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- There are four aim assist types – Default, Precision, Focusing, and Black Ops.
- We recommend Default for all skill levels but feel free to experiment with the other options.
Aim assist is undoubtedly a delicate feature in Call of Duty titles and for a lot of players, is the perfect helping hand when it comes to multiplayer battles. Choosing the right type can dramatically impact your performance, turning you from a jittery recruit to a laser-focused sharpshooter. However, with four distinct options, the path to perfect aim can sometimes feel like you’re navigating a minefield. But fear not, soldier, for in this guide we’ll be going over the best aim assist type in the game.
Best aim assist type
Having aim assist turned on slows down the camera when your crosshair is near an enemy. Among the four types, we recommend the Default aim assist type. It’s well-balanced and is used by players across skill levels. Remember that this is only one piece of the best controller settings puzzle. Aim settings also take into account deadzone inputs and an aim response curve. If you want to learn more, here’s a breakdown of all the aim assist types in the game:
- Default: This is the traditional aim slowdown near target used in Modern Warfare games.
- Precision: This is a strong aim slowdown that starts after you’ve aimed closer to a target. It’s also often the most used type for accurate players.
- Focusing: This comes with a strong aim slowdown that kicks in when you narrowly miss a target.
- Black Ops: This is similar to the aim slowdown used in Black Ops games.
Default – The familiar friend
Default mode offers a familiar and comfortable experience for most players (myself included). It provides a mild slowdown near your target, subtly nudging your reticle toward its center. This makes it a great choice for beginners and even veteran players who prefer an organic aiming experience. It allows for precise micro-adjustments and rewards skillful tracking. However, its gentle nudge can be frustrating in fast-paced close-quarters encounters, where split-second reactions are crucial in maps like Rust and Terminal. We believe this is the best assist type for all skill levels. Even players on the pro scene rely on the Default aim assist to knock down foes.
Precision – A laser focus
Precision amplifies the right stick’s aim slowdown to a near-magnetic attraction. Once your reticle nears your target, it practically snaps onto them, making headshots and precise bursts a breeze. This is ideal for players who prioritize pinpoint accuracy, especially at mid-to-long ranges. It shines with sniper rifles and controlled bursts from assault rifles, offering near-pixel-perfect precision. But the strong pull can be disorienting in close quarters, sometimes dragging your reticle off target if enemies move erratically. It also hinders quick target acquisition, making it less forgiving for players who rely on reflexes and flick shots.
The best aim assist type depends on your preferred weapon, playstyle, and skill level. If you enjoy using snipers, Precision’s laser focus excels here. If you love ARs, Focusing’s adaptability shines. And if you’re into SMGs, Default’s gentle nudges provide more freedom for quick reactions and flick shots.
Focusing – A dynamic approach
Focusing provides you with a middle ground, dynamically adjusting its pull based on your reticle’s proximity and the enemy’s movement. It starts gentle, similar to Default, but intensifies as your reticle gets closer, offering a smooth transition from subtle nudges to precise lock-on. This makes it versatile, and it’s why I use it in bigger maps like Afghan because it adapts to different situations and playstyles. It’s excellent for players who want some assistance but still value their aiming skills. However, its dynamic nature can be unpredictable, potentially throwing off your analog aim if you’re used to a more consistent pull. Note that this only affects your right stick aim and not your rotational left stick aim (while strafing).
Black Ops – The quirky cousin
While the final Black Ops setting is fairly similar to the Default mode, there are some minor differences. If you line up your sights on the center of a target’s body, Black Ops mode will aid you with a stickier aim slowdown. But this takes away some freedom when adjusting your reticule between foes. It also expects you to have decent aim in the first place. Black Ops mode certainly has its place, even in professional matches. But for most players, we recommend picking from one of the first three aim assist types.
About the Author
Call of Duty Modern Warfare 3 (2023)
- Platform(s): PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series S, Xbox Series S/X, Xbox Series X
- Genre(s): Action, Shooter
