1. Duelists
Duelists are the frontline fighters, built for aggressive play and taking down enemies. Their kits are designed to help them engage in one-on-one fights, entry frag, and create opportunities by eliminating opponents. Duelists are generally responsible for getting into high-risk situations to create openings for their team.
Key Characteristics:
- High mobility and self-sufficiency.
- Abilities focused on dealing damage or gaining positioning advantage.
- Designed for players with strong aim and reflexes.
Popular Duelists: Jett, Reyna, Phoenix, Raze, Yoru
Tips for Playing Duelists:
- Take the lead when entering contested areas or "hot zones."
- Use your abilities to create distractions and get favorable positions.
- Always look for chances to initiate fights and pick off key targets.
2. Initiators
Initiators are the setup specialists, equipped with tools to gather information, disrupt enemy positions, and create entry points for their team. They excel at flushing out opponents from key areas, forcing them to reposition or become vulnerable.
Key Characteristics:
- Abilities that reveal enemy locations or hinder their movements.
- Strong utility for engaging opponents and creating safe entry points.
- Ideal for players who prioritize strategic play and support.
Popular Initiators: Sova, Skye, Breach, KAY/O, Fade
Tips for Playing Initiators:
- Use abilities to scout and clear dangerous areas, giving your team the advantage.
- Coordinate with Duelists to time your utility for maximum impact.
- Initiators can be the difference between a successful push and a stalled attack, so timing and positioning are key.
3. Controllers
Controllers are the tacticians, specializing in manipulating sightlines and controlling the battlefield. Their smoke, gas, and area control abilities allow them to obstruct enemy vision, making it safer for their team to advance or defend. Controllers play a vital role in controlling the pace and flow of the game.
Key Characteristics:
- Smokes and area-denial abilities.
- Strong influence over key chokepoints and map areas.
- Essential for both offensive and defensive strategies.
Popular Controllers: Omen, Brimstone, Astra, Viper, Harbor
Tips for Playing Controllers:
- Time your smoke placements to block enemy sightlines during attacks or defenses.
- Focus on covering high-traffic areas and major entrances to control enemy movement.
- Communicate with your team to ensure that your smokes benefit their playstyles.
4. Sentinels
Sentinels are defensive experts, primarily focused on holding positions and supporting teammates. They excel at anchoring sites, setting traps, and providing support abilities like healing or resurrection. Sentinels are crucial for both locking down sites and supporting teammates during retakes or post-plant scenarios.
Key Characteristics:
- Defensive utility for anchoring and locking down areas.
- Abilities that offer healing or support to teammates.
- Great for players who enjoy a methodical, patient playstyle.
Popular Sentinels: Sage, Cypher, Killjoy, Chamber
Tips for Playing Sentinels:
- Set up traps, barriers, or devices to cover entry points and slow enemy advances.
- Communicate with your team to provide healing or revives in crucial moments.
- As a Sentinel, you’re the backbone of your team’s defense, so focus on denying enemy advances and protecting high-value areas.