Difference between revisions of "Community DeGroot Keep strategy"

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'''[[DeGroot Keep]]''' [[strategy]].
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{{community strategy stub|A few more "General strategy" points would be nice, such as mention of the flagpost above point A or the small aclove next to point B.}}
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{{Map infobox
 
{{Map infobox
| game-type = Control Point
+
  | map-strategy              = yes
| file-name = cp_degrootkeep
+
  | map-status                = official
| map-image = Degroot Keep Castle.png
+
  | map-name                  = DeGroot Keep
| map-environment = Medieval
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  | map-game-type             = Control Point
| map-setting = Daylight, sunny
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  | map-file-name             = cp_degrootkeep
| map-hazards = [[Environmental_Hazards#Gate_Crush|Castle gate]], [[Environmental_Hazards#Pit_Fall_Death|Pit]]
+
  | map-image                 = Degroot Keep Castle.png
| map-health-pickups-small =
+
  | map-released              = {{Patch name|12|17|2010}}
| map-health-pickups-medium = 2  
+
  | map-released-major        = Australian Christmas
| map-health-pickups-large =
+
  | map-environment           = Alpine
| map-ammo-pickups-small =
+
  | map-setting               = Daylight, Sunny
| map-ammo-pickups-medium = 4
+
  | map-hazards               = [[Environmental death#Crushing|Castle gate]], [[Environmental_death#Pitfalls|Pitfall]]
| map-ammo-pickups-large =
+
  | map-pickups-health-medium = 2
 +
  | map-pickups-ammo-medium   = 4
 
}}
 
}}
==General==
 
* Remember that in [[Medieval Mode]], most primary and some secondary weapons are restricted. Playing in DeGroot Keep requires a different mindset and gameplay style.
 
  
* Also in Medieval Mode, the chat function is reconfigured to where what you type will (usually) be relayed in a "medieval" style instead of what you originally typed.  If you want to avoid this (especially if you're forced to use text chat and must maximize accuracy) add a "!" or most any other non-alphanumeric character in front of what you type to cancel out the changed text relay.
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This article is about '''Community DeGroot Keep strategy'''.
  
* There are only two classes that can use damage-dealing projectile weapons in Medieval Mode, the Medic and Sniper. As a result, picking the proper melee weapon is the key to playing effectively.
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'''Note''': It is recommended to read the main [[DeGroot Keep]] article first to become familiar with the names of key map locations used in this article.
  
* In the same vein, only the Pyro and Sniper possess weapons that are capable of setting enemies on [[fire]]. However, there is also only a single source of water, outside of the castle.
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{{TOC limit|3}}
  
* It is possible to avoid taking [[fall damage]] when exiting the castle while the gate is closed. First, jump to the sign hanging above point A from the adjacent wall, then drop down onto the raised section of ground surrounding the point.
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== General strategy ==
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* Remember that, in [[Medieval Mode]], most primary and some secondary weapons are restricted, turning most fights melee-oriented. Playing in DeGroot Keep requires a different mindset and gameplay style, with classes that have more access to medieval mode weapons only should be used more.
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** Additionally, slain enemies always drop small [[Health#Health Kits|health kits]]. Be sure to pick them up after every skirmish to prolong your survival.
  
* When capturing or defending the last point it can get a bit hectic as both teams are fighting in the same enclosed space. Try to crouch in the corner and use your melee weapon to cause damage to any passing enemy that gets too close. You will usually be mistaken for a ragdoll and continue attacking other players.
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* It is possible to avoid taking [[fall damage]] when exiting the castle while the gate is closed. First, jump to the sign hanging above point A from the opposite wall, and then drop down onto the raised section of ground surrounding the point.
  
=={{class link|scout}}==
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* When capturing or defending the last point, it can get a bit hectic as both teams are fighting in the same enclosed space. Try to crouch in the corner and use your melee weapon to cause damage to any passing enemy that gets too close. Players usually mistake you for a ragdoll and continue attacking other players.
* The [[Sandman]] can be ideal for stunning enemy players and making them easier for teammates to finish off.
 
  
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* In DeGroot Keep, the rocks around the tower at point B can be traversed by either team to surprise the enemy, although it is harder for the BLU team to scale the rocks onto the point. This is a recommended route for Scouts and Spies.
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==Class-specific strategies==
 +
==={{class link|scout}}===
 +
{{youtube tn|Ztqcfodv7sU|Demonstration|width=250}}
 
* Due to the cramped combat nature of the map, the [[Boston Basher]] has a good chance of dealing effective damage against enemies, especially on the final capture point. It is generally a good idea to try to hit as many players as possible to make them easier to kill.
 
* Due to the cramped combat nature of the map, the [[Boston Basher]] has a good chance of dealing effective damage against enemies, especially on the final capture point. It is generally a good idea to try to hit as many players as possible to make them easier to kill.
  
* Remember that players will drop health packs upon death in Medieval Mode, so the [[Candy Cane]] offers less of an advantage. However, as the only explosive weapon allowed in Medieval Mode is the Ullapool Caber, and a hit from it would kill regardless, there is no real disadvantage from carrying it.
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* The Boston Basher can be used to get to the inner yard even when the gate is closed. To do this, stand on the hill, then jump and hit yourself several times. You will be on the Sniper deck. Jump down and take a health pack. Then you can kill a few enemies there and escape.
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* While the [[Atomizer]], with its lower damage, may not be ideal for combat, the triple jump it provides can make a Scout much more difficult to hit.
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** The Atomizer's triple jump can allow a Scout to shimmy up to the castle's battlements, as seen [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nP5EFvAPjOo here] and [https://youtu.be/IihT5z0JxsI here].
  
* Try to use the [[Sun-on-a-Stick]] only if there is a friendly Sniper with the Huntsman, or a Pyro with the Sharpened Volcano Fragment. Stick with either of those players and try to attack any enemies that they manage to ignite.
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* The [[Bonk! Atomic Punch]] and [[Crit-a-Cola]] can give Scouts either temporary invunerability (at the cost of not being able to attack while activated and being slowed down from regular movement speed after consumption) or a temporary damage buff (at the cost of an active damage vulnerability when used) that can let you kill enemies faster than normal.
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**Bonk! Atomic Punch paired with a Sandman or Atomizer can give you the ability to safely do a taunt kill especially on crowded areas such as the control point.
  
* The [[Fan O'War]] should only be used as a support weapon. Follow a teammate with a high-damaging weapon around, and mark their targets with the Fan O'War. Remember that only one target can be marked at a time.
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* The [[Mad Milk]] can turn the tide of large fights on points, especially in the cramped space of point C.
** In particular, a Sniper with the [[Bushwacka]] can easily finish off any enemies that have been tagged. Try to work in pairs with Snipers carrying the Bushwacka if possible.
 
  
* [[Mad Milk]] is not restricted. Take advantage of this by using it to assist teammates whenever possible.
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* The [[Sandman]] can help allies kill opponents by slowing them, at the cost of lowered health.
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** Equipping the [[Flying Guillotine]] is recommended while using any of Scout's melees, as many secondary weapons are unavailable in Medieval mode, and the Flying Guillotine is one of the few ranged weaponry allowed.
  
* As most projectile weapons are restricted, [[Bonk! Energy Drink]] has less utilization in Medieval Mode. It can be used to distract enemies or block choke points, however it cannot be used to bypass enemies effectively since all combat range is limited to melee only anyways.
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==={{class link|soldier}}===
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* A very risky, but effective tactic on Point C is to use the [[Grenade (taunt)|Grenade taunt]] taunt. As the blast radius is quite large, it can effectively eliminate all enemies on the point. However, the taunt leaves you very vulnerable to all attacks, especially on a server with a lot of players.
  
{{youtube tn|Ztqcfodv7sU|Demonstration|width=250}}
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* The [[Half-Zatoichi]] and the [[Disciplinary Action]] are the only melee weapons for the Soldier that offer an extended reach. Consider using them to circumvent the naturally slow movement of the Soldier, which makes it tougher for him to get within range for melee engagements. The extra range also allows you to hit enemies without them hitting back at you.
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** The Disciplinary Action also allows you and your teammates to get to the control points faster.
 +
** Take extra caution while using the Half-Zatoichi, as a single hit from an opposing Half-Zatoichi wielder instantly kills you.
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* The Soldier can use any banners in Medieval mode. While you may not reach full rage very often, one activation can swing battles in your team's favor.
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** It may be more effective to use the [[Concheror]] or [[Battalion's Backup]] than the [[Buff Banner]] due to this, since they respectively give passive healing and bonus health.
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** If using the Half-Zatoichi, killing another player wielding it deals 300% of their health, which is often enough to fill your rage meter.
 +
 
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* Landing on enemies from the battlements with the [[Mantreads]] deals about 90 damage, enough to kill light classes in one melee hit.
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==={{class link|pyro}}===
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* If you equip the [[Sharpened Volcano Fragment]] with 1 or more [[Sun-on-a-Stick]] Scouts on your team, you can make a very deadly combo.
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** The [[Axtinguisher]] can also be a good combo with another Pyro using the Volcano Fragment.
 +
** Partnering with either a [[Huntsman]] or [[Fortified Compound]] Sniper can also allow for easy kills, if the arrow shot is on fire.
 +
 
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* The [[Back Scratcher]] can be used for situations that require more power than the average battle.
 +
** Because of the passive increase in healing received from health packs, the Back Scratcher is extremely beneficial for the [[Pyro]] as it further improves longevity. The weapon effectively allows the Pyro to earn 54 health back from fallen packs as opposed to the typical 35 health.
 +
** The Back Scratcher's base damage is actually among the highest of all melee weapons, surpassing even the [[Scotsman's Skullcutter]], the strongest of the Demoman's "swords". The only weapons to equal or surpass it are the [[Shahanshah]] and [[Equalizer]] but only when the wielder is heavily damaged, and the [[Warrior's Spirit]] which applies a bonus 30% damage vulnerability to the user. Compared to a Demoknight with no heads, the Pyro doesn't have the extended reach or ability to charge, but can deal higher damage, has a higher base speed (or only 3% slower if they equip the Boots), can recover more health after each engagement than taking another head does, and is immune to flaming arrows.
 +
 
 +
* If you partner with a [[Mad Milk]] Scout, the [[Neon Annihilator]] can allow for easy take-downs.
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* The [[Powerjack]] increases your survivability and movement speed at the cost of extra damage from foes.
  
* Also, you can use [[Boston Basher]] to get to the inner yard even when the gate is closed. To do this, stand on the hill, jump and hit yourself several times. You will be on the Sniper deck. Jump down and take a health pack. Then you can kill few enemies there and escape.
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* Using the [[Homewrecker]] is not a good idea, due to the damage bonus against buildings and the ability to remove Sappers from Sentry Guns made useless by the rule-restriction towards buildings.
  
=={{class link|soldier}}==
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==={{class link|demoman}}===
* The [[Equalizer]] is a very effective weapon to carry. While it can only do large amounts of damage at low health, it is possible to refill health through killing enemies, greatly increasing endurance, and the additional speed also makes fighting enemies easier.
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* Demomen equipped with the [[Chargin' Targe]], the [[Splendid Screen]], or the [[Tide Turner]] can charge the large pile of rocks in the middle of the battlefield to launch themselves up to the castle's battlements, as shown in this [http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0aH-e3L8ec] video.
  
* If using the [[Pain Train]], remember that all melee weapons count as [[hitscan]] weapons, and as a result will inflict an additional 10% damage. If on offense, try to use the Pain Train only to capture the outside points.
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* Equipping [[Ali Baba's Wee Booties]] or the [[Bootlegger]] can increase longevity and allow Demoknights to move faster, especially if pursuing enemies or retreating.
  
* It is possible to use backpack items in Medieval Mode, but remember that it is harder to inflict large amounts of damage using only melee weapons, as well as absorb enough damage without being killed in melee fights in order to charge the [[Buff Banner]], [[Battalion's Backup]], or [[Concheror]].
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* Always consider carrying any of the alternate melee weapons that offer a longer reach. The [[Eyelander]] can greatly increase survivability and mobility through taking more heads, the [[Claidheamh Mòr]] offers a longer charge duration, the [[Half-Zatoichi]] has the ability to refill 50% health with every kill, keeping a player alive for a long time and the [[Scotsman's Skullcutter]] deals increased damage. It is worth noting that the speed penalty associated with the Scotsman's Skullcutter is less noticeable in Medieval mode, due to the smaller map size and the ability to charge.
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** Note, however, that the Skullcutter also slows down your charge.
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** Be wary of other Demomen and Soldiers with the Half-Zatoichi equipped, as they can kill you in a single hit.
  
* The [[Half-Zatoichi]] offers a longer reach than every other Soldier melee weapon, and completely restores health upon killing an enemy. As all fighting is restricted to melee only, it offers no real disadvantage. However, keep in mind that other players wielding the Half-Zatoichi can cause one-hit kills, and fight with caution when dueling with enemy Soldiers and Demomen also using it.
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* The [[Ullapool Caber]] is very effective on the final Control point, as multiple members of both teams will often be fighting there simultaneously once it is unlocked. If charging in with the Chargin' Targe, a full [[Critical hits|Critical]] swing is capable of dealing upwards of 400 explosive damage, which can effectively clear the point in a single attack.
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** The Ullapool Caber may also be used to jump onto the Sniper platform as means of getting into the castle without the external Control Points being captured.
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** This is extremely useful for clearing control points, especially the final cap. Remember that you can hit the floor at the end of the charge if there are no enemies in range; it will still crit enemies in range of the blast.
  
* A very risky, but effective tactic on the Point C is to use the [[Kamikaze]] taunt. As the blast radius is quite large, it will effectively eliminate all enemies on the point. However, the taunt will leave you very vulnerable to all attacks, especially on a server with a lot of players.
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* If the last point is being contested, a good place to surprise attackers is on the battlements in front of the control point. Charging down toward the nook will effectively surprise and kill any enemies staying in there, as many people tend not to look up when checking for a surprise attack.
  
=={{class link|pyro}}==
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==={{class link|heavy}}===
* Remember that as only two weapons are capable of igniting enemies in Medieval Mode, the [[Axtinguisher]] only has utility when fighting alongside a teammate with one of those two weapons.
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* The [[Sandvich]] and [[Buffalo Steak Sandvich]] are very useful on this map. The ability to heal teammates, as well as the Buffalo Steak's mini crits can make a huge difference in fights. Note, however, that you might accidentally heal an enemy if not careful.
  
* Because enemies will automatically drop a health pack upon death, consider using the [[Back Scratcher]]. There will be few to no alternate sources of healing other than health pickups, so it is wise to take advantage of this as well as the Back Scratcher's increased damage.
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* The [[Killing Gloves of Boxing]] can allow you to take out large groups, provided you can get the first kill.
  
* The [[Sharpened Volcano Fragment]] is one of two weapons available in Medieval Mode that are capable of setting enemies on fire.
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* On defense, with a bit of luck, the [[High Noon]] taunt can pick off enemies moving through the gate to the final control point.
** Because of its reduced damage, it is generally wise to perform hit-and-run attacks and let the afterburn deal damage to enemies rather than fighting them head-on.
 
** Try to work in teams with friendly Scouts and Pyros carrying the Sun-on-a-Stick and Axtinguisher, respectively. Tag enemies for your teammates to deal increased damage to.
 
  
=={{class link|demoman}}==
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* The [[Warrior's Spirit]] is the Heavy's strongest melee weapon, except for [[Killing Gloves of Boxing]] after a kill. While it increases damage vulnerability by 30%, this can be offset with the Sandvich.
* Because the [[Chargin' Targe]] is the only allowed secondary weapon for the Demoman, it should always be carried by default. The ability to charge is crucial in Medieval Mode, and the protection it provides against afterburn damage and the Ullapool Caber is also very helpful.
 
  
* Always consider carrying any of the alternate melee weapons that offer a longer reach. The [[Eyelander]] can greatly increase survivability through taking more heads, the [[Scotsman's Skullcutter]] deals increased damage and the speed penalty is less noticeable in Medieval Mode, and the [[Claidheamh Mòr]] offers a longer charge.
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==={{class link|engineer}}===
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* The [[Gunslinger]] gives you an additional 25 health aiding in your survivability. Additionally, the three hit combo can be used on the final control point to kill enemies defending it.
  
* In particular, the [[Half-Zatoichi]] is highly effective with the Chargin' Targe, and can surprise enemy Soldiers and Demomen also carrying it.
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* The [[Southern Hospitality]] causes enemies to bleed, making it extremely effective for Spy-checking in Medieval mode, since Pyros are less effective due to the inability to use their flamethrowers. Additionally, the fire vulnerability is negligible due to the very limited sources of fire-based damage on the map.
  
* The [[Ullapool Caber]] is very effective on the final Control point, as multiple members of both teams will often be fighting there simultaneously once it is unlocked. If charging in with the Chargin' Targe, a full [[Critical]] swing is capable of dealing upwards of 400 explosive damage, which can effectively clear the point in a single attack.
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==={{class link|medic}}===
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* As a class relatively weaker in health and attack, your ''real value'' to the team is your ability to heal several teammates at the same time with the [[Medicating Melody]], especially when they are fighting over a point.  
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** If you lead your teammates into the contested Capture points and get killed, you defeat your main purpose for being on the team; ''follow'' your team into the points.
  
* The [[Ullapool Caber]] may be used to jump onto the Sniper platform as means of getting into the [[RED]] base without the Control Points being captured.
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* Your second contribution is your ranged attack and heal with the [[Crusader's Crossbow]], but its practical effectiveness is limited to outside the Keep.
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** On the Battlefield and Battlements, keep one eye out for the enemy Snipers and Medics and their missile fire and keep the other eye out for injured teammates to shoot and heal.
  
* The [[Ullapool Caber]] may be used more effectively if used with the [[Sticky Jumper]], as you won't take damage from hitting people with it.
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* On offense:
** Since most weapons are disabled, the [[Sticky Jumper]] doesn't have much of a disadvantage apart from Snipers with flaming arrows or Pyros with the [[Sharpened Volcano Fragment]]
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** On the Battlefield, always strive to keep several of your teammates between you and the Keep, retreat if the front ranks are beaten back.
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** As RED reinforcements are likely to jump from the Keep's Battlements when you are capping A or B, put your back up against the Keep when taunting (after Spy Checking, of course).
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** While your team is capturing the final Control Point, it is generally effective to fire your Crusader's Crossbow through the gate into the contested point. This can damage clustered enemies and heal allies at higher points due to the range.
  
=={{class link|heavy}}==
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* On defense:
* Always equip a lunchbox item when playing in Medieval Mode. In particular, consider carrying the [[Sandvich]] and [[Buffalo Steak Sandvich]] as they can be dropped and their eating effects are also very useful.
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** On the Courtyard point, standing in the corner with the bench, your Amputator taunt covers the whole Courtyard (except the point itself), but you should have a Demoknight covering you.  
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** On Point B, while it can be a bit of a trap, the doorway provides deep cover (after Spy Checking) from which your Amputator taunt can cover the whole point.
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** On the Battlements, your Amputator taunt can cover the entire front Battlement, even if you are standing partway down the stairs for cover (watch out for BLU coming up the stairs).
  
* The [[K.G.B.]] and [[Warrior's Spirit]] should be the only alternate melee weapons that should be considered for use in Medieval Mode. The K.G.B. can chain successive kills easily due to guaranteed Critical hits, while the Warrior's Spirit deal increased melee damage and the reduced health can be mitigated with dropped health packs.
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==={{class link|sniper}}===
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* When on the [[BLU]] team, once the main gate opens (after capturing A and B), position yourself in front of the gate, and fire arrows toward the capture point, ducking to the side out of the gate's line of fire after each shot. People will be clustering around the capture point and it will be easy to hit opponents without much aiming.
  
* The [[Showdown]] taunt, unlike in other maps, has utility in Medieval Mode due to the restriction to melee weapons. Try to use it to snipe at distracted enemies, but always make sure that there are teammates nearby to prevent being easily killed while performing the taunt.
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* Conversely, when on the [[RED]] team, once the main gate opens, put yourself in a position where you can shoot outwards through the main gate into the battlefield. As most enemies will be rushing in a straight line through the corridor toward you with melee weapons, it will be very easy to hit them as well.
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** Don't try to sit on the point and snipe outwards through the gate. It will make you an easy target for enemy Snipers. The other team can easily melee you to death before you can escape as well.
  
=={{class link|engineer}}==
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* Either the [[Huntsman]] or the [[Fortified Compound]] should be the default armament for Snipers in Medieval mode. Remember that your arrows can be lit by using available torches, resulting in afterburn damage. This can also be used to tag enemies for teammates using the Sun-on-a-Stick or Axtinguisher.
* The [[Gunslinger]] is highly effective in Medieval Mode due to the increased health bonus, and Sentry Guns cannot be deployed in Medieval Mode in any case. Try to chain successive hits whenever possible in order to take advantage of the guaranteed Critical punch.
 
  
* The [[Southern Hospitality]] is useful for causing [[bleeding]] to help teammates fight more easily. However, due to its inability to land random Critical hits, it is generally wise to let the bleeding deal most of the damage to enemies, and to try to perform hit-and-runs.
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* RED Snipers on the battlements should keep an eye out for Demomen charging up the rocks onto the battlements.
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** Consider waiting below for Demomen to charge onto the battlements and headshot them in close-range when they attempt to come after you.  
  
=={{class link|medic}}==
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* Arrows can pass through the holes in the gates and the tower window slits. Use these to remain hidden.
* The [[Crusader's Crossbow]] should always be carried if it is available, due to being one of only two ranged weapons allowed in Medieval Mode. It can be used effectively to provide support from a distance, both damaging enemies and healing teammates.
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** Keep in mind this will make you more vulnerable to enemy Snipers, as shooting through a window will give away your position and make you an easy target. There is also very little room for you to aim, as the boxes for the windows are small.
  
*On offense, while your team is capturing the final control point it is generally a good idea to fire your Crusader's Crossbow into the mosh pit that occupies the point. This can not only attack enemies but also heal allies.
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* Snipers can ignite their arrows using the torches spread throughout DeGroot Keep and outside the BLU spawn.
  
* Because ÜberCharges cannot be deployed in Medieval Mode, the only melee weapons that should be considered should be the [[Bonesaw]] and [[Amputator]]. In particular, the Amputator's [[Medicating Melody|taunt]] can be used to heal multiple teammates at once, keeping them in the fight longer, and is the only truly reliable source of healing outside of health pickups.
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* There is a small hole in the rafters on the third floor in the tower of DeGroot Keep. RED Snipers can fall through this to quickly reach the second level on the stairs, which is a good spot for sniping enemies trying to capture the point.
  
=={{class link|sniper}}==
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==={{class link|spy}}===
* The [[Huntsman]], like the Crusader's Crossbow above, should be the default armament for Snipers in Medieval mode. Remember that your arrows can be lit by using available torches, and as a result can deal afterburn damage. This can also be used to tag enemies for teammates using the Sun-on-a-Stick or Axtinguisher.
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* Surprisingly, a good place to decloak is right outside of the enemy's spawn. They usually come barreling out of there without a second glance to the side.
  
* Consider carrying [[Darwin's Danger Shield]] if available. While the [[Razorback]] can also prevent Spies from performing successful backstabs, Spies are also less of a threat in Medieval Mode.
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* DeGroot Keep is a great place to practice and use trick [[Backstab|stabs]] as the enemy can only use melee weapons, so their movements are very predictable, making it easier perform stair stabs and side stabs. Strafing to the side and stabbing charging Demomen can shut them down.
  
* The [[Tribalman's Shiv]] can be useful as a support weapon. While it cannot deal a significant amount of damage, it can be used to inflict bleeding on multiple enemies, making them easier to kill for teammates.
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* When you are on RED team, you can use the roof with the [[Dead Ringer]] to your advantage. As you fall and feign your death, you can pick up the [[Health]] kit that you drop.
  
* Because of the lack of Mini-crit dealing buffs or debuffs, using the [[Bushwacka]] provides little benefit. However, if teamed up with a Scout using the Fan O'War, it can be surprisingly devastating.
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* The [[Spy-cicle]] recharges instantly upon being melted, making it arguably a straight upgrade from the [[Knife]], disregarding the ice statues left after a backstab.
  
=={{class link|spy}}==
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* The [[Cloak and Dagger]] can allow you to effectively shut down a charging Demoman that is [[trimping]] on BLU with the rock, standing still while on the edge of the roof of the castle can block Demomen and make them take severe fall damage.
* As it is still possible to [[Cloak]] and [[disguise]] in Medieval Mode, try to use the same tactics as on other maps. However, keep in mind that enemies will generally be more wary of their surroundings due to not having any projectile weapons.
 
  
*A good place to decloak is, surprisingly, right outside the enemy's spawn. They usually come barreling out of there without a second glance to the side.
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{{Map Strategy Nav}}
{{Map strategy}}
 

Latest revision as of 19:28, 20 January 2024

DeGroot Keep
Degroot Keep Castle.png
Basic Information
Map type: Control Point
File name: cp_degrootkeep
Released: December 17, 2010 Patch
(Australian Christmas)
Variants: Sandcastle
Developer(s): Valve
Map Info
Environment: Alpine
Setting: Daylight, Sunny
Hazards: Castle gate, Pitfall
Map Items
Healthico.png Health Kits: Medieval Meat.png ×2
Ammoico.png Ammo Boxes: Mediumammo.png ×4
Map Photos
Loading screen photos.
Map Overview
DeGroot Keep overview.png

This article is about Community DeGroot Keep strategy.

Note: It is recommended to read the main DeGroot Keep article first to become familiar with the names of key map locations used in this article.

General strategy

  • Remember that, in Medieval Mode, most primary and some secondary weapons are restricted, turning most fights melee-oriented. Playing in DeGroot Keep requires a different mindset and gameplay style, with classes that have more access to medieval mode weapons only should be used more.
    • Additionally, slain enemies always drop small health kits. Be sure to pick them up after every skirmish to prolong your survival.
  • It is possible to avoid taking fall damage when exiting the castle while the gate is closed. First, jump to the sign hanging above point A from the opposite wall, and then drop down onto the raised section of ground surrounding the point.
  • When capturing or defending the last point, it can get a bit hectic as both teams are fighting in the same enclosed space. Try to crouch in the corner and use your melee weapon to cause damage to any passing enemy that gets too close. Players usually mistake you for a ragdoll and continue attacking other players.
  • In DeGroot Keep, the rocks around the tower at point B can be traversed by either team to surprise the enemy, although it is harder for the BLU team to scale the rocks onto the point. This is a recommended route for Scouts and Spies.

Class-specific strategies

Leaderboard class scout.png Scout

Demonstration
  • Due to the cramped combat nature of the map, the Boston Basher has a good chance of dealing effective damage against enemies, especially on the final capture point. It is generally a good idea to try to hit as many players as possible to make them easier to kill.
  • The Boston Basher can be used to get to the inner yard even when the gate is closed. To do this, stand on the hill, then jump and hit yourself several times. You will be on the Sniper deck. Jump down and take a health pack. Then you can kill a few enemies there and escape.
  • While the Atomizer, with its lower damage, may not be ideal for combat, the triple jump it provides can make a Scout much more difficult to hit.
    • The Atomizer's triple jump can allow a Scout to shimmy up to the castle's battlements, as seen here and here.
  • The Bonk! Atomic Punch and Crit-a-Cola can give Scouts either temporary invunerability (at the cost of not being able to attack while activated and being slowed down from regular movement speed after consumption) or a temporary damage buff (at the cost of an active damage vulnerability when used) that can let you kill enemies faster than normal.
    • Bonk! Atomic Punch paired with a Sandman or Atomizer can give you the ability to safely do a taunt kill especially on crowded areas such as the control point.
  • The Mad Milk can turn the tide of large fights on points, especially in the cramped space of point C.
  • The Sandman can help allies kill opponents by slowing them, at the cost of lowered health.
    • Equipping the Flying Guillotine is recommended while using any of Scout's melees, as many secondary weapons are unavailable in Medieval mode, and the Flying Guillotine is one of the few ranged weaponry allowed.

Leaderboard class soldier.png Soldier

  • A very risky, but effective tactic on Point C is to use the Grenade taunt taunt. As the blast radius is quite large, it can effectively eliminate all enemies on the point. However, the taunt leaves you very vulnerable to all attacks, especially on a server with a lot of players.
  • The Half-Zatoichi and the Disciplinary Action are the only melee weapons for the Soldier that offer an extended reach. Consider using them to circumvent the naturally slow movement of the Soldier, which makes it tougher for him to get within range for melee engagements. The extra range also allows you to hit enemies without them hitting back at you.
    • The Disciplinary Action also allows you and your teammates to get to the control points faster.
    • Take extra caution while using the Half-Zatoichi, as a single hit from an opposing Half-Zatoichi wielder instantly kills you.
  • The Soldier can use any banners in Medieval mode. While you may not reach full rage very often, one activation can swing battles in your team's favor.
    • It may be more effective to use the Concheror or Battalion's Backup than the Buff Banner due to this, since they respectively give passive healing and bonus health.
    • If using the Half-Zatoichi, killing another player wielding it deals 300% of their health, which is often enough to fill your rage meter.
  • Landing on enemies from the battlements with the Mantreads deals about 90 damage, enough to kill light classes in one melee hit.

Leaderboard class pyro.png Pyro

  • The Back Scratcher can be used for situations that require more power than the average battle.
    • Because of the passive increase in healing received from health packs, the Back Scratcher is extremely beneficial for the Pyro as it further improves longevity. The weapon effectively allows the Pyro to earn 54 health back from fallen packs as opposed to the typical 35 health.
    • The Back Scratcher's base damage is actually among the highest of all melee weapons, surpassing even the Scotsman's Skullcutter, the strongest of the Demoman's "swords". The only weapons to equal or surpass it are the Shahanshah and Equalizer but only when the wielder is heavily damaged, and the Warrior's Spirit which applies a bonus 30% damage vulnerability to the user. Compared to a Demoknight with no heads, the Pyro doesn't have the extended reach or ability to charge, but can deal higher damage, has a higher base speed (or only 3% slower if they equip the Boots), can recover more health after each engagement than taking another head does, and is immune to flaming arrows.
  • The Powerjack increases your survivability and movement speed at the cost of extra damage from foes.
  • Using the Homewrecker is not a good idea, due to the damage bonus against buildings and the ability to remove Sappers from Sentry Guns made useless by the rule-restriction towards buildings.

Leaderboard class demoman.png Demoman

  • Demomen equipped with the Chargin' Targe, the Splendid Screen, or the Tide Turner can charge the large pile of rocks in the middle of the battlefield to launch themselves up to the castle's battlements, as shown in this [1] video.
  • Always consider carrying any of the alternate melee weapons that offer a longer reach. The Eyelander can greatly increase survivability and mobility through taking more heads, the Claidheamh Mòr offers a longer charge duration, the Half-Zatoichi has the ability to refill 50% health with every kill, keeping a player alive for a long time and the Scotsman's Skullcutter deals increased damage. It is worth noting that the speed penalty associated with the Scotsman's Skullcutter is less noticeable in Medieval mode, due to the smaller map size and the ability to charge.
    • Note, however, that the Skullcutter also slows down your charge.
    • Be wary of other Demomen and Soldiers with the Half-Zatoichi equipped, as they can kill you in a single hit.
  • The Ullapool Caber is very effective on the final Control point, as multiple members of both teams will often be fighting there simultaneously once it is unlocked. If charging in with the Chargin' Targe, a full Critical swing is capable of dealing upwards of 400 explosive damage, which can effectively clear the point in a single attack.
    • The Ullapool Caber may also be used to jump onto the Sniper platform as means of getting into the castle without the external Control Points being captured.
    • This is extremely useful for clearing control points, especially the final cap. Remember that you can hit the floor at the end of the charge if there are no enemies in range; it will still crit enemies in range of the blast.
  • If the last point is being contested, a good place to surprise attackers is on the battlements in front of the control point. Charging down toward the nook will effectively surprise and kill any enemies staying in there, as many people tend not to look up when checking for a surprise attack.

Leaderboard class heavy.png Heavy

  • The Sandvich and Buffalo Steak Sandvich are very useful on this map. The ability to heal teammates, as well as the Buffalo Steak's mini crits can make a huge difference in fights. Note, however, that you might accidentally heal an enemy if not careful.
  • On defense, with a bit of luck, the High Noon taunt can pick off enemies moving through the gate to the final control point.

Leaderboard class engineer.png Engineer

  • The Gunslinger gives you an additional 25 health aiding in your survivability. Additionally, the three hit combo can be used on the final control point to kill enemies defending it.
  • The Southern Hospitality causes enemies to bleed, making it extremely effective for Spy-checking in Medieval mode, since Pyros are less effective due to the inability to use their flamethrowers. Additionally, the fire vulnerability is negligible due to the very limited sources of fire-based damage on the map.

Leaderboard class medic.png Medic

  • As a class relatively weaker in health and attack, your real value to the team is your ability to heal several teammates at the same time with the Medicating Melody, especially when they are fighting over a point.
    • If you lead your teammates into the contested Capture points and get killed, you defeat your main purpose for being on the team; follow your team into the points.
  • Your second contribution is your ranged attack and heal with the Crusader's Crossbow, but its practical effectiveness is limited to outside the Keep.
    • On the Battlefield and Battlements, keep one eye out for the enemy Snipers and Medics and their missile fire and keep the other eye out for injured teammates to shoot and heal.
  • On offense:
    • On the Battlefield, always strive to keep several of your teammates between you and the Keep, retreat if the front ranks are beaten back.
    • As RED reinforcements are likely to jump from the Keep's Battlements when you are capping A or B, put your back up against the Keep when taunting (after Spy Checking, of course).
    • While your team is capturing the final Control Point, it is generally effective to fire your Crusader's Crossbow through the gate into the contested point. This can damage clustered enemies and heal allies at higher points due to the range.
  • On defense:
    • On the Courtyard point, standing in the corner with the bench, your Amputator taunt covers the whole Courtyard (except the point itself), but you should have a Demoknight covering you.
    • On Point B, while it can be a bit of a trap, the doorway provides deep cover (after Spy Checking) from which your Amputator taunt can cover the whole point.
    • On the Battlements, your Amputator taunt can cover the entire front Battlement, even if you are standing partway down the stairs for cover (watch out for BLU coming up the stairs).

Leaderboard class sniper.png Sniper

  • When on the BLU team, once the main gate opens (after capturing A and B), position yourself in front of the gate, and fire arrows toward the capture point, ducking to the side out of the gate's line of fire after each shot. People will be clustering around the capture point and it will be easy to hit opponents without much aiming.
  • Conversely, when on the RED team, once the main gate opens, put yourself in a position where you can shoot outwards through the main gate into the battlefield. As most enemies will be rushing in a straight line through the corridor toward you with melee weapons, it will be very easy to hit them as well.
    • Don't try to sit on the point and snipe outwards through the gate. It will make you an easy target for enemy Snipers. The other team can easily melee you to death before you can escape as well.
  • Either the Huntsman or the Fortified Compound should be the default armament for Snipers in Medieval mode. Remember that your arrows can be lit by using available torches, resulting in afterburn damage. This can also be used to tag enemies for teammates using the Sun-on-a-Stick or Axtinguisher.
  • RED Snipers on the battlements should keep an eye out for Demomen charging up the rocks onto the battlements.
    • Consider waiting below for Demomen to charge onto the battlements and headshot them in close-range when they attempt to come after you.
  • Arrows can pass through the holes in the gates and the tower window slits. Use these to remain hidden.
    • Keep in mind this will make you more vulnerable to enemy Snipers, as shooting through a window will give away your position and make you an easy target. There is also very little room for you to aim, as the boxes for the windows are small.
  • Snipers can ignite their arrows using the torches spread throughout DeGroot Keep and outside the BLU spawn.
  • There is a small hole in the rafters on the third floor in the tower of DeGroot Keep. RED Snipers can fall through this to quickly reach the second level on the stairs, which is a good spot for sniping enemies trying to capture the point.

Leaderboard class spy.png Spy

  • Surprisingly, a good place to decloak is right outside of the enemy's spawn. They usually come barreling out of there without a second glance to the side.
  • DeGroot Keep is a great place to practice and use trick stabs as the enemy can only use melee weapons, so their movements are very predictable, making it easier perform stair stabs and side stabs. Strafing to the side and stabbing charging Demomen can shut them down.
  • When you are on RED team, you can use the roof with the Dead Ringer to your advantage. As you fall and feign your death, you can pick up the Health kit that you drop.
  • The Spy-cicle recharges instantly upon being melted, making it arguably a straight upgrade from the Knife, disregarding the ice statues left after a backstab.
  • The Cloak and Dagger can allow you to effectively shut down a charging Demoman that is trimping on BLU with the rock, standing still while on the edge of the roof of the castle can block Demomen and make them take severe fall damage.