Key Position Callouts on Ancient in CS2

<p>The Ancient map in CS2 features numerous recognizable spots, tight corridors, and elevated areas that are crucial for tactics. Knowing these places helps&nbsp;<a href="/en/players" target="_self">cs2 players</a>&nbsp;quickly navigate, provide accurate information to teammates, and adjust their strategy during a round.</p><h2>A Site and Approaches</h2><p>A Site — bomb plant area on A.</p><p>Temple — passage from CT Spawn to A Site, one of the defensive routes.</p><p>Triple Box — set of three boxes on A Site, used for planting or defense.</p><p>A Boost — a spot where one player can boost another for height advantage or vision.</p><p>Donut — circular or semi-circular room near mid, connecting A and Mid.</p><h3>B Site and Approaches</h3><p>B Site — bomb plant area on B.</p><p>Ramp — sloped approach leading to B Site.</p><p>Cave — small tunnels leading into B or used by CTs for retreat.</p><p>Ruins — area between Tunnel and Doors, often a staging point for B pushes.</p><p>Doors — double doors between Ruins and Ramp, crucial for map control.</p><p>Pillar — large vertical object on B, useful for cover.</p><p>Short — passage between CT and B, located near Cave.</p><p>Long — passage between CT and B, running parallel to Short.</p><h3>Mid and Connected Areas</h3><p>Mid — the central part of the map, a key connector between A and B.</p><p>Top Mid / Red — upper Mid, often accessed via stairs or corridor, a strong sniper position.</p><p>Xbox — group of boxes in the middle of Mid, a focal point for control fights.</p>

What is D3D9EX in CS2 and why do players need it?

<p>In CS2, just like in previous versions of Counter-Strike, you may come across the launch option -d3d9ex. It is related to Direct3D 9Ex — an improved version of DirectX 9 that optimizes how the game interacts with your GPU and RAM.</p><p>The main purpose of D3D9EX is to reduce system load, lower delays when minimizing and maximizing the game, and improve FPS stability. This parameter is especially useful for&nbsp;<a href="/en/players" target="_self">CS2 players</a>&nbsp;with less powerful PCs, but even on modern systems it helps reduce micro stutters.</p><p>You can enable it through Steam launch options:</p><p>Open your Steam library.</p><p>Find CS2 and open its properties.</p><p>In the “Launch options” field, type -d3d9ex.</p><p>It’s worth noting that this setting won’t dramatically boost FPS, but it can improve overall smoothness and comfort when switching between windows or, for example, when&nbsp;<a href="/en/cases" target="_self">opening CS2 cases</a>. For most players, enabling D3D9EX is a safe and helpful choice.</p>

How to Change CS2 Resolution?

<h2>How to change resolution in CS2 without opening game or how to change resolution in CS2 through launch options</h2><p>Another simple way is to set the resolution via CS2 launch options. To do this:</p><p>Open the Steam client.<br>Go to ‘Library’ → right-click on the game → ‘Properties’.<br>In ‘Set Launch Options’ type: -w 800 -h 600, replacing values with the resolution you want in CS2.</p><p>This way you can get a comfortable resolution for gameplay or even, for example, when&nbsp;<a href="/en/cases" target="_self">opening CS2 cases</a>.</p><h2>How to change resolution in CS2 via console</h2><p>First, enable the developer console in the game settings and open it with the ~ key. To change resolution, use the command mat_setvideomode followed by width, height, and refresh rate. For example, mat_setvideomode 1920 1080 144 sets Full HD at 144Hz.</p>

<p>In this article, we will take a detailed look at how to change the resolution in CS2 and the easiest ways to optimize and set up a comfortable screen resolution for gameplay and displaying your&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins" target="_self">CS2 skins</a>.</p><p>At first glance, this may seem simple, but it’s not always the case. Everyone has faced a situation where "something went wrong," making it impossible to access the settings. If you are in such a situation, here are the most effective solutions.</p><h2>How to Change Resolution in the Game</h2><p>The easiest and most logical way is to adjust the settings within the game itself.</p><ul><li>Open CS2</li><li>Go to Settings → Video</li><li>Find the Resolution option, change it to your preference, and save the settings</li></ul><p>If, for some reason, you cannot enter the game, you can change these settings without launching it.</p>

Key Position Callouts on Inferno in CS2

<h2>Main spots on Inferno</h2><p>A Site:</p><p>Pit — cover under the balcony, often used for defense.</p><p>Balcony — position above Pit, leading to Apartments.</p><p>Graveyard — elevated spot next to Pit, good for unpredictable plays.</p><p>Library and Arch — rotation zones from CT Spawn.</p><p>Short and Long — main paths for attacking A.</p><p>B Site and Banana:</p><p>Banana — key corridor from T Spawn to B.</p><p>Car, Sand Bags — covers along Banana.</p><p>Coffins, New Box (Oranges), Dark, Fountain — main defensive spots on B.</p><p>Construction and CT — rotation points for counter-terrorists.</p><p>Mid:</p><p>Mid — central area of the map.</p><p>Second Mid, Boiler, Underpass — additional attack and rotation routes.</p><h3>Why callouts matter</h3><p>Fast and clear communication with teammates.</p><p>Proper use of&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins/grenades" target="_self">CS2 grenades</a>.</p><p>Effective rotations and site holds.</p>

CS2 Grenade Practice Maps

<p>In CS2, well-executed grenade lineups can decide the outcome of many rounds. To master them faster, players use special maps from the Steam Workshop.</p><h2>Examples of practice maps:</h2><p>Yprac Practice Maps — a series of maps with useful guides for practicing&nbsp;<a href="/en/skin/smoke-grenade" target="_self">smokes</a>,&nbsp;<a href="/en/skin/flashbang" target="_self">flashes</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="/en/skin/molotov" target="_self">molotovs</a>&nbsp;on each location.</p><p>Crashz’ Smoke Practice — a classic map for learning lineups with visual hints and position markers.</p><h3>How to find practice maps:</h3><p>Open Steam → go to Community → Workshop.</p><p>Type the map name in the search bar, e.g., “Yprac&nbsp;<a href="/en/wiki/overview-map-mirage" target="_self">Mirage</a>” or “Smoke Practice”.</p><p>Subscribe to the map — it will automatically download into CS2.</p><p>Launch it via the “Workshop Maps” section in the game.</p><p>Grenade practice maps let you train&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins/grenades" target="_self">CS2 grenades</a>&nbsp;without time limits, test different&nbsp;<a href="/en/configs" target="_self">configs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="/en/crosshairs" target="_self">CS2 crosshairs</a>, and prepare better for team matches.</p>

Vertigo - A Competitive Map in CS 2: Key Features and Gameplay Strategies

<p>The Vertigo map invites players to step into Manhattan, the heart of New York City. The action takes place in an unfinished skyscraper, the Rizzleton, spanning between the 50th and 51st floors.</p><p>The "T" team aims to destroy one of the two enemy bases, causing the release of toxic chemicals into the air. The "T" respawn is located on the 50th floor, while the CTs have secured the 51st. Battles unfold across both floors, the ramp connecting them, and the bomb plant sites.</p><p>However, death on Vertigo isn’t limited to enemy fire or failed objectives. Players can leap off the building or fall due to careless movements. Such deaths are considered suicides in the game.</p><h2>Key Locations on the Vertigo Map</h2><p>The main objectives are sites A and B. The side corridor is typically used to approach Site A, while mid or the ramp is often chosen for reaching Site B. Other notable locations include:</p><ol><li>Mid: A stretch that starts at the stairs and continues to the turn opposite the room leading downwards.</li><li>Ladder: A small space acting as a vertical connector between the 50th and 51st floors.</li><li>Toilets: Two small rooms beneath the stairs at T-Spawn, providing a decent hiding spot.</li></ol><h2>T-Side Tactics</h2><p>Success for the T-side depends on two factors:</p><ol><li>Map Control: Each team member must understand their role and actions to achieve victory.</li><li>Speed: Quick action is often required on Vertigo. Securing a bomb site quickly and planting the bomb should be the priority.</li></ol><p>Challenges during a round might necessitate a change in attack direction. Below are effective strategies for attacking Sites A and B:</p><h4>Attacking Site A</h4><p><a href="/en/players" target="_self">&nbsp;</a><a href="/en/players" target="_self">&nbsp;</a><a href="/en/players" target="_self">Pro players cs2</a>&nbsp;recommend rushing as a team rather than individually. One player should stay in an alternate position or monitor mid, relaying enemy movements to the team.</p><p>Although simple, this strategy has proven effective on Vertigo. Each team member covers a specific area, reducing the likelihood of enemy flanking.</p><h4>Attacking Site B</h4><p>Capturing and holding Site B is challenging due to the map's tighter spaces. Players need to move carefully, leveraging cover and coordinating their approach.</p><ul><li>Two players should approach via help (short route), while three move through the ladder area.</li><li>Those on help can opt for an alternate route via short but must quickly gain control of the site.</li></ul><h2>CT-Side Tactics</h2><p>The primary goal for CTs is defending the bomb sites. If the bomb is planted, the team must retake the site and defuse it before detonation.</p><h4>Defending Site A</h4><p>The classic defense involves holding three positions:</p><ol><li>Cement: One defender holds cement, engaging until a teammate can secure the trade.</li><li>Help or Site: Another player may act as a sniper from the ramp or cover the site directly.</li><li>Connector and Construction: Remaining players control these areas.</li></ol><p>Grenade usage is crucial:</p><ul><li>From cement, use Molotovs to counter ramp pushes.</li><li>From help or site, use flashbangs and Molotovs to protect ramp and cement.</li><li>From connector, smoke off the ramp and loader areas.</li></ul><p>An alternative strategy involves aggressive grenade usage:</p><ul><li>One CT holds the ramp, awaiting enemy presence.</li><li>Another moves through construction toward the loader.</li><li>The remaining three assist or cover mid.</li></ul><p>This aggressive strategy is risky and demands strong coordination.</p><h4>Defending Site B</h4><p>Defending B is particularly challenging on Vertigo due to its layout.</p><ul><li>Typically, two players monitor the site, using grenades strategically to control enemy movements. One should hold flashbangs and Molotovs for key moments.</li><li>A third player provides backup and relays enemy information.</li></ul><p>Alternatively:</p><ul><li>One defender with a sniper rifle controls the ladder, while the other monitors help.</li><li>Use smokes for ladder control and Molotovs at key choke points. Flashbangs should disrupt enemy pushes.</li></ul><h2>Interesting Facts</h2><ol><li>The Name "Vertigo": Translating to "dizziness," the name reflects the map's high-altitude setting.</li><li>Falling Off: Players can accidentally or intentionally fall off the building. Dropped bombs reappear where they fell.</li><li>Vertigo 2021 Collection: Features 17&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins" target="_self">cs2 skins</a>&nbsp;for various weapons.</li><li>Fall Counter: A poster on the map tracks the number of players who’ve fallen. Each fall updates the count.</li><li>Warehouse Warnings: Boxes on the map feature signs, including one with the text:<br>“I’m Jacob and I work with Magnar. He’s very strict, and I need your help. He doesn’t even let me use the bathroom until my work is done. If this liquid contacts your skin or clothes, start panicking and run.” Nearby stickers warn about the dangers of contact with the liquid and its toxic vapors.</li></ol>

Why does CS2 crash

<p>Counter-Strike 2 can crash for different reasons, and it’s important to understand what exactly causes the issue to fix it quickly.</p><h2>Main reasons for crashes</h2><p>Weak hardware — if your PC doesn’t meet the minimum system requirements.</p><p>Outdated graphics drivers — old versions may cause errors.</p><p>Overheating — high temperatures reduce game stability.</p><p>Game file errors — corrupted or missing Steam files.</p><p>Software conflicts — antivirus or overlays (Discord, GeForce Experience) may interfere with CS2.</p><p>Or maybe you picked up a virus while browsing the web, for example when opening&nbsp;<a href="/en/cases" target="_self">CS2 cases</a>?</p><h3>What to do</h3><p>Check CS2 system requirements.</p><p>Update your GPU drivers.</p><p><a href="/en/wiki/how-to-clear-cache-and-verify-game-files-in-cs2" target="_self">Run file verification through Steam</a>.</p><p>Clean your PC from unnecessary background programs.</p><p>Monitor your CPU and GPU temperatures.</p><p>Open cases only on trusted&nbsp;<a href="/en/rating" target="_self">CS2 case sites</a>.</p><p>Fixing these issues usually helps get rid of crashes and makes the game more stable.</p>

Key position callouts on the Mirage map in CS2

<h2>Main Mirage positions</h2><p>Mid — the central part of the map, contested by both teams.</p><p>Connector — passage between Mid and A Site.</p><p>Palace — upper entrance to A Site.</p><p>Tetris — boxes at the A entrance.</p><p>Jungle — connection between A Site, Mid Balcony and Kitchen.</p><p>Stairs — stairs near Connector on A Site.</p><p>CT Spawn — Counter-Terrorist spawn, defensive point for A.</p><p>A Site — bomb plant area on A.</p><p>B Apartments (Apps) — upper entrance for Terrorists towards B Site.</p><p>Kitchen (Market) — room next to B Site, accessible through window or door.</p><p>B Site — bomb plant area on B.</p><p>Short (Catwalk) — passage from Mid to B.</p><p>Underpass — tunnel under Mid leading to B.</p><h3>Why it matters</h3><p>Knowing callouts helps you quickly share info with teammates, coordinate attacks and defenses better, and use&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins/grenades" target="_self">CS2 grenades</a>&nbsp;more effectively.</p>

Train - Competitive Map in CS2: Map Overview, Key Attack, and Defense Tactics

<p>Train is a map in Counter-Strike 2's competitive mode, centered around a bomb-planting scenario. This map is one of the few with a Russian theme in CS2. The action takes place in a disused railway depot in Russia. The setting features dilapidated train cars, weathered walls, and shattered or boarded-up windows, reflecting a long-abandoned industrial site.</p><p>The "T" team must complete their objective of planting explosives in train cars containing hazardous chemicals, while the CTs must prevent this at all costs.</p><p>Train is a large map with numerous hidden paths and routes, making it highly balanced and popular among both new players and professional esports competitors.</p><h2>Train Spots Cs2</h2><p>The main points of interest are the A and B bombsites, accessible via Main and Connector or T-Ramp (ladder area) respectively. Other significant locations include:</p><ul><li>Corridor: A narrow passage linking the T-Ramp and Connector.</li><li>Toilet: A small room near the Corridor, offering an alternative route to Connector when approaching from A.</li><li>Zigzag: A tight tunnel connecting the A and B sites.</li></ul><h2>T-Team Tactics</h2><h4>Attacking Bombsite A</h4><p>Smoke tactics are the most effective for assaulting A. The T team should utilize smoke grenades as follows:</p><ol><li>Throw the first smoke to block the area between Connector and the train with the bomb. This secures a safer path to the ladder room.</li><li>Place the second smoke between the brown train and the bomb train, further shielding your approach.</li><li>Use the third smoke to cover the blue train from either side.</li></ol><p>This smoke strategy ensures a 90% success rate in securing the site. However, the remaining 10% represents the risk of a CT retake, especially if they regroup for a coordinated push when the Ts have no utility left. The most critical smoke is near the blue train—it discourages CT aggression, increasing the likelihood of safely planting the C4.</p><p>After planting, teamwork is paramount. Assign one player to control the ladder room; losing control of this area can lead to quick retakes by the CTs.</p><h4>Attacking Bombsite B</h4><p>For attacking B, smoke grenades are also essential:</p><ol><li>Use the first smoke to block vision from the lower area, neutralizing potential sniper threats. A flashbang may be added if opponents are positioned on the roof of the lower train.</li><li>Deploy the second smoke to simplify reaching the plant zone, obscuring enemies, and aiding the push.</li><li>Throw a third smoke to create a higher cover, preventing CTs from rushing and facilitating a safer plant.</li></ol><p>Leave 1-2 players behind to watch flanks and report CT movements, ensuring the rest of the team has better situational awareness during the plant.</p><h2>CT Tactics</h2><h4>Default Setup</h4><p>In a standard defensive setup, train position cs2 two&nbsp;<a href="/en/players" target="_self">players cs2</a>&nbsp;at key locations with one guarding mid for flexibility. While this tactic is simple, it works exceptionally well on Train due to the map’s layout.</p><h4>Alternative CT Strategy</h4><p>A more dynamic strategy involves:</p><ul><li>One player on the ladder.</li><li>Another on "Seven" to provide overwatch.</li><li>A third defender positioned at A-default to monitor long and both A and B pushes.</li></ul><p>This setup allows optimal grenade usage and quick rotations for support.</p><h2>Interesting Facts About Train</h2><ol><li>Near the ladder between A and the depot, there was once a "Popdog" sign, referencing the creator of the original map. Though the sign is now gone, graffiti of a dog remains as a tribute.</li><li>A "No birds allowed" sign near the T spawn referenced a bug that let players ride birds to clip through textures. This sign is now graffiti on a dumpster.</li><li>A train at Bombsite B has a partially painted "Cinema" sign and the phrase "Пожелай мне удачи" below—a nod to Viktor Tsoi, a famous Russian musician.</li><li>Inside buildings, players can find nods to previous versions of Train, including slideshows on computers and framed photos on walls.</li></ol><h4>Additional Fun Facts</h4><ul><li>A mosaic of Lenin was once visible near T spawn but has been removed in CS2.</li><li>Information panels in buildings list railway station names, referencing existing maps and potential future ones.</li><li>Train is the only CS2 map featuring highly realistic rain effects, including visible droplets on surfaces, hands, and weapons.</li></ul>

Quick Weapon Hand Switch in CS2

<p>In CS2, you can now select the weapon hand directly in the settings — left or right. The H key is assigned by default for instant switching, but you can change the bind through the console.</p><h2>Why it’s useful</h2><p>Switching hands helps to:</p><ul><li>better control your&nbsp;<a href="/en/crosshairs" target="_self">CS2 crosshair</a>;</li><li>remove blind spots when peeking corners;</li><li>adapt the view to personal preferences;</li><li>use&nbsp;<a href="/en/skins/grenades" target="_self">CS2 grenades</a>&nbsp;more effectively and hold positions.</li></ul><h3>Commands for advanced players</h3><p><code>cl_righthand 1</code> — right hand</p><p><code>cl_righthand 0</code> — left hand</p><p>Bind example: <code>bind "C" "toggle cl_righthand 0 1"</code></p>

Key Position Callouts on Ancient in CS2

A Site and Approaches

B Site and Approaches

Mid and Connected Areas

Best CS2 Case Sites