Prototype weapons are enhanced versions of standard firearms, featuring unique perks and stat bonuses. They come in four rarities: Common, Rare, Legendary, and Epic, with higher rarities offering more powerful and numerous perks. You can acquire Prototype weapons through Supply Drops (multiplayer) or by crafting them in the campaign using 'Salvage' and 'Mission Teams' progression.
In the campaign, you earn Salvage by completing missions, side quests, and collecting SDF Intel. You can then use this Salvage at the Armory on the Retribution's bridge to craft specific Prototype weapons. Each Prototype has a Salvage cost, which increases with rarity. Prioritize crafting Prototypes that complement your playstyle or fill a gap in your arsenal. For example, an Epic NV4 with increased damage range can be a game-changer. Look for perks like 'Deadeye' (increased headshot damage), 'Stability' (reduced recoil), or 'Stockpile' (increased ammo capacity) to enhance your combat effectiveness. Crafting is essential for optimizing your loadouts in the later stages of the campaign.