Shared Bases Recon

Submitted by biscuit2

On a 3v3 or 4v4 shared bases game, tech hard (really hard) to observers. Build 5 right away. Note that TIME is the factor here, so build observers first, tech them later. As soon as the first observer is built, send it to the other side, flying straight, and BETWEEN two of their bases. The area between two bases is almost always unguarded early in the game, unlike the side borders of the map. Once your observer is safely on the other side, scout the back-most "row" of the map, so you can see all opponents' bases. Don't just look at their buildings, but pay attention to their economy! Determine the weakest and the strongest players. That's the beauty: you're scouting them early and they won't realize it for awhile if you're careful. People don't expect early scouting in shared bases games, because they know WHERE you are on shared bases map. But you're not scouting for location, your scouting to determine who is the strongest player by virtue of their economy.

Put your knowledge to good use. When your team is ready to attack, have everyone focus on the stongest opponent at the same time. Allowing his newbie partner to dork around with 20 probes isn't going to affect your team for awhile.

This tactic (scouting part) has worked for me just about every time I've tried it. Your observers will get killed when the opponent builds a cannon next to his Nexus, but by then you should have figured out their strategy, defense, and the strongest player.

While this process is taking place, your economy should be fully developed, and you should have Pylons everywhere, so that when your scouting is completed, you can build like a mad man.

If all of your opponents have massive economies, then your scouting may only confirm your fears of losing. Regardless, knowing your enemy is essential for victory.

CreepColony's Opinion: Good tip.