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

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.

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.

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.

Key Locations on the Vertigo Map

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:

1. Mid: A stretch that starts at the stairs and continues to the turn opposite the room leading downwards.
2. Ladder: A small space acting as a vertical connector between the 50th and 51st floors.
3. Toilets: Two small rooms beneath the stairs at T-Spawn, providing a decent hiding spot.

T-Side Tactics

Success for the T-side depends on two factors:

1. Map Control: Each team member must understand their role and actions to achieve victory.
2. Speed: Quick action is often required on Vertigo. Securing a bomb site quickly and planting the bomb should be the priority.

Challenges during a round might necessitate a change in attack direction. Below are effective strategies for attacking Sites A and B:

Attacking Site A

 Pro players cs2 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.

Although simple, this strategy has proven effective on Vertigo. Each team member covers a specific area, reducing the likelihood of enemy flanking.

Attacking Site B

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.

• Two players should approach via help (short route), while three move through the ladder area.
• Those on help can opt for an alternate route via short but must quickly gain control of the site.

CT-Side Tactics

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.

Defending Site A

The classic defense involves holding three positions:

1. Cement: One defender holds cement, engaging until a teammate can secure the trade.
2. Help or Site: Another player may act as a sniper from the ramp or cover the site directly.
3. Connector and Construction: Remaining players control these areas.

Grenade usage is crucial:

• From cement, use Molotovs to counter ramp pushes.
• From help or site, use flashbangs and Molotovs to protect ramp and cement.
• From connector, smoke off the ramp and loader areas.

An alternative strategy involves aggressive grenade usage:

• One CT holds the ramp, awaiting enemy presence.
• Another moves through construction toward the loader.
• The remaining three assist or cover mid.

This aggressive strategy is risky and demands strong coordination.

Defending Site B

Defending B is particularly challenging on Vertigo due to its layout.

• Typically, two players monitor the site, using grenades strategically to control enemy movements. One should hold flashbangs and Molotovs for key moments.
• A third player provides backup and relays enemy information.

Alternatively:

• One defender with a sniper rifle controls the ladder, while the other monitors help.
• Use smokes for ladder control and Molotovs at key choke points. Flashbangs should disrupt enemy pushes.

Interesting Facts

1. The Name "Vertigo": Translating to "dizziness," the name reflects the map's high-altitude setting.
2. Falling Off: Players can accidentally or intentionally fall off the building. Dropped bombs reappear where they fell.
3. Vertigo 2021 Collection: Features 17 cs2 skins for various weapons.
4. Fall Counter: A poster on the map tracks the number of players who’ve fallen. Each fall updates the count.
5. Warehouse Warnings: Boxes on the map feature signs, including one with the text:
   “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.