Controlsturning

Controlsturning is a term used to describe a specific type of player behavior in video games, particularly in competitive online multiplayer titles. It refers to a player's strategic decision to deliberately reduce their own effectiveness or impact within a game to achieve a larger, long-term advantage or to influence the outcome of future engagements. This is often a nuanced tactic that can be difficult for opponents to immediately recognize or counter.

The core concept behind controlsturning involves sacrificing immediate gains, such as kills or map control, for a more advantageous position later. This might manifest in various ways depending on the game's mechanics. For instance, in a real-time strategy game, a player might intentionally allow their opponent to capture a less important objective while they focus on building up a stronger economic or technological base. In a team-based shooter, a player might choose not to engage in a losing firefight, instead falling back to a more defensible position or to regroup with teammates, thereby preserving their own resources and contributing more effectively later.

Controlsturning is not the same as simply playing poorly or making mistakes. It is a conscious and deliberate choice made with a calculated understanding of the game's systems and potential future outcomes. It requires a high level of game knowledge and foresight. Players who employ this strategy often aim to bait opponents into overextending, to conserve valuable resources like ammunition or cooldowns, or to set up advantageous team fights. The success of controlsturning often depends on the opponent's ability to recognize the maneuver and adapt their own strategy accordingly.