Throughout our collective journey, our community has continuously explored optimal approaches to engage with the series and unlock its full potential. Since its inception with Operation Flashpoint in 2001, the Arma series has distinguished itself as a rich and immersive simulation, compelling us to invest significant time in mastering its intricacies and relishing its depth.
Our rendition of ShackTactical's Arma 3 guide, along with insights from various military handbooks, serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts within our community. While we acknowledge that this knowledge isn't solely our creation, we proudly regard it as a collective achievement, forged through shared experiences and collaborative learning.
These guides are crafted with the intent of disseminating knowledge beyond our community borders, aspiring to enhance gameplay experiences for all who navigate the landscapes of Arma. Referred to simply as "The Handbook" or "the TTP" (Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures), these resources have facilitated a widespread understanding of military operations within the game, transcending individual backgrounds and fostering exceptional gaming experiences for many years. We hope that our iteration of TTPs will extend this potential to a broader Arma 3 player base.
This guide is offered to all who are willing to invest the time to engage with it, with the sincere hope that it offers valuable insights to each reader. A thriving community benefits all its members, and if this guide contributes in any measure to fostering such an environment, it will be deemed a resounding success.
It's important to note that this guide does not purport to be the definitive approach. Rather, it should serve as a flexible framework, open to adaptation and interpretation. While it reflects the practices of our organization, which have proven effective for us, we encourage readers to explore and innovate within their own gaming experiences. We hope that you may find utility in this guide, enriching your gameplay as it has ours.
Summary
With the evolution of Arma 3, the series has undergone significant enhancements, particularly in its infantry-centric aspects. These advancements in game mechanics, technology, and simulation environments have served as the impetus behind the creation, continuous updates, and expansion of our guides. We have sought to integrate the collective lessons learned from these changes and anticipate future possibilities, refining and expanding our content accordingly.
Since the release of Arma 2 in 2009, we have witnessed remarkable transformations within the series. From the introduction of Operation Arrowhead to groundbreaking modifications such as the Advanced Combat Radio Environment (ACRE) mod, we have consistently adapted our methodologies to embrace these developments.
For those acquainted with military handbooks, our guides will resonate with familiar concepts, updated to meet Arma 3 standards and refined based on our cumulative experiences over the years. Notably, a key difference lies in the organization of our group structure. Our guide encompasses a customized organizational framework, ranging from simple buddy teams to a fully-fledged company structure, reflecting the diversity of tactical operations within Arma 3. Whether operating at the basic buddy level or orchestrating maneuvers at the company level, this tactical guide comprehensively covers the spectrum of all operational scales.
Arma 3's emphasis on infantry dynamics is most prominently showcased in the Basic Infantryman chapter, which meticulously delves into inventory management, weapon customization, stance optimization, and more. However, this focus extends throughout each chapter, where outdated techniques are discarded, and innovative strategies are introduced and refined.
As you navigate through the guide, distinct roles such as the Company Commander emerge, explaining the operational procedures of unit leaders and the utilization of attachments and crew-served weapons teams. Furthermore, you'll encounter comprehensive coverage of advanced topics, ranging from Survival, Escape, Resistance, & Evasion tactics to in-depth analyses of specialized roles like Combat Engineers, Paratroopers, and Combat Divers. The guide also offers insights into Guerrilla Warfare, Reconnaissance techniques, and strategies for nocturnal engagements.
With over 200,000 words of meticulously crafted content and hundreds of accompanying visuals, this guide provides a comprehensive resource for Arma 3 enthusiasts. Each topic discussed is not only relevant to the vanilla game but also applicable across various community modifications and missions. Moreover, the guide extends its utility to other games that share similar tactical applications, ensuring its relevance transcends the Arma series alone.
Theory vs Practicality
The fundamental aim of this guide is to impart knowledge that is genuinely pertinent to our style of realism, fostering a cohesive and versatile team dynamic among players. We maintain a pragmatic approach to military simulation, striving to create a realistic tactical environment while eschewing what we term "hardcore milsim."
In our view, hardcore milsim often inundates gameplay with excessive "tactical fluff" that holds little relevance to the actual dynamics of the game. This approach is characterized by stringent rules and regulations, attempts to replicate intricate military structures beyond the necessities of virtual environments, adherence to real-world military practices without consideration for their applicability within the game, and an overemphasis on consequences with minimal tangible benefits or trade-offs.
We prioritize practicality and effectiveness over rigid adherence to real-world military protocols, recognizing the importance of balancing authenticity with gameplay enjoyment. By focusing on tactics and strategies that enhance gameplay experiences without burdening players with unnecessary complexity, we strive to cultivate a gaming environment that is both immersive and accessible to all participants.
This guide reflects a mindful approach to tactical material, steering clear of common pitfalls observed in many military-game guides. One prevalent issue is the unnecessary regurgitation of military publications, without discerning between information relevant to gaming and extraneous real-world procedures.
While military field manuals offer valuable insights, their direct application to gaming often requires careful adaptation due to the inherent differences in fidelity between simulations and reality. Our guide benefits from drawing upon various field manuals, but it does so selectively, focusing solely on the aspects pertinent to gameplay as gleaned from years of gaming experience. It's important to note that this guide does not aim to replicate military publications verbatim, as doing so would serve little purpose. Instead, it distills the information deemed truly relevant to the game, offering practical insights refined through extensive gameplay.
However, for those interested in delving deeper into real-world military procedures, references to applicable field manuals are provided in the final chapter. While entirely optional, these resources can offer valuable context and additional understanding.
They can also easily be accessed online using their publication references, such as "FM 21-75" for 'Combat Skills of the Soldier' or "MCRP 3-01A" for 'Rifle Marksmanship'.
It's crucial to acknowledge that missions commonly encountered in games like Arma mirror real-world scenarios that demand extensive planning and preparation by trained military personnel long before engagement. However, our objective as a group is to achieve optimal gameplay without necessitating the extensive time investment typically associated with pre-mission planning. While planning remains a crucial aspect of our operations, our approach prioritizes efficiency and adaptability. We aim to streamline initial planning to a matter of minutes, allowing us to swiftly initiate missions while retaining flexibility to adjust strategies as events unfold. In dynamic environments, plans must adapt rapidly to unfolding circumstances. As the adage goes, "No plan survives first contact," underscoring the dynamic nature of combat scenarios and the need for agile decision-making in response to changing circumstances. Therefore, we emphasize the importance of flexibility and adaptability by striking a balance between preparation and agility to maximize our effectiveness in gameplay. The objective is to minimize time spent on pre-mission planning while maximizing our ability to respond effectively in the heat of battle. Our guide also staunchly avoids the pitfall of being "gamey," which involves approaches to gaming that transcend or manipulate the prescribed mechanics of the game, utilize external factors to influence gameplay, or exceed the intended limits or environment set by the game. These guides often provide detailed information that exploits game mechanics in ways that detract from the immersive experience for other players. For instance, they may offer precise data on tank armor values and the damage output of anti-tank weapons, enabling players to exploit this knowledge to gain unfair advantages.
We firmly reject such practices and do not endorse guides of this nature. Our guide prioritizes authenticity and fair play, aiming to enhance the gaming experience for all participants while staying within the confines of the game's mechanics and intended environment. If you seek guidance aligned with these principles, you've come to the right place. However, if you're seeking tactics aimed at exploiting game mechanics to gain unfair advantages, we regret to inform you that you will not find such content here.
The Ultimate Goal
At the core of our endeavors is the pursuit of enjoyment. We are, after all, engaging in gaming—a recreational activity meant to be enjoyable. In our case, we aim for organized, disciplined, and tactical fun. While we appreciate the elements of realism and simulation within our gameplay, it's essential to remember that we are not attempting to replicate the military experience. Many of us have firsthand experience in military environments, but our focus here is on practical tactical simulation and the pursuit of enjoyment.
We are a community bound by camaraderie, akin to brothers and sisters united in our passion for gaming. This guide is crafted in the spirit of fostering a welcoming and enjoyable environment for all participants. As we delve into the intricacies of tactical gameplay, let us do so with a sense of camaraderie and a shared commitment to having a good time. Ultimately, our collective enjoyment is the ultimate goal of our endeavors.
Who We Are, What We Do
For those unfamiliar with Task Force Reaper, allow us to provide some insight into who we are and how this document is connected to our community.
Task Force Reaper is a community dedicated to the ArmA series, founded on the principle of cultivating a mature yet enjoyable environment centered around realistic tactical combat simulation.
As of the time of writing, Task Force Reaper has collectively thrived for over a decade. Throughout our journey, we've undergone significant growth and development as a group. Our evolution has been guided by our experiences within the games we play. We've strived to remain grounded in practicality, avoiding the introduction of unnecessary elements or complexities that could detract from the enjoyment of our primary objective: gaming.
Ultimately, our aim is to foster a community where members can engage in immersive and enjoyable gaming experiences while honing their tactical skills and camaraderie.
It's important to clarify that not all members of Task Force Reaper have served in the military, although a significant portion have either served in the past or are currently serving. We make no pretense of being a military organization; rather, we derive enjoyment from engaging in tactical combat simulation as a cohesive, skilled, and tactically knowledgeable group of gamers.
The creation of this guide was motivated by our desire to enhance our gaming experiences within Task Force Reaper and to share our insights with the wider gaming community. We hope that by doing so, we can contribute positively to the overall tactical gaming community, even if in a small way.
We trust that you will find the material presented in this guide both informative and enjoyable. It is the result of valuable contributions from many members of our community, and it truly reflects the collective experiences and knowledge accumulated by Task Force Reaper over the years.
Closing Notes...
Before we move on, here are a few notes to close off the intro to this guide...
• This TTP does not distinguish between tactics applicable to AI opponents versus human adversaries. While some tactics may not be effectively utilized by AI, they are written to be applicable in player-versus-player scenarios. It's prudent to assume that adversaries may possess greater intelligence, ensuring preparedness for any situation. Given our emphasis on both adversarial and cooperative gameplay, we prioritize tactical effectiveness to maintain a competitive edge.
• Certain tactics presented in this guide are derived from experiences with the Advanced Combat Environment (ACE), a realistic Arma modification.
• While some tactics may have real-world applicability or suit slower-paced gaming environments, we've tailored them to be accessible and effective for large groups in virtual combat settings. Our aim is to provide practical guidance suitable for a wide range of skill levels and gaming contexts.
• Future iterations of this guide will incorporate a "Lessons Learned" page, facilitating the documentation and dissemination of valuable insights gained from virtual combat experiences.
• Real-life photos are utilized in certain sections of this TTP to provide visual reference points. This inclusion reflects our respect for the military and streamlines scenario depiction without the need for extensive creation of imagery.
what is arma 3?
For those new to Arma, it's essential to grasp its fundamental premise: a military combined-arms simulation renowned for its expansive scope and unparalleled capacity to depict large-scale modern military engagements. Moreover, Arma stands out for its exceptional configurability and moddability, offering a robust mission editor, scripting language, and tools that enable the creation of diverse units, weapons, vehicles, terrains, and more.
Building upon the legacy of Operation Flashpoint, Arma 1, and Arma 2, Arma 3 delivers the most authentic combined-arms experience from the infantry level upward. It serves as a military sandbox environment that can be finely tuned to meet specific preferences and requirements.
Furthermore, Arma 3 boasts robust multiplayer capabilities, accommodating up to hundreds of players simultaneously in various scenarios. Whether engaging in team-based competitions, cooperative missions against AI adversaries, or a blend of both, Arma 3 offers nearly limitless possibilities for mission design. If you can conceive it, chances are you can create it within the game's expansive framework.
Arma 3 remains the preferred game within our group, much like its predecessors in the Arma series. The unparalleled experiences we've shared in these games over the years are unmatched by any other gaming experience. Week after week, players are drawn back to Arma 3, eager to immerse themselves in ever-changing and diverse scenarios. From serious missions to lighthearted endeavors, every moment spent in Arma 3 is immensely enjoyable. Our group thrives on the "Build Your Own Adventure" approach to content and mission creation, which has been a cornerstone of our longevity.
For those exploring the multiplayer aspect of Arma 3, we encourage you to seek out communities where the game's vast potential can be fully appreciated alongside a quality group of players. Additionally, I hope this guide serves as a valuable resource for fostering collaboration and informed decision-making within the community. While not necessarily adhering strictly to established doctrines, the insights shared within may enhance your overall gameplay experience and, who knows, might even prove beneficial in real-life scenarios.
Disclaimer: This guide is crafted with a forward-looking perspective, intended to remain relevant for years following the release of Arma 3. Consequently, it may contain references to features and concepts that were not present in the original release version of Arma 3 but are commonly encountered in modifications and scripted missions developed by the expansive community.
Any inclusion of such features is based solely on our own experiences, and it is reasonable to anticipate encountering everything mentioned in this guide when augmenting Arma 3 with additional community modifications. This flexibility is one of the series' greatest strengths. We firmly believe that it is preferable to discuss topics that are likely to be available within a continually evolving series, rather than omitting them and depriving individuals of valuable techniques that will serve them well when said functionality becomes accessible. We hope you share our sentiment on this matter.
Keybinds and Controls
One of the most daunting aspects of Arma is the extensive array of keybindings and the somewhat convoluted nature of the keybind system. Arma boasts numerous keybindings, but fortunately, it offers several convenient methods to manage the multitude of keys, including key combos, double-tap keys, and press-and-hold keys.
A notable feature of the keybind system is its flexibility in allowing any keys to be combined into a bind. This means you can assign different actions to combinations like A+S, A+D, double-tap A, or even ctrl-doubletap-A, among others. This versatility proves invaluable given the abundance of commands available in the game.
Mouse keys also offer different functions based on whether they are held down or tapped, although this may entail a slight delay in action as the game detects the key state.
The double-tap key feature enables two functions to share the same key, with one activated by a single press and the other triggered by a double-tap.
Additionally, Arma allows for the configuration of the "deadzone," which determines the amount of weapon movement before the view starts to adjust. This setting can be adjusted or disabled entirely, with the latter option proving beneficial for new players unfamiliar with deadzone mechanics. While optional, many players, including ourselves, prefer to disable the deadzone feature as increased deadzone degrades maneuverability, particularly in close-quarters combat situations such as clearing buildings.
Given the abundance of keys in Arma, it may require some time to devise an optimal key setup. However, the game offers various preset control layouts, ranging from those reminiscent of Arma 2 to industry-standard shooter style layouts, to assist in this process. Once configured to your preference, you'll likely appreciate the added functionality and ease-of-use afforded by the key options.
The Environment
The environment in Arma offers a level of fidelity rarely seen in other games, featuring a comprehensive day-night cycle complete with accurate shadowing, meticulously modeled starscapes, moon phases, tides, diverse foliage, wildlife such as insects and birds, dynamic wind effects, and varying weather conditions including rain, lightning, and storms. The presence of grass and other environmental elements contributes to the creation of a virtual world capable of existing in numerous states, each of which can significantly influence tactical gameplay. Now, let's delve into some of the key tactical aspects of the Arma environment:
HDR
Grass
Destruction
Night Time Visibility
Day/Night Cycle
Cloud Cover
Rain/Storms
Fog
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High Dynamic Range (HDR) rendering in Arma serves to realistically simulate the human eye's response to varying light conditions, enhancing immersion and tactical considerations. Here are some key tactical implications of HDR in Arma:
• When the sun is low on the horizon, it can significantly impact visibility and effectiveness in combat. Troops assaulting a position with the sun in their eyes may struggle to see clearly and operate effectively, while defenders positioned against the sun benefit from reduced visibility for attackers. Tactical maneuvers and positioning should take into account the angle of the sun to exploit or mitigate its effects
• Aircraft conducting ground attacks can leverage HDR to mask their approach by attacking out of the sun. This tactic helps to obscure the aircraft's silhouette and makes it more challenging for ground-based defenses to effectively engage the aircraft.
• Bright lights, such as headlights or flares, can temporarily impair night vision capabilities. This effect is exacerbated in mods like ACE, which increase the recovery time for vision after exposure to bright lights in darkness. Players should be mindful of light sources and adjust their equipment and tactics accordingly to minimize the risk of temporary blindness during nighttime operations.
Grass in Arma serves as a crucial environmental factor that often goes overlooked but significantly impacts tactical considerations. Here are some key points to remember about grass:
• When prone, grass substantially limits visibility, necessitating a higher posture, such as crouching, to see and fire accurately. Different types of grass vary in height and density, with woodland grass typically being thick and tall, while scrub grass is thinner and shorter.
• Going prone causes grass in a small radius around the player to flatten. This flattening effect can be advantageous when firing over crests or ridges, as the flattened grass provides a clearer line of sight. • Grass renders out to approximately 50-100 meters by default, but its concealing effects extend beyond this range. Within around 30 meters, a "grass overlay layer" obscures objects, such as mines and satchels, and creates the illusion that entities, such as humans, are partially submerged into the ground.
• Explosions, relative to their power, can strip grass off the ground. This stripped grass remains absent even after the impact "decal" fades away. Tanks, for example, can exploit this by firing explosive rounds at suspected minefields, exposing hidden mines in the area where the grass was stripped.
In ArmA, nearly every conceivable object that could be destroyed in reality can indeed be destroyed within the game environment. Whether it's buildings, trees, fences, or other structures, they can all be obliterated. Walls can be knocked down, trees uprooted, and buildings reduced to rubble.
This dynamic element of destruction is a crucial tactical consideration, especially in Military Operations in Urbanized Terrain (MOUT) combat scenarios. It's essential for all players to understand that hiding behind a wall or inside a building does not guarantee safety.
Looking ahead, it's highly plausible that certain ArmA mods may introduce even more sophisticated forms of dynamic building destruction, further enhancing the realism and intensity of gameplay.
ArmA distinguishes itself from many other games through its modeling of nighttime visibility, which is influenced by several factors:
The phase of the moon significantly affects nighttime visibility. A full moon provides ample light, while a sliver of a moon offers little illumination.
The position of the moon in the sky determines the extent of its lighting effects. A higher moon casts more light, illuminating the terrain more effectively. Conversely, a low moon provides less light, resulting in objects being illuminated on one side and obscured in darkness on the other. This aspect can be tactically advantageous, similar to exploiting HDR effects during the day. For instance, attacking with a full moon behind you may obscure your approach while illuminating your target.
The moon's position can cast shadows on the terrain, further influencing visibility.
Cloud cover impacts the effectiveness of moonlight. A cloudy sky diminishes the moon's illumination, while a clear sky enhances its visibility, even with only a half-moon. Lightning storms provide brief bursts of intense illumination, but their sporadic nature limits their reliability for visibility.
ArmA's dynamic day/night cycle operates in real-time, seamlessly transitioning between day, dusk, night, and dawn. The shifting shadows, coupled with the illumination of towns and villages by streetlights and other sources, contribute to the immersive experience.
From a tactical perspective, this feature introduces a layer of realism and complexity to missions. A battle initiated at dusk may evolve into a nighttime engagement as darkness descends. This progression can significantly alter the dynamics of the mission, requiring players to adapt their strategies accordingly.
Missions that capitalize on the real-time day/night cycle can be particularly captivating. For instance, imagine a scenario where a small team of special forces operatives must exfiltrate from enemy territory under the cover of darkness. As the mission progresses, the approaching dawn threatens to expose them to enemy forces without night vision capabilities, intensifying the challenge and suspense.
The flexibility of the day/night cycle allows for a multitude of mission concepts, each offering unique gameplay experiences. Whether it's setting missions to occur at specific times or enabling players to choose the mission time, this feature enhances replayability and adds depth to ArmA's dynamic environments.
Cloud cover significantly alters the appearance of the environment in ArmA, softening the overall lighting and diminishing the presence of shadows. This atmospheric effect can obscure details and make it more challenging to identify targets, as individuals may blend into the visually subdued surroundings. With reduced shadowing and muted lighting, distinguishing between objects and individuals becomes more difficult, adding a layer of complexity to situational awareness and target acquisition. In tactical scenarios, players must adapt to these changing conditions, relying on alternative methods for target identification and engagement.
Rain in Arma can range from a light drizzle to a full-blown thunderstorm, each affecting gameplay in distinct ways.
A light drizzle may have minimal impact, with little effect on visibility or sound.
However, a full thunderstorm can significantly reduce visibility and dampen sound. Thunder can mask the sound of footsteps and gunfire, providing opportunities for stealthy movement or surprise attacks. In some situations, heavy rain combined with "rain fog" can severely limit visibility, altering the dynamics of battles and engagements.
Furthermore, lightning from storms can briefly illuminate the environment at night. While this can aid forces without night vision goggles, it may compromise the stealth of those relying on NVGs.
Fog significantly impacts combat in Arma by reducing the effective range of all units. This reduction in visibility renders helicopters and planes nearly useless, particularly for close air support missions. Ground vehicles also suffer from decreased effectiveness, while infantry must heighten their situational awareness to avoid walking into enemy positions unknowingly. Additionally, fog increases the risk of fratricide, highlighting the importance of maintaining clear friend-or-foe identification to prevent friendly fire incidents. Overall, heavy fog transforms combat into a close-range, tense, and challenging experience. It tests the skill and coordination of individual soldiers and teams, requiring exceptional situational awareness and teamwork to emerge victorious.
Mods of Note
In the realm of Arma 3 modifications, the community consistently demonstrates its capacity for innovation, delivering a diverse array of high-quality content. Arma 3's expansive platform provides modders with unparalleled creative freedom, fostering anticipation for the evolution of its modding landscape throughout its lifecycle.
In light of this, we are compelled to highlight one particular modification: Advanced Combat Environment 3 (ACE3), a successor to the renowned ACE2 mod from Arma 2. This mod stands out for its comprehensive enhancements to gameplay mechanics, offering an immersive and realistic experience unparalleled in the Arma 3 community.
Advanced Combat Environment 3
ACE3 stands as the cornerstone realism mod widely embraced within the Arma 3 community. While I'll provide a cursory overview of its key features, it's important to note that individual groups may customize settings to suit their specific needs, with variations often observed from mission to mission. Besides that, you can read up on the entire mod here: https://ace3mod.com/wiki/
Embracing the concept of "fun realism," ACE3 prioritizes systems that not only reflect realism but also contribute to an enhanced gaming experience. This approach ensures that the mod's features are not merely realistic for the sake of authenticity but are tailored to augment enjoyment and gameplay dynamics.
Undoubtedly, ACE3 holds a prominent position within the Arma series, boasting widespread adoption across numerous servers and engaging thousands of players worldwide.
ACE3 stands as the preferred mod within our community, having paved the way for countless memorable missions and immersive experiences. Its unparalleled gameplay enhancements set a gold standard that remains unmatched to this day.
The primary objective of ACE3 is twofold: to introduce novel systems and features that enrich Arma 3's sandbox environment, and to revamp, fine-tune, and occasionally rectify existing features. The ACE team remains dedicated to continual improvement, with ongoing updates aimed at enhancing the mod's functionality. While a comprehensive overview of ACE3's features would be exhaustive, this guide touches upon several key components, including the medical system, crew-served weapons, gestures, fast-roping, and numerous other gameplay enhancements such as refined ballistics and penetration models.
Highlighted among the most utilized features are:
Highly Customizable Medical System
Advanced Grenade Throwing with High Precision
Weight and Stamina System
Dragging/Carrying
Storing Crates and Static Weapons in Vehicles
Additional Game Rules (Viewmode, Viewdistance, AI Interactions, etc.)
In-game Customizable Vehicle Pylons with New Ammo Types
More Realistic Vehicle Damage System
Many New Interactable Inventory Items
Pointing on Maps
ACE3 stands as an indispensable mod for Arma 3 enthusiasts, offering a wealth of immersive gameplay enhancements.
Below are some examples of the features mentioned previously:
Advanced Medical System
Grenades
Explosives
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ACE typically incorporates a detailed injury system, which can be extensively tailored to suit specific preferences. Additionally, expansions are available to introduce advanced features such as breathing and blood circulation, as well as sophisticated monitoring devices and blood group functionalities. You can read up on it on the ACE3 Wiki: https://ace3mod.com/wiki/feature/medical-system.html
We will exclusively focus on utilizing the medical system and refrain from delving into custom settings, as these configurations vary from one group to another. In ACE3, default interaction keys for medical procedures involve Windows and CTRL + Windows. These keys allow interaction with various entities such as individuals, crates, and vehicles, as well as self-treatment. To administer treatment to oneself, initiate interaction with CTRL + Windows. Conversely, to assist an unconscious individual on the ground, employ the Windows key.
As depicted, a menu will appear, displaying information about the individual's injuries. Note that the torso interaction point is highlighted in orange, indicating severe injury compared to the leg, which is denoted in white. The color shift from yellow to red signifies the severity of the injury, with red indicating a critical state.
You have two options for treating someone: You can continue holding the Windows key to interact with the limb and apply bandages directly, or you can utilize the soldier's medical menu by looking at them and pressing H. However, it's essential to ensure that this feature is enabled in the ACE Addon settings. Personally, I find the menu much more user-friendly to navigate, so we will utilize it as our example.
In the top-left corner, you'll find various interaction options, listed from left to right:
Triage Card Changes
Examine (Pulse, Blood Pressure)
Bandages/Fractures (Actual treatment of injuries)
Medication (Alleviation of pain, etc.)
Breathing (Inactive unless additional mods are present)
Advanced Treatment (Actions reserved for medics, such as blood transfusions, CPR, etc.)
Drag/Carry (Moving the patient to another location)
Switch from patient to self
When administering treatment to other players by applying multiple bandages to their torso and head, their injuries will gradually appear blue, indicating that they are bandaged and no longer bleeding. However, depending on the chosen settings, wounds may reopen. It's crucial to understand that simply applying a bandage does not miraculously heal a wound, although this can be configured differently with custom settings.
If a patient's wounds are fully treated, they will either appear blue or, if all injuries are resolved, completely white.
You can cycle through harmless grenades using the 7 key as the default and dangerous grenades with 6 as the default. Additionally, multiple new throwing modes are available by default by pressing the G key. Cycling through these modes can be done by pressing 8 as the default. However, the most intriguing feature lies in the advanced grenade throwing system, accessible by pressing Shift+G.
The white dots indicate the trajectory of the object. Close observation reveals a single red dot near the window, indicating where the grenade will impact a surface. To throw it into the window, one must aim slightly higher until the red dot disappears. This deliberate subtlety maintains a level of challenge.
For throwing grenades sideways around a corner, adjust your stance toward the corner. While holding a firearm, press Q/E for direction, then refine your stance with CTRL+A or D for precision. This action alters the arc to a subtle sideways motion.
When the white dots are grayed out, it signifies they are behind a wall and not directly in your line of sight, indicating correct execution.
When the white dots are grayed out, it signifies they are behind a wall and not directly in your line of sight, indicating correct execution.
Explosives, including demolition charges and mines, are equipped with a new system within ACE3. You can deploy them using the self-interaction menu:
Once deployed, you can interact with them to select a trigger mechanism. Options include timers, clackers, or even phones, depending on the type of explosive. Mines offer specialized triggers like pressure plates.
Where to Play
The Arma community offers a diverse range of playstyles and communities to suit various preferences. Players can explore the official BIS forums or utilize Steam to discover numerous groups and communities catering to different styles of gameplay.
I encourage players to take their time and explore the community to find a group that aligns with their preferences. From hardcore milsim groups to more casual ones, as well as those focused on roleplaying or engaging in fun and lighthearted activities, there's something for everyone. Additionally, weekly tournaments provide opportunities for large-scale battles with outcomes influencing subsequent engagements, adding depth to the experience. Ultimately, the Arma community offers a variety of flavors to suit every taste.
As the creators of this guide, our own group has been active for over a decade, evolving into a thriving community. We warmly welcome new members and encourage those interested to explore our homepage for information on joining. Anyone who believes they can meet our basic requirements is welcome to apply.
If you decide to join us, we wish you the best of luck, and hopefully, we'll have the opportunity to fight alongside you on the battlefield soon!
Tactical Arma
To gain insight into the variances in playstyles, we will delineate several terms. It's worth noting that individuals may interpret these terms differently, but our aim is to establish a shared understanding of the topics at hand. Approach this information with discernment and flexibility.
The term "Tactical Arma" denotes scenarios, whether Team vs. Team (TvT) or Cooperation (COOP), where players collaborate and communicate to accomplish mission objectives. This term distinguishes the gameplay style outlined in this guide from the more arcade-style gameplay prevalent on many public servers and popular game modes.
While elements of tactics and cooperation may be present in public multiplayer settings, such as the popular "King of the Hill" mode, these do not fall within the "Tactical Arma" category. Public multiplayer environments typically lack the cohesion and coordination characteristic of Tactical Arma due to the diverse range of skill levels, interests, and playstyles found in such settings.
In general, "Tactical Arma" denotes the gameplay approach prevalent on private, coordinated servers, where participants, sharing a cohesive mindset, convene at scheduled intervals to engage collaboratively or competitively.
This facet of Arma encompasses various specialized subgroups:
Military Simulation
Tactical Realism
Casual Realism
In organized events, players often assume specific roles, many of which are outlined later in this guide. These events represent one of the most sophisticated ways to immerse oneself in Arma 3, offering a unique gaming experience. Arma 3's robust mission editing tools, coupled with its real-time Gamemaster Module known as "Zeus," elevate the gameplay to unparalleled levels. A player acting as Zeus possesses the ability to dynamically alter any aspect of the mission, adapt in real-time to player decisions, and curate an immersive and realistic gaming environment. Reflective of a Tabletop/Pen and Paper Gaming Gamemaster, Zeus assumes the responsibility of overseeing and directing the storyline and world.
While you may have encountered campaign-style shooters like Battlefield or Call of Duty, Arma offers unparalleled flexibility in crafting and adapting these narratives and scenarios. This dynamic approach to mission creation and modification sets Arma apart, offering a level of creative freedom unmatched by any other game.
Military Simulation
Tactical Realism
Casual Realism
Common Roles
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Military Simulation (MilSim) represents the pinnacle of realism in ArmA gameplay, aiming to replicate real-life military operations with meticulous attention to detail.
Within the Arma community, the term "Military Simulation" is often employed, sometimes liberally, to describe groups dedicated to emulating authentic military procedures and protocols. At its most rigorous, Military Simulation units adhere strictly to established military standards, leaving little room for informal interactions. Deviating from prescribed protocols may result in disciplinary action from group moderators.
MilSim units frequently incorporate elements of roleplaying to enhance immersion, encouraging players to adopt personas consistent with their in-game military roles. Additionally, many MilSim units implement rank progression systems, adding another layer of authenticity and structure to their gameplay experience.
In the strictest sense of Military Simulation gameplay, adherence to orders and established procedures is paramount. Players are expected to closely follow directives from superior officers without deviation, minimizing individual decision-making to avoid confusion or disruption.
Joining such a unit often entails undergoing comprehensive training, commonly referred to as "basic training," to ensure all members meet the group's rigorous standards. Additionally, specialized roles may be assigned to players, requiring them to undergo additional training and mastery in specific areas such as piloting, medical support, vehicle operation, or infantry tactics.
In another common approach within Military Simulation groups, players have the freedom to choose their roles for each mission. However, strict prerequisites exist for assuming certain roles, necessitating completion of specialized training courses. This style is widely adopted among milsim communities, granting individuals autonomy in role selection while upholding stringent operational standards.
Furthermore, some communities maintain high gameplay and operational standards while affording members the liberty to select any role, including pivotal positions like vehicle crews, commanding officers, and medical personnel. Although training is typically encouraged, it is often optional in these groups, fostering a more flexible gameplay environment, albeit still maintaining a commitment to realism and cohesion.
Tactical Realism occupies a middle ground within the Arma community, representing a widespread style of gameplay characterized by a balance between tactical immersion and flexibility. Groups or units adhering to Tactical Realism strive to maintain realism in mission design and gameplay without fully simulating real-world military operations.
In essence, Tactical Realism offers a more relaxed approach compared to strict MilSim units. Players typically enjoy a dynamic experience where they can freely choose their roles and unit structures are not rigidly enforced. However, missions still emphasize strategic planning and teamwork, often featuring a chain of command to facilitate effective coordination.
Beyond traditional military scenarios, Tactical Realism gameplay may extend to more creative or unconventional settings, such as scenarios inspired by law enforcement, zombie outbreaks, or civilian-themed missions. This versatility allows for diverse and engaging gameplay experiences tailored to the preferences of the group.
In contrast to MilSim units, Tactical Realism offers a broader spectrum of mission diversity by not strictly adhering to the simulation of real-world military operations. As a result, this gameplay style is the most prevalent among units within the Arma community.
In Tactical Realism units, players typically have the freedom to choose their roles for each mission, contributing to the flexibility and accessibility of gameplay. While training opportunities may be available for those seeking to enhance their skills, they are not mandatory for participation.
Roleplay and simulation elements are integrated into missions as dictated by scenario design, rather than being fundamental aspects of the unit's structure. This distinction sets Tactical Realism groups apart from MilSim units, where adherence to realistic military protocols and procedures is paramount.
Casual Realism represents the most relaxed approach among the three gameplay styles. In this variant, groups and units engage in organized scenarios with a laid-back and informal tone.
Analogous to friends playing Counter-Strike together, Casual Realism emphasizes teamwork, tactics, and strategy in a friendly and easygoing manner. While players still coordinate and collaborate during missions, the atmosphere is more relaxed compared to the structured and disciplined gameplay of MilSim and Tactical Realism. In this style, the absence of a formal chain of command is common, with each player regarded as equal in importance. Cooperation and teamwork remain essential, but without the strict hierarchy found in other gameplay styles.
These groups engage in scenarios similar to other Tactical Arma units but with a more relaxed and less structured approach. Planning may be minimal, and the focus is on devising strategies that players believe will be effective or enjoyable, rather than adhering strictly to realism.
A notable example of this style is exemplified by game modes like "Antistasi" when played within a group. While there are few rules governing how missions are approached, the overarching goal remains consistent, fostering a cohesive team dynamic.
Due to its beginner-friendly nature and emphasis on cooperative gameplay, this style provides an accessible entry point for newcomers to learn the basics and enjoy ArmA outside of public game modes.
ArmA 3 presents a diverse array of classes for players to assume, each characterized by unique tactics, difficulty levels, and responsibilities. While different communities may employ these roles in varying ways, the fundamental playstyle and weaponry associated with each role tend to remain consistent.
The most frequently encountered roles can be categorized into five main groups:
Grunts. These encompass basic infantry roles such as rifleman, representing the backbone of any combat unit.
Weapon-specific Roles. This category includes specialized roles such as machine gunners, mortar operators, and anti-tank personnel, each wielding distinct weaponry tailored to their designated tasks.
Leadership Roles. Squad leaders and team leaders fall into this category, tasked with directing and coordinating the actions of their respective units on the battlefield.
Vehicle-based Roles. Pilots and tank crewmen comprise this group, operating armored vehicles, aircraft, and other vehicular assets crucial to combat operations.
Support Roles. This category encompasses logistical support, artillery operators, and the Zeus module operator, providing essential support functions that complement frontline combat operations.
Do we do PvP?
Certainly, our group organizes occasional player-versus-player (PvP) tournaments.
These tournaments are structured as scaled Team Vs Team competitions.
Our Concept: These tournaments unfold on an open battlefield, dynamically defined by the players' actions and strategies as the battle progresses.
In our PvP tournaments, we employ specific game parameters and functionality to create dynamic and engaging battles:
Contested Region. The battlefield spans a large area, typically 1km x 1km, known as the contested region or "Zulu" on the map. Teams earn points by controlling this space and eliminating enemy soldiers.
Scoring System. Points are awarded based on specific actions: being present in the battle-space ("Zulu") grants one point, while eliminating an enemy soldier yields ten points. Additionally, killing an enemy outside the main Zulu awards one point. Points are deducted if a player dies or suicides.
Point Accumulation. Every five minutes, points are tallied and added to each team's total score. Once a team reaches 500 points, the Zulu shifts to the next sector in the region, resetting the counter and initiating a new phase of combat.
Dynamic Battles. Commanders determine the strategies and tactics for each battle, deciding when and where to engage the enemy. The dynamic nature of the battles ensures fluid and unpredictable encounters.
The battles themselves utilize Arma's multiplayer component, allowing for large-scale engagements on designated "battle days." These battles determine territorial control, with gains and losses carrying over to subsequent encounters.
The scale of our battles can vary, accommodating anywhere from 4 to 100 players per side. Each battle is carefully configured to ensure equal player distribution between the competing factions.
A Note About Track IR...
In my view, one of the most impactful investments a player can make to enhance their situational awareness and overall immersion is by utilizing head tracking devices like the TrackIR series. From our experience, these devices offer invaluable advantages.
In essence, TrackIR enables players to control in-game actions using natural head and body movements. Arma leverages the full range of motion provided by TrackIR, including zooming, leaning, and, notably, looking around (pitch and yaw). The precision of TrackIR, especially when coupled with its user-friendly software package, elevates the gaming experience to new levels.
Recently, there has been a surge in the adoption of TrackIR devices, and the feedback has overwhelmingly been positive. We firmly believe that these devices are among the most impressive tools available to enthusiasts of the Arma series, greatly enhancing gameplay immersion and effectiveness.
TrackIR proves invaluable in various scenarios across Arma, whether operating vehicles or maneuvering as infantry. Here are some specific applications where TrackIR enhances gameplay:
TrackIR allows for seamless scanning of the front and sides without necessitating full character rotation or weapon adjustment. This enables continuous surveillance of a wide area while maintaining forward momentum, a crucial advantage during dynamic engagements.
With TrackIR, maintaining formation and interval with teammates becomes effortless. By simply glancing left or right, players can quickly assess their position relative to fellow squad members and make necessary adjustments, ensuring cohesion and coordination during tactical advances.
In prone positions, TrackIR minimizes visual detection by allowing for independent head movement without shifting the entire body. This subtle scanning capability significantly decreases movement cues, enhancing stealth and concealment in tactical environments.
TrackIR facilitates threat scans during weapon reloads, a critical practice for situational awareness. By swiftly scanning left or right, players can identify potential threats and maintain readiness to respond, mitigating vulnerabilities during reloading sequences.
TrackIR enhances immersion by enabling players to visually engage with teammates during communication without aiming weapons. This adds a personal and authentic dimension to in-game interactions, fostering effective teamwork and camaraderie.
Leveraging TrackIR, players can effortlessly monitor their six o'clock position, particularly in urban environments, to prevent advancement ahead of teammates. Arma's default head movement allows for comprehensive visual coverage, ensuring team cohesion and safety during operations.
Incremental leaning with TrackIR enables precise corner peeking, minimizing exposure to enemy fire while maintaining aiming capabilities. This incremental leaning functionality provides nuanced control over head and weapon positioning, optimizing tactical effectiveness in combat situations.
TrackIR facilitates visual scanning while operating mounted weapons, eliminating the need to adjust the weapon's orientation for surveillance. This capability is particularly advantageous in vehicle-mounted scenarios, enhancing target acquisition and situational awareness in dynamic environments.
TrackIR revolutionizes aerial piloting by providing intuitive head movement control, significantly enhancing maneuverability and target tracking for helicopter and aircraft pilots. Pilots equipped with TrackIR experience heightened precision and situational awareness, leading to improved performance in airborne operations.
In conclusion, TrackIR is a highly recommended investment for Arma enthusiasts seeking to elevate their gameplay experience. Its versatility and functionality empower players with enhanced situational awareness, communication capabilities, and tactical effectiveness, making it an invaluable asset for immersive and dynamic gameplay scenarios.
Moving on...
Before we proceed further, it's important to acknowledge several disclaimers:
1. There is only one solid, permanent rule: "Pragmatic Realism": Our group operates under the foundational rule of "Pragmatic Realism." While this remains a steadfast guideline, all other rules are subject to change without prior notice. The dynamic nature of our community means that rules may evolve over time, and newer versions of ArmA are likely to introduce amendments or new regulations.
2. Each player is different. Each player brings their own unique approach to the game, and mission-makers have the creative freedom to design original content that may deviate from the information provided in this handbook. Terms like "Typically," "Generally," and "Usually" are frequently used because exceptions are commonplace. It's impossible to make definitive, time-independent claims due to the diverse nature of our player base.
3. TF Reaper releases very little information about back-end procedures: TF Reaper maintains a policy of releasing minimal information about backend procedures. While some speculation regarding processes like Game Mastery or Recruitment may be permissible, it's kept to a minimum to maintain group integrity and security.
4. Do not assume all ArmA rules apply. Our group utilizes a variety of mods, many of which are not publicly available, to modify both in-game assets and mechanics. Information based on standard ArmA behavior should be used sparingly and clearly identified as such, as our gameplay experience may deviate significantly from the vanilla ArmA environment.
With those disclaimers in mind, let's delve into the core content...