Your first match

Keys are covered in Controls.

Your first matches in WARDOGS aren’t about kills — they’re about learning the economy and not losing your starting $10,000 in a couple of bad pushes.

1. Don’t spend it all at once

The classic rookie mistake: buy the most expensive rifle with every attachment, then get sniped a minute later. Lost gear doesn’t come back.

2. Stick with your squad

WARDOGS is a squad game. A squad reaches the zone faster, covers each other and revives the wounded. A lone wolf in a 100-player match is usually just easy income for another team.

3. Earn money beyond kills

You get paid for:

kills and assists;
transporting teammates;
supplying teammates;
reviving the wounded;
presence in the Control Zone or the Hot Zone.

If gunfights aren’t working out yet, drive people, run supplies and revive. It’s steady income with less risk.

4. Figure out where the fight is

The Control Zone spawns at a random spot on a huge map. Before you run in, check the map: where the zone is, where the Hot Zone is and which directions the enemies come from. More in The Control Zone. How to get there — see Getting to the zone.

5. Watch your balance between matches

Money carries over between matches. A good match isn’t only a win — it’s a growing balance. If you keep ending up in the red, simplify your loadout.

Next: Getting to the zone.