SURVIVING TANK  ASSAULTS
by  Luke
Team Tried & Convicted  -Orlando Fl.

One of the tactics that was not mentioned in dealing with tanks involves a defensive move for the individual player. All too often, a tank can scare off a large number of players that started off as strong force. The mere sight of a tank makes most inexperience run away before its gunners are even in range. I've learned from experience that a tank has little advantage on the well position player. 

Seriously, what can a tank do?
    Tanks are limited to cleared roads for there passage, and they are limited in there range and angles of attack. The rules regarding the tanks mobility tend to cripple its effectiveness as an offensive weapon. Fear is its greatest advantage. Take away the fear of a tank assault and you are left with nothing more than a rolling bunker. Now who is afraid of a silly old bunker??

So why worry about them at all?
     Its my experience that the players following the tank for coverage is the greater concern. The tank crew themselves couldn't do as much damage to a base as could the 20 enemy players following behind it as it clears the path. These players suffer from the reverse end of the "fear factor" spectrum. They believe that since they are moving behind the tank that it will protect them. A well position player that digs in during a tank attack, has a great opportunity to trash the poor slobs that think the tank offers protection for them.

Whack 'em in the back?
     Lets look at a typical example of a routine tank assault that took place at Wayne's World's Millennium Scenario. Scott and I brought a team of about 30 players to the back door of the north base. A tank rolled up the road just north of sinker town, and all but 5 of us stayed dug in. One by one, we picked off about 20 players walking behind the tank, and then a laws took out the tank. What could have been a major push on our base was crushed by a handful of players. 

This style of play doesn't work in all situations of course. I've been stitched properly by a tank when I didn't have the best coverage. I've tried to stay away from those areas since then. The key here is to not get afraid and high tail it to a safe spot. Use your brain and let them walk right in. Spring your trap and diffuse what could have been a nasty situation.

Luke
Tried & Convicted