Difference between revisions of "Heavy match-ups"

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{| class="wikitable grid" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"
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{{Quotation|'''The Heavy''' on his tactical analysis of the opposition|Entire team is babies!|sound=Heavy_taunts14.wav}}
! class="header" colspan="3" width="200"| Class
 
! class="header" | Strategy
 
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Scout.png|100x100px|link=Scout]]<br>[[Scout match-ups|Scout]]
 
| [[Scout]]s normally pose little threat beyond close range combat and will often try to avoid you.  Be aware that at close range or while recovering from a stun, Scouts can circle strafe very quickly.  Trickier Scouts will use this to their advantage by attempting to hug your face whilst dishing out damage, making them difficult to keep your crosshair square on them.  Some Scouts will even be so bold as to attempt to leap on top of your head whilst you are unaware; if you start to take damage and there is no enemy behind you, remember to look up.  The Shotgun is a decent counter to this type of behavior; it will allow you to jump around in the same way he does, and with your vast superiority in health you can simply out-last him.
 
Consider using [[Natascha]] if the enemy is running a lot of Scouts, it renders them more or less powerless at close to medium range. 
 
A Scout with the [[February 24, 2009 Patch|unlockable weapons]] is a greater threat. [[Force-A-Nature]] Scouts will bounce you away and attempt to pick you off bit by bit rather than fight you face-to-face.  There is not much you can do about this, except try to catch him whilst he's reloading.  You make a prime target for [[Sandman]] stuns at all ranges, due to your slow speed.  Bear in mind that you can keep your Minigun revved up whilst stunned by holding secondary fire down; with their very low health you can quickly chew up cocky Sandman Scouts who forget this.
 
  
Beware of Scouts armed with [[Mad Milk]]. If you find yourself under its effects, you'll find yourself in tough situation, as the Scout will be able to drain life from you with every hit, making them much more difficult to kill. The best strategy is to kill them before the Scout takes advantage of your slow speed and high health. Even if you kill the Scout, his teammates will be able to use the effects for themselves, making you a large target if the enemy classes see this. You're better off retreating to the nearest [[Medic]], [[Dispenser]], or [[Respawn#Resupply|respawn closet]].
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{{Match-Up|forclass=heavy
|-
+
  | scout-strategy =  
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
+
'''Relative merits:''' The Scout is mobile but fragile. If he catches you off-guard, he has the potential to kill you before you have the time to react and rev up your Minigun. In a direct fight, he will try to wear you down by dodging your fire or via hit-and-run tactics. The Scout can typically choose when and where to fight, so preparation and a proper response are key.
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Soldier.png|100x100px|link=Soldier]]<br>[[Soldier match-ups|Soldier]]
 
| The Heavy is, in fact, one of the more effective vanilla Soldier counters around; you are the only class which boasts more health than him and outguns him, he is a big target and he lacks the speed to get away from you in time. Smart Soldiers will try to stay at medium range or abuse cover, where they have a distinct advantage over you with their rockets.
 
 
 
Due to the Heavy's slow speed, dodging rockets is difficult, but not impossible. Quickly un-deploying the Minigun and leaping in the air to one side can often minimize if not completely avoid the effects of an incoming rocket. You want to be within medium range of the Soldier to take them down fast, but remember not to get too close as Heavies are easy targets for directs hits with the Rocket Launcher. If he is abusing cover, your best bet is to either pursue a better angle, or retreat while laying down suppressive [[Shotgun]] fire. Ultimately, the best strategy is to take him down as quickly as possible before he does the same to you. A [[Medic]] behind you works wonders. Also, [[Natascha]] [if not being healed by a medic] is useful for slowing down [[Crit]] rockets and lowering their damage.
 
  
The Soldier poses a greater threat to you when equipped with the [[Direct Hit]] and the [[Equalizer]]. It is no trouble at all to a Direct hit Soldier to land very hard hitting rockets upon you whilst you are spun up; consider taking your Shotgun along to allow you to dodge them more effectively.  Natascha is a good counter to Equalizing Soldiers who try to escape you or attempt to "backstab" you with it.  Although you should be able to mow down low-health Soldiers before they get near with the Equalizer, keep a careful eye out for Soldiers attempting to use it, because the pick-axe can do considerable damage, even to a Heavy.
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'''Tactics:''' No matter where you are, keep in mind that the Scout can quickly join the action and be ready to react! Be most ready when traveling in enclosed spaces, which provide cover or alternate paths that a Scout can ambush you from. On the other hand, open areas let you see the Scout coming and dissuades a direct assault, but leaves you open to harassment from weapons like the [[Flying Guillotine]] and [[Wrap Assassin]]. Where you happen to be will likely be decided by the overall battle, so expect to deal with both scenarios.
  
The Soldier equipped with the [[Black Box]] will prove to be more difficult to take down as each shot that manages to do some damage to you will reward the Soldier with an extra 15 health. At long range, it'll prove to be more of an annoyance as Soldiers will pelt you with rockets for extra health, while up-close, they can be dangerous as they will survive the battle longer with each shot. The only real strategy here is to make your shots count and kill the Soldier quickly. The Soldier will always take 15 health per successful shot, so if you manage to close the distance between you and him, you'll cut him down faster than they can heal.
+
Your best case is to catch the Scout at medium range with your Minigun already revved. He is the most difficult class to track - keep your aim steady even as he darts and double jumps around.
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Pyro.png|100x100px|link=Pyro]]<br>[[Pyro match-ups|Pyro]]
 
| [[Pyro]]s may seem the least dangerous when they attack head-on, but when surprised by one, they can make short work of a Heavy. The general strategy is to merely kill them as you spot them. Pyros tend to avoid you as your primary will rip them to shreds. Instead, they'll make use of the battlefield's many exits and entries and flank you. If a Pyro does succeed in surprising you with just the flames, you may have enough time to turn and tear them apart, however the afterburn itself will claim you if you do not find a health source quickly. Pyros armed with the standard [[Flamethrower]] or the [[Degreaser]] prove to be even more vicious if they make use of the [[Compression Blast]], which will send you flying backwards a good distance. If pinned against the wall, they will attempt to finish you off with their [[Axtinguisher]], known as '''Puff n' Sting'''. Pyros armed with [[Backburner]] may seem less of a threat due to the lack of the compression blast function, but they remain a large threat, as the criticals granted from attacking behind will make short work of any Heavy too slow on the draw and caught off guard, and with the damage bonus, it will hurt. At times, a Pyro will try to be bold and attack you head-on, jumping and circle-strafing you in hopes to kill you quickly. The best way of killing a point-blank Pyro is simply with practiced aiming. At longer ranges, a Pyro may pelt you with their [[Shotgun]] or try to bait you to a corner with the [[Flare Gun]]; either end the fight quickly by retreating, or attack from a safer position. The [[Flare Gun]] can pose a threat to you as it can score [[Critical hits]] at long range if your already on fire. After any Pyro battle, if you are still on [[fire]] with no Medic in sight, break out the [[Sandvich]] or [[Dalokohs Bar]] and take a bite, the resulting health boost will most likely keep you alive until the flames extinguish themselves. Be sure to do so in relative safety. If you think it too dangerous to stand around and eat, toss and grab it up as you fall back.
 
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Demoman.png|100x100px|link=Demoman]]<br>[[Demoman match-ups|Demoman]]
 
| An undeterred [[Demoman]] can take you out swiftly with a volley from his [[Grenade launcher|Grenade Launcher]] (it's not so hard to quickly score four direct hits on a slow-moving Heavy). Your best bet is to send some bullets his way to force him into cover, where he'll probably try a less efficient indirect attack.  At this stage you will want to close the gap between you and the Demoman as soon as possible.  Charge to his position, leap towards him and deploy your Minigun. If the terrain is tight, you may have better luck approaching with your [[Shotgun]]. Avoid or gun down [[sticky bomb]] carpets, as your slow speed makes you a very vulnerable target for these.  Even when paired with a Medic, a cluster of stickies will either take you out in one hit or severely damage you. Instead, if you have ammo to spare, you can use your Minigun fire to destroy them. Make sure to move on through before he catches on and resets his bombs.  
 
  
You act as a fine counter to [[Eyelander]] Demos.  Although their grenades still pose a threat to you, you can very easily mow down foolish Demomen who think you are a good target for decapitation. Take along Natascha if any of them build up a speed buff or try using the [[Chargin' Targe]] to escape you.
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'''Useful weapons:'''
|-
+
* If the Scout is too difficult to hit thanks to his double jump or him constantly changing directions, [[Natascha]] can slow him down to a crawl.
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
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* If the Scout keeps running away before you can retaliate, consider using the faster-revving [[Tomislav]].
| class="xsmall" | vs
+
* The [[Shotgun]] can be fired while moving between locations and does not need to be revved.
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>Heavy
 
| Other [[Heavy|Heavies]] can go down surprisingly quickly provided you: A. have more health/ A Medic healing you and B. Spin up before he does (Remember that your alternate fire keeps your Minigun spinning). Having more ammo also helps. Remember that if one Heavy starts firing Criticals, he will almost always win the encounter. Try to get behind cover if you hear the tell-tale sound of an enemy Heavy's Criticals. It is very possible to take down an enemy Heavy paired with a Medic at close range by simply being the first to fire, even if you do not have a Medic yourself.  Since you will be doing hundreds of damage per second, you can damage him much faster than his Medic can heal. If you see a Heavy from afar, take out the [[Shotgun]], then fire a few shots before he can spin up his Minigun.  Go back around the corner and take out your Minigun, spinning it up before he reaches you.  This gives you a higher health advantage that could potentially win the fight.  Just one second of close range shooting from either of the Heavy's miniguns can potentially kill any class, as they're capable of dishing out over '''500''' damage a second at point-blank.
 
  
If you are equipped with Sasha, and the enemy Heavy is equipped with Natascha, the task of taking him down will become much simpler, as you do more damage to him then he does to you.  This works both ways however, so you should never attack a Sasha-wielding Heavy with a [[Natascha]], unless you are able to surprise him, get more shots on him before he spins up, being healed by a Medic, or you know they have lower health then you.
+
  | soldier-strategy =  
|-
+
'''Relative merits:''' You are the only class that boasts more health and firepower than the Soldier. The Soldier will be aware of this and either abuse cover or high ground to bombard you with rockets.
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Engineer.png|100x100px|link=Engineer]]<br>[[Engineer match-ups|Engineer]]
 
| A low level [[Sentry Gun]] is a negligible threat: the Heavy can take it down easily with sustained fire, however don't ignore them! A level one Sentry Gun, despite it's low health, is hardly be noticeable if you're busy destroying the opposition, so keep your eyes peeled. If he has good cover and a Medic behind him, a Heavy can also take out a level two or three Sentry Gun. If the Sentry needs to spin around to target you and you have a wall to duck behind, careful players can destroy level 2 and 3 Sentry Guns with ease. If it is accompanied by an [[Engineer]], you will have to be very close to be able to out-gun it. Alternatively, have a Medic [[ÜberCharge]] you in order to get close to the Sentry Gun and destroy both it and the Engineer, allowing your team-mates to rush through. As with most UberCharges, it is important that the Medic runs out ahead in order to distract the Sentry Gun, this will allow you to get as close as possible in order to take it down. Remember that when crouching the Heavy is harder to [[knock back]]. Use this to your advantage to avoid the effect of Sentry Gun fire. When facing a lone Engineer, you should have no problems as you will be able to cut through him like butter, even at long range.
 
  
A Revengineer, or Engineer wielding a [[Frontier Justice]] is somewhat of a greater threat. Even if you destroy their Sentry Gun, there's still the threat of their revenge criticals, which can really put a hole in you if they get too close. The best way, and only real way, to deal with these kinds of Engineers is to simply put them down before they do the same to you with their Revenge Criticals.  
+
'''Tactics:''' Position yourself such that the Soldier must reveal himself to fire at you. When the Soldier leaves cover, lay down oppressive fire to wear down his health and stop him from rocket jumping away. If you can goad the Soldier into wasting his rockets at long range, which will subject them to damage fall-off, you can unrev the Minigun and reposition yourself.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Equipping the [[Shotgun]] lets you stay mobile while being bombarded by rockets.
 +
* The [[Gloves of Running Urgently]] or [[Fists of Steel]] can help you survive a retreat.
 +
* The [[Tomislav]] is more accurate and can be revved up faster, making it easier for you to punish a Soldier who may try to rocket jump away.
 +
 +
  | pyro-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' The Pyro should not be able to defeat you without an ambush, as your Minigun deals far more damage than their Flame Thrower. However, they have tools to disrupt your defensive positioning, including the [[compression blast]] and [[Flare Gun]].
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:''' The Pyro should try to catch you off-guard, making use of certain weapon combinations to burst you down before you can react. Like when dealing with the Scout, note possible routes you can be flanked from. If you can react in time, jump backwards to create some distance while revving your Minigun, then fight back. Once in a direct fight, keep your crosshair steady as the Pyro attempts to circle-strafe or airblast you. Watch out for [[Flare Gun]] shots at long range, as its 90-damage critical hits can wear you down if you stay ignited.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Your lunchbox secondaries can be thrown as small health packs to extinguish teammates - of these, the [[Dalokohs Bar]] and [[Second Banana]] recharge the fastest.
 +
 +
  | demoman-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' The Demoman’s explosives can easily match your large damage output, especially from medium range and beyond. A smart Demoman will keep his distance or stay behind cover while lobbing [[Grenade Launcher|grenades]] or a field of [[Stickybomb]]s.
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:''' At the front lines, you want to force the Demoman behind cover just so you can hold position, which in turn allows him to reload and attack you again. If a teammate is not available to move ahead of you, take out your Shotgun and close the distance, taking care for any [[Stickybomb Launcher|Stickybomb]] traps. Pay attention to the Demoman's loadout; a Demoman who runs at you with his melee weapon and a shield should be a much easier kill.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Equipping the Shotgun allows you to fight and somewhat dodge the Demoman's projectiles.
 +
* The [[Fists of Steel]] can provide protection against a Grenade or stray Stickybomb. However, it will make you more vulnerable to the Demoman's melee weapon, which is especially dangerous if he has a shield equipped.
 +
 
 +
  | heavy-strategy =
 +
'''Mirror match-up:''' You would meet an enemy Heavy on the front lines. The encounter is decided by who has more health, who fires first, and which primary weapons the two of you are wielding.
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:'''  Be the Heavy that already has a revved Minigun and taken a favorable position. Even alone, it is possible to take down an enemy Heavy that is paired with a Medic by simply being the first to fire.
 
   
 
   
[[Wrangler|Wrangled]] Sentry Guns will prove to be an even bigger threat, and even more problematic, as the added shield absorbs '''66% damage''', making Sentry Guns tougher while putting them in the hands of the Engineer themself, making it essential that you destroy the Engineer first or get extremely close to the sentry to try and take it down if attacking the Engineer is out of the question.  
+
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Mini-guns that offer a balanced amount of revving speed, DPS, and accuracy do a better job at shredding enemy Heavies. Generally, a Heavy wielding [[Natascha]], a weapon with lower damage output, will lose to one wielding any other available primary weapon.
 +
 
 +
  | engineer-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' You can reliably take on an Engineer's Sentry Gun at levels 1 or 2. A Sentry Gun that is level 3 or controlled by the [[Wrangler]] can match your firepower.
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:''' A lone Engineer is an easy fight, but you are more concerned about his Sentry Gun. Regarding his buildings, if you can get the drop on even a level 3 [[Sentry Gun]] at close range without getting pushed back, your Minigun can actually destroy it faster than it can kill you.  If you need to deal with a Sentry Gun at a longer range, it’s best to pressure it with Minigun bursts or come back with teammates, as all of your weapons suffer at longer ranges.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Combining your firepower with a Medic's [[ÜberCharge]] is a common tactic for pushing into a Sentry Gun.
 +
* You can switch to the [[Brass Beast]] or [[Fists of Steel]], weapons with damage resistance, to help you or your teammates approach.
 +
 
 +
  | medic-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' The Medic is typically accompanied by a [[Medic buddy]] that can steadily wear your health down. A lone Medic is capable of running away while taking potshots.
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:''' Any chip damage you deal to a Medic's patient will gradually be healed off. If you are alone, your goal is to deal enough damage to make the Medic retreat so you can heal up and take a better position. If you can get the first strike, your Minigun will quickly burn through any overhealing.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* To match an enemy duo, ask a friendly Medic to heal you with his [[Medi Gun]]. The Sandvich should be tossed to your Medic if he is low on health.
 +
* The Second Banana can be eaten between several fights with the same enemy.
 +
 
 +
  | sniper-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' The Sniper is one of your main counters. Your slow movement speed and massive size make you an easy target for a [[headshot]]. Even when a friendly Medic overheals you, a fully charged headshot will instantly kill you.
 +
 
 +
'''Tactics:''' There is no practical way for you to approach an enemy Sniper. If none of your teammates are occupying him, respect his position, don't go out into the open, and communicate with your teammates on whether it's safe or not to engage in a sightline. At medium range, you can nick the Sniper with enough [[Shotgun]] bullets to severely impede his aim as you close in; occasionally steer to the sides to add some unpredictability to your movement. If you happen the close the distance or find him out of position, your Minigun will shred him.
 +
 
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* Equipping the [[G.R.U.]] or [[Fists of Steel]] can make crossing a Sniper’s field of view a little bit safer.
 +
 
 +
  | spy-strategy =
 +
'''Relative merits:''' Your large, bulky frame is easy for your team to rally around, which in turn makes you an important target for the enemy Spy. As you're typically in the front lines, a competent Spy will take advantage of this and strike when you're distracted. You cannot outrun the Spy, so protect yourself and your teammates.
  
Engineer's equipped with the Gunslinger may not seem like a huge threat, but their ability to deploy [[Combat Mini-Sentry Gun]]s, which will be either an annoyance or your worst enemy. Despite the fact they have a tiny amount of health and are small, these Sentry Guns have an increased rate of fire, can be thrown down for only 100 metal, and can be put up at half the rate a normal level one sentry can. Out in the open, it's hardly a threat. But placed in unexpected locations, it can be quite evil, especially for a Heavy. Your best bet is to take them down as soon as you spot them. Try to find the Engineer placing them down to stop the waves of mini-Sentry Guns.
+
'''Tactics:''' Communication is key when locating and taking down an enemy Spy. If a teammate alerts your team that a Spy is lurking around, be careful of activity that indicates a threat, such as if a friendly Medic stops healing you or teammates disappear. Short bursts from the Minigun are great for [[Spy-checking]], with the bonus of likely killing the Spy in the process. If the Spy uses his [[Cloak]] to retreat, fan the Minigun or Shotgun over a wide area to try and reveal him.  
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Medic.png|100x100px|link=Medic]]<br>[[Medic match-ups|Medic]]
 
| [[Medic]]s pose very little threat to a Heavy unless they are using their [[ÜberCharge]] on or healing an enemy team member. If the Medic is healing an enemy Heavy or Soldier, avoid the pair unless they haven't noticed you and you're close to the Medic (nothing stands a chance against a quick burst from a mini-gun close up, including Heavies being healed). You won't be able to do enough damage to the healing target before you die if you are at a distance, and will likely need a Medic of your own before taking them on. Although Medics tend to shoot you from afar with the [[Syringe gun|Syringe Gun]], it shouldn't pose much of a threat to a Heavy, though the [[Blutsauger]] can cause you a lot of trouble, especially with your slow speed. Medics won't be able to run away from you easily if you use [[Natascha]], and with careful application at long range you can slow the enemy Medic to the point where he loses his healing target should they be unaware of your firing.
 
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Sniper.png|100x100px|link=Sniper]]<br>[[Sniper match-ups|Sniper]]
 
| One of the most dangerous foes you will face at range, the Sniper is a real nightmare for any Heavy. At long range, a [[Sniper]]'s fully-powered [[headshot]] will kill you even if you're ovehealed at maximum as the Sniper Rifle can deal up to '''450''' damage. . Your slow speed and large size makes for an extremely easy target, so avoid Snipers at all costs as you will not be able to dodge a good Sniper for long. Their threat, of course, diminishes as you close in on them. You can use sustained fire on their position to keep them in hiding as you approach, however this will not work on a experienced Sniper; you will be dead before you can begin to spin up your [[Minigun]]. This is why it's best to use the [[Shotgun]] as it will allow you to move at full speed, seeking cover, while firing at a distance. As long as one bullet hits the Sniper it's enough to makes his scope jump, making it a whole lot easier to approach a Sniper without being killed. A Sniper at medium to close range is very little threat; simply mow him down with your Minigun. Be aware of Sniper dots; if you see one, avoid walking out in the open. Remember, you have the biggest head in the game. If you spot a Sniper dot or know a Sniper is watching a certain area with no way around it, try to jump. The Sniper may jump the gun too soon and fire at your torso or legs instead of the head. Snipers armed with the [[Huntsman]] are less of a threat at max overheal, even if they manage a headshot as it'll only deal up to 360 damage. Snipers armed with the [[Sydney Sleeper]] are even less of a threat by themselves, dealing only up to 160 damage on fully charged shots. However, this rifle is capable of inflicting the [[Jarate]] effect, so any subsequent shots afterwards will hurt, or any damage for that matter, will hurt. If you're equipped with the [[GRU]], you can pass through some areas more quickly without being subject to a headshot with your increased speed.
 
|-
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Heavy.png|100x100px|link=Heavy]]<br>[[Heavy]]
 
| class="xsmall" | vs
 
| class="small" align="center" valign="center" style="padding:0.5em" | [[Image:Spy.png|100x100px|link=Spy]]<br>[[Spy match-ups|Spy]]
 
| Another one-hit killer to watch out for when playing a Heavy is the Spy and his dreaded [[backstab]]. One of the tasks of an enemy [[Spy]] is to assassinate key targets, one of them being troublesome Heavy/Medic pairs. They are, however, very easy to kill once you've caught them. You will want to [[Spy check]] very, very often if you can afford to; there is no such thing as Spy-checking too often. Do not rely on your Medic to spot Spies for you, as one of your jobs is to prevent them from backstabbing him. Listen to your Medic's alerts; if you hear or see that your Medic is killed, immediately turn around, as this is often a sign of your impending death. However, a Spy armed with [[Your Eternal Reward]], the threat of a sneak attack is greater as you'll never hear the Medic's death cry. When on your own, you are an even more vulnerable target, so don't forget to stay alert for people behind you at all times. If you've equipped the [[GRU]], you'll be tougher to attack from behind as you'll move the same speed as the Spy. This does not mean he won't use sneaky ways to catch up and cut corners.
 
If a Spy cloaks and runs away, the spread of your Minigun fire should allow you to find him and mow him down.  This is made far easier when using [[Natascha]], as the Spy will be slowed to the point where his Cloak may run out before he reaches cover. Try not to let him escape, because often he will return for a second attempt at a backstab. A cloaked Spy in disguise will remain unaffected by the slowdown effect of Natascha, so keep track of him until he's down for sure. Spies armed with the Dead Ringer will prove to be much more bothersome, as they will [[feign death]] in order to escape a sticky situation, only to come back a second time unexpectedly. In close-quarters combat, avoid letting the Spy get in your rear 180-degree arc where he can use his backstab, as he may well outmaneuver you before you cut him down. You can also team up with a friendly Pyro to cover your back. Be extra aware for a Spy equipped with the [[Saharan Spy]] set, as you'll not hear them uncloak from behind no matter how perceptive you are of their uncloaking sound. Always spy-check, if you know a Spy wielding this set is lurking about.
 
|}
 
  
 +
When not actively in combat, constantly look behind your back and Spy-check any suspicious teammates.
 +
 +
'''Useful weapons:'''
 +
* The [[Huo-Long Heater]] deploys a ring of [[fire]] around you when revved up, which could reveal nearby Spies that you should react to quickly. Be wary of teammates who jump around your ring, as it may be a Spy trying to bypass the fire.
 +
 +
}}
  
 +
== See also ==
 +
*[[Team strategy]]
 +
* [[Heavy (competitive)]]
 
[[Category:Strategy|Heavy match-ups]]
 
[[Category:Strategy|Heavy match-ups]]
 
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{{CommunityStrategyNav}}
 
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{{Heavy Nav}}
 
  
 
[[Category:Heavy]]
 
[[Category:Heavy]]
 
[[Category:Class match-ups]]
 
[[Category:Class match-ups]]

Latest revision as of 01:10, 2 August 2024

Entire team is babies!
The Heavy on his tactical analysis of the opposition
Class Strategy
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Scout.png
Scout
Relative merits: The Scout is mobile but fragile. If he catches you off-guard, he has the potential to kill you before you have the time to react and rev up your Minigun. In a direct fight, he will try to wear you down by dodging your fire or via hit-and-run tactics. The Scout can typically choose when and where to fight, so preparation and a proper response are key.

Tactics: No matter where you are, keep in mind that the Scout can quickly join the action and be ready to react! Be most ready when traveling in enclosed spaces, which provide cover or alternate paths that a Scout can ambush you from. On the other hand, open areas let you see the Scout coming and dissuades a direct assault, but leaves you open to harassment from weapons like the Flying Guillotine and Wrap Assassin. Where you happen to be will likely be decided by the overall battle, so expect to deal with both scenarios.

Your best case is to catch the Scout at medium range with your Minigun already revved. He is the most difficult class to track - keep your aim steady even as he darts and double jumps around.

Useful weapons:

  • If the Scout is too difficult to hit thanks to his double jump or him constantly changing directions, Natascha can slow him down to a crawl.
  • If the Scout keeps running away before you can retaliate, consider using the faster-revving Tomislav.
  • The Shotgun can be fired while moving between locations and does not need to be revved.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Soldier.png
Soldier
Relative merits: You are the only class that boasts more health and firepower than the Soldier. The Soldier will be aware of this and either abuse cover or high ground to bombard you with rockets.

Tactics: Position yourself such that the Soldier must reveal himself to fire at you. When the Soldier leaves cover, lay down oppressive fire to wear down his health and stop him from rocket jumping away. If you can goad the Soldier into wasting his rockets at long range, which will subject them to damage fall-off, you can unrev the Minigun and reposition yourself.

Useful weapons:

  • Equipping the Shotgun lets you stay mobile while being bombarded by rockets.
  • The Gloves of Running Urgently or Fists of Steel can help you survive a retreat.
  • The Tomislav is more accurate and can be revved up faster, making it easier for you to punish a Soldier who may try to rocket jump away.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Pyro.png
Pyro
Relative merits: The Pyro should not be able to defeat you without an ambush, as your Minigun deals far more damage than their Flame Thrower. However, they have tools to disrupt your defensive positioning, including the compression blast and Flare Gun.

Tactics: The Pyro should try to catch you off-guard, making use of certain weapon combinations to burst you down before you can react. Like when dealing with the Scout, note possible routes you can be flanked from. If you can react in time, jump backwards to create some distance while revving your Minigun, then fight back. Once in a direct fight, keep your crosshair steady as the Pyro attempts to circle-strafe or airblast you. Watch out for Flare Gun shots at long range, as its 90-damage critical hits can wear you down if you stay ignited.

Useful weapons:

  • Your lunchbox secondaries can be thrown as small health packs to extinguish teammates - of these, the Dalokohs Bar and Second Banana recharge the fastest.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Demoman.png
Demoman
Relative merits: The Demoman’s explosives can easily match your large damage output, especially from medium range and beyond. A smart Demoman will keep his distance or stay behind cover while lobbing grenades or a field of Stickybombs.

Tactics: At the front lines, you want to force the Demoman behind cover just so you can hold position, which in turn allows him to reload and attack you again. If a teammate is not available to move ahead of you, take out your Shotgun and close the distance, taking care for any Stickybomb traps. Pay attention to the Demoman's loadout; a Demoman who runs at you with his melee weapon and a shield should be a much easier kill.

Useful weapons:

  • Equipping the Shotgun allows you to fight and somewhat dodge the Demoman's projectiles.
  • The Fists of Steel can provide protection against a Grenade or stray Stickybomb. However, it will make you more vulnerable to the Demoman's melee weapon, which is especially dangerous if he has a shield equipped.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Heavy.png
Heavy
Mirror match-up: You would meet an enemy Heavy on the front lines. The encounter is decided by who has more health, who fires first, and which primary weapons the two of you are wielding.

Tactics: Be the Heavy that already has a revved Minigun and taken a favorable position. Even alone, it is possible to take down an enemy Heavy that is paired with a Medic by simply being the first to fire.

Useful weapons:

  • Mini-guns that offer a balanced amount of revving speed, DPS, and accuracy do a better job at shredding enemy Heavies. Generally, a Heavy wielding Natascha, a weapon with lower damage output, will lose to one wielding any other available primary weapon.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Engineer.png
Engineer
Relative merits: You can reliably take on an Engineer's Sentry Gun at levels 1 or 2. A Sentry Gun that is level 3 or controlled by the Wrangler can match your firepower.

Tactics: A lone Engineer is an easy fight, but you are more concerned about his Sentry Gun. Regarding his buildings, if you can get the drop on even a level 3 Sentry Gun at close range without getting pushed back, your Minigun can actually destroy it faster than it can kill you. If you need to deal with a Sentry Gun at a longer range, it’s best to pressure it with Minigun bursts or come back with teammates, as all of your weapons suffer at longer ranges.

Useful weapons:

  • Combining your firepower with a Medic's ÜberCharge is a common tactic for pushing into a Sentry Gun.
  • You can switch to the Brass Beast or Fists of Steel, weapons with damage resistance, to help you or your teammates approach.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Medic.png
Medic
Relative merits: The Medic is typically accompanied by a Medic buddy that can steadily wear your health down. A lone Medic is capable of running away while taking potshots.

Tactics: Any chip damage you deal to a Medic's patient will gradually be healed off. If you are alone, your goal is to deal enough damage to make the Medic retreat so you can heal up and take a better position. If you can get the first strike, your Minigun will quickly burn through any overhealing.

Useful weapons:

  • To match an enemy duo, ask a friendly Medic to heal you with his Medi Gun. The Sandvich should be tossed to your Medic if he is low on health.
  • The Second Banana can be eaten between several fights with the same enemy.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Sniper.png
Sniper
Relative merits: The Sniper is one of your main counters. Your slow movement speed and massive size make you an easy target for a headshot. Even when a friendly Medic overheals you, a fully charged headshot will instantly kill you.

Tactics: There is no practical way for you to approach an enemy Sniper. If none of your teammates are occupying him, respect his position, don't go out into the open, and communicate with your teammates on whether it's safe or not to engage in a sightline. At medium range, you can nick the Sniper with enough Shotgun bullets to severely impede his aim as you close in; occasionally steer to the sides to add some unpredictability to your movement. If you happen the close the distance or find him out of position, your Minigun will shred him.

Useful weapons:

  • Equipping the G.R.U. or Fists of Steel can make crossing a Sniper’s field of view a little bit safer.
Heavy.png
Heavy
vs. Spy.png
Spy
Relative merits: Your large, bulky frame is easy for your team to rally around, which in turn makes you an important target for the enemy Spy. As you're typically in the front lines, a competent Spy will take advantage of this and strike when you're distracted. You cannot outrun the Spy, so protect yourself and your teammates.

Tactics: Communication is key when locating and taking down an enemy Spy. If a teammate alerts your team that a Spy is lurking around, be careful of activity that indicates a threat, such as if a friendly Medic stops healing you or teammates disappear. Short bursts from the Minigun are great for Spy-checking, with the bonus of likely killing the Spy in the process. If the Spy uses his Cloak to retreat, fan the Minigun or Shotgun over a wide area to try and reveal him.

When not actively in combat, constantly look behind your back and Spy-check any suspicious teammates.

Useful weapons:

  • The Huo-Long Heater deploys a ring of fire around you when revved up, which could reveal nearby Spies that you should react to quickly. Be wary of teammates who jump around your ring, as it may be a Spy trying to bypass the fire.


See also