Pulses and scouts prevent the weak from wanting to move forward. Immortal makes them regret it if they do, unless they have one. High ease of use. Short ttk. No punishment for missed or body shots. No one plays objective. Everyone worried about KD.
The sandbox was significantly better before the buff to pulses forced over tuned subs. People moved around and played the game.
"Meta" is just a excuse to use what others tell you to use because "it's good" or you see others have success with it.
We are all different with different play styles so use what works for you not what others say you have to use.
In fact 90% of "neef this" is due to players not liking certain items or abilities than the fact they are overpowered.