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8 Must-Know Apex Legends Tricks for New Players
September 27th, 2024 - By Steve Chang

Jumping into Apex Legends for the first time can feel overwhelming. With its fast-paced combat, trio-based team dynamics, and colorful roster of Legends, this battle royale game offers a unique twist on the genre. Whether you're dropping into Kings Canyon or navigating World's Edge, understanding the game's core mechanics and mastering a few essential tricks can drastically improve your gameplay experience. The following eight tips are designed to give new players a solid foundation and help them compete with more experienced players. From choosing the right Legend to mastering the art of looting, these tips cover all the basics that you'll need to get started on your path to becoming an Apex Champion.

One of the first things you'll notice about Apex Legends is its diverse cast of characters, known as Legends, each with their own unique abilities. Picking the right Legend can be critical, especially for beginners. For instance, Wraith offers excellent escape potential with her Into the Void ability, making her a forgiving choice for new players. On the other hand, Gibraltar's defensive shield can provide much-needed cover and help manage firefights better. Experimenting with different Legends will give you a better understanding of what suits your playstyle and makes team composition more effective.

The game's fluid movement system is another key feature that sets it apart from other battle royale titles. Learning how to effectively use sliding, climbing, and ziplining can give you a tremendous advantage. For example, sliding down slopes will not only help you move faster but also make you a harder target to hit. Additionally, combining slides with jumps can help you cover more ground quickly, which is vital for escaping the encroaching ring or engaging enemies.

Looting in Apex Legends is both an art and a science. Knowing what to prioritize can make the difference between life and death. Always aim for higher-tier armor and fully-kitted weapons to increase your survivability. Also, be on the lookout for attachments that can significantly enhance your weapon's performance. For instance, attaching a precision choke to the Peacekeeper shotgun transforms it into a highly effective mid-range weapon, increasing its versatility.

Another essential trick is mastering the game's ping system, which allows for seamless communication without the need for voice chat. Using pings efficiently can help your team mark enemies, suggest advantageous positions, and highlight useful loot. This is especially important for newcomers who may not feel comfortable using a microphone or who play in noisy environments.

Understanding the layout of the map can significantly improve your chances of survival. Each map features different zones with varying levels of loot quality and player activity. Learning hot spots and high-tier loot areas can give you an early-game advantage. For example, landing at places like Skull Town or Sorting Factory can provide immediate access to high-quality gear, but be prepared for intense early-game battles.

Team synergy is crucial in Apex Legends. Unlike other battle royales, where solo play can sometimes be viable, Apex Legends places a strong emphasis on team-based strategies. Sticking close to your teammates, sharing resources, and combining abilities can often make or break your game. For instance, having Lifeline on your team provides quick healing options, while Bloodhound's tracking abilities can keep you aware of nearby threats.

Finally, don't forget to practice your aim and shooting skills. While it might sound obvious, honing your accuracy can make all the difference in gunfights. Spend time in the game's training mode to familiarize yourself with different weapons and practice your shooting mechanics. Understanding recoil patterns and optimal firing techniques can give you an edge in those critical moments.

With these foundational tips in mind, you're well on your way to mastering Apex Legends. Remember, the key to success lies in continuous learning and adapting to new situations, so keep honing your skills, and soon you'll find yourself among the ranks of the elite Apex Champions.


Master the Drop: Optimal Landing Locations

Choosing the right landing spot in Apex Legends can make or break your match, especially if you're just starting out. In this section, we're going to dive into how to master the drop with optimal landing locations that can give you the upper hand right from the start.

First and foremost, always have a strategy before you even jump out of the dropship. Look for locations that have a high density of loot, but be mindful of how many other squads are dropping in the same area. A busy drop zone can be both a blessing and a curse; you'll find great gear but may also face early confrontations.

Skull Town (Kings Canyon) is a classic high-risk, high-reward location. It boasts an abundance of high-tier loot, but you won't be the only one looking to gear up. If you're confident in your combat skills, securing Skull Town early can set you up for the rest of the game. On the other hand, if you're still honing your abilities, you might want to steer clear and land somewhere a bit quieter.

Another excellent landing spot is Fragment East (World's Edge). This area has multiple buildings packed with gear and is usually bustling with activity. Positioning yourself here allows for quick engagements and fast rotations, giving you opportunities to rack up early kills. However, keep an eye out for third-party attacks, as the high traffic can attract unwanted attention.

For those looking for a more balanced approach, consider landing at Sorting Factory (World's Edge). It's less congested compared to Fragment East but still offers ample loot and strategic positioning. The layout of Sorting Factory allows for effective defensive play, and the proximity to the ring exit ramps makes rotations a breeze.

If you're new to the game and want a safer start, think about dropping at Swamps (Kings Canyon). The area is usually quieter, allowing you to loot in peace and get acquainted with your surroundings. The loot here is decent, and you can gear up without the immediate threat of enemy squads. Once you're confident and better equipped, you can rotate to more contested areas.

Lastly, use your map knowledge to identify hotspots and quieter areas. Each map in Apex Legends has its own unique layout and loot distribution, and becoming familiar with these can give you a significant edge. Pay attention to the initial flight path of the dropship and watch where other players are landing. Sometimes, choosing a slightly off-path location can allow you to loot uncontested and plan your next move strategically.

In summary, mastering the drop is all about balancing risk and reward while keeping a keen eye on your surroundings. Whether you prefer jumping into the fray or starting off cautiously, knowing the best landing spots will help you get a head start and set the tone for your entire match.

Summary:

  • Having a pre-drop strategy and choosing high loot density locations while monitoring other squads is crucial.
  • Consider high-risk areas like Skull Town for great loot or quieter spots like Swamps for safer starts.
  • Map knowledge and flight path awareness help in choosing both hotspots and quieter areas effectively.

Understand Legends Abilities and Synergies

In Apex Legends, each character, known as a Legend, possesses unique abilities that can turn the tide of a match. Understanding these abilities and how they synergize with teammates is essential for new players aiming to enhance their gameplay. Let\'s break down exactly how you can maximize your team's potential.

Each Legend has three core abilities: a passive, a tactical, and an ultimate. The key to success is not just knowing what these abilities do but understanding how to use them in conjunction with your team's abilities to dominate the battlefield.

For example, consider Bloodhound, whose abilities are centered around tracking enemies. Bloodhound's ultimate, Beast of the Hunt, enhances their senses, allowing them to see enemies and their tracks. Pairing Bloodhound with Bangalore can create a powerful synergy. Bangalore's tactical ability, Smoke Launcher, provides cover by deploying a dense smoke. Bloodhound can then activate their ultimate to see through the smoke, turning a seemingly detrimental situation into an ambush opportunity, catching opponents off guard.

Another fantastic combination is combining Gibraltar and Lifeline. Gibraltar's defensive abilities, such as his Gun Shield and Dome of Protection, can provide Lifeline the precious seconds needed to use her D.O.C. Heal Drone or Combat Revive ability. This duo can sustain heavy enemy fire while ensuring the team stays healed and ready to fight.

Wraith\'s abilities allow her to reposition quickly and avoid damage, making her a great asset for any team. Her tactical ability, Into the Void, lets her become invulnerable for a few seconds, allowing for strategic retreats or surprise attacks. When combined with Caustic's Nox Gas Trap, Wraith can lure enemies into a trap, using Into the Void to escape and leave enemies disoriented and vulnerable to the lingering gas.

Understanding these synergies involves not only studying your own Legend\'s abilities but also communicating effectively with your team. Call out your moves and coordinate ultimates to ensure they hit when they matter most. This collaborative approach can often mean the difference between a sterling victory and a crushing defeat.

As a new player, start by experimenting with different Legends to see which playstyle suits you best. Pay close attention to your teammates' abilities and think about how you can cumulatively build a stronger strategy. Whether you prefer aggressive pushes or strategic defenses, there's a combination that will fit your team perfectly.

Summary:

  • Each Legend has three core abilities: a passive, a tactical, and an ultimate, which must be used in conjunction with teammates' abilities to dominate the battlefield.
  • Examples of effective synergies include pairing Bloodhound with Bangalore for ambushes, combining Gibraltar's defenses with Lifeline's healing, and using Wraith's repositioning with Caustic's traps.
  • Success relies on understanding your Legend's abilities, communicating with your team, and experimenting with different combinations to find the perfect strategy.

Effective Communication and Ping System

In the fast-paced world of Apex Legends, effective communication is key to survival and victory. The game offers an ingenious Ping System, which allows players to communicate vital information quickly and efficiently without the need for a microphone. Mastering the Ping System can dramatically improve your team coordination and overall gameplay experience.

The Ping System in Apex Legends is designed to be intuitive and versatile. At its core, the system allows you to mark locations, items, and even enemies for your teammates. To ping a location, simply aim at the spot you want to highlight and tap the ping button (default key: middle mouse button on PC, R1 on PlayStation, and RB on Xbox). Your character will call out the pinged location, making it easy for everyone to stay on the same page about where to go next.

But the Ping System doesn't stop at simple location marking. It offers a range of contextual pings that can transmit more specific information. For example, if you double-tap the ping button while aiming at an enemy, you'll send a hostile ping, alerting your team to an enemy's presence. This can be a game-changer when you need to call out positions quickly during intense battles.

Another handy feature is the ability to highlight specific items. If you come across gear or weapons that your teammates might need, aim at the item and press and hold the ping button. This will mark the item and your character will call out its details, which is especially useful when trying to share resources or upgrade your team's equipment.

The Ping System also includes an acknowledgment feature that helps ensure everyone is on the same page. If a teammate pings an enemy or a location, you can acknowledge their ping by looking at it and pressing the appropriate button (default key: F on PC, X on PlayStation, A on Xbox). This generates a sound and a visual cue, confirming that you've seen their ping and are ready to respond accordingly.

For even more detailed communication, the Ping Wheel offers additional options. By holding down the ping button, you can bring up a radial menu with various commands such as "Need Help," "Defending Here," or "Looting Here." Selecting any of these options will convey specific instructions to your team without the need for elaborate voice chat discussions, keeping communication simple yet effective.

Integrating the Ping System into your play is straightforward and incredibly beneficial. For example, if you're split from your squad but spot high-tier loot, you can quickly ping it so your teammates know where to find valuable gear. Or, if you're entering a high-traffic area with potential enemy threats, a quick double-tap for a hostile ping can prepare your team for combat.

Mastering effective communication through the Ping System can significantly boost your team's performance. Whether coordinating a strategic attack, sharing essential gear, or planning your next move, the Ping System offers a robust and user-friendly way to keep your squad in sync. As you become more familiar with it, you'll find that your team's cohesion and efficiency greatly improve, translating into better overall success in the game.

Summary:

  • The Ping System in Apex Legends allows players to communicate effectively without a microphone, improving team coordination and gameplay experience by marking locations, items, and enemies.
  • Contextual pings and the acknowledgment feature help convey specific information and ensure everyone is on the same page, enhancing in-game communication.
  • The Ping Wheel offers additional commands for detailed communication, making it easy to share strategic instructions with the team without needing elaborate voice chat.

Looting Priorities: What to Grab First

When diving into the intense world of Apex Legends, understanding looting priorities is crucial for survival. Right from the moment you touch down, having a clear grasp of what to grab first can significantly enhance your game. Here's a breakdown of what you should prioritize during those first critical moments in the game.

The first item you should always aim for is a weapon. Without a weapon, you're vulnerable and far less capable of defending yourself or your team. Whether it's a pistol, SMG, or even a shotgun, securing a gun means you can fend off early threats and get a kill or two under your belt. An ideal scenario would be finding a weapon like the R-99 or the Mozambique, which are both deadly in close quarters.

Next up is armor (commonly known as shields). Shields are your primary line of defense and directly impact how much damage you can absorb from enemy fire. Aim to find at least a common (white) shield as soon as possible. If you're lucky, you might stumble upon a rare (blue), epic (purple), or even legendary (gold) shield, which offer even more protection and additional perks.

Once you're armed and shielded, the next priority is healing items. Effective use of healing items such as syringes, med kits, and shield cells can mean the difference between life and death in prolonged battles. Make sure to pick up at least a couple of each to ensure you're ready for whatever comes your way. Picking up a Phoenix Kit, which fully restores both health and shields, can also be a game-changer.

Ammunition is another critical resource you need to monitor. After grabbing your weapon, ensure you collect the corresponding ammo type. Running out of bullets mid-fight is a sure path to an early elimination. Always keep an eye on your inventory and grab spare ammo when you find it.

Attachments and accessories like barrel stabilizers, optics, and extended magazines can greatly enhance your weapons' performance. While these might not be your top priority initially, grabbing a few as you encounter them can provide a significant edge in combat. For example, finding a standard stock or a 2x HCOG sight can vastly improve your aim and reduce recoil.

Lastly, don't overlook grenades and tactical items. Frags, arc stars, and thermites can deal substantial damage or flush out hidden enemies when used strategically. Incorporating these into your arsenal can turn the tide of a battle and catch opponents off guard.

In summary, having a clear looting strategy revolves around first grabbing weapons and shields, followed by healing items and ammo, and rounding out your kit with attachments and tactical items. By prioritizing what you pick up, you can ensure you're always one step ahead of the competition in Apex Legends.

Summary:

  • Prioritize grabbing a weapon first to defend yourself and secure early kills.
  • Next, find armor or shields to enhance your defense against enemy fire.
  • Gather healing items, ammo, and useful attachments to stay prepared for prolonged battles.

Weapon Types and Attachments Guide

Understanding the various weapon types and attachments in Apex Legends is crucial for improving your gameplay and gaining an edge in battles. Here\'s a detailed guide to help new players get a firm grasp on their options and how to best utilize them.

Weapon Types:

Assault Rifles (ARs): These are versatile weapons perfect for both mid-range and long-range combat. Examples include the R-301 and Flatline. They offer a balanced combination of rate of fire, damage, and recoil.

Submachine Guns (SMGs): SMGs like the R-99 and Alternator excel in close-quarters combat with their high rate of fire and manageable recoil. They're perfect for aggressive players who prefer close encounters.

Light Machine Guns (LMGs): Boasting larger magazines and higher damage per clip, LMGs such as the Spitfire and L-Star are great for sustained fire. They can help suppress enemies, but their slow reload times require careful timing.

Shotguns: Ideal for close-range combat, shotguns like the Peacekeeper and EVA-8 deliver powerful damage in short bursts. This weapon type is invaluable during intense, close encounters.

Sniper Rifles: Longbow and Charge Rifle fall into this category, excellent for long-range engagements. They offer high precision and damage, perfect for players who prefer to attack from a distance.

Pistols: P2020 and RE-45 are quick-draw options for emergency situations. While not the strongest, they can be effective in the early game or as a last resort.

Attachments:

Optics: These attachments improve your aiming by providing a clearer sight. From 1x HCOG to 4-8x Variable Sniper scopes, choosing the right optic can greatly enhance your accuracy. For instance, an R-301 with a 2x HCOG is perfect for mid-range fights.

Barrel Stabilizers: These reduce recoil, making it easier to control your weapon. They are particularly effective on ARs and SMGs. For example, adding a Level 3 Barrel Stabilizer to a Flatline can help maintain accuracy during rapid fire.

Extended Magazines: Increase the magazine capacity, allowing you to fire more rounds before needing to reload. Extended Heavy Mags or Light Mags are essential for your primary weapon to sustain longer engagements.

Stocks: These attach to the rear of your weapon, reducing aim drift and improving stability. Standard Stocks or Sniper Stocks can make a significant difference, especially for long-range weapons like the G7 Scout.

Hop-Ups: Special attachments that provide unique benefits. Anvil Receiver, for instance, increases the damage of single-shot modes on the R-301 or Flatline, while the Turbocharger removes the spin-up time on the Devotion and Havoc.

Mastering these weapon types and attachments will make you more adaptable and prepared for any situation on the battlefield. Experimental combinations can lead to finding what best suits your playstyle, giving you the upper hand in Apex Legends.

Summary:

  • There are six main weapon types in Apex Legends: Assault Rifles (versatile for mid and long-range), Submachine Guns (great for close combat), Light Machine Guns (sustained fire with larger magazines), Shotguns (powerful at close range), Sniper Rifles (high precision for long-range), and Pistols (quick-draw for emergencies).
  • Attachments can significantly enhance weapons by improving aiming (Optics), reducing recoil (Barrel Stabilizers), increasing magazine capacity (Extended Magazines), stabilizing aim (Stocks), and providing unique benefits (Hop-Ups).
  • Mastering weapon types and attachments allows players to adapt to different combat scenarios and tailor their loadout to their playstyle, providing a strategic advantage in Apex Legends.

Movement Techniques: Slide, Jump, and Climb

One of the most exciting aspects of Apex Legends is its fluid and versatile movement system. Mastering the movement techniques such as slide, jump, and climb can significantly enhance your gameplay experience and competitive edge.

The slide mechanic is an integral part of traversing the landscape in Apex Legends. To perform a slide, start by sprinting and then press the crouch button while moving forward. This technique allows you to cover ground quickly and makes you a harder target to hit. Use slides to dodge incoming fire or to move rapidly down slopes. For instance, sliding down hills not only accelerates your movement but also offers opportunities to surprise your opponents by catching them off guard.

Next up is the jump. Learning to utilize jumps effectively can be a game-changer. Simple jumps help you navigate over obstacles and reach higher ground. However, combining jumping with other movements like sliding or wall running can add another layer of agility to your playstyle. For example, jump while sliding to gain extra distance and momentum, allowing you to leap over cover or small gaps effortlessly.

Lastly, mastering the climb technique opens up numerous tactical possibilities. To climb, jump towards a ledge and keep holding the jump button. This ability lets you scale walls and obstacles, providing access to strategic vantage points or allowing for quick escapes. Picture yourself stuck in a firefight in a narrow canyon; climbing up to a higher platform could be the difference between escape and elimination. Practice climbing in different environments to learn which surfaces you can use for an effective retreat or an ambush.

In summary, incorporating these movement techniques into your gameplay can elevate your skill level, making you a more formidable and unpredictable opponent. Practice sliding, jumping, and climbing regularly to gain confidence and boost your overall performance in Apex Legends.

Summary:

  • Mastering movement techniques like slide, jump, and climb can significantly enhance gameplay and competitive edge.
  • The slide mechanic helps cover ground quickly and dodges fire by sprinting, then pressing crouch while moving forward.
  • Effective use of jumps and climbs enables navigating obstacles, reaching higher ground, and accessing strategic vantage points.

Using the Ring to Your Advantage

Apex Legends is a game where strategy and quick thinking can mean the difference between victory and defeat. One of the crucial elements new players often overlook is the Ring. Understanding and using the Ring to your advantage can set you apart from other players.

The Ring isn't just a boundary to avoid; it's a powerful tool you can leverage. As each round progresses, the Ring shrinks, forcing players into closer combat and higher stakes. Mastering the timing and position of the Ring can often secure an unexpected victory.

Firstly, always keep an eye on the timer and map to know when the Ring is closing. Staying aware of its movement can help you plan ahead. If you're on the edge of the Ring when it starts to close, you might be able to catch other players off guard as they scramble to get inside. Setting up ambushes at choke points is a great tactic, as panicking players are easier to take down.

For instance, if you know the next safe zone is moving towards an urban area, position yourself inside a building with a good vantage point. This way, you can pick off enemies racing to safety. Alternatively, if you're already inside the next safe zone, fortify your position and watch for players who will inevitably be forced into your area.

But it's not just about positioning. Smart players use the Ring to limit opponents' movements. If you're equipped with long-range weapons, you can take shots at enemies stuck outside the Ring, forcing them to use valuable health items or risk getting knocked down by the Ring's damage. In later stages, the Ring inflicts severe damage, which can be fatal for unprepared players.

Communication with your team is essential when dealing with the Ring. Always inform your squad about your intended path and any potential ambush spots. A coordinated team can cover more ground and effectively control the area inside the Ring. If you notice another squad approaching, prepare to either engage or reposition based on their path and the Ring\'s closing speed.

Finally, don't panic if you're caught outside the Ring. Use items like Healing items and Mobility abilities to get back into safety quickly. Legends like Octane and Pathfinder have skills that can give you the extra speed and distance needed to escape the Ring\'s damage.

Mastering the intricacies of the Ring is a skill that develops over time. The more you play, the better you'll get at predicting its movements and using it to trap or outmaneuver your enemies. With this knowledge, you'll be one step closer to becoming an Apex Champion.

Summary:

  • Understanding and utilizing the Ring's timing and position can set you apart, allowing for ambushes and strategic positioning.
  • Use the Ring to limit opponents' movements and apply pressure, shooting at enemies stuck outside to force resource use or risk.
  • Communicate with your team about paths and ambush spots; use healing items and mobility abilities to quickly return to safety if caught outside the Ring.

Map Awareness and Positioning Strategies

One of the most crucial aspects of improving your gameplay in Apex Legends is developing strong map awareness and utilizing effective positioning strategies. Understanding the layout of the map, keeping track of the shrinking circle, and knowing where to position yourself can be the difference between victory and defeat.

First, familiarize yourself with the map layout. Apex Legends maps, such as World's Edge and Kings Canyon, have distinct regions with various terrains, structures, and loot patterns. Spend time exploring different areas during matches to better understand high ground advantages, choke points, loot locations, and popular drop zones. This knowledge will help you anticipate enemy movements and choose optimal routes.

Rotations play a pivotal role in positioning. As the match progresses and the circle shrinks, make sure to be aware of your path to the next safe zone. A well-planned rotation minimizes exposure to enemy fire and enhances your chances of securing a strategic position. For example, if you're in an area with limited cover and approaching a high-traffic region, plan an early rotation to take a flank route, allowing you to arrive ahead of others and set up ambush opportunities.

Effective use of high ground significantly improves your tactical advantage. Gaining an elevated position provides better visibility, makes it harder for enemies to hit you, and allows you to control engagements. Utilize legends like Pathfinder, Horizon, or Valkyrie, who offer abilities to quickly access high ground during fights.

It's equally important to recognize and avoid choke points. These narrow, confined areas leave you vulnerable to crossfire and ambushes. Whenever possible, opt to navigate through open spaces or routes with multiple escape options. If you must pass through a choke point, ensure you have your squad's abilities ready and stay alert for potential threats.

Continually scanning your surroundings is essential for maintaining map awareness. Use the game's ping system to communicate with your squad about enemy locations, suspected threats, and points of interest. Placing pings effectively helps in maintaining situational awareness and coordinating team movements.

Furthermore, always be mindful of the ring locations. Regularly check your map to see the current ring and the next safe zone. This allows you to plan your movements proactively, avoiding last-minute scrambles that can lead to unfavorable engagements. Remember, taking a few seconds to position yourself correctly can save your entire squad.

Lastly, be conscious of the final circles' positioning and terrain. As the game approaches its climax, aim to secure a spot near the center while ensuring you have access to cover and sightlines. This positioning reduces the need to move as the circle shrinks further, allowing you to focus on defending your location against incoming squads.

By honing your map awareness and utilizing intelligent positioning strategies, you'll significantly improve your survivability and effectiveness in Apex Legends. Pay close attention to these elements, and you'll find yourself winning more encounters and ultimately more matches.

Summary:

  • Develop strong map awareness and effective positioning strategies to improve your gameplay by understanding the map layout, tracking the shrinking circle, and positioning yourself strategically.
  • Familiarize yourself with the map layout, rotations, high ground advantages, choke points, and utilize Legends' abilities to secure optimal locations and ambush opportunities.
  • Maintain situational awareness by scanning surroundings, using the ping system for communication, paying attention to ring locations, and securing favorable positions near the center as the final circles shrink.

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