minimal. The more crucial thing is switching back to your primary weapon to engage in further combat immediately. Switching weapons after using the ability is best practice for staying engaged.

Mastering the Spectrum MK2 requires practice and a keen understanding of map layouts and enemy behavior. By understanding its capabilities and limitations, you can transform Prophet into a powerful asset for your team. Good luck on the battlefield!