Modern Warfare 2: 5 Best Launchers [Detailed Comparison]

Besides having the best weapons in their arsenal, it looks like Call of Duty Modern Warfare 2 devs have emphasized players using launchers. With small and intricate maps like El Asilo and Al Bagra Fortress, launchers are going to be the primary weapon for clearing out corners and campers.

However, with 5 unique launchers in the game, it’s often tricky to decide the best ones. After all, every launcher has its utility in specific situations. So, let’s jump right in and see the best launchers in the game, including their advantages, uses, and best perks when using them.

RPG-7

The RPG-7 is a classic when it comes to the Call of Duty Franchise. It’s a rocket launcher that can easily blow out covers and tight corners. You’ll be able to deal massive damage in one fell swoop, taking out one or even multiple enemies with a single rocket.

Overall, the RPG-7 makes for a well-balanced launcher in Modern Warfare 2 for speed and damage. This weapon can be used on small to mid-range maps as you can carry it without worrying too much about movability.

You can unlock the weapon by reaching Rank 32 in the Military Ranks. You can get it alongside the Wheelson-HS killstreak, a remote-controlled mini vehicle, when you reach this rank.

Strela-P

The Strela-P is another extremely powerful launcher that can destroy a cluster of enemies in 1 direct hit. Its high-velocity shots can take out oncoming vehicles or even operational killstreaks like the UAV. Apart from that, this weapon also has a magnified red-dot scope, meaning your chances of getting direct hits will be far greater.

With a built-in scope, no recoil, and no lock-on mechanic, the Strela-P is a great choice for accuracy and quick kills from a launcher. However, its long-reload animations and weak mobility will mean that you won’t be able to carry this bulky weapon everywhere you go. 

The Strela can be unlocked early on in the game by reaching Level 14 in the Military Ranks. You will also get the High Alert Perk which can notify you of oncoming shots. Since this is the easiest launcher in this list to unlock, you can use it as a beginner secondary weapon.

JOKR

The JOKR is a primary example of a weapon whose uniqueness overshadows its otherwise weak overall stats. What sets the JOKR apart from the rest is its unbelievable accuracy. Once you’ve locked onto a target, you can rest easy because it’s gonna be a direct hit no matter what. 

Although the JOKR is very weak in terms of mobility, its much wider range and stronger accuracy make up for it. As such, this weapon’s true potential can be seen on maps with large, open spaces, as well as maps with tons of vehicles.

The JOKR can be unlocked after reaching Level 24 in the Military Ranks. This weapon is simultaneously unlocked alongside Battle Rage, a field upgrade that regenerates your health and sprint much quicker. Once reached, you can go into your inventory and select this as your primary weapon.

Top Perks for Launchers

Now that we’ve covered the best launchers in the game, let’s move on to the perks that would work best with these weapons. Since all launchers have many similar weaknesses, these perks will make up for them. Therefore, it’ll create a strong balance, good synergy, and lead to one of the best loadouts for launchers.

• Double Time
• Tracker
• Fast Hands
• Ghost

In my opinion, these perks go well with loadouts having launchers. Launchers with a scope like the JOKR or Strela-P will be able to locate enemies from afar and shoot them down almost instantly. The JOKR specifically will be able to lock on enemies you won’t have to worry about missing your shot. Its night vision mode also helps you in seeing objects and enemies far away.

My Opnion On Best Launchers 

For a launcher to be good, it needs to have a good balance between reload speed, damage, and accuracy. Other than that, it should be consistent. Situational launchers will often make a limited loadout. However, if the launcher has unique mechanics, then it’s not too important to be consistent. It’s also important to remember that launchers don’t require you to unlock attachments, so these weapons must have good standalone abilities.

Launchers have always easily been one of my best classes for secondary weapons in Call of Duty. Their massive damage coupled with a wide Area of Effect makes it the best option for clearing rooms and small camping spots. Consequently, this makes them the preferred secondary weapon for tiny, massive maps. However, their weaknesses can be alleviated by using specific perks and/or a strategic play style.

That sums up the guide on best launchers in MW2. In the end, I suggest taking a look at Huzaifah Durrai’s comprehensive review of Modern Warfare 2 for an in-depth analysis.