Last week we started our “unorthodox tactics” cycle with Dust 2. It may not be in the rotation, but what is a more telltale CS map, indeed? However, let’s move to another maps - starting with Anubis.
In CS2, Anubis isn't just another map—a unique challenge that rewards creativity, strategy, and surprising plays that throw opponents off balance. With its vertical levels and complex sightlines, this Egyptian-themed map requires precise positioning and unpredictable tactics to dominate truly. Let's dive into some tactics that can give you the edge. Mastering these tactics requires precision, coordination, and adaptability. Rotating strategies and using unpredictable positions can keep opponents on edge. Anubis is a map that rewards tactical experimentation, so try out these strategies and see which ones leave your opponents guessing.
Aggressive CT Mid Control with Rotating Sniper Positions
While conventional playbooks suggest a passive CT stance at Mid, rotating a sniper aggressively can keep T players on their toes. Here's how to pull. iHere's
- Constantly Change Sniper Positions: Place an AWPer in Double Doors for a quick peek into the T-side's Mid-entry. T-sideshow or two, rotate to a different angle like Heaven, Mid's Z-connector, oMid'sn the B Pillars. This variability prevents the T side from predicting your angle, reducing their chances of securing control early.
- Supporting Smoke and Flash Coordination: Use a supportive teammate to throw a smoke into the lower Canal Connector or Double Doors while the AWPer repositions. This disrupts any coordinated T push through Canal and Mid, helping the CTs retain map control. If executed well, it can stagger the T side's advance and make them hesitant.
Unexpected T-Side Rushing Strategies
On the T side, Anubis often sees cautious, methodical pushes. But sometimes, an unexpected rush can lead to a quick site capture, catching CTs off-guard. Here are some unorthodox rushing techniques:
- Smoke-and-Dash Through Mid for B Site: For a rapid B site push, have three players advance through Mid with a smoke for Connector and Heaven, followed by flashes to clear Canal. This strategy bypasses typical chokepoints and splits CT's attention, allowing the T side to sweep into B with fewer defenses. Once B is taken, positioning a player in Dark provides easy post-plant cover.
- Flash-Driven A Site Aggression: Launch an aggressive push from A Main with three players instead of taking A slowly, throwing Heaven and Fountain smokes with Molotovs at crucial spots like Pillar. Time your Heaven smoke so it lands as you push into the site, confusing defenders in Heaven and Connector. Once the initial entry is made, one player can hold Heaven from below while another plants, setting up strong post-plant control.
Off-Angle Defenses at B Site
Anubis's B site, with its witAnubis'srriow pathways and close-quarters environment, is perfect for off-angle defensive tactics that surprise rushing Ts.
- Dark and Back Pillar Setup: A classic two-player setup involves placing one player at Dark with a Molotov ready for Canal while the second player waits in the Back Pillar. The player in Dark can gather intel and disrupt Canal pushes with a flash or incendiary. If the Ts continue, the Back Pillar player surprises them with a crossfire setup. Switching positions mid-round also confuses Ts, expecting typical defensive spots.
- Shotgun Surprise: B's compact layout is ideal for short-range weapons like the shotgun. Stationing a player with a shotgun near the entrance from Canal can catch Ts off-guard and disrupt an initial rush, setting up teammates to clean up with minimal risk.
Bait-and-Switch on A Site for CTs
The A site is often approached with traditional anchor or Heaven setups, but shaking up these defenses can lead to easier control.
- Dynamic Heaven-A Main Rotation: Set one CT in Heaven to start the round, using A Main as a fallback spot. After taking an initial shot, rotate quickly to A Main, leaving Heaven clear. This switch forces the Ts to recheck cleared areas, buying valuable time and diverting resources away from a direct site take.
- Fake Anchor with a Hidden Lurker: Place one player in Heaven for an initial peek, then have them fall back as if to rotate out. Meanwhile, leave a hidden lurker near the Fountain or Pillar. When Ts think the site is cleared after dealing with Heaven, they'll overlook this, allowing the hidden CT to take down distracted enemies as they try to plant.
Deceptive Utility Usage to Mislead Rotations
Anubis's complex layAnubis'sbe a playground for mind games. Using grenades to imply presence in one area while attacking another can force CTs into unfavorable rotations.
- Misdirection Smokes: If you plan a B, you're throwing smokes in Double Doors and Z-connector at Mid. This fake presence often lures CTs into defending Mid while your team gathers for a coordinated B attack through Canal. Have a decoy or one player take visible control to sell the fake, then quickly regroup and hit B when the CTs have adjusted their defense.
- False A Site Setup with Canal Pivot: Start with a heavy utility barrage on A (e.g., smokes in Heaven and Connector, flashes near Fountain) to suggest an imminent A push. Then, as CTs shift toward A for defense, pivot your team through Canal and Mid to B. Adding a late Connector smoke helps disguise the true push until it's too late for them to react.