Ability System

The Ability System is an in-game feature that takes the form of unique items. It was released during the first part of the Fusion: Enchance update, on 8/25/11.

Each ability is categorized into one of two types: Passive and Active
 * Passive Abilities will automatically kick in as soon as you equip them, so you don't have to do anything other than play.


 * Active Abilities require button activation (thus the name) before the ability actually works.

Like other features, such as Friendly Fire and KillCam, the Ability System can be turned off.

Pitcher
A honed throwing arm allows you to control how far you throw, letting you choose exactly how hard to toss a grenade.

Unlocked at the rank of Recruit (550 EXP).

Specter
You’ve become more subtle and deft, allowing you to make very little noise when you move. This Ability is not in effect while sprinting.

Unlocked at the rank of Private (1,200 EXP).

Resourceful
When you kill an enemy player, there’s a chance they may leave behind Limited-Ammo, All-Ammo, or Recovery Items! You will have a short time to pick these up, after which they will be free for your team to recover.

Unlocked at the rank of Private First Class (2,500 EXP).

Awareness
You can attune yourself to the sounds of enemy movement. Footsteps will come in loud and clear as long as you have Stamina to fuel it. When Stamina runs out, Awareness effects disappear. To activate this press ~ + (slot number its in) without the "+"

Unlocked at the rank of Corporal (5,000 EXP).

Victory Lap
When you achieve a Multi-Kill or better, your normal movement speed will increase to your sprint movement speed and will not cost any Stamina. You will not be able to sprint while this effect is active. If you make a Multi, Ultra, Fantastic, or Unbelievable Kill while the effect is still active, the duration of the effect will be refreshed. This effect resets if you die.

Unlocked at the rank of Sergeant (8,700).

Steady Hand
You have a steady hand, when you scope in with a sniper, there will be no swaying of the crosshair.

Unlocked at the rank of Staff Sergeant (8,700).

Reception
As with all game features, there has been plenty of criticism regarding the Ability System's flaws.


 * The Pitcher ability is rather frustrating for some players in Combat Arms, since the grenade thrown will either ricochet back to the player hurling at a far wall or sail straight into the sky and out the map with it never coming back down.
 * Many people are complaining about the Steady Hand ability being "overpowered" due to the no sway advantage.