At Tactical Gamer the aim is to execute a well oiled plan that will be able to complete your team's objective. This plan often has a few slight weak points that the other team, if lucky enough to stumble upon one, can break through the defense (or offense) and make life hard on you. My aim is to point out a few of the aspects of what I like to call "The Buddy System" that has saved a round (and my buddies.)

What is The Buddy System? The Buddy System in Counter-Strike Source is when at the beginning of a new map you pick someone that you work well with and stick with them until the map has ended. The Buddy System is great for open-ended maps (ones with a lot of holes that must be plugged while defending.)

What are squads? Squads are essentially the same as the buddy system but can be much more effectively used on the offensive. There are normally two squads (sometimes three) during a map and split as evenly as possible. A squad leader should be designated; one that is competent and gives orders well.

How can I use these tactics to my advantage? Simple, make a suggestion to your team during the round. Most of them will be thrilled with this idea since organization makes game play run much more smoothly. Gamers normally see that The Buddy System and squads also seem much more realistic and tactical, even more so if the other team is not taking advantage of team work.

Do I need these tactics during a game? Yes! Organization and communication is key to winning a round. If you were to join nearly ANY other server you would see what I mean. Everyone presses F1 and runs off to meet the opposition, then you have a head on fire-fight with much pray-and-spray and everyone relying on the source engine to make their trigger pull a head shot. Similarly, you see others go off on their own, die for lack of back up, and have one whole side of the map compromised. Now your team has the disadvantage.

By being a Tactical Gamer you are proving that you will take the responsibility of ensuring your team's success. The absolute best way to do that is to put on your leader's cap and start barking orders (sometimes making others do the same.) Do not worry about others minding or getting upset, because you know if your tactics make you leader-worthy and if they do not then you should be scratching at the others to take command.

I hope you utilize these tactics and look for more in depth squad strategy to come. Thanks for the read, all comments/suggestions welcomed!