Difference between revisions of "Compression blast"

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<div style="float:right">{{youtube tn|N4N7vB8RfMs}}</div>  
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<div style="float:right">{{Infobox
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  | title      = Compression blast
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  | image      = Pyroblows.png
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  | imagewidth = 220px
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  | contents  = A Pyro using compression blast against a Scout.
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}}​​</div>
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​​{{Quotation|'''The Pyro'''|Mmphpry!|sound=Pyro cheers01.wav}}
  
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The '''compression blast''', also known as '''air blast''' or '''airblast''', is the alternate fire for all of the {{cl|Pyro}}'s [[Weapons#pyroprimary|primary weapons]] except the {{item link|Phlogistinator}}. It is a blast of cone-shaped gas emitting from the end of the weapon. When the alternate fire button is used {{DK|MOUSE2}}, the Pyro uses a portion of their [[ammo]] (20 by default) to [[Knockback|push]] enemies away a considerable distance. Players who are pushed by a compression blast have reduced air control and footing until they land. The compression blast can also deflect most [[projectiles]] and instantly extinguish [[Fire|burning]] teammates; the latter grants 20 [[health]] to the Pyro upon doing so. Note that the compression blast cannot be triggered while [[Water|underwater]].
  
When using the alternate fire on the [[flamethrower]] , the [[Pyro]] is able to fire a '''Compression Blast''' (also known as an '''Airblast''') that can [[knock back|knock]] enemies away and deflect [[Rocket]]s, [[Grenade]]s, [[Sticky bomb]]s, [[Baseballs]], [[Jarate]], [[Flare Gun|Flares]] and [[Huntsman|Arrows]] back at the enemy, consuming 20 ammo each time. Rockets fired from a Level 3 [[Sentry gun|Sentry]] can also be deflected. The compression blast will also instantly remove the [[fire]] effect when used on an ally.
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== Deflection ==
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Projectiles within the area of effect are redirected so that they are launched towards the Pyro's crosshair. Deflected projectiles are essentially stopped and fired again from the Pyro's current position. This can give strange results if the crosshair is centered on very near objects and players, sometimes causing the deflected projectile to move at angles very different to the direction the player is facing. With the right timing and position, a skilled or well-positioned Pyro can deflect projectiles at any desired angle, regardless of their original path. [[Grenade Launcher|Grenades]] and [[Stickybomb Launcher|stickybombs]] that are already on a surface roll in the direction pointed to by the crosshair.
  
This compression blast ability is incredibly useful, allowing the Pyro to blow away [[sticky bomb]] carpets, separate a [[Medic]] from his patient and hold his own against a [[Soldier]] in close quarters. The blast itself is a sphere-shaped 'explosion' that occurs directly on the end of the flamethrower. It is a momentary blast, requiring careful timing to execute. The unlockable flamethrower alternative, the [[Backburner]], lacks this ability.
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The following projectiles can be compression blasted:
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* [[Weapons#soldierprimary|Rockets]] ([[Sentry Gun|Sentry Rockets]], [[Cow Mangler 5000|Energy Blasts]], and [[MONOCULUS|Eyeballs]])
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* [[Grenade Launcher|Grenades]] and [[Loose Cannon|cannonballs]]
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* [[Stickybomb Launcher|Stickybombs]]
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* [[Sandman|Baseballs]] and [[Wrap Assassin|baubles]]
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* [[Flare Gun (disambiguation)|Flares]]
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* All container-based projectiles, namely [[Jarate]], [[Mad Milk]], and [[Gas Passer]]
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* [[Huntsman|Arrows]], [[Crusader's Crossbow|healing bolts]], and [[Rescue Ranger|repair claws]].
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* [[Flying Guillotine|Cleavers]]
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* [[Dragon's Fury|Fireballs]]
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* [[Short Circuit|Energy Orbs]]
  
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[[Projectiles#Syringes|Projectiles]] for any of the {{cl|Medic}}'s [[Weapons#medicprimary|primary weapons]] (except for the {{item link|Crusader's Crossbow}}) and energy blasts from the {{item link|Righteous Bison}} and {{item link|Pomson 6000}} cannot be deflected.
  
==Deflection==
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[[Grenade Launcher|Grenades]] and [[Sandman|baseballs]] are not naturally given any additional vertical velocity when they are deflected. Aiming these deflected projectiles is more difficult, but their trajectory can be controlled by the Pyro's angle and position. They must be deflected upward in order to arc as they do when fired normally.
  
Rockets, jars, arrows, grenades, baseballs, and flares within the area of effect are redirected so that they will impact on the nearest surface that is under the Pyro's crosshairs. When these projectiles are deflected, they are not simply "bounced" as if from a mirror: The [[Pyro]] can actually aim them to a new location. For example, a deflected rocket is essentially stopped and "re-fired" from your current position, aimed directly at a point on the nearest surface beneath the [[Pyro]]'s crosshairs. A skilled or well-positioned Pyro can even make rockets deflect at right angles to their original path.  
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Deflected projectiles are considered to have been fired by the Pyro deflecting them for the purposes of friendly fire and kill awards. For example, a RED grenade turns BLU when deflected and hurts any RED team players in the approximated area when it explodes. Furthermore, deflected explosive projectiles can also cause self-damage to the Pyro who deflected it. The only exception to these rules is the stickybomb. Although they can be pushed away, they do not change ownership unless they are detonated right after being pushed, in which the Pyro is credited for the kill. Additionally, deflected [[Detonator]] flares can still be remotely detonated by the Pyro that launched them. Deflected Jarate and Mad Milk soak enemy players and extinguish allies, and have all the attributes of normal Mad Milk and Jarate; for example, the Pyro is given kill assists if a teammate kills an enemy under the effects of deflected Jarate. On-hit effects are applied to the Pyro that deflected it. For example, it is possible to gain the health bonus from the [[Black Box]]'s rocket if the deflected rocket successfully hits a target. Likewise, the Crusader's Crossbow's bolts heal teammates if deflected and the Pyro is credited with the healing caused. Though rockets and stickybombs fired from the [[Rocket Jumper]] and [[Sticky Jumper]] respectively can be deflected, they are still unable to do any damage.
  
Grenades and baseballs bounce away from the Pyro in accordance to the angle at which they were deflected. Aiming these deflected projectiles is more difficult, although their trajectory can be influenced somewhat by the Pyro's angle and position. Note that deflected grenades will gain a quick burst of speed. Deflected sticky bombs will roll away from the Pyro.  
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Non-[[Critical hits|critical]] deflected projectiles always turn into Mini-Crits, while critical projectiles retain their critical status. Additionally, a deflected baseball only slows the player as it would for the [[Scout]] who launched it. If the Pyro is Crit-boosted (for example, under the effects of the [[Kritzkrieg]]'s [[ÜberCharge]]), deflected projectiles turn into critical projectiles. Again, neither of these effects apply to stickybombs.
  
Deflected projectiles are considered to have been fired by the Pyro deflecting them for the purposes of friendly fire and kill awards. For example, a red grenade will turn blue when deflected and will hurt any RED-team players near it when it explodes. It can also hurt the [[Pyro]] who deflected it, in the same way that a [[Demoman]] can damage himself with his own Grenades. An exception to this rule are sticky bombs, which can be pushed away but do not switch ownership. The only change to a deflected sticky bomb, besides their location, is that if the [[Demoman]] who shot it is blown up while the sticky bomb is in motion, it counts as a kill for the [[Pyro]] rather than as a [[suicide]]. Killing someone with a deflection produces a unique kill icon depending on the projectile.
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{{Weapon Demonstration|width=400}}
  
Deflected projectiles will always turn into Mini-crits, although it is possible to get a full Crit depending on [[crit]]ical status. Additionally, a deflected baseball will only [[stun]], as it would for the Scout who launched it.
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== Strategy ==
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{{See also|Community Pyro strategy#Compression blast|l1=Compression blast strategy}}
  
If the Pyro is under the effects of the [[Kritzkrieg]] Ubercharge, reflected projectiles turn into Critical projectiles, making it very risky for Soldiers and Demomen attacking a Pyro in this state. An interesting note is that an enemy Demoman's sticky bombs become Critical when deflected, even though they do not change ownership. This also applies to Pyros who gain a Critical boost if their team captures the intelligence in [[CTF]].
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The deflective abilities of an air blast can be used both offensively or defensively:
  
Interestingly, there are a few inconsistencies for kill icons from reflected projectiles.
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==== Defense ====
*A baseball reflected at someone can indeed kill, although it only does about 4 damage, when this happens it uses the kill icon from the sandman, and is considered that the Scout commited suicide with his own [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jm0SCTm1DZs Baseball].
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* Deflecting projectiles (with the exception of the Demoman's stickybombs) prevents them from harming teammates, even if the projectile is not relocated. This is particularly effective against grenades and rockets.
*Arrows can be reflected and possess a unique kill icon. If you [[headshot]] with them, it uses the Sniper rifle headshot kill icon. Also, a flaming arrow reflect kill shows the same icon as simply killing someone with a flaming arrow.
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* A compression blast can be used to blow away stickybombs, making an enemy Demoman's job more difficult. This is especially useful when defending the [[Engineer]]'s Sentry Gun, as stickybombs can be difficult to destroy for a single Engineer with his [[Shotgun]] or [[Pistol]].
Sentry rockets can be reflected, and are quite powerful (doing 135-147 points of Mini-crit damage to a player), but use the reflected rocket kill icon instead of their own.
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* An effective way to deny an enemy Über [[Glossary of player terms#P|push]] is to use the compression blast to either push Übered players away or to separate the Medic and his patient(s).
It takes 3 reflected sentry rockets to destroy a sentry.
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* The compression blast can also be used to repel enemies trying to attack friendly Engineer [[buildings]] at close range. This combines well with the strong knockback of the Sentry Gun against airborne targets.
Reflected Direct Hit rockets do not have a unique icon of their own, but instead use the generic reflected rocket icon.
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* In [[Control Point (game mode)|Control Point]], [[King of the Hill]], and [[Payload]] matches, it can be used to remove attacking players from the point in order to stave them off until teammates can get there for reinforcement.
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* Airblasting an enemy carrying the Intelligence into a [[Environmental Death#Pitfall|pit]] causes the Intelligence to immediately reset.
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* The compression blast can be used to increase the space between the Pyro and the enemy, allowing escape when at low health.
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* Though not as effective as using flame, a compression blast also affects cloaked [[Spy|Spies]], which can be marginally useful as a [[Spy checking]] method if one is using the compression blast.
  
From the [[WAR patch]] up until February 23, 2010, Flares were unable to be deflected.
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==== Offense ====
Since [[April 28, 2010 Patch|April 28, 2010]], the compression blast was buffed to deal Mini-crits on reflection unless the particular projectile was a full-crit itself. Airblasting enemies into environmental deaths now awards the death credit to the Pyro (such as the pit in Steel, or from fall damage).
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* In combat situations, it is possible to take advantage of the environment and blast enemies off ledges and towards other [[Environmental death|hazards]] on the map.
<gallery widths=60 heights=27 perrow=7 caption="Associated kill icons.">
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** Notable examples include the [[saw blade]]s in the central room of [[Sawmill]] and the chasm beneath the bridges of [[Double Cross]].
File:Killicon_deflect_arrow.png|Deflected [[Huntsman|arrow]]
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* The [[Medi Gun]], Kritzkrieg, and [[Vaccinator]]'s ÜberCharges do not prevent the knockback of a compression blast. The Pyro can take advantage of this and separate the Medic from his patient by knocking him or the patient away: This means that only the Medic is Übercharged and on his own.
File:Killicon_deflect_arrowhs.png|Deflected arrow [[headshot]]
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** Invulnerable enemies can also be killed outright by compression blasting them into environmental hazards.
File:Killicon_deflect_grenade.png|Deflected [[Grenade launcher|grenade]]
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** Compression blasts do not affect players under a [[Quick-Fix]] ÜberCharge, including the Medic.
File:Killicon_deflect_sticky.png|Deflected [[Sticky bomb launcher|sticky bomb]]
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* The knockback from a compression blast can be used to cancel the [[Scout]]'s [[Jumping#Double Jump|double jump]].
File:Killicon_deflect_rocket.png|Deflected rocket
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* The Demoman's [[Charging|charge]] can be rendered useless with the compression blast. However, one must still beware of the extended melee reach that is shared by many of the Demoman's [[Weapons#demomanmelee|melee weapons]].
File:Killicon_deflect_flare.png|Deflected [[Flare gun|flare]]
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* Using the compression blast, one can [[Juggling|juggle]] an enemy in the air in a predictable route, rendering them nearly helpless in the air for the Pyro or teammates to attack, or to simply advance past them.
File:Killicon_deflect_ball.png|Deflected [[Sandman|stun ball]]
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** The compression blast can be used to force enemies into friendly Sentry Gun range for easy kills.
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* The compression blast can be used to push an enemy into a corner, creating a good chance to finish them off with other weapons.
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** This is particularly effective against a burning opponent when using the [[Axtinguisher]] or [[Postal Pummeler]]. This action is commonly referred to as "Puff n' Sting."
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** The Pyro can also perform a "Puff n' Sting" using the Flare Gun due to its ability to Crit burning players.
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* In Control Point, King of the Hill, and Payload matches, the compression blast can be used to remove defending opponents blocking the capture, which is particularly useful when outnumbered or overpowered and the point or checkpoint has almost been captured.
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* It is possible to deflect Level 3 Sentry Gun rockets back at the gun to destroy it or utilize them to kill a nearby Engineer who is repairing it.
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==== Examples of Uses ====
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<gallery>
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File:pyro compressionblast usage reflect.png|Compression blast being used to reflect a [[Soldier]]'s rocket.
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File:pyro compressionblast usage pushenemies.png|Compression blast being used to push an enemy [[Scout]] off a control point.
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File:pyro compressionblast usage stuffuber.png|Compression blast being used to negate an enemy Über push.
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File:pyro compressionblast usage extinguish.png|Compression blast being used to extinguish a teammate.
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
==Knockback==
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== Kill icons ==
The compression blast will [[knock back|knock enemies back]] through the air for several feet, allowing you to potentially [[juggle]] and finish off the player, or blast them off cliffs and [[cp|capture points]]. This ability is highly useful for separating Medics and their patients and neutralizing [[ÜberCharge]]d enemies. The knock back effect of the compression blast is disorientating, though the enemy will still be able to attack.
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{{Compression blast kill icons}}
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== Related achievements ==
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=== {{class link|Soldier}} ===
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{{Achievement table
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| 1 = {{Show achievement|Soldier|Backdraft Dodger}}
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}}
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=== {{class link|Pyro}} ===
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{{Achievement table
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| 1 = {{Show achievement|Pyro|Hotshot}}
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| 2 = {{Show achievement|Pyro|Hot Potato}}
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}}
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== Update history ==
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{{Update history | '''{{Patch name|6|19|2008}}''' ({{update link|Pyro Update}})
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* Added alt-fire compression blast to the basic Flame Thrower.
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'''{{Patch name|6|20|2008}}'''
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* Fixed Compression Blast and Flare Gun trail particles on DX8.
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'''{{Patch name|5|21|2009}}'''
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* Compression blast now extinguishes fire on friendly targets.
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* Grenades and rockets deflected by a Pyro under the effects of Kritzkrieg will now be criticals.
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'''{{Patch name|6|8|2009}}'''
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* Fixed not being able to reflect arrows with the Flame Thrower.
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'''{{Patch name|6|23|2009}}'''
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* Force-A-Nature & Flame Thrower air blast knockback effects no longer work on disguised Spies.
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* A Pyro's air blast will now extinguish burning disguised enemy Spies, since knockback no longer affects disguised enemy Spies.
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'''{{Patch name|6|25|2009}}'''
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* Reverted Force-A-Nature and airblast knockback on disguised Spies, so that they can once again be knocked back.
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'''{{Patch name|8|31|2009}}'''
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* Fixed the Pyro's airblast pushing Spectators in free-look mode.
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'''{{Patch name|12|17|2009}}''' ({{update link|WAR! Update}})
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* Fixed being able to affect friendly pipes with airblast (they would unstick).
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'''{{Patch name|12|22|2009}}'''
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* Fixed Pyros not getting the proper kill icon for kills with deflected Direct Hit rockets.
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'''{{Patch name|2|23|2010}}'''
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* Fixed the Pyro not being able to deflect enemy flares.
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'''{{Patch name|4|28|2010}}'''
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* Airblast re-fire delay reduced by 25%.
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* Airblast ammo usage reduced by 20%.
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* All reflected rockets/grenades/arrows now Mini-Crit.
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* Airblasting enemies into environmental deaths now awards the death credit to the Pyro.
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'''{{Patch name|5|5|2010}}'''
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* Fixed deflected Stickybombs becoming Mini-Crits when detonated.
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* Fixed deflected Stickybombs becoming Crits if the Pyro was Crit-boosted.
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'''{{Patch name|9|30|2010}}'''
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* {{Undocumented}} Pyro's Airblast pushes grounded stickies approximately twice the distance now.
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'''{{Patch name|12|17|2010}}'''
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* Fixed a Flame Thrower bug that allowed players to rapidly fake the Pyro's airblast effect.
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'''{{Patch name|4|14|2011}}''' ([[Hatless Update]])
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* Removed airblast restriction from Backburner (at a 150% cost).
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'''{{Patch name|4|18|2012}}'''
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* The Quick-Fix's ÜberCharge is no longer affected by airblast.
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'''{{Patch name|12|20|2012}}'''
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* Fixed the Pyro’s airblast not working correctly when facing downhill.
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'''{{Patch name|5|13|2013}}'''
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* {{Undocumented}} Fixed Cow Mangler 5000 shots becoming Critical hits instead of Mini-Crits when reflected.
  
==Strategy==
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'''{{Patch name|6|11|2014}} #1'''
*The compression blast can be used in two ways, aggressive and defensive.
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* Fixed deflected rocket explosion sounds playing repeatedly.
**Defensive blasting moves stickies away from vital chokepoints, eg the [[Cart]] track of a payload map, control points or gated exits. Moving the [[Sticky bombs]] helps keep your team alive longer, and slightly delays [[Demoman]] returning to a vital holding point as they might think it is still secure.
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* Fixed deflected Black Box rockets not giving health to the Pyro.
**Aggressive blasting includes blasting [[Rockets]], [[Arrows]], [[Grenades]], [[Flares]] and [[Sticky bombs]] back towards their original firers team. If timed correctly the color of the projectile changes color and ownership, as if you fired the projectile to begin with (the exception is the [[Sticky bomb]] as the [[Demoman]] keeps control of it).
 
*Be aware of any [[Medic]] healing enemy Soldiers or Demomen, and try to re-direct explosives towards the Medic. If the Medic is using the [[Kritzkrieg]] you can use this to your advantage, reflecting the stream of Critical rockets or grenades back at the enemy. Additionally, if you have an allied Medic use the Kritzkrieg on you, all of your reflects will be Critical hits, including attacks that normally cannot get Criticals (such as a Tier 3 [[Sentry gun]]'s rockets).
 
*Also take note of allies on fire, as the compression blast can extinguish allies on fire. This is an often forgotten but incredibly useful tool in the Pyro's arsenal.
 
*If you see an enemy running toward a [[Health]] kit, you can airblast him away to deny him the health.
 
*The Compression blast can also be used to delay enemies and keep them out of vital areas either by blowing them off ledges, pushing them into obstructions, or by [[Juggling]] them in the air, usually done after they have been set on fire, to stop them being able to reach health kits. If the enemy is close to an instant death area (eg [[Saw blades]]), blasting enemies into them is a viable method of attack, and this method will earn the Pyro a "finished off" kill, even if said Pyro did no damage to the player beforehand.
 
*Airblasting Ubercharged enemies is often a very useful strategy that can result in a wasted Uber for the enemy team. A good way to halt an Ubercharge is to separate the enemy Medic from their target. Often times, the target will continue forward without realizing their Medic is out of reach until it is too late. Another viable strategy is to simply airblast either one or both of the enemies upward, then continue to airblast upwards as they come back down. This method is especially effective against enemy Pyro Ubercharges due to the Pyro's lack of a sufficient long-range weapon.
 
*Airblasting unaware strong opponents such as heavies can be a good way to disorientate them, allowing your team to take them down. This combined with setting him on fire can be very effective as it will confuse the target long enough for you to attack with another weapon.  
 
  
== Trivia ==
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'''{{Patch name|12|17|2015}}''' ({{update link|Tough Break Update}})
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* Pyros like to collect rainbows! Extinguishing a teammate will now return 20 health to the Pyro.
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* Consecutive Airblasts will no longer prevent enemies from air-strafing until they touch the ground.
  
* The size of the air blast is 280 units.
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'''{{Patch name|7|7|2016}} #1''' ({{update link|Meet Your Match Update}})
* There is a glitch involving the compression blast that is referred to as the ''multiple air blast''. This glitch is performed by using the Flamethrower's primary attack and then, while still holding down the primary fire button, quickly pressing the secondary fire button. For other players, you will appear to be constantly using the compression blast, which includes the sound effect playing repeatedly. In first person view, however, you will hear the compression blast sound and see the animation only once. You can tell you are doing correctly if your ammo is steadily decreasing but there are no flame or compression blast animations playing.
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* Fixed airblasts sometimes sending reflected projectiles toward friendly players, buildings, and projectile shields.
*Each reflection kill has its own unique kill icon to indicate what projectile was reflected.
 
**However, a headshot caused by a reflect arrow will produce the normal Sniper rifle headshot kill icon.
 
**A baseball can also be reflected, however upon killing someone, it will produce the normal Baseball kill icon. If done to the Scout who threw the baseball, it will report that the Scout committed Suicide with his own baseball.
 
**If a baseball is airblasted back and stuns the Scout that hit it, it will show the enemy scout assisting himself when he is killed by the Pyro that had airblasted the ball and had not killed the Scout by the airblast.
 
*Despite syringes being projectiles, you cannot reflect them.
 
  
==See also==
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'''{{Patch name|10|12|2016}}'''
*[[Flamethrower]]
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* Fixed air-blasts sometimes sending deflected projectiles in random directions when the Pyro is close to enemy players.
*[[Juggling]]
 
*[[Knock-back]]
 
*[[Stun]]
 
  
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'''{{Patch name|10|20|2017}} #1''' ({{update link|Jungle Inferno Update}})
 +
* Hit detection for both players and projectiles is now a consistent cone.
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** Aiming at a player's feet no longer misses!
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* Airblasting players now factors in the momentum of the Pyro and target, giving both more control over the interaction.
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** The target's existing velocity is no longer cancelled.
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** Players moving at the Pyro at great speed will be reflected away at great speed.
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** Players moving towards/away from the Pyro will experience less/more push force.
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* Airblast now causes target player to have reduced footing and air control for a short period.
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** No longer a flat stun.
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* Now factors in the upward angle of the airblast, rather than having a fixed upward force.
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* Total push force slightly increased.
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* Changed attributes:
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** [[Reserve Shooter]] attacks on targets knocked into the air by Pyro airblast no longer Mini-Crit.
  
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'''{{Patch name|4|18|2024}}'''
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* Changed some behavior of Pyro's airblast.}}
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== Unused content ==
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* As of the [[Mann-Conomy Update]], the Pyro (through editing the {{code|items_game.txt}} file) has the ability to charge an airblast. Charging increases the knockback dealt to enemies, but has no effect on projectiles.
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== Bugs ==
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* Projectiles that can inflict afterburn get affected by the Degreaser's afterburn damage penalty. As a result, that projectile deals Degreaser's afterburn damage instead of the projectile's actual damage.
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* Reflected grenades, Sentry Gun rockets, and Detonator flares all incorrectly inflict 85-170 self-damage (45-90 self-damage if reflected with the Dragon's Fury).<ref>https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvGbGDuHZaI</ref>
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* Reflected flares from the Scorch Shot do not inflict radius damage upon hitting a non-player surface.
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* Reflected balls from the Sandman can only damage the Scout who shot them. A deflected baseball slows down a Scout's teammate, but deals no damage.
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* Reflected baubles from the Wrap Assassin deal damage to a Scout's teammate, but do not cause bleeding. A bleed icon appears on the HUD, but no additional bleed damage is taken.
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* Reflected Loose Cannon cannonballs do not deal Mini-Crit damage.
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* Even though the Pyro is credited for any kills given by a deflected stickybomb that the Demoman detonates (including on the Demoman himself), this has no effect on the domination counter if the Demoman is not yet dominating the Pyro. However, if the Demoman is dominating the Pyro, a kill from the deflected Stickybombs resets the counter.
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* Headshots with deflected arrows use the kill icon of normal headshots (as opposed to that of an arrow headshot).
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* Enemies killed with reflected Rocket Launcher rockets do not increase [[Killstreak Kit|Killstreak]] and [[Strange]] counters.
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** However, if the Rocket Launcher has a Killstreak counter as well, it counts towards the Pyro's killstreak, but the kill feed shows the number of the Soldier's killstreak (For example, killing a Soldier with a 5 killstreak shows as a 6 killstreak on the kill feed, but counts as a single kill on the Pyro's killstreak).
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* When using the airblast, enemies directly behind the Pyro may be pushed away at certain angles.
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* Reflected rockets and grenades ignore the original weapon's splash radius attribute (e.g. rockets from the [[Direct Hit]]).
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== Notes ==
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* If a deflected baseball slows the Scout who launched it, the kill feed shows that the Scout assisted in his own death if he is killed by the Pyro.
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* If a teammate kills an enemy who has recently been hit with a compression blast, the Pyro receives a kill assist.
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* Strange variants of flamethrowers do not gain a kill count if an enemy is airblasted into a [[Environmental death|hazard]].
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== References ==
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<references/>
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{{Pyro Update Nav}}
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{{Mechanics Nav}}
 
{{Pyro Nav}}
 
{{Pyro Nav}}
  
{{Languages}}
 
 
[[Category:Strategy]]
 
 
[[Category:Gameplay]]
 
[[Category:Gameplay]]
[[Category:Videos]]
 
 
[[Category:Pyro]]
 
[[Category:Pyro]]
__NOTOC__
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[[Category:Strategy]]

Latest revision as of 18:30, 21 November 2024

Compression blast
Airblast.png
A Pyro using compression blast against a Scout.
​​

​​

Mmphpry!
The Pyro

The compression blast, also known as air blast or airblast, is the alternate fire for all of the Pyro's primary weapons except the Phlogistinator. It is a blast of cone-shaped gas emitting from the end of the weapon. When the alternate fire button is used (default key: MOUSE2), the Pyro uses a portion of their ammo (20 by default) to push enemies away a considerable distance. Players who are pushed by a compression blast have reduced air control and footing until they land. The compression blast can also deflect most projectiles and instantly extinguish burning teammates; the latter grants 20 health to the Pyro upon doing so. Note that the compression blast cannot be triggered while underwater.

Deflection

Projectiles within the area of effect are redirected so that they are launched towards the Pyro's crosshair. Deflected projectiles are essentially stopped and fired again from the Pyro's current position. This can give strange results if the crosshair is centered on very near objects and players, sometimes causing the deflected projectile to move at angles very different to the direction the player is facing. With the right timing and position, a skilled or well-positioned Pyro can deflect projectiles at any desired angle, regardless of their original path. Grenades and stickybombs that are already on a surface roll in the direction pointed to by the crosshair.

The following projectiles can be compression blasted:

Projectiles for any of the Medic's primary weapons (except for the Crusader's Crossbow) and energy blasts from the Righteous Bison and Pomson 6000 cannot be deflected.

Grenades and baseballs are not naturally given any additional vertical velocity when they are deflected. Aiming these deflected projectiles is more difficult, but their trajectory can be controlled by the Pyro's angle and position. They must be deflected upward in order to arc as they do when fired normally.

Deflected projectiles are considered to have been fired by the Pyro deflecting them for the purposes of friendly fire and kill awards. For example, a RED grenade turns BLU when deflected and hurts any RED team players in the approximated area when it explodes. Furthermore, deflected explosive projectiles can also cause self-damage to the Pyro who deflected it. The only exception to these rules is the stickybomb. Although they can be pushed away, they do not change ownership unless they are detonated right after being pushed, in which the Pyro is credited for the kill. Additionally, deflected Detonator flares can still be remotely detonated by the Pyro that launched them. Deflected Jarate and Mad Milk soak enemy players and extinguish allies, and have all the attributes of normal Mad Milk and Jarate; for example, the Pyro is given kill assists if a teammate kills an enemy under the effects of deflected Jarate. On-hit effects are applied to the Pyro that deflected it. For example, it is possible to gain the health bonus from the Black Box's rocket if the deflected rocket successfully hits a target. Likewise, the Crusader's Crossbow's bolts heal teammates if deflected and the Pyro is credited with the healing caused. Though rockets and stickybombs fired from the Rocket Jumper and Sticky Jumper respectively can be deflected, they are still unable to do any damage.

Non-critical deflected projectiles always turn into Mini-Crits, while critical projectiles retain their critical status. Additionally, a deflected baseball only slows the player as it would for the Scout who launched it. If the Pyro is Crit-boosted (for example, under the effects of the Kritzkrieg's ÜberCharge), deflected projectiles turn into critical projectiles. Again, neither of these effects apply to stickybombs.

Demonstration

Strategy

See also: Compression blast strategy

The deflective abilities of an air blast can be used both offensively or defensively:

Defense

  • Deflecting projectiles (with the exception of the Demoman's stickybombs) prevents them from harming teammates, even if the projectile is not relocated. This is particularly effective against grenades and rockets.
  • A compression blast can be used to blow away stickybombs, making an enemy Demoman's job more difficult. This is especially useful when defending the Engineer's Sentry Gun, as stickybombs can be difficult to destroy for a single Engineer with his Shotgun or Pistol.
  • An effective way to deny an enemy Über push is to use the compression blast to either push Übered players away or to separate the Medic and his patient(s).
  • The compression blast can also be used to repel enemies trying to attack friendly Engineer buildings at close range. This combines well with the strong knockback of the Sentry Gun against airborne targets.
  • In Control Point, King of the Hill, and Payload matches, it can be used to remove attacking players from the point in order to stave them off until teammates can get there for reinforcement.
  • Airblasting an enemy carrying the Intelligence into a pit causes the Intelligence to immediately reset.
  • The compression blast can be used to increase the space between the Pyro and the enemy, allowing escape when at low health.
  • Though not as effective as using flame, a compression blast also affects cloaked Spies, which can be marginally useful as a Spy checking method if one is using the compression blast.

Offense

  • In combat situations, it is possible to take advantage of the environment and blast enemies off ledges and towards other hazards on the map.
  • The Medi Gun, Kritzkrieg, and Vaccinator's ÜberCharges do not prevent the knockback of a compression blast. The Pyro can take advantage of this and separate the Medic from his patient by knocking him or the patient away: This means that only the Medic is Übercharged and on his own.
    • Invulnerable enemies can also be killed outright by compression blasting them into environmental hazards.
    • Compression blasts do not affect players under a Quick-Fix ÜberCharge, including the Medic.
  • The knockback from a compression blast can be used to cancel the Scout's double jump.
  • The Demoman's charge can be rendered useless with the compression blast. However, one must still beware of the extended melee reach that is shared by many of the Demoman's melee weapons.
  • Using the compression blast, one can juggle an enemy in the air in a predictable route, rendering them nearly helpless in the air for the Pyro or teammates to attack, or to simply advance past them.
    • The compression blast can be used to force enemies into friendly Sentry Gun range for easy kills.
  • The compression blast can be used to push an enemy into a corner, creating a good chance to finish them off with other weapons.
    • This is particularly effective against a burning opponent when using the Axtinguisher or Postal Pummeler. This action is commonly referred to as "Puff n' Sting."
    • The Pyro can also perform a "Puff n' Sting" using the Flare Gun due to its ability to Crit burning players.
  • In Control Point, King of the Hill, and Payload matches, the compression blast can be used to remove defending opponents blocking the capture, which is particularly useful when outnumbered or overpowered and the point or checkpoint has almost been captured.
  • It is possible to deflect Level 3 Sentry Gun rockets back at the gun to destroy it or utilize them to kill a nearby Engineer who is repairing it.

Examples of Uses

Kill icons

Deflected projectiles Kill icon
Flying Guillotine Deflected Flying Guillotine Killicon skull.png
Sandman Baseball.png Deflected Sandman ball Killicon sandman ball.png
Festive ornament red.png Deflected Wrap Assassin ball (direct hit) Killicon sandman ball.png
Deflected Wrap Assassin ball (shatter) Killicon skull.png
Rocket.pngAir Strike Projectile.png Deflected rocket Killicon deflect rocket.png
RED Cow Mangler 5000 Beam.png Deflected Cow Mangler 5000 energy blast Killicon skull.png
Deflected Cow Mangler 5000 energy blast (afterburn) Killicon cow mangler 5000.png
Dragon's Fury fireball.png Deflected Dragon's Fury fireball Killicon deflect rocket.png
Flare proj red.png Deflected flare Killicon deflect flare.png
Deflected flare (afterburn) Killicon flare gun.png
Detonator proj red.png Deflected Detonator's flare Killicon deflect flare.png
Manually detonated deflected Detonator's flare Killicon skull.png
Deflected Detonator's flare (afterburn) Killicon detonator.png
Flare proj red.png Deflected Manmelter projectile Killicon deflect flare.png
Deflected Manmelter projectile (afterburn) Killicon manmelter.png
Flare proj red.png Deflected Scorch Shot Killicon deflect flare.png
Deflected Scorch Shot (afterburn) Killicon flare gun.png
Grenade proj red.pngRED Iron Bomber Projectile.png Deflected grenade Killicon deflect grenade.png
Loose Cannon proj red.png Deflected cannonballs (impact) Killicon loose cannon pushed.png
Deflected cannonballs (explosion) Killicon deflect cannonballs.png
Sticky proj red.pngRED Quickiebomb Launcher Projectile.png Deflected stickybombs Killicon deflect sticky.png
Scores proj red.png Deflected Scottish Resistance stickybombs Killicon scottish resistance.png
Sentry Rocket.png Deflected Level 3 Sentry Gun's rocket Killicon deflect rocket.png
Short circuit.png Deflected Energy Orb Killicon skull.png
Rescue Ranger Projectile RED.png Deflected repair claws Killicon deflect repair claws.png
RED Syringe Gun Ammo.png Festive Crusader's Crossbow Projectile RED.png Deflected Crusader's Crossbow's syringes Killicon deflect arrow.png
Arrow proj.pngArrow proj xmas.png Deflected arrow Killicon deflect arrow.png
Deflected arrow (Headshot) Killicon sniperriflehs.png
Deflected flaming arrow Killicon flaming huntsman.png
Deflected flaming arrow (afterburn) Killicon flaming huntsman afterburn.png
Monoculus proj.png Deflected MONOCULUS eye-rockets Killicon monoculus.png
Deflected projectiles Unused kill icon
Sandman Baseball.png Deflected Sandman ball Killicon deflect ball.png
Arrow proj.pngArrow proj xmas.png Deflected arrow (Headshot) Killicon deflect arrowhs unused.png
Deflected flaming arrow Killicon deflect flaming arrow.png
Deflected flaming arrow (Headshot) Killicon deflect flaming arrowhs.png

These unused kill icons were created and contributed by NeoDement .

Related achievements

Leaderboard class soldier.png Soldier

Backdraft Dodger
Backdraft Dodger
Kill a Pyro who has airblasted one of your rockets in the last 10 seconds.


Leaderboard class pyro.png Pyro

Hotshot
Hotshot
Kill a Soldier with a reflected critical rocket.
Hot Potato
Hot Potato
Reflect 100 projectiles with your compressed air blast.

Update history

June 19, 2008 Patch (Pyro Update)
  • Added alt-fire compression blast to the basic Flame Thrower.

June 20, 2008 Patch

  • Fixed Compression Blast and Flare Gun trail particles on DX8.

May 21, 2009 Patch

  • Compression blast now extinguishes fire on friendly targets.
  • Grenades and rockets deflected by a Pyro under the effects of Kritzkrieg will now be criticals.

June 8, 2009 Patch

  • Fixed not being able to reflect arrows with the Flame Thrower.

June 23, 2009 Patch

  • Force-A-Nature & Flame Thrower air blast knockback effects no longer work on disguised Spies.
  • A Pyro's air blast will now extinguish burning disguised enemy Spies, since knockback no longer affects disguised enemy Spies.

June 25, 2009 Patch

  • Reverted Force-A-Nature and airblast knockback on disguised Spies, so that they can once again be knocked back.

August 31, 2009 Patch

  • Fixed the Pyro's airblast pushing Spectators in free-look mode.

December 17, 2009 Patch (WAR! Update)

  • Fixed being able to affect friendly pipes with airblast (they would unstick).

December 22, 2009 Patch

  • Fixed Pyros not getting the proper kill icon for kills with deflected Direct Hit rockets.

February 23, 2010 Patch

  • Fixed the Pyro not being able to deflect enemy flares.

April 28, 2010 Patch

  • Airblast re-fire delay reduced by 25%.
  • Airblast ammo usage reduced by 20%.
  • All reflected rockets/grenades/arrows now Mini-Crit.
  • Airblasting enemies into environmental deaths now awards the death credit to the Pyro.

May 5, 2010 Patch

  • Fixed deflected Stickybombs becoming Mini-Crits when detonated.
  • Fixed deflected Stickybombs becoming Crits if the Pyro was Crit-boosted.

September 30, 2010 Patch

  • [Undocumented] Pyro's Airblast pushes grounded stickies approximately twice the distance now.

December 17, 2010 Patch

  • Fixed a Flame Thrower bug that allowed players to rapidly fake the Pyro's airblast effect.

April 14, 2011 Patch (Hatless Update)

  • Removed airblast restriction from Backburner (at a 150% cost).

April 18, 2012 Patch

  • The Quick-Fix's ÜberCharge is no longer affected by airblast.

December 20, 2012 Patch

  • Fixed the Pyro’s airblast not working correctly when facing downhill.

May 13, 2013 Patch

  • [Undocumented] Fixed Cow Mangler 5000 shots becoming Critical hits instead of Mini-Crits when reflected.

June 11, 2014 Patch #1

  • Fixed deflected rocket explosion sounds playing repeatedly.
  • Fixed deflected Black Box rockets not giving health to the Pyro.

December 17, 2015 Patch (Tough Break Update)

  • Pyros like to collect rainbows! Extinguishing a teammate will now return 20 health to the Pyro.
  • Consecutive Airblasts will no longer prevent enemies from air-strafing until they touch the ground.

July 7, 2016 Patch #1 (Meet Your Match Update)

  • Fixed airblasts sometimes sending reflected projectiles toward friendly players, buildings, and projectile shields.

October 12, 2016 Patch

  • Fixed air-blasts sometimes sending deflected projectiles in random directions when the Pyro is close to enemy players.

October 20, 2017 Patch #1 (Jungle Inferno Update)

  • Hit detection for both players and projectiles is now a consistent cone.
    • Aiming at a player's feet no longer misses!
  • Airblasting players now factors in the momentum of the Pyro and target, giving both more control over the interaction.
    • The target's existing velocity is no longer cancelled.
    • Players moving at the Pyro at great speed will be reflected away at great speed.
    • Players moving towards/away from the Pyro will experience less/more push force.
  • Airblast now causes target player to have reduced footing and air control for a short period.
    • No longer a flat stun.
  • Now factors in the upward angle of the airblast, rather than having a fixed upward force.
  • Total push force slightly increased.
  • Changed attributes:
    • Reserve Shooter attacks on targets knocked into the air by Pyro airblast no longer Mini-Crit.

April 18, 2024 Patch

  • Changed some behavior of Pyro's airblast.

Unused content

  • As of the Mann-Conomy Update, the Pyro (through editing the items_game.txt file) has the ability to charge an airblast. Charging increases the knockback dealt to enemies, but has no effect on projectiles.

Bugs

  • Projectiles that can inflict afterburn get affected by the Degreaser's afterburn damage penalty. As a result, that projectile deals Degreaser's afterburn damage instead of the projectile's actual damage.
  • Reflected grenades, Sentry Gun rockets, and Detonator flares all incorrectly inflict 85-170 self-damage (45-90 self-damage if reflected with the Dragon's Fury).[1]
  • Reflected flares from the Scorch Shot do not inflict radius damage upon hitting a non-player surface.
  • Reflected balls from the Sandman can only damage the Scout who shot them. A deflected baseball slows down a Scout's teammate, but deals no damage.
  • Reflected baubles from the Wrap Assassin deal damage to a Scout's teammate, but do not cause bleeding. A bleed icon appears on the HUD, but no additional bleed damage is taken.
  • Reflected Loose Cannon cannonballs do not deal Mini-Crit damage.
  • Even though the Pyro is credited for any kills given by a deflected stickybomb that the Demoman detonates (including on the Demoman himself), this has no effect on the domination counter if the Demoman is not yet dominating the Pyro. However, if the Demoman is dominating the Pyro, a kill from the deflected Stickybombs resets the counter.
  • Headshots with deflected arrows use the kill icon of normal headshots (as opposed to that of an arrow headshot).
  • Enemies killed with reflected Rocket Launcher rockets do not increase Killstreak and Strange counters.
    • However, if the Rocket Launcher has a Killstreak counter as well, it counts towards the Pyro's killstreak, but the kill feed shows the number of the Soldier's killstreak (For example, killing a Soldier with a 5 killstreak shows as a 6 killstreak on the kill feed, but counts as a single kill on the Pyro's killstreak).
  • When using the airblast, enemies directly behind the Pyro may be pushed away at certain angles.
  • Reflected rockets and grenades ignore the original weapon's splash radius attribute (e.g. rockets from the Direct Hit).

Notes

  • If a deflected baseball slows the Scout who launched it, the kill feed shows that the Scout assisted in his own death if he is killed by the Pyro.
  • If a teammate kills an enemy who has recently been hit with a compression blast, the Pyro receives a kill assist.
  • Strange variants of flamethrowers do not gain a kill count if an enemy is airblasted into a hazard.

References