Part 16

On offense, Spies are generally less effective due to chaotic gameplay and small teams. However, if your team struggles to destroy a Sentry Gun (SG), a Spy can attempt to flank. A Spy's primary defensive use is to deter enemies by throwing gas grenades at base entrances. You can also use grenades and your Shotgun, similar to a Medic.

Sentry Guns (SGs) are surprisingly easy to kill. You can usually see the SG before it fires. Aim at the visible portion, preferably with a nailgun, to destroy it. SGs are most effective when guarded by an alert Engineer or teammate. If unguarded, slowly approach behind cover (press the cover button to crouch behind walls or objects) and attack.

Heavy Weapons Guys (HW Guys) can be killed by most classes. Snipers should aim for the head and legs. Soldiers should aim at their feet and keep moving. Medics can use conc. grenades to push them away or poison them. Demomen can use scatter grenades. Pyros should use the Incendiary Cannon and stay mobile. Engineers can use EMPs. Spies can backstab them.

To find a server's IP address, open the console (default key: ~) while in-game and type 'status'. Press PgUp to find the IP address. To connect to a server, open the console, type "connect", press space, enter the IP address, and press return. If the server is full, type 'retry' to attempt connection again.

Detecting bots or cheaters: Bots often have a ping of 5. Cheaters are frequently Snipers who always get headshots or seem to snipe through walls. If you suspect cheating, spectate the player. If you have clear proof, contact the server administrator. Be cautious with accusations, especially if new; skilled players, particularly Snipers, can be very effective.

Detecting a Spy when Friendly Fire (FF) is on: Spies carry their class' default weapon. If you see a teammate with a default weapon that class doesn't normally use (e.g., a Spy with a Tranquilizer Gun), it's likely an enemy Spy. If a Spy uses a weapon other than a grenade, their disguise is lost. Firing a shot into a wall can signal to teammates that you are not a Spy. Bumping into a suspected Spy can remove their disguise. If someone runs away when you approach, they might be a Spy. If a Spy disguises as a class your team doesn't have, their name will appear in your HUD (Heads-Up Display) without stats when you aim at them. Look for incongruent behavior, like a Scout running towards your base or a Sniper throwing grenades. If someone is throwing grenades at your Snipers or SGs, they are likely a Spy. Spies may also move at speeds inconsistent with their disguised class (e.g., a fast Heavy Weapons Guy or a slow Scout). If FF is off, shooting anyone you suspect will reveal them if they bleed.

Server commands: Press the talk key (default: y) and type commands. 'timeleft' shows remaining map time. 'nextmap' shows the next map in rotation. 'rockthevote' can initiate a map vote. After 'rockthevote', you can type 'vote ' to vote for a specific map.