Unorthodox Tactics for Dust 2

Last week, we highlighted the top new skins in CS. However, from now on we’ll describe more practical things - like less well-known tactical solutions. And we’ll start with Dust2, obviously.

Dust 2, a Counter-Strike staple, has seen countless strategies over its years of play. But while classic plays like taking long control or executing mid-to-B splits are effective, unorthodox tactics can often catch opponents off-guard. Here’s a breakdown of innovative strategies for both Terrorist (T) and Counter-Terrorist (CT) sides designed to turn the tide of any match.

The “Pit Bait” Setup (CT Side)

Dust 2’s long A control is a pivotal battle in most rounds. Instead of the usual pit AWPer setup, try something sneakier: use the pit player as bait. Position an AWPer in the pit while a rifler hides at Blue. When the AWPer takes an aggressive shot and falls back, the rifler peeks from Blue, exploiting the Ts’ tunnel vision on the pit. This setup breaks the usual rhythm, often resulting in two or more kills as the Ts focus solely on eliminating the AWPer.

This variation works well against aggressive T-side pushes that assume a straightforward pit-and-car hold. By adding the element of surprise, you force Ts to split their attention and potentially lose control early on.

Double-Boost on Catwalk (CT Side)

Another unconventional tactic is the double-boost on short A, allowing one player to peek directly into the Lower Tunnels. The usual expectation is for CTs to hold short from mid-doors or site, but placing a player directly above the catwalk lets them spot Ts creeping up from tunnels. It’s especially effective when the Ts smoke Xbox, as they feel secure moving through mid.

Professional teams like Astralis often use this move, which deploys aggressive short control using two AWPers to dominate early-round movements. Even with just one AWP and a supporting rifle, you can gain control and dictate the pace of the round.

Mid-to-B “Lurk Smoke” (T Side)

In the standard mid-to-B split, the idea is to pinch the site with players from both mid- and tunnels. But adding a twist can increase its effectiveness. Instead of pushing aggressively through mid-doors, use a deep smoke at mid to hide a lurker on the boxes. This smoke serves a dual purpose: it can conceal a late push or act as a decoy for the main attack happening elsewhere.

This smoke forces the CTs to spread out and guess if a mid-to-B split is imminent, potentially weakening their defense in the long or short term. Properly timed, it opens up opportunities for the Ts to pivot their focus mid-round, exploiting gaps in CT coverage.

Double Stack at “Ninja” on B Site (CT Side)

On the B site, most players will check default spots like back platform and window. However, the “Ninja” spot (back corner) can be a goldmine for unorthodox setups. Double stacking at this position—where one player crouches and the other stands—creates a surprise element. When the Ts rush, the top player engages first, and the crouched player springs up for a quick follow-up kill.

This setup is powerful during eco rounds, where maximizing the element of surprise is crucial. The double stack confuses Ts as they clear corners, expecting only one defender. If done correctly, this tactic can net multiple kills with minimal investment.

Fake Long Push into Cat Split (T Side)

Dust 2’s long A is an essential control point for Ts, but instead of committing fully, use it to bait out CT rotations. Send multiple players too long initially, making noise and expending utility as if you’re gearing up for a push. But instead of executing, pull back and rotate through the top mid through the catwalk.

Leave a single player in the long pit as insurance—this player can act as a spotter for rotations, call out information, or even engage with flashes when the team finally pushes the catwalk. By the time the CTs realize the shift, they’ll be out of position, leaving short A vulnerable for a rapid T-side take.

Upper Tunnels Delayed Rush (T Side)

A delayed rush from upper tunnels can throw CTs off, mainly if they’re used to the immediate B-site hits or slow defaults. Start with a single player throwing utility and making noise, signaling an early rush. Then, after a brief pause, all five players burst onto the site. This delay forces CTs to second-guess themselves, often resulting in misrotations or pushes into mid for information.

This tactic is particularly effective when combined with pressure on mid. The CTs, believing a mid-to-B split is likely, may leave B understaffed. The delayed rush capitalizes on this uncertainty, resulting in quick site control.

Aggressive Double-AWP Mid-Hold (CT Side)

Dust 2 is synonymous with long AWP duels, but double-AWP aggression in mid can catch Ts by surprise. Place one AWPer aggressively at mid-doors, taking quick peeks and falling back to B doors when pressured. The second AWPer holds upper tunnels from the B site entrance. This setup creates a web of overlapping angles, denying the Ts safe passage through mid and forcing them to use excessive utility early on.

While this tactic is risky, especially if the Ts push long and short simultaneously, it can be an excellent round opener for catching opponents off-guard. Once the picks are made, the AWPers can fall back and set up for a retake or defense on either site.

The Double Cat Drop (T Side)

Most players are familiar with a single jump from the catwalk into CT spawn as a surprise maneuver when executing onto A site. But a double cat drop, where two players drop simultaneously, maximizes confusion for the CTs. The first player serves as the bait, while the second player quickly follows to catch opponents trying to re-aim or reposition.

This tactic best works with a split push where the remaining players engage from long A to short. By creating multiple points of attack, you force CTs to divide their focus, making it easier to secure site control.

B-Tunnels Lurk Disruption (T Side)

On the T side, the tunnel player is usually tasked with maintaining pressure on the B site. But instead of just sitting back and holding the angle, try actively peeking and throwing utility at different timings. This can create uncertainty for CTs defending B, preventing them from gathering info or pushing for an early flank.

A well-timed flash or Molotov from tunnels can make it seem like a full-blown push is coming, prompting CTs to rotate early. Once the CTs are out of position, the Ts can capitalize by executing mid-to-B or rotating the bomb through mid, using the lurk as a pivot point.