This weapon also has the effect of disintegrating any enemy killed with a critical shot by it (which is every shot for creatures weaker than most super mutants), identical to a laser (with the exception that the disintegration effect is colored blue instead of red). You will often be able to take down any foe you encounter with one well-aimed shot to the head.
The alien blaster is one of the most powerful weapons in the game because a critical hit is guaranteed.