Relics are an alternative to everything. Remember, when new EX fights come out, their weapons are STRONGER than the relic for a while, as are crafted and savage weapons. The relic is a long-term investment for an eventual ultimate weapon for an expansion. Basically, they're an Infinity -1 Sword that eventually becomes an Infinity +1 Sword.
They need that translucent glow the +1 Elemental Armor has from Hydatos. That's far better and easier to deal with, and you don't have to go crazy with particle effects. You know it's powerful because it's glowing!
