Plasmagun
The Plasmagun (PG) fires rapid projectiles at 100ms intervals, dealing 15 damage per shot with a 45-unit splash radius. It carries 0.5 self-damage and generates 20 knockback per shot. It is the fastest-firing weapon in the standard kit.
Mechanics
Unlike the hitscan weapons (LG, EB, MG, Riotgun), the Plasmagun fires actual projectiles: each plasma bolt travels at speed and must be aimed with lead. At close range the lead is negligible. At longer range the travel time becomes apparent and makes it harder to land consistent damage on a moving target.
The 0.5 self-damage ratio (half of full) means the Plasmagun deals partial damage to the shooter on splash: less dangerous than the RL or GL but still relevant if you’re firing at surfaces near your own feet.
Role in Play
The Plasmagun serves two distinct roles:
Sustained damage at range. 15 damage x 10 shots per second = 150 DPS theoretical max. Travel time and splash make it more forgiving than hitscan at the cost of requiring lead.
Plasmaclimbing. Firing plasma bolts at a surface beneath or beside you generates knockback that can propel the player upward or laterally. This movement technique (plasmaclimbing) is used in Race mode and in general play for accessing elevated positions without needing a dedicated jump.
Weaknesses
Travel time makes the Plasmagun less efficient than the Lasergun or Riotgun at close range against erratic movement.