Shockwave grenades have returned to Fortnite, offering players a unique and powerful mobility tool. Unlike most other mobility items, shockwaves require skill and knowledge to use effectively. Whether you’ve struggled with them in the past or you’re a newcomer to this explosive item, this guide will help you become a Shockwave wizard capable of making 200 IQ plays.

Here’s everything you need to know about mastering shockwave grenades to gain the upper hand in your matches.

Why Shockwaves Are So Powerful

Shockwave grenades are versatile tools that can immediately propel you to another location without cooldowns or the risk of being shot during the status effect. They are fun and offer a high level of strategic flexibility, whether you’re escaping a tough situation or getting the drop on an opponent. The key to using shockwaves successfully lies in understanding the nuances of their mechanics.

Shockwave Mechanics 101

Shockwaves are balls of kinetic energy that push players away without causing fall damage. They have a maximum radius of one tile away from the grenade. Here’s how you can master the core mechanics:

• Throw Angle: The farther you throw the shockwave, the lower the angle it will launch you. If it’s close, you’ll be sent upward. This difference is important for controlling the trajectory of your movement.
• Throwing Accuracy: When you throw a shockwave at your feet, it will actually be aimed slightly to your right. To launch yourself in a straight line, align your character’s center with the grenade. A quick strafe to the right as you throw the grenade ensures you go where you want.
• Timing Your Jump: After throwing the shockwave, wait one second before jumping for maximum height and distance. Adjust your position in mid-air to correct any minor misalignments.

Maximizing Distance and Height

Many players think sprinting while shockwaving increases their range. However, testing shows that the speed at which you move has little effect. Instead, focus on aligning your character with the grenade and timing your jump precisely.

• For Distance: Jog forward after throwing the shockwave. Aim for good alignment and jump at the right time.
• For Height: Walk past the shockwave for controlled, high launches.
• Advanced Tip: If you want to land smoothly after a jump, hit the slide button just before you touch the ground. This super-slide technique ensures a smooth landing and faster recovery.

Advanced Techniques for Covering Ground Quickly

Once you’re comfortable with basic shockwave movement, try chaining shockwaves for quick escapes or strategic positioning:

• Super Slide + Shockwave: Throw the shockwave a character length ahead of you, adjusting the distance based on your speed. This combo lets you cover a lot of ground quickly, avoiding pursuit.
• Shockwave Through Structures: Shockwaves can be used to break through walls and floors. They’ll break up to three walls horizontally, depending on your distance from the first wall. You can even use a trick to break through only one wall by throwing the grenade at an elevated corner.

Mastering Shockwave Control

For a controlled shockwave jump:

• For Height: Position yourself very close to the grenade, ensuring precise alignment. The closer you are, the higher you’ll go.
• For Distance: Jog past the grenade and jump about half a second after throwing it.

You can even shockwave through ceilings and floors to reach new heights or fall quickly through buildings. With practice, you can easily shockwave up a four-story building and clear the roof.

Throwing Shockwaves at Angles

Shockwaves don’t need to be thrown directly downward to be effective. If you’re behind cover and don’t have room to sprint, throw the shockwave at an angle behind you to launch yourself through cover. However, it takes some practice to achieve a perfectly straight throw.

Shockwave Combat Tactics

Shockwaves are great for both offense and defense, and can be used creatively to disrupt enemies:

• Offensive Shockwaves: Shockwave opponents out of cover or off high ground, putting them in dangerous positions. You can even shockwave them into the storm to put pressure on them.
• Defensive Shockwaves: If you’re pinned down, use shockwaves to break through structures or escape enemies. Aim for creative uses like shockwaving through trees or buildings to catch your enemies off guard.

Shockwaving Teammates

When using shockwaves with teammates, have them stand still, facing you. Align the grenade properly so they can jump at the right time and land smoothly. If you’re at max shockwave capacity, throw one to pick up another before the blast goes off, ensuring you’re always prepared.

Combining Shockwaves with Soaring Sprints

If you’re lucky enough to get the Soaring Sprints augment, combining it with shockwaves can help you cover insane distances or reach extreme heights. With this combination, you can soar through the air and make yourself hard to hit, but be mindful of your surroundings as your elevated position can make you vulnerable to enemy fire.

Shockwave Strategy for Endgame Success

Shockwaves are incredibly valuable in the late game, especially when the circle gets smaller and more players are concentrated in one area. Here’s how to use them strategically:

• Flanking: Use shockwaves to get behind enemies while they’re distracted by your teammates.
• Peeking: Shockwave yourself onto trees to get high ground, making it harder for enemies to track you.
• Clear High Ground: Shockwaves can help clear opponents from high ground, making it easier to take control.

Practice and Refinement

To truly master shockwave grenades, practice in creative lobbies with other players. The more you experiment with offensive and defensive shockwave tactics, the better you’ll become.

Conclusion: You’re Now a Shockwave Wizard

With these tips and tricks, you’re well on your way to becoming a shockwave master. Keep experimenting with shockwaves and use them creatively to outsmart your enemies. The more you practice, the more deadly you’ll become, ensuring that every match is a thrilling ride filled with smart, calculated plays. Happy shockwaving!