How to Use Shaft (Tips and Tricks)

See also: Tips and Tricks, Shaft

Pros

• There are two usage modes, arcade and sniping, which can be highly effective when dealing with different situations.
• Shaft has very high accuracy in sniping mode. Players can aim shots at the enemy by centring the crosshair on their tank.
• Shaft has the highest damage per shot of all turrets when in sniping mode; it can destroy Hunter or lighter hulls in one shot.
• You can expend a controlled amount of ammo to destroy an enemy, without having to spend extra energy.
• Shaft has infinite range.

Cons

• Shaft has the lowest turret rotation speed and rotates even slower in sniping mode. It is hard for the turret to catch up with close enemies that go around the player in circles.
• Shaft players are immobile in sniping mode and have a narrow FOV, making them extremely vulnerable to ambushes from the side or rear.
• You cannot enter sniping mode without having full energy.
• When aiming in sniping mode, a laser pointer appears right on the crosshair. This will reveal the location of a hidden Shaft user.
• Shaft takes a long time to fully recharge its energy.

Hull combinations for Shaft

It is not ideal for a Shaft player to hide in the same location for extended periods of time, as enemies will eventually try to seek revenge by attacking the player with careful preparation. Therefore, some players prefer to change positions rapidly and use light hulls such as Wasp and Hornet. However, it is more beneficial for the player to find camping positions with a good view over the entire map, and thus try to stay there for the duration of the battle. Without the concern of mobility, heavier hulls such as Mammoth can be used, although it might be condemned by some experienced tankers for the lesser dependence on skill. A dynamic playstyle involving Medium hulls can also be adopted, depending on the changing situation in the battle.

Gamemodes for Shaft

• DM: Identify camping positions that are difficult to approach from the rear. Keep an eye out for suitable targets and prioritize engaging light or medium hulls that can be eliminated with a single full sniper shot. Avoid targeting heavy hulls or enemies equipped with Protection against Shaft; wait for them to be weakened by other enemies before delivering the final blow. If possible, form alliances with other Shaft players, as working together can offer protection against threats from other players. All types of hulls can be utilized effectively in this game mode.
• TDM: Using heavy hulls such as Titan and Mammoth is highly recommended to prevent getting destroyed quickly by enemies. Look for suitable camping positions with ample cover and prioritize targeting enemies vulnerable to the Shaft's firepower. While the battle score may increase at a slower pace, it's essential to eliminate heavy hulls with strong firepower when no higher-priority enemies are present.
• CTF/CP: In this game mode, the mission of a Shaft would be to protect a flag, a control point, or a strategic pathway from enemy assault. Consequently, a heavy hull would be well-suited for this purpose. Focus on a crucial path while concealing your laser pointer; when an enemy comes into view, deal as much damage to it as possible. Additionally, you can move around the area to monitor multiple directions simultaneously and stay alert to the presence of enemies.

General Tips for Shaft

• Play on large maps with adequate cover and wide, open views.
• While sniping, remember that you are immobile, so be mindful not to obstruct your teammates' paths.
• Avoid pointing your laser directly at the location you are aiming at; Instead, position it to a nearby cover or obstacle, away from enemies' sight. When an enemy comes into view, swiftly adjust your laser pointer to the target and release your shot.
• Be aware of the amount of shots needed to eliminate each type of hull, so that you waste as little energy as possible.
• After multiple deaths from sniping attacks at the same location, the enemy will become more cautious and attempt to eliminate you. To counter this, it is necessary to change your position and catch them off guard from a different angle.
• In close combat, it is generally more effective to use the arcade mode, unless the enemy is directly in front of you and unable to maneuver around your side, where you can eliminate it quickly with a fully-charged sniping shot.
• Take advantage of Shaft's penetration to inflict damage on multiple enemies stacked behind one another.
• Avoid staying in the sniping scope for extended periods, as it is crucial to remain vigilant and watch for any potential enemies sneaking around your sides. Press either P or Enter keys twice to leave sniping mode without alerting enemies of your presence.
• Only reveal a small portion of your tank when sniping, and retreat fully into cover while reloading.
• You may use mouse controls in Sniping mode for more accurate aiming.