New to squad leading, gimme a break!

**roguesniper** · 03-10-2008, 08:03 PM

Just a vent post guys. Last night i was in the server and i assumed the role of squad leader after the original SL bailed out as commander. I am new to BF and i was trying my best, but obviously i dont know everything there is to know about SL duties as yet. One of my TG comrades who happened to be in my squad was extremely critical and borderline disrepectful all on the voip system for the rest of the squad to hear. Now i know i made some mistakes and if anything a little help would have been appropriate, especially from a fellow TG. Now i will not mention any names but this particular player happens to be an excellent player and someone i would say non TG people would look to as an example. What kind of example is it to criticize a fellow TG member in public, anyone thats ever been in the REAL military will tell you, " praise in public, admonish in private" No big deal all around but just a little support next time would be appreciated. I am new to TG and BF2142 myself and from the beginning i thought and still think TG is one of the classiest gaming outfits ive ever seen, I would hope it will stay that way. Thanks for the time.

snipe ya lata:

Rogue

**Lorax74** · 03-10-2008, 08:14 PM

Rogue,

Thank you for addressing this issue. I'd like to take a moment to say that we were all new once upon a time, none of us picked up the game, jumped right into the SL hot seat and became an instant success. And I beg to differ about this not being a big deal, I believe it is - we all want to be treated fairly and respectfully.

Quote:

"praise in public, admonish in private"

Excellent point, I hope people take this heart.

**Jimmy Jammer** · 03-10-2008, 08:20 PM

We have all been there before and it will probably happen again at some point. Players have different styles and sometimes the SL has to figure out who is best at what. That does not happen in a round or two. So kind of view it as a series of pick up basketball games. You never know who will be on your team but over time you get familiar enough with the role of SL that it will not matter. We all hd to start someplace and thats as a lonely nub SL who does their best. Then some smartazz always needs to criticize our faults rather than lend a teaching hand. Hang in there and you will be running killer squads soon enough. I will join you when we are IG together...JJ

**bb gun** · 03-11-2008, 12:17 AM

You're absolutely right. We need to support each other (with more than just ammo boxes). There's a lot to learn, and we should teach each other through encouragement, not criticism.

Being a SL or CO on the TG servers is intimidating to say the least.
Thanks for stepping up to the plate and being a leader.

**Dirtboy** · 03-11-2008, 12:41 AM

This also goes for different variants of the Battlefield Series. While I pride myself on being an excellent PR Squad Leader...I find it extremely difficult for 2142 and PoE. People get the perception that you know all because you wear the TG tag. I had the same predicament as you did. I was on the 2142 server and decided to make a Squad to try this out. At the time (still am) I was really new to the whole 2142 thing and knew very little about all the SL perks. I had people yelling at me to deploy beacons and other thingy's, and I told them I didn't know how. I tried and tried. So they immediatly got frustrated and left my squad and I quit 2142. Well, little did I know that these things were unlockable items and I didn't receive them yet. The same thing goes for the CO chair. But don't get discouraged like I did, stick it out. I am sure that you will get the hang of it quickly. Just get yourself a mentor (mine was JohnC), and emulate him.

**Superfast** · 03-11-2008, 03:30 AM

Cudos for you for trying and all good advice here.

However, could it be that the other TG'er could not hear you and perhaps got frustrated by that somehow? I've been SL'ing or just SM'ing with people just not listening to me, and the problem was low or no mic. Just a tip.

Also, there are well respected players out there that may just not be the same type of person you are, and you might never get along. I still meet fellow TG'ers that i really can't connect to even if i try, it's just because we are all different i guess....

Baggy911 · 03-11-2008, 05:42 AM

SL'ing is something that you get better at as you do it more. Ideally, you shouldn't really SL a full 6-man squad unless you have good experience, but I suppose exceptions are allowed.

**Rasta-GR** · 03-11-2008, 07:58 AM

Hello rougue.

Quote:

Originally Posted by roguesniper

... One of my TG comrades who happened to be in my squad was extremely critical and borderline disrepectful all on the voip system for the rest of the squad to hear.

Ha, no TG ethos here!

Do not get dissapointed if someone was like that. It happens sometimes.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baggy911

... Ideally, you shouldn't really SL a full 6-man squad unless you have good experience, but I suppose exceptions are allowed.

Wrong!

The best way to learn SLing, is with a full squad.

On the squad screen, just say to your SMs that you are a new SL and you need their understanding and support.

Anyone that do not like to play with a new SL, can leave the squad.

In adition, feel free to kick disrespectful or problematic SMs from your squad.

Simple.

We also have a reporting procedure, for members and players that violate the TG rules and the TG Primer.

If you see me on the server or on TeamSpeak, send me an invite! I am willing to help you.

See you.

**MDFubar** · 03-11-2008, 08:58 AM

Hey Rogue,
Great job stepping up and as Lorax said, this is a big deal. I SL 99% of the time and it has just become habit. People get frustrated and sometimes let that get the best of them, and then there are people who do not come accross..........well not as good with people skills but maybe mean well. Bommando(god this will probably come back to haunt me) was a grerat axeample of someone who was very harsh, but meant well and never meant(I think) to offend anyone. Just his style.
If that person really bothered you, maybe send them a PM and explain how they made you feel.... they may not know.
As for Sl'ing, catch me on TS when I am playing and I will join your squad as an SM. It takes alot on this server to do that job, alot of practice and playing with everyone to learn thier styles and they to learn yours. I am not the best Sl, but will always offer anyone some advice, right or wrong.
P.S. Catch me before I start a squad....lol.
I look forward to teaming up with you.

**Zoticus** · 03-11-2008, 09:52 AM

I SL about 50% of the time. Feel free to invite me to your squad if you see me on and I'd be happy to help in any small way I can.

-Zot

TOOmuchMcLovin · 03-11-2008, 08:16 PM

You've been picking up great, i've played with ya. Dont let the "heavys" get you down.

And fubar, you must hate me

killing me all the time! :P

**Jakaleel** · 03-12-2008, 02:25 PM

Hey rougue, Remember good leaders are trained, not born. Training takes time. Stick with it and don't get frustrated. When the squad succeeds, you can bask in the warm glow of their glorious victory. When the squad fails, it's your failure.
Check out the Battlefield 2142 - Tactics and Missions Discussion on the forums
Guides: http://www.tacticalgamer.com/battlef...ns-discussion/
See the squad leading guides. They make great reading and re-reading.

**LordMeatwad** · 03-12-2008, 05:44 PM

I've been squad leading for a long time on the TG server and can offer a simple guide to help any starting squad leader:

Wizards First Rule: As a squad leader you are a mobile spawn point for your squad.

Key Guide: (defaults or can be reset in options)
'V' - Voice to squad
'B' - Voice to commander
'T' - Tactical command - explained below
'left alt' - 3D map
'caplocks' - map overview
'8' - squad unlock item
'Q' - spotting key - spots enemy unit/calls it out in game/displays unit on minimap for army

Giving Commands - Most important to keep Squad members off your back

1. Voice - hardest since doing correctly requires knowledge of all flag names, other then that this is self explanitory.

2. Tactical command key - - fastest
When the 3D map is up small flag icons (green, orange, gray) appear onscreen high above flag locations. (If you don't see these hit your 'left alt' key) If you put your cursor over these flags they highlight by outlineing in yellow. Once highlighted simply tap the 'T' key + the left mouse button and the apropriate order will be issued automaticly (ie attack or defend). If you hold down the T key a comma rose will appear allowing you to ask your commander for a uav/supply drop/orbital strike/etc. If you tap the T key without highlighting a flag it will issue a move order to where your cursor is pointed

3. Map Overview - The best use this

When you hit the cap locks (default) your mini map will overtake your screen. Using this is your best option for acquiring a Sit Rep of the entire battlefield as well as the objective you are going for. When the Map overview is up your mouse cursor is free you can place it over any area and right click the mouse. All of your available commands will appear includeing your commander support requests. * As a frequent squad leader this is my best friend - i check it often, in fact i check it everytime i go down (just remember if you are revived to quickly hit cap locks again to run or fire). If you are still revivable this is a great time to issue commands or request commander support while one of your squadies get around to popping you up. The Map Overview will show you were your whole army is and show any enemys spotted/IDS'ed/ or UAV'ed. This tool is essencial to a squad leader - use it to determine weak spots in enemy defense, weak spots in your own army, and most importantly where you want to squad to spawn.

4. Commander order
When a commander issues a order as SL just hit 'page up' and the command will be given to your squad. never hit 'page down'

not on a TG server anyway

Squad leader items:
By hitting '8' you will bring up your squad leader items you have unlocked and equiped to your kit.
3 types:
Squad beacon - puts down a spawn point for your squad which will remain up even if the squad leader goes down. * if you place it under something it will be unspawnable and show up as a green dot with a red ring around it on the spawn screen 'enter' key. You can pick it back up with the 'G' key.
Otus drone - puts a drone above squadleaders head that will show near by enemies on the minimap if a soldier is looking at them or in their direction (works to spot enemies behind cover)
Attack drone - AKA Spanky puts a drone above your head that will fire at enemies on your NET BAT system (red diamonds)

Squad leader Philosopy
Each player here at TG plays different and has different ideas. However here are two basic SL philosopies to start with:

Command from the front - good for indirect assaults
Indirect assaults like back runs or sneak attacks this allows the squad leader to run point while squad members follow if the SL goes down his squad behind him should easily revive him. Commanding from the front is good for making runs but if the whole squad goes done its to that far away flag for you and your squad.

Command from the rear - good for direct assaults
Because the SL is a mobile spawn point (when beacon is not deployed) this works surprising well when directly attacking a flag and an enemy army. To command from the rear find a close well covered (safe) spot about a full sprint distance from the flag. Have your squad spawn off of you and coordinate their attack (ie don't let them go one by one). If they fail they all spawn on you closer to the flag for a quicker assault. While in this "safe" spot you can check your Map Overview to relay enemy locations to your squad and plan your next move. U may also want your squad to put up an IDS, ammo hub and med kit (multi) in this spot to help you defend if the enemy seeks you out. Hint change the safe spot often thus "mobile" spawn point. Support kit is good when you first try this as you can put up your own IDS and then shotgun incoming enemies.

**DaBrit** · 03-12-2008, 05:59 PM

Just a comment on the squad beacon - while it is great in certain situations, never forget that it is a situational device. Keeping a beacon down and not moving it is the quickest way to destroy squad integrity. When the beacon is down, your squad can no longer spawn on you, and thus will be spawning in one-by-one and removed from the rest of the squad. When the squad leader is functioning as the spawn point, they define the location of the squad in the game, and squad members who die are then able to spawn in right in the middle of the rest of the squad.

Do not throw a beacon down and forget about it, or throw a beacon down and think that your job as spawn point is done. While beacons definitely have their place (assaulting back flags, etc) one of the most common mistakes I see new squad leaders making is throwing them down somewhere without a clear objective in mind, or not picking them up once the objective has been completed.

I also want to add something all squad leaders who are using a beacon should know -- if you lay a beacon down, and it gets destroyed, your squad will not be able to spawn on you until you either respawn or lay down another beacon and pick it back up.

**jazy2** · 03-12-2008, 07:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by DaBrit

I also want to add something all squad leaders who are using a beacon should know -- if you lay a beacon down, and it gets destroyed, your squad will not be able to spawn on you until you either respawn or lay down another beacon and pick it back up.

Just thought that needed to be stated again, it's surprising how many people don't know this!

03-10-2008, 08:03 PM	#1 (permalink)
roguesniper Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: NY Posts: 101	New to squad leading, gimme a break! Just a vent post guys. Last night i was in the server and i assumed the role of squad leader after the original SL bailed out as commander. I am new to BF and i was trying my best, but obviously i dont know everything there is to know about SL duties as yet. One of my TG comrades who happened to be in my squad was extremely critical and borderline disrepectful all on the voip system for the rest of the squad to hear. Now i know i made some mistakes and if anything a little help would have been appropriate, especially from a fellow TG. Now i will not mention any names but this particular player happens to be an excellent player and someone i would say non TG people would look to as an example. What kind of example is it to criticize a fellow TG member in public, anyone thats ever been in the REAL military will tell you, " praise in public, admonish in private" No big deal all around but just a little support next time would be appreciated. I am new to TG and BF2142 myself and from the beginning i thought and still think TG is one of the classiest gaming outfits ive ever seen, I would hope it will stay that way. Thanks for the time. snipe ya lata: Rogue __________________ "Only the Dead have seen the end of War"..........

03-10-2008, 08:20 PM	#3 (permalink)
Jimmy Jammer Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Northampton, MA Age: 48 Posts: 141	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! We have all been there before and it will probably happen again at some point. Players have different styles and sometimes the SL has to figure out who is best at what. That does not happen in a round or two. So kind of view it as a series of pick up basketball games. You never know who will be on your team but over time you get familiar enough with the role of SL that it will not matter. We all hd to start someplace and thats as a lonely nub SL who does their best. Then some smartazz always needs to criticize our faults rather than lend a teaching hand. Hang in there and you will be running killer squads soon enough. I will join you when we are IG together...JJ __________________ \|TG-55\| Infantry Division

03-11-2008, 12:17 AM	#4 (permalink)
bb gun Join Date: Oct 2007 Location: Durango, CO Age: 36 Posts: 172	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! You're absolutely right. We need to support each other (with more than just ammo boxes). There's a lot to learn, and we should teach each other through encouragement, not criticism. Being a SL or CO on the TG servers is intimidating to say the least. Thanks for stepping up to the plate and being a leader. __________________ \|TG-9th\| BBgun. - I'll put your eye out, kid.

03-11-2008, 12:41 AM	#5 (permalink)
Dirtboy Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Las Vegas! Age: 24 Posts: 2,922	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! This also goes for different variants of the Battlefield Series. While I pride myself on being an excellent PR Squad Leader...I find it extremely difficult for 2142 and PoE. People get the perception that you know all because you wear the TG tag. I had the same predicament as you did. I was on the 2142 server and decided to make a Squad to try this out. At the time (still am) I was really new to the whole 2142 thing and knew very little about all the SL perks. I had people yelling at me to deploy beacons and other thingy's, and I told them I didn't know how. I tried and tried. So they immediatly got frustrated and left my squad and I quit 2142. Well, little did I know that these things were unlockable items and I didn't receive them yet. The same thing goes for the CO chair. But don't get discouraged like I did, stick it out. I am sure that you will get the hang of it quickly. Just get yourself a mentor (mine was JohnC), and emulate him. __________________ \|TG-6th\| Dirtboy Need an Admin? \| Want to help TG? \| The 6th Devil's Brigade !Reporting Skud for one-manning himself! A.Wickens

03-11-2008, 03:30 AM	#6 (permalink)
Superfast Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: Norway Age: 32 Posts: 1,671	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! Cudos for you for trying and all good advice here. However, could it be that the other TG'er could not hear you and perhaps got frustrated by that somehow? I've been SL'ing or just SM'ing with people just not listening to me, and the problem was low or no mic. Just a tip. Also, there are well respected players out there that may just not be the same type of person you are, and you might never get along. I still meet fellow TG'ers that i really can't connect to even if i try, it's just because we are all different i guess.... __________________ TG-E1st TacticalGamer European Division \| Team up with us today! xfire: superfastkill steam: Superfast

03-11-2008, 05:42 AM	#7 (permalink)
Baggy911 Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 28	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! SL'ing is something that you get better at as you do it more. Ideally, you shouldn't really SL a full 6-man squad unless you have good experience, but I suppose exceptions are allowed.

03-11-2008, 08:58 AM	#9 (permalink)
MDFubar Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: New Castle, DE Age: 40 Posts: 1,585	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! Hey Rogue, Great job stepping up and as Lorax said, this is a big deal. I SL 99% of the time and it has just become habit. People get frustrated and sometimes let that get the best of them, and then there are people who do not come accross..........well not as good with people skills but maybe mean well. Bommando(god this will probably come back to haunt me) was a grerat axeample of someone who was very harsh, but meant well and never meant(I think) to offend anyone. Just his style. If that person really bothered you, maybe send them a PM and explain how they made you feel.... they may not know. As for Sl'ing, catch me on TS when I am playing and I will join your squad as an SM. It takes alot on this server to do that job, alot of practice and playing with everyone to learn thier styles and they to learn yours. I am not the best Sl, but will always offer anyone some advice, right or wrong. P.S. Catch me before I start a squad....lol. I look forward to teaming up with you. __________________ "No bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. He won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country." - General George Patton Jr

03-11-2008, 09:52 AM	#10 (permalink)
Zoticus Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: Ottawa, Canada Age: 31 Posts: 44	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! I SL about 50% of the time. Feel free to invite me to your squad if you see me on and I'd be happy to help in any small way I can. -Zot __________________ \|TG-Irr\| - Zoticus77 Irregs' Platoon Alpha > BeSiege ist mein Capitan!!

03-11-2008, 08:16 PM	#11 (permalink)
TOOmuchMcLovin Join Date: Feb 2008 Posts: 352	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! You've been picking up great, i've played with ya. Dont let the "heavys" get you down. And fubar, you must hate me killing me all the time! :P __________________ Bf2142-TOOmuchMcLovin America's Army- -=No.Ob=-McLovin Bf2-TOOmuchSEX

03-12-2008, 02:25 PM	#12 (permalink)
Jakaleel Join Date: Mar 2007 Location: The Capital District Posts: 410	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! Hey rougue, Remember good leaders are trained, not born. Training takes time. Stick with it and don't get frustrated. When the squad succeeds, you can bask in the warm glow of their glorious victory. When the squad fails, it's your failure. Check out the Battlefield 2142 - Tactics and Missions Discussion on the forums Guides: http://www.tacticalgamer.com/battlef...ns-discussion/ See the squad leading guides. They make great reading and re-reading. __________________ \|TG-21\| Jakaleel New to TG? Start here - 21st Tactical Wiki -There are some forms of insanity which, driven to an ultimate expression, can become the new models of sanity. --BuSab Manual Ad mortem talem navis et peditis

03-12-2008, 05:44 PM	#13 (permalink)
LordMeatwad Join Date: Apr 2007 Location: New Jersey Age: 27 Posts: 573	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! I've been squad leading for a long time on the TG server and can offer a simple guide to help any starting squad leader: Wizards First Rule: As a squad leader you are a mobile spawn point for your squad. Key Guide: (defaults or can be reset in options) 'V' - Voice to squad 'B' - Voice to commander 'T' - Tactical command - explained below 'left alt' - 3D map 'caplocks' - map overview '8' - squad unlock item 'Q' - spotting key - spots enemy unit/calls it out in game/displays unit on minimap for army Giving Commands - Most important to keep Squad members off your back 1. Voice - hardest since doing correctly requires knowledge of all flag names, other then that this is self explanitory. 2. Tactical command key - - fastest When the 3D map is up small flag icons (green, orange, gray) appear onscreen high above flag locations. (If you don't see these hit your 'left alt' key) If you put your cursor over these flags they highlight by outlineing in yellow. Once highlighted simply tap the 'T' key + the left mouse button and the apropriate order will be issued automaticly (ie attack or defend). If you hold down the T key a comma rose will appear allowing you to ask your commander for a uav/supply drop/orbital strike/etc. If you tap the T key without highlighting a flag it will issue a move order to where your cursor is pointed 3. Map Overview - The best use this When you hit the cap locks (default) your mini map will overtake your screen. Using this is your best option for acquiring a Sit Rep of the entire battlefield as well as the objective you are going for. When the Map overview is up your mouse cursor is free you can place it over any area and right click the mouse. All of your available commands will appear includeing your commander support requests. * As a frequent squad leader this is my best friend - i check it often, in fact i check it everytime i go down (just remember if you are revived to quickly hit cap locks again to run or fire). If you are still revivable this is a great time to issue commands or request commander support while one of your squadies get around to popping you up. The Map Overview will show you were your whole army is and show any enemys spotted/IDS'ed/ or UAV'ed. This tool is essencial to a squad leader - use it to determine weak spots in enemy defense, weak spots in your own army, and most importantly where you want to squad to spawn. 4. Commander order When a commander issues a order as SL just hit 'page up' and the command will be given to your squad. never hit 'page down' not on a TG server anyway Squad leader items: By hitting '8' you will bring up your squad leader items you have unlocked and equiped to your kit. 3 types: Squad beacon - puts down a spawn point for your squad which will remain up even if the squad leader goes down. * if you place it under something it will be unspawnable and show up as a green dot with a red ring around it on the spawn screen 'enter' key. You can pick it back up with the 'G' key. Otus drone - puts a drone above squadleaders head that will show near by enemies on the minimap if a soldier is looking at them or in their direction (works to spot enemies behind cover) Attack drone - AKA Spanky puts a drone above your head that will fire at enemies on your NET BAT system (red diamonds) Squad leader Philosopy Each player here at TG plays different and has different ideas. However here are two basic SL philosopies to start with: Command from the front - good for indirect assaults Indirect assaults like back runs or sneak attacks this allows the squad leader to run point while squad members follow if the SL goes down his squad behind him should easily revive him. Commanding from the front is good for making runs but if the whole squad goes done its to that far away flag for you and your squad. Command from the rear - good for direct assaults Because the SL is a mobile spawn point (when beacon is not deployed) this works surprising well when directly attacking a flag and an enemy army. To command from the rear find a close well covered (safe) spot about a full sprint distance from the flag. Have your squad spawn off of you and coordinate their attack (ie don't let them go one by one). If they fail they all spawn on you closer to the flag for a quicker assault. While in this "safe" spot you can check your Map Overview to relay enemy locations to your squad and plan your next move. U may also want your squad to put up an IDS, ammo hub and med kit (multi) in this spot to help you defend if the enemy seeks you out. Hint change the safe spot often thus "mobile" spawn point. Support kit is good when you first try this as you can put up your own IDS and then shotgun incoming enemies. __________________ \|TG-21\| LordMeatwad XBOX live = TG Lordmeatwad AoC = Neovalan Ireforge New to TG? Start here - Ribbon Nominations! - Become a Supporting Member 21st Tactical Wiki - TG Admins Thank you to P.Drona for this Sig and Avatar!

03-12-2008, 05:59 PM	#14 (permalink)
DaBrit Join Date: Nov 2007 Location: Albany, NY Posts: 741	Re: New to squad leading, gimme a break! Just a comment on the squad beacon - while it is great in certain situations, never forget that it is a situational device. Keeping a beacon down and not moving it is the quickest way to destroy squad integrity. When the beacon is down, your squad can no longer spawn on you, and thus will be spawning in one-by-one and removed from the rest of the squad. When the squad leader is functioning as the spawn point, they define the location of the squad in the game, and squad members who die are then able to spawn in right in the middle of the rest of the squad. Do not throw a beacon down and forget about it, or throw a beacon down and think that your job as spawn point is done. While beacons definitely have their place (assaulting back flags, etc) one of the most common mistakes I see new squad leaders making is throwing them down somewhere without a clear objective in mind, or not picking them up once the objective has been completed. I also want to add something all squad leaders who are using a beacon should know -- if you lay a beacon down, and it gets destroyed, your squad will not be able to spawn on you until you either respawn or lay down another beacon and pick it back up. __________________ TG-9th - By Any Means

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