[Steam]-y Thread 30: Throwing titles out the window!

[Triscuitable]

Scout: Challenging to learn, but makes a good distraction or finishing class. Get a substitute bat ASAP; the default doesn't have DPS close to your Scattergun. A new secondary can help, too.

Soldier: Easy to start, hard to master. Hit hard and rocket jump. Slow on the ground, fast in the air. A decent melee weapon should also be considered. Get really, really good with the Reserve Shooter.

Pyro: Seems easy to play. In truth, you've been doing it wrong the whole time. Your effectiveness as a Pyro demands you ambush and use shock tactics. Play like a Spy that can't cloak. Use the almighty combo of the Degreaser, Reserve Shooter, and Axtinguisher.

Demoman: The class has been simplified to the point where Sticky Spam is sadly, a viable strategy. Sticky jump sparingly, as you only have so much health.

Heavy: Go with classes that help you suppress (Engineer, Medic), and lay down the fire on enemies. Not too complex; just be the support. Your standard minigun should be good, but a Sandvich is absolutely crucial at this point. A good alternatively melee weapon could also help.

Engineer: Find a defensible place and set up shop. Make sure it's convenient for your team, as well. If you're working for yourself, then you're not helping anyone. The Widowmaker or Frontier Justice are a necessity; the Gunslinger is nice for offensive play, as well.

Medic: Heal, heal, heal. If you're alone, go find someone. You're very fragile, so working in a team will make sure you have cover (i.e., meatshields). Don't ever go alone; you're pathetically weak in 1-versus-anything battle. The Amputator and Solemn Vow are straight upgrades, so pick one unless you find a good alternative.

Sniper: Don't play this class unless you're 100% certain you can click on heads like a pro. Use powerful rifles that focus on damage; chances are, if you're caught by an enemy, you'll be within range to slam down Jarate and whack away with the Bushwacka.

Spy: Use the Dead Ringer for the optimal playstyle. The Saharan Spy set is very effective if you use the three in tandem. Otherwise, the Diamondback is a great weapon to use on turtling teams: it'll break right through their defenses. If you lack any of the above, the standard revolver and watch are great; it's just that you'll want to find a good knife to use instead. Like the Sniper, make sure you can get behind your enemies as often as possible. Don't disguise as anything obvious, either: the Scout, Engineer, Medic, and Spy are very obvious choices (the Scout is faster, the Engineer is expected to have a base, the Medic should heal at all times, and you don't see an undisguised Spy running around).

Final note: Most weapons are sidegrades; don't be afraid to use a default weapon, as they're generally the most reliable choice.