Still Tap Strafe in Apex: Why This Movement Trick Remains Essential
Apex Legends, the fast-paced battle royale game developed by Respawn Entertainment, has always been a playground for innovative strategies and mechanics. Among these, “tap strafing” has become a cornerstone of high-level play, even after multiple updates aimed at balancing movement mechanics. But why do players still rely on this technique, and how does it continue to shape the meta?
What is Tap Strafe in Apex?
For the uninitiated, tap strafing is an advanced movement technique where players rapidly tap the strafe keys (left or right on the keyboard or analog sticks) while moving in a direction. When combined with jumping and looking in the direction of movement, this allows players to maintain or even increase their speed while making sharp turns or quick directional changes. It’s a technique that requires precise timing and practice but offers unparalleled mobility in the right hands.
Why Tap Strafe is Still Relevant
Despite Respawn’s efforts to nerf certain movement mechanics, tap strafing remains a powerful tool for competitive players. Here’s why:
Speed and Agility: Apex Legends is a game where positioning is everything. Tap strafing allows players to reposition quickly, whether they’re chasing down enemies or escaping danger. Even after the nerfs, the speed and agility it provides are unmatched by default movement.
Outplaying Opponents: In high-level play, outplaying your opponents often comes down to who can manipulate their movement better. Tap strafing enables players to dodge shots more effectively, create angles that seem impossible, and catch enemies off guard.
Versatility: This technique isn’t just for offense. It’s equally useful for defensive plays, such as evading third-partying squads or repositioning to heal in safety. Its versatility makes it a must-learn for any serious player.
The Evolution of Movement in Apex
Respawn has made several attempts to curb certain movement exploits, such as the infamous “tap strafe” nerf in Season 8. However, the community quickly adapted, finding ways to still utilize the technique effectively. This speaks to the creativity and resilience of the Apex player base, who are always looking for ways to optimize their gameplay.
Mastering Tap Strafe: Tips and Tricks
If you’re looking to incorporate tap strafing into your arsenal, here are a few tips:
Practice in the Firing Range: Before taking this technique into a live match, spend some time in the Firing Range to get a feel for the timing and movement.
Focus on Your Crosshair Placement: To maximize speed, ensure your crosshair is aligned with your movement direction.
Combine with Sliding: Sliding while tap strafing can help you maintain momentum and cover more ground quickly.
Case Study: Tap Strafe in High-Stakes Situations
Consider a scenario where you’re the last squad standing in a final circle at King’s Canyon’s High Ground. The enemy team is pushing aggressively, but with tap strafing, you can dance around their shots, create space, and pick them off one by one. This kind of mobility is a game-changer in high-pressure situations.
Conclusion
Tap strafing may not be the easiest technique to master, but its benefits are undeniable. Even after Respawn’s adjustments, it remains a vital part of the Apex Legends meta. For players looking to climb the ranks or simply outplay their opponents, still tap strafing in Apex is not just a strategy—it’s a necessity.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a rising challenger, the ability to tap strafe effectively will continue to set you apart in the world of Apex Legends. So, keep practicing, and remember: in the right hands, movement is the ultimate weapon.