Listen Carefully
Sound is a big part of FPSes these days, giving players hints as to where shots are coming from, or if someone is walking up behind them. Try to learn the different weapon types by sound. It always helps to know whether you're going into a pistol fight or an AK-47 battle. A good sound system can make a difference here. Since version 1.3 it has become possible to use voice communication with Counter-Strike, which can change the gameplay experience quite dramatically and simplify team organization.


Plan Grenade Use
Grenades in Counter-Strike are limited in supply and should be used wisely. A common approach is to soften the enemy up with a few grenades before going in for the final assault. Flashbang grenades, for example, will temporarily blind those caught in the blast radius, making them vulnerable to attack. Of course, a grenade can also come in handy if you need to buy some time to make a quick retreat, or create a distraction.


Crouching and Walking
Crouching will not only steady your weapon, it will lower your profile a little and make you a smaller target. Remember that walking is silent in Counter-Strike, and by default you run all the time, so get to know those controls. Crouching and moving at the same time, while slow, also allows you to move silently. These techniques are critical if you want to sneak up on the enemy without being heard.

Take Cover
Use crates and other objects to partially conceal and protect you. It helps to have a convenient spot where you can completely disappear to reload if necessary. Keep in mind that some of the more powerful weapons in Counter-Strike can penetrate right through certain walls and objects. When you do find yourself in the unfortunate situation of having a grenade lobbed at you, turning away from it will often lessen the impact.

Try to Work as a Team
Rambo looks good in the movies, but it rarely pays off to abandon your teammates and go Kamikaze in Counter-Strike. Typically you run straight into the gunfire (and laughter) of a group of enemy players. In many cases it's nearly impossible to accomplish the game objectives in Counter-Strike without a coordinated effort, assuming that the enemy team isn't asleep at the switch. A team is usually most effective if they are carrying a variety of weaponry, since weapons in most games are designed to have strengths and weaknesses. It isn't every day that a plan comes together in an online action game, but there are rare moments when the whole thing somehow doesn't deteriorate into complete chaos, and that's what it's all about.

Practice, Practice, Practice
Like almost any game, the best way to get better is to practice. This may seem daunting when you first get into a game with a bunch of experienced players, but with a little patience you will find yourself surviving longer and even scoring a few frags.

That covers the basics of becoming a good Counter-Strike player. Naturally, there are a number of strategies and techniques specific to certain classes, weapons, and maps that go beyond the scope of this article, so you might want to browse some of the other guides in our Counter-Strike section. May the frags be with you!

source : internetgames