Apex Legends has built a reputation for keeping its arsenal fresh with experimental weapons, and a leaked clip from Season 12 has reignited discussion about one of the most unusual sidearms ever teased for the game. The footage reportedly shows the Fanatic pistol, an energy-based weapon, in action against enemies during an early test phase.
The information first surfaced through Reddit user Pretty_Chard5030, who has been a reliable source for Apex Legends leaks in the past. While the clip does not display a final design for the Fanatic, it does provide a helpful look at how the weapon could function. The placeholder model seen in the video is the RE-45 automatic pistol. That detail suggests Respawn Entertainment had not yet settled on a finished appearance for the new firearm, and the final model could change significantly before any possible release.
.jpg)
According to the leaked video, every shot from the Fanatic pistol produces a distinct blue glow. This visual effect points toward an energy-charging mechanic rather than a conventional bullet-based firing pattern. Above the weapon, a bar is visible during firing. Observers believe that bar represents remaining charges or ammunition, although Respawn has not officially confirmed any of these details.
The Fanatic pistol would enter a weapon category that already plays an important role in Apex Legends. Energy weapons often demand careful ammo management but reward players with high damage potential or unique firing behavior. If the Fanatic behaves like a charged sidearm, it could fill a niche between close-range pistols and heavier energy rifles. Some players speculate it might serve as a high-risk, high-reward option for aggressive squads that want mobility without sacrificing damage.
Despite the excitement, many questions remain unanswered. Because the Fanatic is shown using a placeholder model, its rarity, attachment slots, damage profile, and reload time are unknown. The blue glow and the charge bar hint at a weapon that builds up power before firing, but the exact mechanics are still open to interpretation. It is also unclear whether the pistol would use standard energy ammo or a new type of ammunition.
Key observations from the leak include:
-
The RE-45 placeholder model suggests the Fanatic is still unfinished.
-
A blue glow appears each time the pistol is fired.
-
A bar above the weapon likely tracks charges or ammo.
-
The energy-based sidearm could expand the game's pistol selection.
-
No official confirmation has been released by Respawn.
Respawn typically spends a long time testing experimental weapons before they appear in the live game. Apex Legends has seen several weapons leak months or even years before release, and some never make it into the standard loot pool. Around the time of the Season 12 leak, the studio was also preparing native versions for PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S, along with a wider rollout of Apex Legends Mobile. These updates increased pressure on the team to deliver fresh content, but they also meant that unfinished prototypes like the Fanatic pistol could remain in internal testing for a long period.
Community reaction was mixed. Some players praised the idea of a new energy sidearm, noting that the game's pistol selection was relatively small compared with other weapon classes. Others urged caution, pointing out that placeholder footage does not guarantee an imminent release. The Reddit source's past reliability gave the rumor weight, but without official word from Respawn, the Fanatic remained a speculative part of Season 12 discussion.
At the time of the leak, Apex Legends was available on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PC, and Xbox One. The game was also expected to launch on Android, iOS, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. A rising player count, boosted by Apex Legends Mobile expanding to new regions, raised expectations for continuous content updates. Players have a constant thirst for new and innovative weapons, and the Fanatic energy pistol appeared to be a promising step in that direction.
From a 2026 perspective, the Fanatic pistol clip remains a notable piece of Apex Legends leak history. Energy weapons have continued to influence loadout choices and team strategies, and players still discuss which leaked prototypes deserve a full launch. The core appeal of Apex Legends has always been its fast movement, distinct legends, and weapons that feel different from standard military shooters. A charged energy sidearm would fit that identity if it ever receives a formal debut. Whether the Fanatic eventually enters the live loot pool or stays in the realm of unfinished experiments, the leak shows how seriously fans follow every hint of new content.