Here is be brief guide for new AND old players on how to not get constantly pin-cushioned by archers (Bow AND Crossbow). First, the ground rules. Then the tactics.
GROUND RULES:
1. Sometimes archers will kill you no matter what you do, so don't be shocked. This guide will help it happen less.
2. Of all the tactics you can employ, whining is NOT an effective defense mechanism. The arrows will still penetrate you. Complaining in game, on the forums, or lobbying for a ranged nerf will only hurt the game and your own sense of self-worth. It is not a good long term solution, and it will not make you a better player. This guide will.
TACTICS
1. Bring a shield. Even a practice shield will absorb a few arrows and can save you. A difficulty 1 shield can take even more.
2. If you can't bring a shield, stick by a teamie with a shield. (Teamwork!?). Sometimes you can spam:
[q][f][f] KEEP YOUR FORMATION
and
[q][f][w] SHIELD WALL
When there is cav, you stick by teamies with a pike, right? When there are archers, stick by teamies with a shield. Let them go up ladders first. Let them take the lead when advancing on archer positions. IT'S THEIR JOB.
3. Use cover (trees, walls, etc). Archers have limited ammo. Eventually they will run out, but be careful. Hiding in a building is safe -- hiding behind something like a tree will only work for a little while. The archers will eventually circle around and get you in a cross fire.
4. Bring a siege shield and make your own cover. If you have several teamies do this, you can even build a pillow fort and hide-out!
5. Practice dodging. The zig-zag, the double-back, the random dance, the last-second juke, and the "non-dodge!" Learn them well.
6. Wear heavier armor. When all else fails, suit up and employ all of the above tactics with redoubled vigor.
7. If the enemy TEAM has way more archers than you, you have 2 choices. You can turtle up and hide behind cover (works for a while sometimes) or RUSH them. Closing distance against a ranged-heavy team will help take their advantage away. If you can coordinate your team using voice commands, you can rush the archer positions, scatter then, and conquer.
8. Can you think of more?
EDIT: Another tip: don't run in straight lines. If you are running towards/away from an enemy, curve your approach or zig-zag slightly. It makes it much harder for an archer to lead you with their shot!
SPECIAL NOTE:
(and secret tactic)
Sometimes you will still get killed by archers. Even if you use all of the tactics above, you still might still fall victim to the "lucky headshot." It happens. Analyze how it happened, and try to do better next round. This is the last secret tactic to employ: adaptation and self improvement.
Good luck out there!
