Many players misuse Nanoswarm grenades on the defender side by deploying them at the start of the round. Though tempting, this strategy often fails because opponents quickly adapt, destroy them, or avoid the area entirely. To optimize, save the grenades for mid-round plays, deploying them as lineups to catch enemies off guard. This tactic consistently secures impactful kills during rounds. Keep reading this Valorant Killjoy Guide to learn more about this overpowered sentinel.
When setting up pre-round, balance between defensive setups and mid-round flexibility. Using proper lineups for Nanoswarms increases effectiveness, as enemies won’t anticipate them. Activating grenades closest to enemies before others ensures maximum utility before destruction.
Turret
Killjoy’s turret is iconic but best utilized for gathering information rather than solely inflicting damage. Combine the turret with your positioning to maximize its potential. Place it strategically, wait for activation, and peek while enemies are distracted for an advantage.
The turret shines in pistol rounds due to limited enemy armor, allowing it to inflict significant chip damage. Position it at long-range angles to capitalize on low-damage enemy weapons like the Classic. On attack, use the turret for flank watch; it offers superior spotting range compared to the Alarmbot, making it ideal for securing post-plant control.
Alarmbot
The Alarmbot is excellent for area control on defense. For instance, on Bind’s A site, placing it deep in showers enables confident site control without constantly monitoring the area. If triggered, turn around to capitalize on vulnerable opponents.
The Alarmbot pairs powerfully with Nanoswarm grenades during post-plant scenarios. Position it on the spike, and when activated, combine it with grenades to deny defuse attempts efficiently.
Ultimate Ability: Lockdown
Killjoy’s Lockdown ability excels at site control or retakes, but coordination with teammates is crucial. Avoid wasting it when allies push recklessly ahead. If teammates ignore coordination, save the ability for a later round.
The Lockdown synergizes with Nanoswarms for powerful combos. For example, place the ultimate strategically, funneling enemies into a predictable escape zone. Deploy grenades into that zone to secure kills effortlessly. Experiment with maps like Ascent, Haven, and Split to find optimal setups
Playstyle: Defender and Attacker Strategies
Defender Side
- Defensive Setups: Place the turret to detect enemies as they enter the site. Use Alarmbots and Nanoswarms around key areas for maximum impact. Defensive setups are highly effective for solo site holds or eco rounds.
- Aggressive Setups: Utilize aggressive setups for early information. Position the turret and Alarmbot at separate choke points to cover multiple areas, saving Nanoswarms for mid-round lineups. This setup provides valuable intel, enabling teammates to rotate efficiently.
Attacker Side
- Lurking Role: Killjoy excels as a lurker. Use the turret to monitor flanks while controlling key areas of the map. Gather information and punish over-rotating opponents.
- Ultimate Utilization: When the ultimate is ready, focus on executing plays with the team to secure or retake sites.
Post-Plant Excellence
Killjoy’s post-plant setups are game-changing. Avoid placing both Nanoswarms directly on the spike without backup. Instead, pair an Alarmbot with one Nanoswarm on the spike while holding a second Nanoswarm for a lineup. This approach ensures sustained area denial, making defuses nearly impossible.
