TenZ Releases New Pro Guide: How To Use Stinger As Vandal

VALORANT pro player Tyson “TenZ” Ngo has published a guide on how to use the Stinger submachine gun as a primary fire to defeat the meta-dominant Vandal assault rifle. TenZ – known for his keen eye and game sense – has played with the Stinger and thinks it can be a worthy alternative to the Vandal under certain circumstances.

The Stinger Leaves a Consistent Spray Pattern

TenZ says a consistent spray pattern is the key to the Stinger’s effectiveness. The recoil of the Stinger is predictable and easy to handle – making it a solid option for close to medium-range engagements unlike most other weapons in VALORANT. TenZ explains in his guide that the spray pattern on the Stinger is very consistent.

TenZ shows the Stinger spray pattern on a wall, where the recoil has a straight downward direction slightly angled to the side. Look at this pattern if I’m spraying it, he says “It’s always just down, and then it goes to an angle. Sometimes it goes the other way, then switches to that side instantly. So when I spray it you just have to control it and the gun just goes crazy accurate”

Versatile Playstyle and Spray Control

TenZ demonstrates in his guide just how versatile the Stinger can be in various situations. “you just run and spray them down if they are near you,” he says. The professional player also thinks the Stinger can work well at longer ranges, as its bullets shoot straight compared to the super-accurate Vandal.

TenZ sets up a bot to test the Stinger at various distances to show how it performs. “Let’s say I went the distance and hung the bot up,” he says. “Nobody shoots straight from this distance, even the Vandal, the Stinger just sprays and it’s really, really good.” He points out that the Stinger is accurate at longer ranges and should be considered a contender among players who can dampen the recoil.

Stinger Meta and Potential Nerf Battle

TenZ’s guide has created a new “Stinger meta” among VALORANT players, with many players seeing the submachine gun as an obvious replacement for the Vandal. TenZ acknowledges this trend, writing “players are buying the Stinger as a second-round buy, pretty much on par with the Vandal.” 

But TenZ also suggests the Stinger’s reign may be short-lived as the weapon may be due for a balance tweak from the developers. “They actually need to nerf this gun by the way. It is just really good. ” The pro player’s fear of a potential nerf reflects the current strength of Stinger and the effect it’s having on the VALORANT meta.

Conclusion

TenZ’s guide has given a new angle on the Stinger, showing it as a viable primary weapon in VALORANT. The constant spray pattern and flexible playstyle could make the Stinger a game changer for players ready to take the time to learn. The “Stinger meta” has already begun to make waves among community members, with players seeing the submachine as an alternative to the Vandal.

But TenZ’s warning of a potential nerf makes it clear that the Stinger may be fading fast. However, the pro player’s guide provides some insight into VALORANT’s weapon selection strategy and the need to be flexible in a competitive environment. As the VALORANT meta continues to change, players may find themselves having to flex their weapon selections and skills to stay ahead of the curve.