Shadowing
Overview
Shadowing is the tactic of mirroring an opponent’s movement path or bunker progression without direct exposure, allowing a player to anticipate position changes and apply reactive pressure.
Key Points
- Tracks opponent movement from a parallel or offset angle.
- Allows quick counter engagements when openings appear.
- Keeps opponents contained without overexposing.
- Used to prevent wide pushes or isolate flankers.
- Requires advanced reading, communication, and timing.
Details
Shadowing is a tactical technique where a player mirrors or follows an opponent’s progression across the field while maintaining safe angles. The goal is to keep the opponent contained, predict their moves, and apply pressure at the moment they attempt a bump or wrap.
Shadowing typically occurs on the snake tape, dorito lanes, or center wedges where bunkers create mirrored movement patterns. Instead of committing to a full gunfight, the shadowing player uses timing information, audio cues, and bunker contact rhythm to anticipate when the opponent will peek or attempt to advance.
Effective shadowing denies opponents the ability to move freely and creates a psychological deterrent. When timed correctly, shadowing enables instant eliminations during opponent transitions or wrap attempts.
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