Stampede Fix in M11S: Mini-Guide

Optimizing Fixed Stampede Strategy

In the Fixed Stampede strategy for Ecliptic Stampede at the end of M11s, the initial phase unfolds in a conventional manner. Melee players take position in the center while ranged players spread out. Two random ranged players are marked, with each heading to either the north or south wall to dodge proximity explosions. From this point forward, the strategy revolves around effective puddle baiting.

Adjusted Tower Priority

A significant deviation occurs when the towers spawn. Traditional priority for tower positions among tanks is maintained, with the main tank moving clockwise from the north and the off-tank moving counterclockwise.

 However, the other roles face a modified approach:

1. Melee Split:
   • M1 (Melee 1) moves clockwise.
   • M2 (Melee 2) moves counterclockwise.
   • Each melee is paired with a healer based on tower position.
     
2. Healers and Ranged Players:
   • Utilization of a four-player priority system is necessary due to potential positions. The assignments are as follows:
   • If one healer and one ranged are center, the healer goes clockwise and the ranged counterclockwise.
   • If both are healers, H1 (Healer 1) moves clockwise and H2 (Healer 2) counterclockwise.
   • If both are ranged, R1 (Ranged 1) goes clockwise and R2 (Ranged 2) moves counterclockwise.
   

   This system ensures that H1 always rotates clockwise, and R2 always counterclockwise, while adjustments are limited to R1 and H2.

Maintaining Melee Uptime

Upon reaching their tower positions, one melee and one ranged should be stationed per person tower, with specific positioning to optimize tether mechanics. The strategy is designed so that tethers lock onto the nearest player to the tower's center, keeping melees tether-free. This arrangement maximizes melee uptime on the boss—a critical factor for meeting DPS checks.

Fixed Central Positions

Unlike traditional methods, the central positions for players are fixed. Melee players consistently occupy the southern corners of the boss, while fire puddle baiters are positioned at the northern corners. The designated spots are the northwest for the north fire baiter and the northeast for the south fire baiter. Tethered players follow the standard practice by moving opposite their portal and stretching out clockwise.

Fireball Mechanics

The strategy for handling four-way fireball remains unchanged, with pairs taking positions on intercardinals. However, adjustments for the two-way fireball remove any ambiguity. This setup ensures the following:

• Melees are always among the players inside the hitbox, responsible for baiting.
• M1 baits left.
• M2 baits right.
• Positioning within the hitbox prevents unnecessary baiting redirection, maintaining strategy coherence.

In essence, adhering to these guidelines streamlines the process and minimizes errors. The adoption of this strategy is gaining popularity in PartyFinder, illustrating its effectiveness in high-pressure encounters.