Goal
Decide whether your commander should move to contested mex, stay in base eco, or prepare for a later drop.
Safe eco (default)
- Commander builds first mex and solar near spawn.
- Second mex only if you have vision and an escape path.
- Best on unknown match-ups, FFA, or when enemy has fast raiders (vehicles, riots).
Use the Build Planner Classic build order template to practice safe timing before experimenting forward.
Commander forward
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Commander walks to a semi-contested mex with escort or early unit support.
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Saves transport metal but exposes com to snipes and riots.
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Works when:
- You have early vision and no enemy contact.
- Ally fronts elsewhere and distracts raids.
- Map has a free mex cluster you can body-block.
Risk comparison
| Play | Upside | Downside |
|---|---|---|
| Safe eco | Com alive, steady income | Slower map control |
| Forward com | Faster mex, pressure | Snipe, raid, game loss |
| Transport drop | Rear mex / proxy | Transport + com loss |
Snipe awareness
If you forward com, watch for:
- Enemy riots or tanks crossing radar edge.
- Air snipes on open ground.
- Drop on your now-empty base — keep a unit at home.
High risk: Forward com is not a drop. You still need an exit — have a vehicle or air pickup plan if enemy commits.
FFA vs teams
- FFA: Forward com is rarely worth it unless you read empty neighbors.
- Teams: Forward com can work when allies hold the lane — still coordinate so you are not alone on a front.