Speculation on the Team Fortress 2 "Sniper Update"...

There is all sorts of speculation going around on the next Team Fortress 2 update.  I like these updates because it gives me a new batch of achievements together and allows for better new strategies.  The last update was the "Scout" update and while I had already been leaning more towards using the Scout, this update has propelled it to my second favorite class.

I doubt the Sniper update will do anything for my interest in the Sniper int he long term but it may encourage me to play it more.  Here's some irony.  Back in the day, when I played Team Fortress Classic constantly, the Sniper was my favorite class.  I could dominate people left and right and generally kick ass in "The Sniper Wars".  These days I barely ever play Sniper.  It's boring more than anything.

Still, here's my speculation on what I'd like to see and what might be in store.

First off is the new headgear aspect.  I imagine part of the reason this is being rolled out with this update is that headgear will affect the way Sniper headshots work.  Maybe they always protect against the initial head shot (knocking the helmet off) and I'm sure there will be an achievement like "Knock 100 hats off".  It'll likely be called "Hats off To Ya Mate" or something clever like that.  I'm not really going to speculate on achievements, I did this for the scout and got maybe one of them correct.  Half of the achievements will be related to the new weapons anyway I'm sure.

As for weapons.  I'll like to see a sniper rifle that let's you "Go Prone" ie Lay down.  The advantage will be that it maybe has longer range or always is at 100% charge.  Also you'll be less likely to be seen standing up like some sort of goon.  The obvious disadvantage is that you'll be immobile and getting up will take a second.  Basically, you'll be a complete sitting duck for anyone up close.

The secondary weapon should be something consumable.  I like the idea of things like The Sandvich or Bonk! that give some sort of ability boost vs being a weapon.  Not sure what it could be though.  Maybe some sort of camo suit that isn't quit being invisible like a spy but makes you harder to see.  Or better yet, how about "decoy snipers".  You can basically drop a couple of large fake snipers that shatter when shot.  That might actually be kind of fun.

I've also seen speculation on the ability to set traps, which would fit with the "Outback/Australian" stereotype.  Maybe Bear Traps.  You could drop them on the ground behind you and if a spy come up he'll get trapped.  This could cause him to lose his disguise and walk slower temporarily allowing the Sniper to save himself.

Anyway, I mostly just wanted to throw my ideas out there, feel free to feedback with your own or on these in the comments.