Assuming that I understand the way the mod works correctly, it gives +80% additive base damage per unique status effect currently on the target. That being the case, it will be inferior to a maxed Primed Pressure Point until three different status effects have been applied. Why does CO seem to be preferred when it just seems to be not as effective unless you’re also running a status primer of some kind?
Likely because most making those builds are assuming you are running a primer, or are using weeping wounds. If you aren’t using the combo-counter or a primer it’s as you said, just inferior (in almost all typical use cases for melee).
This is exactly it. In the right circumstances, CO is objectively better and more effective than any other flat damage mod on melee. But if weeping wounds or a primer is not in the equation, there’s no point.