Unleash the Flames: Mastering the Backburner in Team Fortress 2
The Backburner is a unique flamethrower for the Pyro class in Team Fortress 2, rewarding opportunistic play and aggressive flanking maneuvers. Its primary function revolves around dealing critical hits when attacking enemies from behind. In short, the Backburner guarantees a critical hit on all back attacks as long as the Pyro has sufficient ammo, but at the cost of increased airblast cost. Let’s delve deeper into how this fiery instrument can turn you into a formidable force on the battlefield.
Understanding the Backburner’s Mechanics
The Backburner operates similarly to the standard Flamethrower but introduces a critical gameplay alteration. Instead of relying on random chance for critical hits, the Backburner provides 100% critical hits on enemies you are attacking from behind.
However, this potent advantage comes with a significant tradeoff: the Backburner consumes 50% more ammo per airblast, limiting your defensive capabilities and requiring more careful ammo management. This makes skillful positioning and target selection even more crucial for Backburner Pyros.
Back Attack Critical Hits Explained
The term “back attack” is key to understanding the Backburner’s effectiveness. A back attack occurs when you are attacking an enemy within approximately 120 degrees behind them. The critical hit is triggered as long as this angle is maintained while you are inflicting fire damage.
The Airblast Cost Conundrum
The increased airblast cost significantly impacts the Backburner Pyro’s playstyle. The airblast is essential for extinguishing teammates, reflecting projectiles, and performing combo attacks. Burning through ammo faster with each airblast necessitates a more conservative approach. You need to be more strategic with your airblasts.
Mastering the Backburner: Tips and Strategies
Becoming a proficient Backburner Pyro involves understanding its strengths and weaknesses and adapting your playstyle accordingly. Here are a few essential tips to help you dominate the battlefield:
- Flanking is Key: Prioritize flanking routes and surprise attacks. Position yourself to catch enemies unaware and deliver devastating back attacks.
- Target Priority: Focus on high-value targets like Medics, Snipers, and Heavies who are often less mobile and more vulnerable to back attacks.
- Ammo Management: Be mindful of your ammo. Utilize alternative weapons like the Shotgun or Flare Gun for finishing off weakened enemies or when ammo is scarce.
- Ambush Tactics: Use corners, doorways, and map features to set up ambushes and capitalize on unsuspecting enemies.
- Team Coordination: Communicate with your team and coordinate flanks to create opportunities for back attacks.
Complementary Loadouts: Pairing the Backburner for Maximum Impact
The Backburner’s effectiveness is amplified when paired with complementary secondary and melee weapons. Here are a few popular loadout combinations:
- Shotgun/Panic Attack: Provides a reliable backup weapon for close-quarters combat and when airblasts are limited. The Panic Attack, in particular, allows for aggressive burst damage.
- Flare Gun/Detonator/Scorch Shot: These options offer long-range harassment and combo potential. The Flare Gun inflicts critical hits on burning targets, while the Detonator and Scorch Shot provide mobility and area denial.
- Powerjack: Grants increased movement speed, allowing for faster flanking and more aggressive positioning. The Powerjack is perfect for closing the distance and surprising your opponents.
- Axtinguisher/Postal Pummeler/Homewrecker: These melee weapons can be useful in certain situations, the Axtinguisher allows for a quick burst of damage after igniting an enemy, the Postal Pummeler heals you on hit if the target is burning, and the Homewrecker can remove sappers from friendly buildings.
FAQs: Demystifying the Backburner
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Backburner to further clarify its intricacies:
1. Does the Backburner’s back attack bonus affect buildings?
No, the Backburner’s guaranteed critical hits only apply to enemy players, not buildings.
2. Can I use the Backburner effectively in head-on engagements?
While possible, it’s generally not recommended. The lack of random critical hits and increased airblast cost make the Backburner less effective in direct confrontations compared to other flamethrowers.
3. How does the Backburner affect my ability to extinguish teammates?
The increased airblast cost significantly reduces your ability to extinguish teammates. Conserve your airblasts for crucial moments.
4. Does the Backburner’s back attack work against cloaked Spies?
Yes, the Backburner’s back attack bonus applies to cloaked Spies as long as you are attacking them from behind.
5. Is the Backburner good for beginners?
Not necessarily. The Backburner requires a strong understanding of map awareness, positioning, and ammo management. It’s generally recommended for more experienced Pyro players.
6. How do I counter a Backburner Pyro?
Stay aware of your surroundings, avoid predictable routes, and listen for the distinctive sound of the Backburner’s flames. Pyros can also be countered by long-range classes like Sniper and Soldier.
7. Does the Backburner synergize well with the Phlogistinator?
No, the Phlogistinator removes the airblast, making the Backburner’s increased airblast cost irrelevant and removing the ability to reflect projectiles or quickly extinguish teammates, thus making the Backburner almost useless.
8. What is the best map for using the Backburner?
Maps with plenty of flanking routes and enclosed spaces, such as Badwater Basin or Granary, tend to favor Backburner Pyros.
9. How does the Backburner compare to the Degreaser?
The Degreaser prioritizes fast weapon switching for combo attacks, while the Backburner focuses on flanking and guaranteed critical hits. They cater to different playstyles.
10. Can the Backburner be used effectively in competitive play?
Yes, but it requires a skilled player and a team that can support the Backburner Pyro’s flanking playstyle. It’s not as universally used as other flamethrowers but can be effective in certain situations.
11. Does the Backburner’s increased airblast cost affect the compression blast’s knockback?
No, the knockback effect of the compression blast remains the same. Only the ammo consumption is affected.
12. Does the Backburner have any hidden stats or attributes?
No, the Backburner’s stats are clearly defined: guaranteed critical hits on back attacks and increased airblast cost. There are no hidden or undocumented attributes.
13. Can I airblast myself upwards with the Backburner for mobility?
Yes, you can use the airblast for a small vertical boost. However, the increased ammo cost makes this less efficient than with other flamethrowers.
14. Is the Backburner considered a “noob” weapon?
While some players may consider it so due to its reliance on flanking, mastering the Backburner requires skill and strategic thinking. It’s more about exploiting opportunities than relying on cheap tactics.
15. Where can I learn more about advanced TF2 strategies?
You can find valuable resources and communities dedicated to Team Fortress 2 strategy and gameplay on forums, YouTube channels, and websites like the Games Learning Society at https://www.gameslearningsociety.org/, where you can learn about game-based learning and the educational aspects of gaming.
By understanding its mechanics, practicing effective strategies, and mastering the art of surprise attacks, you can transform the Backburner into a devastating weapon in your Pyro arsenal. So go forth, embrace the flames, and dominate the battlefield with fiery precision!