Reconnaissance

Battlefield Specifics

Exploding Vehicles

A number of bombed-out vehicles are scattered on the bridge and a pair of COG trucks near each of the barns. You can detonate these vehicles, possibly to create a convenient diversion or to startle (or lure) enemies out of cover. To explode these abandoned wrecks, simply fire at their engine blocks. Note that the vans at the ends of the bridge do not explode.

Spawn Point Awareness

This perfectly symmetrical map plays the same from both sides. The weapon pickups are identical and in the exact same locations respective to the spawn points. One of the few differences you may or may not notice is the direction the water flows. And that has no bearing on gameplay.

Upstream Spawn

The map’s western edge contains the upstream spawn point. Those wondering which side they’re on can quickly tell by the leafless tree straight ahead. Also, the river is close by on the left.

Downstream Spawn

The river takes a jog away from the downstream spawn point on the map’s eastern edge. Other than the river not being immediately visible to the player’s left, the tall, flowering trees are a useful clue as to which side of the map you occupy. But again, the map plays the same from both sides, and knowing whether you’re upstream or downstream has no impact on what you need to do.

Essential Tactics

• Sniper Duel: The fastest and best sniper on your team should immediately race to the barn, run up the steps to the second floor, and claim the Longshot or Torque Bow. Know that someone on the other team is likely doing the exact same thing, so shoulder the weapon, train your sights on the barn across the river, and open fire. Eliminating the other team’s sniper the second he or she gets the weapon makes it safer for your team to secure the Mortar or to simply rush the other team’s side of the river and lay waste to them.
• Long-Range Killer: The barn’s elevated perch is hard to beat in terms of sniper positions, but everyone will expect you to be there. Another idea is to take the Longshot and retreat back through the river in the direction of your spawn point. Hide alongside the riverbank, way off in the distance, as far from the bridge as possible. From there, pick off any enemies that enter the river. You can shoot them before they even know you’re there.
• Hang Back and Wait: Gather up the grenades in the cabin on the right and advance toward the bridge. Plant proximity mines on each of the vehicles and inside the barn. Enter the barn’s ground level. The barn’s roof protects you from Mortar blasts and the enemies will be forced to chase after your team. When the grenade blasts knock them off their feet, you’ll have time to counter.