Carl is currently A-tier in Gem Grab with a score of 78/100. As a Damage Dealer, Carl sustains high damage at mid range and wins straight-up duels, making it a reliable pick when the meta favors Gem Grab.
Run Power Throw as the default Star Power for Carl — it works in most situations. Switch to Protective Pirouette on maps that punish your main weakness. For Gadgets, Heat Ejector is the standard active pick; Flying Hook is situationally better on specific map types. Speed and Shield Gears are the standard choice.
Carl struggles against Bull and Frank, who can out-trade Carl at the ranges or map types where Carl is most exposed. On the flip side, Carl consistently beats Emz and Gale.
Carl performs best in Gem Grab (A-tier, 78/100). The Damage Dealer kit — sustains high damage at mid range and wins straight-up duels — is directly rewarded in Gem Grab, which is why Carl climbs higher here than in other modes. See the mode ratings section for a full breakdown.
Carl pairs best with Poco and Gene. Since Carl sustains high damage at mid range and wins straight-up duels, teammates that cover the opposite role — whether that is frontline presence, healing, or ranged poke — create the most complete comp.
To play Carl well, focus on Gem Grab where the mode rating is highest, and lean into being a Damage Dealer that sustains high damage at mid range and wins straight-up duels. Run Power Throw as the core build, track Bull and Frank on the enemy team, and pair with Poco and Gene when possible.
Carl spins his pickaxe in a boomerang path that deals damage on both the outward and return trip, making tight corridors and enclosed areas where both hits connect very profitable for him. His moderate health and reliable damage output make him a consistent pick in many modes. He struggles against brawlers who can outrange him or simply sidestep his predictable projectile path.
Position Carl so the return arc of his pickaxe catches opponents who try to dodge the initial throw. His Super speeds him up significantly, which can be used offensively to close distance or defensively to escape burst threats.
CARL DEEP DIVES
Mode-specific stats and the top ranked Carl players globally. Each page shows win rate, pick rate, best maps and tier for that specific combination.
Hold mid range and maintain spacing. Advance during the enemy's reload, retreat during your own. Take Power Throw in most situations, switching to Protective Pirouette on maps where enemies can close distance. Force trades only when you are at full health.
PRIORITY
Draft Around Counters
Watch for Bull or Frank. Both Heat Ejector and Flying Hook are in your kit — learn which one punishes your counters versus which gives you an escape window. Use your Gadget early rather than saving it for a desperate moment.
MATCHUP
Best Team Shape
Pair Carl with Poco or Gene when possible. Build toward Flamespin in safe positions — it swings fights instantly, so activate it when your team has the edge, not when you are already behind.
TEAMPLAY
SQUAD UP
Name your squad and share the link to coordinate your next session.
GEM GRAB
78
HOT ZONE
72
KNOCKOUT
74
BRAWL BALL
74
BOUNTY
62
HEIST
68
Flamespin
