Banner Retrieval and Respawn Beacons in Apex Legends
In Apex Legends, the loss of a teammate doesn't have to mean the end of their participation in the match. The ability to retrieve fallen allies' banners and bring them back to life at Respawn Beacons is a critical mechanic that can turn the tide of a game. Mastering this process is essential for team survival.
This section details the process of banner retrieval and respawning. We'll cover how to safely acquire a fallen teammate's banner, the different types of Respawn Beacons, and the strategies involved in successfully bringing your squad back into the fight. Understanding these mechanics can be the difference between a swift defeat and a hard-fought victory.
The Downed State and Banner Acquisition
When a Legend is fully eliminated (not just downed), they drop their Banner Card. This card is a unique item that belongs to the eliminated player and can only be picked up by their teammates.
- Picking Up the Banner: Approach your downed teammate's death box and interact with it. You will see an option to 'Pick Up Banner'. This takes a few seconds and leaves you vulnerable, so ensure the area is relatively safe.
- Banner Timer: You have a limited time to retrieve a banner after a teammate is eliminated. This timer is displayed on your HUD. If the timer runs out, the banner disappears, and the teammate cannot be respawned.
- Death Box Looting: When you pick up a banner, you also gain access to the loot within the death box. Be mindful of this if you need to quickly grab gear.
Respawn Beacons: Your Lifeline to Victory
Respawn Beacons are designated locations on the map where you can bring back eliminated teammates. They come in three types:
| Beacon Type | Color | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Respawn Beacon | Blue | Fixed locations on the map. Always present. |
| Mobile Respawn Beacon | Gold | A rare loot item that can be deployed anywhere on the map. Offers maximum flexibility. |
| Team Respawn Beacon | Purple | A rare loot item that allows respawning of the entire squad at once. Very uncommon. |
The Respawn Process
Once you have a teammate's Banner Card:
- Locate a Respawn Beacon: Open your map and look for the blue beacon icons, which indicate standard Respawn Beacons. If you have a Mobile Respawn Beacon, you can deploy it anywhere.
- Approach the Beacon: Move towards the chosen Respawn Beacon.
- Initiate Respawn: Interact with the Respawn Beacon. This will begin a respawn sequence.
- Vulnerability During Respawn: The respawn process takes time and makes noise, attracting attention. Your teammate will be vulnerable during this animation and will spawn with only a P2020 pistol and white-level body shield and helmet.
- Protect Your Teammate: It is crucial for the rest of the squad to defend the Respawn Beacon while the respawn is in progress.
Strategies for Safe Banner Retrieval and Respawning
- Assess the Risk: Before attempting to retrieve a banner, evaluate the surrounding area. Are there enemies nearby? Is the Ring a threat?
- Use Cover: When retrieving a banner or during the respawn process, utilize any available cover to minimize your exposure.
- Communicate Intentions: Let your teammates know when you are going for a banner or initiating a respawn.
- Team Defense: If one teammate is respawning another, the remaining teammates should focus on providing cover and watching for enemy approaches.
- Mobile Respawn Beacons: These are incredibly valuable. Use them in safer locations, away from immediate enemy sightlines, or when the Ring forces you into a difficult situation.
- Team Respawn Beacons: If you find a Team Respawn Beacon, use it strategically when your entire squad is wiped or when you have a significant advantage in positioning.
Successfully bringing back downed teammates is a cornerstone of Apex Legends. It allows for comebacks, maintains squad cohesion, and ultimately increases your chances of winning. Always prioritize your teammates' survival when the opportunity arises.