S1C1 - Basic Tactics

Suppressors: Suppressors are an underutilized attachment for Assault Rifles (ARs) and Submachine Guns (SMGs) in this game. They are crucial for stealth, allowing for unnoticed kills from flanks or behind enemies, which is key for continuous streak bonuses. Purchasing suppressors early is recommended as they are available upon unlocking weapons and do not appear to affect damage or accuracy, though they can cause a 20-25% drop in max damage range. This range reduction can necessitate a few extra shots on medium to large maps, but burst firing mitigates this issue. Suppressors on Sniper Rifles are noted as being significantly nerfed.

Stealth and Flanking: Unsuppressed automatic fire is easily detectable via the mini-map. Using map perimeters to flank opponents can lead to consecutive close-quarters combat (CQC) kills. Suppressors are ideal for setting ambushes on small maps with numerous corners or buildings, especially when enemies are likely to turn a corner with their back exposed.

Decoy Grenades: Be aware of the sound of decoy grenades. If a Spy Plane is active, it should be easier to distinguish between a decoy and an enemy observing it, unless they are using the Ghost perk or a personal Jammer.

Mode-Specific Tactics: In certain game modes like Demolition and Headquarters (HQ), suppressed fire may be less critical. In these situations, maximizing damage range and using unsuppressed fire to lure enemies into a covered area can be effective. Constant relocation is advised when using this tactic to avoid being flanked.

SPAS Shotgun: The SPAS shotgun is an exception, as its suppressor does not cause any damage loss, making it a recommended attachment.

Lethal Grenades: Lethal grenades come in two forms: fragmentation grenades and Semtex plastic explosive packs. They can be replenished by capturing ammo crate care packages or by using the Scavenger perk. The Tomahawk occupies the slot for lethal grenades.

"Cooking" Grenades: "Cooking" a fragmentation grenade involves pulling the pin and holding it to control the detonation time. The standard fuse is 3.5 seconds. Releasing the grenade approximately 0.25 seconds after pulling the pin, with an in-game arm angle of 30 degrees, can result in full range and detonation shortly after hitting the ground. The game's aiming reticule ticks off full seconds of the cook.