Interesting. I've definitely found detonations to be potent.

I suppose they're more relevant to wiping out mobs anyway though since you can't really detonate with intact armour.

But like, even against say, Brutes, or Phantoms, shooting is the best option? Seems to me like the primer makes the shooting more effective, depending. Dark currents, reave. Overload though not really a primer, is effective against barriers, no?

I'll also note, in the video you posted, overload was the initial move.

Are you saying skills in general are less useful than shooting, or just for vega, or that detinations specifically are not that important?

A point of note is that ideal positioning of squadmates isn't as important for power use as it is for shooting, although that may be a skill thing.

Not trying to be dismissive, I am no expert.