MAG Developer Tips: Squad Leader

Now that you’ve learned some general leadership techniques in MAG from the folks here at Zipper, it’s time to specialize. Your instructor for today is Zipper Interactive’s very own Audio Manager, Mary Olson. Watch this background video first and then check for Mary’s strategies immediately below.

Hi, this is Mary and today we’re going to take a closer look at the Squad Leader role – which is the first and most active of all leadership positions in MAG.

As an SL, you’re primary focus should be good Communication with your Squad and Platoon, strategic use of Waypoints and the Fragmentary Order system (FRAGOs), and using your Command Assets wisely.

Basic Tips

• If you don’t already, you should start playing with a headset. It will make communicating with your team much faster and more effective. Regardless of how you play, though, stay in close contact with your team – assign your squad to objectives, and coordinate. Don’t let them wonder what to do.
• Use of Fragmentary orders is a huge part of the Squad Leader role. Learn to FRAGO strategically, and your whole squad will benefit. Plus, bonus XP is awarded to anyone in your squad performing any action within a 20-meter radius of the FRAGO’d objective. Don’t worry about marking the default objective, though, it’s automatically FRAGO’s without you having to give the order and you still get the bonus!
• If you’re new to the Squad Leader role, start out in the simpler gametypes where there is less to FRAGO, and less going on. If you’re in a game with no SL, you can assume the role mid game, and try it out. Also, if you’re in over your head as a new SL, you can back out of the role without quitting the game.
• If you switch your spawn point as a Squad Leader, the rest of your squad also switches to that spawn point. If you’re stuck as a squad, this is a great way to try a new angle and bring your squad along with you.

Advanced Tips

• Use chat channels to coordinate with other Squad Leaders and Platoon Leader (Press the directional pad “Up”).
• FRAGO outside bunkers first and work your way across the line — this way you’re only taking fire from one side.
• Guided artillery only damages vehicles so don’t call it in on a bunch of guys running around. Conversely, your mortar barrage does not affect vehicles, so make sure to use guided artillery if vehicles are your target.
• If attacking, use Satellite UAV first. You’ll then be able to wisely use your cluster bombs and lessen friendly kills.
• “Platoon Leader Pause” – Once the AAA goes down, wait for the Platoon Leader to call in a strafing run or Precision Strike before calling in your own ability. Their command abilities have more impact, and you don’t want to start the cooldown timer and make them wait by calling in your assets first.

Thanks Mary, that’s some great advice. Speaking of great advice, we’ll be back again tomorrow with tips on how to become an effective Platoon Leader with Software Manager Mike Nicolino and designer Marc Janas. Over and out.