Introduction
Brawl Stars is a dynamic and engaging mobile game that pits players against each other in fast-paced, strategic battles. With a diverse roster of Brawlers, each possessing unique abilities and playstyles, mastering the game requires a deep understanding of each character. Among these stars, Janet shines brightly – literally and figuratively. A charismatic performer with a knack for aerial acrobatics and sonic attacks, Janet brings a unique blend of offense and mobility to the Brawl Stars arena. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of Janet, exploring her abilities, strengths, weaknesses, and strategies to help you unlock her full potential and dominate the battlefield.
Janet is an Epic Brawler, released into the game around Summer of 2022 and could first be unlocked through the Brawl Pass of that season. She embodies the spirit of a starlet, complete with a striking outfit and a performance-oriented moveset. Whether she is belting out high notes or soaring through the air, Janet knows how to command attention and disrupt the opposing team. In the following sections, we will examine how her skills contribute to her performance as a Brawler and how you can use her in the best way possible.
Janet’s Abilities and Gameplay Mechanics
Janet’s kit revolves around her ability to project damage from afar and maneuver with high mobility thanks to her Super, “Screech Solo.” The key to playing Janet effectively lies in understanding and utilizing each ability to its maximum potential.
High Notes
Janet’s main attack, aptly named “High Notes,” consists of three projectiles that spread out as they travel further. These projectiles deal moderate damage individually, but when all three connect, they can inflict significant burst damage. This spread pattern makes her attacks more effective at longer ranges, allowing her to cover a wider area and harass enemies from a safe distance.
The key to maximizing Janet’s damage output is to aim precisely and predict enemy movements. At close range, it’s fairly easy to land all three projectiles, delivering a concentrated burst of damage. However, at longer ranges, you need to lead your shots and anticipate where your opponents are headed. This requires practice and a good understanding of map layouts. Due to the spread pattern, this allows Janet to check bushes at a safe distance, or spread damage to multiple enemies.
Consider prioritizing hitting a single target with all three projectiles for maximum damage, especially when facing high-health Brawlers. However, do not disregard the utility of spreading damage if the situation calls for it. For example, if you can weaken multiple enemies before a team push, you are giving your team a significant advantage. Learning to quickly evaluate the situation and adapt your attack strategy is crucial for playing Janet effectively.
Screech Solo
Janet’s Super, “Screech Solo,” is her most defining ability. It allows her to take to the skies and fly around for a short period, dropping bombs on enemies below. While airborne, she becomes almost invulnerable, taking drastically reduced damage, making her a difficult target to hit. This Super has both offensive and defensive applications, giving Janet incredible versatility.
Offensively, “Screech Solo” can be used to dive into the backlines and disrupt enemy formations, particularly those who are bunched together. The bombs deal significant damage, and the ability to reposition and drop bombs from above can quickly turn the tide of a battle. Defensively, it can be used to escape from dangerous situations, reposition, or scout ahead. The invulnerability effect grants her some breathing room while her team repositions or recovers.
Remember that Janet is vulnerable when she lands, so it’s important to choose your landing spot carefully. Try to land in a safe area, preferably behind cover or near your teammates. Pay attention to enemy positions before activating the Super to avoid flying directly into a trap. Practice predicting where the bombs will land to maximize your damage output and deny enemy movement. The bombs are delayed by a second or two, so it is important to predict where an enemy will be by the time it detonates.
Backstage Pass
“Backstage Pass” is one of Janet’s Gadgets and is excellent for repositioning or dodging enemy attacks. It allows Janet to teleport a short distance, providing a quick escape route or an opportunity to flank opponents.
This gadget is particularly useful for escaping from tight situations, such as when you’re being chased by a tank or caught in a close-range engagement. It can also be used to quickly reposition for a more advantageous attack angle or to surprise enemies. Using “Backstage Pass” effectively requires good timing and awareness of your surroundings. Practice using it to dodge enemy projectiles or to create distance between you and aggressive opponents.
Headbangers Stage
Janet’s other gadget, “Headbangers Stage”, allows her to drop a bomb at her current location. This bomb will stay for a duration of time, and deal moderate damage after some time. Enemies caught within the blast radius will be knocked back, allowing Janet to zone out areas.
This gadget is best used in defensive situations, or when trying to force enemies out of a specific area. This can be helpful in modes like Gem Grab, where one may want to prevent the Gem Carrier of the other team from getting close to their base. Likewise, it can be used to prevent enemies from pushing in a tight space, such as in Heist.
Stage Volume
“Stage Volume” is one of Janet’s Star Powers. It increases the range of her main attack, making her even more effective at long distances. This star power enhances her ability to control the battlefield and poke enemies from a safe range. If you enjoy playing Janet as a long-range harasser, this star power is an excellent choice.
Vocal Warm-Up
The second of Janet’s Star Powers is “Vocal Warm-Up”. This star power increases her reload speed when she is above a certain health threshold. If you can manage to play Janet safely, and maintain the required health, this can be a potent star power.
Best Gears for Janet
The gears that work best with Janet is largely based on one’s preferences and playstyle. However, some gears like the Damage gear and Shield gear are generally helpful for every Brawler. Damage gear will enable Janet to quickly wipe out enemies, especially since her attacks consist of three projectiles at a time. Shield gear will allow her to survive longer. Speed can also be helpful, as it allows her to reposition and dodge attacks more easily. The gadget charge gear can also be situationally useful for maps that require heavy utilization of Janet’s gadgets.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Understanding Janet’s strengths and weaknesses is crucial for playing her effectively and capitalizing on her advantages.
Strengths
Janet’s greatest strength lies in her incredible range and mobility. Her long-range attack allows her to poke enemies from a safe distance, while her Super provides her with unparalleled mobility and invulnerability. This combination makes her a versatile Brawler who can adapt to a variety of situations. She is particularly strong at controlling areas, harassing enemies, and escaping from danger. Her potential for burst damage is also a significant asset, allowing her to quickly eliminate vulnerable targets.
Weaknesses
Despite her strengths, Janet is not without her weaknesses. Her relatively low health makes her susceptible to burst damage and close-range engagements. She requires good aim to be effective, as her projectiles can be difficult to land at longer ranges. The vulnerability after landing from her Super can also be a significant drawback, as it leaves her open to attack. Janet also struggles against Brawlers who can quickly close the distance and overwhelm her with close-range attacks.
Best Game Modes and Maps for Janet
Janet excels in game modes that require long-range control and strategic positioning. Gem Grab is a great mode for her, as she can control the central gem mine and harass enemies from afar. Bounty is another strong mode, as her long-range attack allows her to rack up stars without putting herself in too much danger. Heist is a decent choice as well, especially with the “Headbangers Stage” gadget, which is amazing for zoning out areas and protecting the safe.
Maps with open lanes and good sightlines are ideal for Janet, as they allow her to maximize her range and poke enemies effectively. Maps with walls that provide cover for using “Backstage Pass” are also advantageous. She is less effective in game modes that require aggressive close-range combat, such as Brawl Ball, where she can be easily overwhelmed.
Tips and Tricks for Mastering Janet
To truly master Janet, you need to practice and experiment with her abilities to develop your own playstyle. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you get started:
- Master Spacing: Always maintain a safe distance from enemies. Use her long-range attack to harass them and control the battlefield.
- Practice Aiming: Take the time to practice aiming with her split projectiles. Learn to lead your shots and anticipate enemy movements.
- Strategic Super Usage: Use her Super strategically for offense, defense, and escape. Don’t waste it on trivial situations.
- Gadget Placement: Master the timing and placement of her gadgets. Use “Backstage Pass” to dodge attacks and reposition, and use “Headbangers Stage” to zone out enemies.
- Advanced Juking: Practice using “Backstage Pass” to dodge attacks and create unexpected angles of attack.
- Predict Enemy Movements: Anticipate enemy movements to maximize damage and control the battlefield.
- Team Composition: Choose teammates who can support her and protect her from close-range attackers. Tanky Brawlers and healers are excellent choices.
- Map Awareness: Pay attention to the map layout and use it to your advantage. Utilize walls for cover and take advantage of open lanes to maximize her range.
Janet in the Meta
Janet’s current standing in the Brawl Stars meta fluctuates depending on balance changes and the popularity of other Brawlers. However, she remains a viable pick in many game modes, particularly for players who can master her unique playstyle. Her long-range attack and mobility make her a valuable asset in competitive play, and she is often seen in professional matches.
Compared to other ranged Brawlers, Janet offers a unique blend of offense and mobility. While she may not have the raw damage output of some other snipers, her Super provides her with unmatched versatility and the ability to disrupt enemy formations. Her strength lies in her ability to adapt to different situations and playstyles, making her a valuable addition to any team. With the release of new Brawlers and balance changes, Janet’s viability will continue to evolve.
Conclusion
Janet is a powerful and versatile Brawler who can excel in a variety of game modes with the right strategy. Her long-range attack, high mobility, and potential for burst damage make her a formidable opponent. However, she requires good aim, strategic positioning, and a deep understanding of her abilities to be played effectively. Janet’s strength lies in her versatility and ability to adapt to different situations, making her a valuable asset to any team. By mastering her unique playstyle and utilizing her strengths to their full potential, you can unlock her full potential and dominate the Brawl Stars arena. Take your time, practice, and experiment and who knows, maybe you will become a Janet main.
