User:Axe Hack/The Art of War

In the ancient years, many Chinese literature such as Sun Tzu's The Art of War paved the way to many successes. It might not seem like it, but some of the teachings in The Art of War can be used in Urban Dead, for there is a certain strategic element in Urban Dead that many players tend to miss.

Laying Plans

Sun Tzu wrote, "The art of war is of vital importance to the state. It is a matter of life and death, a road to either safety or ruin. Under no circumstances can it be neglected. It is governed by five constant factors, all of which needs to be taken into account."

These five factors Sun Tzu speak of are:

1. Moral Law" - Moral Law causes the people to be in complete accord with the commander, willing to follow the commander to the end, regardless of their lives.

   Be friendly with other players. It is important to build trust with other players. Listen to them and help them out in their times of need. In turn, they will help you out in your time of need.

2. Heaven - Heaven signifies night and day, cold and heat, times and seasons.

   Time is an important factor. Study the enemies' daily routine. By studying their daily routines, you can determine the best possible times to launch your attacks.

3. Earth - Earth comprises of distance, both great and small; danger and security; open ground and narrow passes; the chances of life and death.

   It is important to know the status of the surrounding area before battle. For survivors: know the shortest routes to supplies. Keep some alternative supply lines ready if your primary supply lines are in ruins. For PKers and BHers: know where the best hiding spots are located in the area. Budget your AP accordingly so you have enough to get to one of the hiding spots you have preemptively chosen. For zombies: know which buildings are the most crucial to an area's defense. Knock out escape routes and other key buildings in the Freerunning network to cut off survivor supply lines.

4. Commander - The Commander stands for the virtues of wisdom, sincerity, benevolence, courage, and strictness.

   This is you. A successful strategy depends on how you, the commander, acts. Do not act rash or reckless, and remain calm in tough situations. Don't hesitate. Make your decisions in confidence. A strong commander is decisive and is able to keep their cool.

5. Method and Discipline - Method and Discipline are to be understood as the marshaling of the army in its proper subdivisons, the gradations of rank among the officers, the maintenance of roads by which supplies may reach the frontlines, and the control of military expenditure.

   Before going into battle, know the strengths and weaknesses of your group. Each player has their own strengths and weaknesses. Utilize everyone's strengths when in battle, and cover for each others' weaknesses. Coordination and communication is crucial here. Make sure your group knows what they're doing. A single minor mistake on one of your group member's part may prove to be a critical error that causes your entire group to fall.