Bunker Run

A bunker run is a decisive offensive move where a player commits to leaving their current cover and sprinting directly toward an opponent’s position, usually with the goal of eliminating that player at close range or disrupting a strong crossfield setup. Because the runner exposes themselves to multiple angles while moving, bunker runs carry significant risk and must be carefully timed to succeed.

Effective bunker runs are built on information and coordination. The attacking player and their teammates identify which opponents are controlling the key lanes and work to suppress or eliminate those threats. This might involve laning, snapshotting, or drawing guns away so that the runner has a narrow window to cross open ground. Communication before and during the move is critical so that the team knows who is responsible for each angle.

The runner typically starts from a stable bunker, checks the lanes, and explodes out with a low, fast sprint. While moving, they may shoot on the run, especially if the opponent’s position is already located and partially exposed. As the runner reaches the target bunker, they adjust their angle to catch the opponent’s pack, side, or mirror side while minimizing their own exposure to other guns.

In many competitive situations, bunker runs are used to break stalemates or remove dominant positions such as snake corners, center wedges, or key dorito spots. Even if the runner trades bodies one-for-one, eliminating a key anchor can collapse the opponent’s control of a side and open the field for follow-up moves. In other cases, a successful run may cause confusion, forcing multiple opponents to turn and shoot at the attacker while the rest of the attacking team capitalizes on the distraction.

Because of the speed and proximity involved, bunker runs must respect safety guidelines. Players are expected to avoid excessive overshooting, maintain reasonable target discipline, and follow event rules on physical contact and close-range engagement. At high levels, experienced players execute bunker runs with precision, firing just enough paint to secure the elimination and then immediately transitioning to the next threat or bunker.