I think the conversation should be less about whether they are the best, and more around whether they are viable.
To this point, I feel like there are far more viable weapons across the range than in BL2. The endgame in BL2 narrowed it to the point where entire manufacturers were all but worthless to look at aside from 1-2 items.
There will always be a best in slot option. There is always going t9 be something that is just a the best possible option. If that’s what you’re looking for, then that’s going to be your go to and nothing else will really stack up for you. Nothing wrong with that if that’s how you play
But the fact that there are so many options that while not optimal are at least usable, is a big upgrade IMO. Outside of a few uniques, did anyone use Dahl or bandit in BL2? No. They were not good enough to be viable in most cases.
I’ll take this system where there may be some that are a cut above the rest but with a whole lineup of options that you can make work if you want to.
That may change some depending on how the implement UVHM (if they do). But for now, I love that there are many options that you can make work, even if they aren’t necessarily the best possible item in a category
Given how the game is significantly easier, I would disagree. Purple’s can still kick ass. But they will likely be overshadowed by a similar legendary.
I have an L50 purple Masher which is probably one of my best all round weapons in the game and wrecks most things. And a purple Jakobs shotgun which seems to fit my playstyle better than my Conference Call. Overall I’d agree that most Purples will eventually get replaced by Legendaries but I also think it’s a big step from that to “useless.” Most of the ones I have still hold their own fine
I run a purple Double Penetrating Pocket Rocket in radiation as my main weapon. When switched to sticky it’s amazing. I also use a purple artifact. It’s way better than the same version in a legendary.