TL;DR
- Anubis requires precise utility usage due to complex geometry and verticality
- Master A site smokes that isolate Heaven and platform angles for safe plants
- Coordinate mid control with synchronized smoke and flash combinations
- Adapt utility usage based on economy, playstyle, and team composition
- Practice lineups consistently using workshop maps and private servers
Anubis has rapidly evolved from a community creation to a professional mainstay in Counter-Strike 2’s competitive rotation. This Egyptian-themed battleground presents a distinctive combination of tight choke points, expansive sightlines, and multi-level combat zones that demand strategic grenade deployment. Unlike traditional maps such as Mirage or Inferno, Anubis features dual-entry potential for both bomb sites alongside a fiercely contested central area that dictates match tempo.
What distinguishes Anubis strategically is its balanced assault options toward A and B sites, complemented by a mid region that professional squads like NAVI and FACEIT pug groups utilize to control space through intelligent utility application. While raw mechanical aiming skill remains crucial, it’s the tactical deployment of smokes, flashbangs, molotovs, and HE grenades that truly separates competent players from exceptional ones.
Recent major tournaments have showcased Anubis hosting some of CS2’s most sophisticated tactical executions. From Astralis’s triple-molotov A site assaults to G2’s sophisticated one-way smokes at mid, the strategic meta continues advancing rapidly. Acquiring grenade lineups on Anubis has transitioned from optional knowledge to mandatory expertise for ranking advancement and team synchronization.
Understanding Anubis’s Demanding Utility Requirements
Improvised utility throws consistently fail on Anubis due to the map’s intricate spatial design. A single mispositioned smoke can expose your squad to multiple sightlines simultaneously — particularly at critical bottlenecks like A Main or the constricted passage into B Site. Conversely, a perfectly placed flashbang can disorient an entire defensive formation positioned behind double containers or below the elevated Heaven position on B.
The vertical complexity of Anubis introduces additional strategic considerations. Participants frequently overlook that grenades must accommodate elevation variations. Whether you’re ricocheting a molotov off the A Main arch summit or arcing an HE grenade from mid toward connector, it’s the precision that determines success or failure in your setup.
Furthermore, Anubis strongly benefits teams possessing robust territorial command. Since rotational pathways are substantially lengthier compared to established maps like Dust II, maintaining or challenging pivotal zones (including Water or Bridge) with appropriate utility can preempt enemy advances before they initiate. Essentially, intelligent utility deployment translates directly into map supremacy.
A Site Default Smoke Execution
The A bomb site on Anubis offers minimal protective coverage once your team breaches A Main. This necessitates a strategically positioned default smoke becoming indispensable. The optimal smoke placement lands precisely between the two structural pillars at the site, eliminating Counter-Terrorist visual access from both Heaven and the upper platform. Your objective involves isolating engagements and providing your squad adequate space to plant the explosive device securely.
Deployment methodology:
- Position yourself at the doorway corner within A Main.
- Align your crosshair toward the upper-left section of the opposing arch.
- Employ a jump-throw binding to projectile the smoke canister.
The outcome manifests as a dense, perfectly situated smoke barrier that obstructs crucial angles and facilitates a clean site acquisition. This strategic deployment extends beyond merely enabling bomb placement — this smoke prevents CTs from suppressing through exposed lanes or rapidly repositioning.
Combine this tactical smoke with a molotov targeting Heaven or a deep CT smoke, and your A site assault becomes substantially more challenging to counter.
B Main to B Site Smoke Placement
When initiating attacks on B Site from B Main, the principal threat originates from defenders positioned on-site or adjacent to Heaven. A precisely calculated smoke deployment here can determine successful entry or catastrophic failure.
Positioning instructions:
- Assume crouched stance near the secondary barrel at B Main entrance.
- Target slightly above the right corner of the wooden support beam on the facing wall.
- Execute a jump-throw technique.
This specific smoke lands immediately behind the standard plant location and obstructs visibility from both CT spawn and Heaven positions. The significant advantage of this placement involves neutralizing any sniper specialists positioned at extended ranges.
Professional recommendation: Synchronize this smoke with a flashbang from B Alley to disorient opponents peeking mid or rear site areas. Your primary entry combatant will express appreciation.
Mid Territorial Control Smokes
Mid arguably represents the most strategically vital control zone on Anubis. It unlocks rotational alternatives and generates continuous pressure. Failure to smoke critical angles essentially guarantees walking into lethal crossfires.
The two most impactful mid smoke deployments include:
- Mid to Connector Smoke
- Navigate to Mid Terrorist platform.
- Aim toward the interstitial space between the overhead wiring and wall junction.
- Perform jump-throw to position it precisely at connector’s access point.
- Mid to Bridge Smoke
- From Mid T staircase, target the secondary window ledge.
- Left-click release for a deep bridge smoke that eliminates visibility from CTs rotating via water passage.
These smoke deployments permit your squad to advance through mid securely and divide toward either objective site. Commanding mid territory with these strategic lineups frequently compels the CT side to over-rotate, creating straightforward elimination opportunities and uncontested bomb plants.
Pop-Flash Coordination for A Site Entry
A Site notoriously presents extreme difficulty when pushing without immediately receiving fatal shots from Heaven or triple container positions. This strategic challenge necessitates pop-flash implementations. A perfectly synchronized flashbang can disorient the complete defensive lineup and provide your team an uncontested opening.
Execution alignment:
- Position adjacent to the left side of A Main entrance.
- Target the central-upper section of the skybox above the arch structure.
- Left-click projectile for an instantaneous detonation directly above the bomb site.
This flashbang detonates elevated and rapidly, circumventing common pre-aim locations while encompassing an extensive area. Teammates advancing from A Main will remain unaffected, while defenders experience full-screen blindness.
Essential reminder: consistently announce your flash deployment — coordinating timing with your team’s entry proves critical. Premature deployment enables enemy concealment while delayed activation results in your entry fragger’s elimination.
Mid Control Flash Support Systems
Mid engagements frequently descend into chaos. While smokes provide assistance, flashbangs constitute your genuine victory condition. A strategically positioned support flash can shift control momentum favorably even during 2v2 or 3v3 situations.
To execute a secure mid control flash:
- Maintain contact with the wall surface along Mid T staircase.
- Aim directly beneath the central arch’s lower edge.
- Right-click projectile technique.
It caroms directly into Mid Lane and detonates immediately. Any opponent aiming with sniper rifles or assault weapons from connector or bridge positions becomes completely surprised. Deploy this flashbang immediately following your mid smoke deployment for a lethal combination.
Common Pre-Nade Positions to Delay Enemy Advances
Preemptive grenade deployment represents an undervalued tactical approach, particularly on Anubis where early-round territorial dominance determines everything. A perfectly timed HE grenade can reduce 30-40 health points from adversaries rushing into strategic choke points, providing your defensive players substantial advantage during the round’s initial moments.
Primary Pre-Nade Locations on Anubis:
- A Main Entrance:
- From CT spawn location, launch an HE grenade toward the right sector of A Main.
- Target marginally above the central wall section and ricochet it off the arch summit.
- This explosive device impacts Terrorists aggressively rushing the corner and frequently synergizes effectively with an early molotov deployment.
- Mid T Ramp Access:
- Position within Connector, aim toward the metallic support column, and left-click projectile a grenade directed at Mid Ramp.
- This proves efficient at delaying mid control and weakening any opponents rushing to establish presence.
- B Main Tunnel Passage:
- From B Site, launch a grenade off the arch entrance from Heaven position.
- This lands at the footwear of Ts pushing from B Alley and often intercepts them during grouping for rapid execution.
The crucial factor involves timing synchronization. You should deploy the HE grenade as early as feasible while avoiding inefficient usage if opponents aren’t advancing. With audio indicators or intelligence from squad members, you can integrate this with a flashbang or molotov to halt a complete rush in its progression.
Molotovs for Comprehensive Site Clearing
Molotovs transcend mere area denial implements — on Anubis, they become essential for eliminating problematic off-angles and common concealment positions. Flames compel participants to relocate, and in CS2, this typically involves moving directly into your targeting reticle.
Critical Site-Clearing Molotovs:
- A Site – Triple Container Complex:
- Position from A Main, target the rooftop above the container cluster.
- Utilize jump-throw methodology to position the molotov behind the triple stack formation.
- This expels participants holding the unconventional angle that monitors for site transitions.
- B Site – Proximity Left Sector:
- From B Main, target the summit of the abbreviated wall adjacent to the door framework.
- A straightforward throw positions the molotov at close left, compelling defenders into exposed positions.
- Mid – Connector Access Point:
- If advancing through mid, a molotov launched into connector from mid staircase can incinerate any opponent holding position with sniper rifles or assault weapons.
- This becomes especially beneficial during mid split executions.
Consistently follow molotov deployments with a flashbang or peek — burning adversaries only proves effective if prepared to exploit their repositioning.
Plant Denial Using HE Grenades and Molotovs
Consider scenarios where opponents secure site control and prepare for bomb placement. This presents optimal circumstances to postpone or entirely prevent planting through strategic utility deployment.
Optimal Locations for Plant Prevention:
- A Site – Standard Plant Behind Pillar:
- From Heaven or CT positions, carom a molotov off the arch structure to land proximate to the explosive device placement location.
- Alternatively, launch an HE grenade to interrupt and potentially eliminate the planter.
- B Site – Forward Site Planting Zone:
- From Heaven or bridge positions, target the corner section of the wooden storage crate.
- A molotov here covers both default and secondary planting areas.
These utility implementations extend beyond mere stalling tactics — they can secure round victories. Each additional second delaying bomb placement provides temporal advantage for teammates to rotate or reposition.
Pro-Level Strategic Utility Implementations
One-way smoke deployments border on unfair advantage when correctly utilized — and Anubis provides multiple lethal configurations that enable visual acquisition without detection.
Premier One-Way Smoke Setups:
- A Main – Sub-Arch Smoke Placement:
- Position behind the doorway, target the left window framework, and launch a smoke that positions partially within the pillar structure.
- From your tactical position, you’ll observe lower extremities of advancing enemies, while they remain completely unaware of your presence.
- Mid – Bridge Smoke Configuration:
- Deploy a smoke from CT side that lands on the bridge’s ledge.
- You can crouch-peek from the foundation and detect opponents attempting to assume control.
Implement these strategic deployments selectively. Excessive utilization of one-way smokes increases predictability — integrate them strategically with conventional plays for optimal effectiveness.
Off-Angle Pop-Flash Disruption Tactics
Pop-flash deployments from unconventional angles can surprise adversaries assuming security behind cover or maintaining passive positions.
Illustrative Examples:
- B Site – Proximity Right Pop-Flash:
- From B Main, ricochet a flashbang off the right arch pillar structure.
- It detonates immediately, blinding any CT positioned closely or attempting wide swings.
- Mid to Connector Flash Deployment:
- Launch a flashbang off the upper connector wall from mid staircase.
- It explodes precisely inside, intercepting any CTs attempting to reclaim mid control.
These flashbang implementations prove invaluable during late-round scenarios or when isolating crucial eliminations. The strategic methodology involves rapid deployment followed by aggressive peeking.
Team Synchronization and Utility Coordination
Counter-Strike 2 fundamentally operates as a team-based experience — and on Anubis, the most effective lineups frequently depend on coordinated execution between squad members. You deploy smokes, they launch flashbangs. You position molotovs, they execute peeks. These combinations generate clean entries and unstoppable retakes.
Essential Coordinated Utility Combinations:
- A Main Assault Coordination:
- You execute the A Site smoke deployment.
- Your squad member flashbangs Heaven position.
- Primary entry combatant advances at maximum velocity.
- Mid Territory Acquisition:
- One participant smokes connector access.
- Another squad member flashbangs bridge position.
- Lurking specialist maintains position for delayed peek from water passage.
Practice these strategic configurations regularly with your team or regular stack. Enhanced timing synchronization increases difficulty for opponents to effectively counter.
Utility Rotation Management and Support Communication
Understanding when to redistribute utility resources proves equally important as mastering individual lineups. If your B Site squad member exhausts smoke resources, and you’re maintaining mid position with complete grenade inventory — contemplate rotating a smoke or molotov to provide assistance.
Effective team communication manifests as:
- “I possess mid smoke deployment, requirement for A site smoke.”
- “Executing flashbang deployment B site, synchronize peeking.”
- “Grenade resources depleted, necessity for molotov targeting Water passage.”
This category of real-time coordination can transform even economically disadvantaged rounds into victory conditions. For in-game leaders or primary communicators, your responsibility involves directing that utility economy like a battlefield commander.
Practice Methodologies and Training Resources
No abbreviated pathway exists for mastering grenade lineups — dedicated practice hours remain essential. Fortunately, with appropriate tools, you can substantially accelerate progression. Among the most effective approaches for practicing utility on Anubis involves utilizing specialized CS2 workshop maps and private practice servers.
Workshop Map Necessity Rationale:
- They incorporate grenade trajectory visualization tools enabling observation of arc paths and landing positions for smokes.
- They feature pre-marked locations for conventional throws, facilitating consistent lineup acquisition.
- You can practice without disruption from teammates or AI opponents.
Recommended Training Maps:
- Yprac Anubis Training Guide – Among the superior maps for interactive skill development.
- Crashz’s Crosshair and Grenade Practice – A reliable map for configuring crosshairs and jump-throw bindings before practicing lineups.
Private Practice Server Configuration:
- Initiate CS2 and activate the developer console.
- Load Anubis environment using
map de_anubiscommand. - Implement commands including:
sv_cheats 1sv_infinite_ammo 1sv_grenade_trajectory 1sv_grenade_trajectory_time 10mp_roundtime 60mp_restartgame 1
These commands enable unlimited grenade resources, display complete projectile trajectories, and provide unlimited temporal resources for experimentation. Document your customized lineups, or enhance consistency with established configurations.
Developing Personalized Consistent Lineups
While acquiring community-developed lineups represents an excellent foundation, creating your own provides substantial competitive advantage. Your unique smoke and flashbang deployments become more challenging to anticipate — and in elite competitive matches, unpredictability secures round victories.
Methodologies for Constructing Personal Lineups:
- Select consistent environmental markers: Utilize storage crates, support beams, or wall imperfections for precise crosshair alignment.
- Employ jump-throw binding for extended-range smoke deployments. (Illustration: bind “ALT” key to
+jump; -attackcommand sequence). - Practice each deployment technique minimum 10–20 iterations to guarantee consistency.
- Record these deployments and distribute among your team members.
Establish consistent practice routines of 15-minute daily sessions. Similar to firearms training drills, lineup practice develops muscle memory and competitive confidence.
Anubis has emerged as a premier competitive map in CS2, featuring tactical depth that demands exceptional utility execution. Professional teams like Astralis and G2 have demonstrated how coordinated grenade usage can completely dictate round outcomes on this Egyptian-themed battleground.
The map’s intricate geometry creates numerous choke points where a single misthrown smoke can expose your entire team to crossfires. A Main and B Site corridors exemplify areas where perfect placement separates successful executes from disastrous wipes.
Verticality introduces another layer of complexity often overlooked by casual players. Whether you’re arching a molotov over A Main or calculating HE grenade trajectories from mid to connector, millimeter precision determines whether your setup succeeds or fails completely.
Strategic map control becomes paramount on Anubis due to extended rotation times compared to traditional maps like Dust II. Controlling strategic zones like Water and Bridge with well-timed utility can shut down enemy initiatives before they gain momentum. Essentially, intelligent utility deployment translates directly into territorial dominance.
Compared to our comprehensive Complete Guide to other FPS titles, CS2’s utility system offers unparalleled tactical depth when mastered properly.
A Site Default Smoke Execution
A Site presents limited defensive cover once teams push through A Main, making a perfectly placed default smoke absolutely critical for successful plants. The most effective smoke creates a barrier between the two primary pillars, effectively blinding CT positions from Heaven and the elevated platform to create isolated engagement zones.
Execution methodology:
- Position yourself at the door corner inside A Main
- Align crosshair with the top-left corner of the opposing arch structure
- Activate jump-throw binding to deploy the smoke grenade
This creates an opaque, strategically positioned smoke wall that obstructs critical sightlines and enables clean site penetration. Beyond facilitating bomb plants, this smoke prevents counter-terrorists from spraying through exposed corridors or rapidly repositioning during critical moments.
Combine this foundation smoke with a Heaven molotov or deep CT smoke to exponentially increase the difficulty of defensive counters.
B Main to B Site Smoke Technique
When assaulting B Site via B Main, the principal threat originates from defenders positioned on-site or near Heaven. A millimeter-precise smoke at this location can determine whether your entry succeeds or results in catastrophic failure.
Precision lineup instructions:
- Assume crouched position adjacent to the second barrel at B Main entrance
- Target slightly above the right corner of the wooden beam on the opposite wall surface
- Execute jump-throw maneuver for deployment
This smoke lands precisely behind the standard plant location, blocking visual access from both CT spawn and Heaven positions. The strategic advantage includes neutralizing AWPers holding extended angles from distant positions.
Professional recommendation: Synchronize this smoke with a flashbang from B Alley to blind opponents peeking from mid or back site angles. Your primary entry fragger will appreciate the tactical advantage created.
Mid Control Smoke Dominance
Mid represents arguably the most crucial territorial control area on Anubis. Controlling this sector unlocks rotational flexibility and generates persistent pressure on defensive setups.
The two most impactful mid smokes include:
- Mid to Connector Smoke
- Navigate to Mid T platform positioning
- Aim toward the narrow gap between wiring and wall corner structures
- Perform jump-throw to place smoke directly at connector entrance
- Mid to Bridge Smoke
- From Mid T staircase, target the second window ledge
- Left-click release for deep bridge smoke that obstructs visibility from CTs rotating through water passages
These smoke deployments enable safe mid advancement and facilitate splits toward either bombsite. Establishing mid control with these lineups frequently compels CT side to over-rotate, creating advantageous frag opportunities and uncontested plant scenarios.
Pop Flashes for A Site Penetration
A Site presents notorious entry challenges without immediately dying from Heaven or triple box positions. This is where perfectly timed pop flashes become game-changing assets that can blind entire defensive formations.
Optimal lineup execution:
- Position left of A Main entrance doorway
- Target the central skybox area above the arch structure
- Left-click release for instantaneous detonation above site.
This flashbang detonates elevated and rapidly, bypassing common pre-fire locations while illuminating extensive areas. Teammates advancing from A Main remain unaffected while defenders experience full-screen blindness effects.
Critical communication: Always announce flash deployment timing to synchronize with team entry movements. Premature deployment allows enemies to evade, while delayed timing results in entry fragger elimination before effectiveness.
Mid Control Flash Support Systems
Mid engagements often descend into chaotic exchanges. While smokes provide basic coverage, flashbangs represent your primary win condition in control battles.
Deploying safe mid control flashes:
- Position against wall on Mid T staircase
- Aim beneath the central arch overhang structure
- Right-click deployment for controlled trajectory
The flashbang ricochets directly into Mid Lane with immediate detonation. Opponents holding angles from connector or bridge with AWPs or rifles become completely vulnerable. Deploy this flash immediately following mid smoke deployment for devastating combination effects.
Common Pre-Nade Spots to Delay Enemy Initiatives
Pre-nading represents an underutilized strategic element, particularly on Anubis where early-round territorial control determines match outcomes.
Primary Pre-Nade Locations on Anubis:
- A Main Entrance
- From CT spawn, launch HE grenade toward A Main’s right-side corridor
- Aim above center wall surface to carom off upper arch
- This grenade impacts Terrorists aggressively rushing the corner, frequently pairing effectively with early-round molotov deployments
- Mid T Ramp Control
- Position within Connector, target metal pillar, left-click release toward Mid Ramp
- Effectively delays mid control establishment and weakens opponents rushing to secure positional advantage
- B Main Tunnel Access
- From B Site, deploy grenade using arch entrance from Heaven
- This lands adjacent to Ts pushing from B Alley, often catching grouped players during fast execute scenarios
The decisive factor involves timing precision. Deploy HE grenades as early as feasible while avoiding wasteful usage against non-pushing opponents. When auditory cues or teammate intelligence becomes available, combine with flashbangs or molotovs to completely halt rushing strategies.
Molotovs for Comprehensive Site Clearing
Molotovs transcend simple area denial functionality — on Anubis, they become indispensable for eliminating tricky off-angles and common hiding positions.
Essential Site-Clearing Molotov Deployments:
- A Site – Triple Box Elimination
- Position from A Main, target rooftop above box structures
- Execute jump-throw to place molotov behind triple stack
- This forces out players maintaining off-angles that monitor site crossing movements
- B Site – Close Left Clearance
- From B Main, aim toward short wall top near door frame
- Standard throw placement lands molotov at close left, compelling defenders into exposed positions
- Mid – Connector Control
- When pushing mid, molotov deployment into connector from mid staircase can eliminate opponents holding with AWPs or rifles
- Particularly valuable during mid split execute scenarios
Consistently follow molotov deployments with flashbangs or peeks — forcing movement only creates advantage when prepared to capitalize on positional changes.
Retake Smokes and Molotovs for Comeback Scenarios
Once bomb deployment occurs, utility strategy undergoes fundamental transformation. Superior retake players comprehend optimal timing and placement for utility deployment under extreme pressure conditions.
Optimal Retake Smoke Deployments:
- A Site – Heaven Smoke Deployment
- If Terrorists secure plant and maintain Heaven control, deploying smoke from CT becomes critically important
- This enables safe site entry and isolates opponents behind cover positions
- B Site – Bridge and CT Smoke Strategy
- From Alley or Water, launch smoke landing behind standard plant location
- This compels Ts to wide peek or completely reposition, disrupting their defensive holds
Critical Retake Molotov Applications:
- A Site – Pillar or Box Clearance
- Deploy molotov against pillar post-plant to eliminate Ts maintaining tight corner positions
- Time deployments before teammates initiate bomb defusal to force engagement opportunities
- B Site – Heaven or Default Denial
- If Ts maintain post-plant Heaven control, molotov deployment from Alley denies their cover advantage
Synchronize utility deployment with team flashbang and peek timing. Stagger molotov and smoke usage to avoid simultaneous depletion of tactical resources.
Post-Plant HE and Flashbang Lineup Strategies
After successful bomb plant, defensive utility strategy shifts toward maintaining bomb security through calculated grenade deployments from protected positions.
Strategic Post-Plant Grenade Lineups:
- A Site – HE Deployment from A Main
- Align with crate near exit, target pillar edge, execute throw
- This grenade impacts default plant location, potentially interrupting defusal attempts or eliminating weakened opponents
- B Site – Flash Deployment from Alley
- Aim toward Heaven wall corner, deploy flashbang detonating above site
- This blinds players attempting peeks or defusal, creating additional time for teammate engagements
The strategic objective involves maximizing defusal difficulty for counter-terrorists. Perfectly timed HE deployments can secure round victories, particularly during advanced bomb countdown scenarios. Remember: avoid premature utility spam — conserve resources until auditory defusal confirmation occurs.
One-Way Smokes That Create Unfair Advantages
One-way smokes represent borderline unfair tactical advantages when executed correctly — Anubis offers multiple deadly setups enabling vision without detection.
Premier One-Way Smoke Deployments:
- A Main – Under Arch Smoke Deployment
- Position behind doorway, target left window frame, deploy smoke partially inside pillar structure
- From your position, you’ll visualize enemy leg movements during pushes while remaining completely invisible to opponents
- Mid – Bridge Smoke Strategy
- From CT side, deploy smoke landing on bridge ledge
- You can crouch peek from lower positions and identify enemies attempting control establishment
Deploy these specialized smokes selectively during critical situations. Excessive utilization creates predictability — integrate with standard tactical approaches for optimal effectiveness.
Off-Angle Pop Flashes for Defensive Disruption
Pop flash deployments from unconventional angles can surprise opponents assuming safety behind cover or maintaining passive positions.
Advanced Flash Examples:
- B Site – Close Right Pop Flash Execution
- From B Main, carom flashbang off right arch pillar
- This creates instantaneous detonation, blinding any CT maintaining close positions or attempting wide swings
- Mid to Connector Flash Deployment
- Deploy flashbang off upper connector wall from mid staircase
- This explodes within connector interior, capturing any CTs attempting mid control reclamation
These specialized flashbang deployments become invaluable during late-round scenarios or when isolating critical frags. The essential technique involves rapid deployment followed by aggressive peeking maneuvers.
Much like mastering Weapons Unlock systems in other tactical shooters, CS2’s flashbang system requires extensive practice to master completely.
Pre-nading represents one of the most underutilized yet devastating tactics in high-level Anubis gameplay. The map’s intricate choke points and early rush potential make perfectly timed HE grenades a game-changing element that can determine round outcomes before the first engagement even occurs. Understanding when and where to deploy these early-round explosives separates tactical players from reactive ones.
Critical Pre-Nade Execution Zones:
- A Main Entrance Control:
- Position yourself at CT spawn and target the right-side wall of A Main corridor
- Angle your throw slightly above the central wall geometry to ricochet off the upper arch structure
- This explosive catchs Ts who aggressively rush the corner, often pairing effectively with an early molotov for area denial
- Mid T Ramp Dominance:
- Stand positioned in Connector area, align with the metal pillar, and execute a left-click grenade launch toward Mid Ramp position
- This tactical move proves highly effective for delaying mid control establishment and weakening opponents rushing to secure map presence
- B Main Tunnel Defense:
- From B Site defensive position, deliver a grenade off the arch entrance originating from Heaven elevation
- This projectile lands directly at the feet of Ts advancing from B Alley and frequently catches them when they cluster for rapid site execution
The crucial factor in pre-nading success revolves around timing precision. You need to release the HE grenade at the earliest possible moment while avoiding resource waste if opposition forces aren’t actively pushing. When you possess auditory cues or intelligence from squad members, you can integrate this with a flashbang or molotov to completely halt a coordinated rush attempt in its progression path.
Professional players consistently demonstrate that early HE damage creating 30-40 HP deficits fundamentally shifts engagement mathematics in your favor. That initial health advantage allows your defenders to win aim duels they might otherwise lose, creating snowball effects that impact multiple rounds consecutively.
Molotovs transcend basic area denial functionality — on Anubis’ complex terrain, they become indispensable tools for eliminating problematic off-angles and frequently used defensive positions. Incendiary devices compel player movement, and in CS2’s tactical environment, that typically translates into enemies sprinting directly into your pre-aimed sightlines.
Essential Site-Clearing Molotov Deployments:
- A Site – Triple Boxes Clearance:
- Establish position within A Main corridor, target the rooftop surface above the container structures
- Employ a jump-throw technique to position the molotov precisely behind the triple stack formation
- This maneuver forces out opponents holding the unconventional angle that monitors for site crossing attempts
- B Site – Close Left Extraction:
- From B Main approach, aim toward the upper section of the short barrier near the door framework
- A straightforward throw delivers the molotov at close left position, compelling defenders into exposed territory
- Mid – Connector Area Denial:
- When advancing through mid territory, a molotov launched into connector from mid staircase can eliminate anyone maintaining position with an AWP or rifle setup
- This proves exceptionally valuable when performing coordinated mid split attacks
Consistently pursue molotov deployments with accompanying flashbang support or aggressive peeking — neutralizing opponents through fire only generates value when you’re prepared to exploit their forced repositioning.
Advanced players recognize that molotov timing should sync with teammate positioning. A perfectly executed incendiary should force enemies into crossfires where multiple team members can capitalize on the displacement.
Common error: Deploying molotovs without proper follow-up, allowing burned opponents to escape or reposition safely. Always have a teammate ready to engage when you deploy fire-based utility.
Consider this scenario: your adversaries have secured bomb site control and prepare to plant the explosive device. This creates the ideal circumstance to postpone or entirely prevent the planting sequence using strategically positioned utility deployment.
Optimal Positions for Planting Denial:
- A Site – Default Plant Behind Pillar:
- From Heaven elevation or CT spawn, redirect a molotov off the architectural arch to land adjacent to the bomb planting location
- As an alternative approach, deliver an HE grenade to disrupt and potentially eliminate the individual attempting to plant
- B Site – Front Site Plant Interruption:
- From Heaven or bridge positioning, target the corner section of the wooden crate structure
- A molotov deployed here will encompass both the standard and alternative planting zones effectively
These utility-based plays extend beyond simple stalling mechanisms — they possess round-winning potential. Every additional second you delay the planting process provides valuable time for teammates to complete rotations or adjust defensive positioning.
Strategic insight: Plant denial utility creates psychological pressure beyond immediate tactical benefits. Opponents become hesitant on subsequent rounds, second-guessing their planting decisions and timing, creating cascading advantages throughout the match.
Post-Plant Defensive Utility Deployment:
Following bomb deployment, the utility engagement dynamic shifts fundamentally. Now the focus transitions toward spatial control, compelling enemies into disadvantageous positions, and restricting their access to critical information. Elite retake specialists comprehend precisely when and where to deploy utility, even when operating under extreme pressure conditions.
Essential Retake Smoke Placements:
- A Site – Heaven Vision Block:
- When terrorist forces have successfully planted and maintain defensive positions from Heaven, deploying smoke coverage from CT spawn becomes absolutely critical for success
- This enables your squad to transition into site territory safely and separate enemies positioned behind protective cover
- B Site – Bridge and CT Angle Denial:
- From Alley corridor or Water area, execute a smoke throw that positions precisely behind standard planting location
- This compels Ts to execute wide peeks or completely reposition, thereby breaking their defensive hold on the site
Critical Retake Molotov Applications:
- A Site – Pillar or Container Clearance:
- Deploy molotov against the pillar during post-plant phase to eliminate Ts occupying tight corner positions
- Time your incendiary deployment before your teammate initiates bomb tapping to force defensive peeks
- B Site – Heaven or Default Position Neutralization:
- If Ts maintain post-plant positioning from Heaven elevation, molotov the corner section from Alley approach to deny their protective coverage
Synchronize your utility deployment with your team’s flash timing and peek coordination. Stagger your molotov and smoke deployments strategically to avoid resource exhaustion simultaneously.
Elite Anubis gameplay demands more than just knowing lineups — it requires understanding utility sequencing, economic management, and adaptive deployment based on opponent tendencies.
Advanced Coordination Protocols:
Counter-Strike 2 fundamentally operates as a team-based experience — and on Anubis’ complex battlefield, the most effective utility deployments frequently depend on coordinated execution between squad members. You deploy smoke coverage, they provide flash support. You launch molotovs, they execute aggressive peeks. These synergistic combinations generate clean entry opportunities and unstoppable retake scenarios.
Key Coordinated Utility Combinations:
- A Main Corridor Assault:
- You execute the A Site smoke deployment
- Your squad member delivers Heaven flashbang coverage
- Entry specialist advances at maximum velocity
- Mid Territory Control:
- One team member smokes connector passage
- Another player flashes bridge approach
- Lurking specialist maintains position for delayed peek from water access point
Regularly drill these tactical setups with your regular team or competitive stack. The more seamless your timing coordination, the more challenging it becomes for enemy forces to mount effective counter-plays.
Economic Utility Management:
Understanding grenade prioritization based on financial situation represents another critical skill dimension. During full buy scenarios, every player should acquire a complete utility set, while eco rounds demand more selective, high-impact deployment choices.
For comprehensive strategic guidance on team coordination and economic management, explore our Complete Guide to team-based tactical execution.
Utility Rotation and Support Communication:
Recognizing appropriate moments to redistribute utility resources proves equally important as knowing specific deployment lineups. If your B Site defensive specialist exhausts their smoke inventory, and you’re holding mid territory with a full grenade complement — contemplate rotating a smoke or molotov to provide them with necessary support.
Effective team communication typically follows these patterns:
- “I possess mid smoke coverage, require one for A site defense”
- “Executing B site flash deployment, coordinate your peek timing accordingly”
- “Utility resources depleted, need molotov support for Water control”
This category of real-time coordination capability can transform even financially constrained buy rounds into victory conditions. And should you function as the In-Game Leader or primary shotcaller, your responsibility involves directing that utility economy with the precision of a battlefield commander.
To further enhance your weapon selection and strategic loadout decisions, consult our detailed Weapons Unlock guide for optimal equipment choices.
What sets Anubis apart is its dual-entry potential for both A and B sites and a highly contested mid area that can dictate the pace of the game. From pro teams like NAVI to pug stacks in FACEIT, the map rewards players who can control space with intelligent utility usage. While mechanical aim still reigns supreme, it’s the grenades — smokes, flashes, mollies, and HEs — that separate good players from great ones.
In recent tournaments, we’ve seen Anubis play host to some of the most tactical plays in CS2. From Astralis’s triple-molly A site executes to G2’s clever one-way smokes at mid, the meta is quickly evolving. Learning grenade lineups on Anubis is no longer optional if you’re aiming to climb the ranks or coordinate better with your team. It’s a requirement.
Why Anubis Demands Precision Utility Usage
You can’t just “wing it” on Anubis. The geometry of the map is intricate. One misthrown smoke can leave your team exposed to multiple angles — especially at chokepoints like A Main or the tight corridor into B Site. On the flip side, a well-placed flash can blind an entire enemy setup behind double boxes or beneath Heaven on B.
Anubis’s verticality also adds complexity. Players often forget that grenades need to account for varying heights. Whether you’re bouncing a molotov off the top of the A Main arch or lobbing an HE grenade from mid to connector, it’s the precision that makes or breaks your setup.
Moreover, Anubis heavily favors teams with strong map control. Since rotations are longer compared to maps like Dust II, holding or contesting key areas (like Water or Bridge) with proper utility can prevent enemy pushes before they even start. In essence, smart utility equals map dominance.
A Site Default Smoke
The A Site on Anubis has limited cover once you break through A Main. This makes a well-placed default smoke essential. The most effective smoke lands between the two pillars at site, cutting off CT vision from Heaven and the upper platform. You want to isolate fights and give your team space to plant safely.
Here’s how to throw it:
- Stand at the corner of the door in A Main.
- Aim at the top-left corner of the arch across.
- Use a jump-throw bind to launch the smoke.
The result is a thick, perfectly positioned wall of smoke that blocks off key angles and allows a clean site take. It’s not just about executing a plant — this smoke denies CTs the ability to spam through open lanes or quickly rotate into position.
Pair this with a molotov for Heaven or a deep CT smoke, and your A hit becomes exponentially harder to counter.
B Main to B Site Smoke
When attacking B Site from B Main, the primary danger comes from defenders playing on-site or near Heaven. A precise smoke here can make or break your entry.
Lineup instructions:
- Crouch near the second barrel at B Main entrance.
- Aim slightly above the right corner of the wooden beam on the opposite wall.
- Do a jump-throw.
This smoke lands just behind the default plant spot and blocks off vision from both CT and Heaven. What’s great about this is it also neutralizes any AWPers posted up from long angles.
Pro tip: Combine this with a flash from B Alley to blind anyone peeking mid or back site. Your entry fragger will thank you.
Mid Control Smokes
Mid is arguably the most important control area on Anubis. It opens rotation options and creates constant pressure. If you’re not smoking off critical angles, you’re just walking into death.
The two most effective mid smokes are:
- Mid to Connector Smoke
- Go to Mid T platform.
- Aim at the gap between the wires and the wall corner.
- Jump-throw to land it right at connector’s entrance.
- Mid to Bridge Smoke
- From Mid T stairs, aim at the second window ledge.
- Left-click throw for a deep bridge smoke that cuts off vision from CTs rotating through water.
These smokes allow your team to push mid safely and split to either site. Controlling mid with these lineups often forces the CT side to over-rotate, opening up easy frags and bomb plants.
Pop Flashes for A Site Entry
A Site is notoriously hard to push without getting instantly domed from Heaven or triple boxes. That’s where pop flashes come in. A perfectly timed flash can blind the entire defending squad and give your team a free opening.
Lineup:
- Stand to the left of the A Main entrance.
- Aim at the top-middle of the skybox over the arch.
- Left-click throw for an instant pop right above site.
This flash pops high and fast, avoiding common pre-aim spots while covering a wide area. Teammates pushing from A Main will stay unflashed, while defenders get hit full screen.
Don’t forget to call out the flash — timing it with your team’s entry is key. Too early, and enemies will hide. Too late, and your entry fragger is already dead.
Mid Control Flash Support
Mid fights are chaotic. Smokes help, but flashes are your real win condition. A well-placed support flash can swing control in your favor even in 2v2 or 3v3 scenarios.
To throw a safe mid control flash:
- Hug the wall on Mid T stairs.
- Aim just under the ledge of the central arch.
- Right-click throw.
It bounces right into Mid Lane and pops instantly. Anyone holding with an AWP or rifle from connector or bridge is caught off guard. Use this flash right after throwing your mid smoke for a deadly combo.
Common Pre-Nade Spots to Delay Pushes
Pre-nading is an underrated tactic, especially on a map like Anubis where early-round map control is everything. A perfectly timed HE grenade can shave 30-40 HP off enemies rushing into choke points, giving your defenders a massive advantage in the first few seconds of a round.
Top Pre-Nade Spots on Anubis:
- A Main Entrance:
- From CT spawn, toss an HE towards the right side of A Main.
- Aim slightly above the center wall and bounce it off the top arch.
- This grenade hits T’s who rush the corner aggressively and often pairs well with an early molotov.
- Mid T Ramp:
- Stand in Connector, aim at the metal pillar, and left-click throw a grenade toward Mid Ramp.
- This is effective at delaying mid control and softening up anyone rushing to establish presence.
- B Main Tunnel:
- From B Site, throw a nade off the arch entrance from Heaven.
- This lands at the feet of Ts pushing from B Alley and often catches them when they group for a fast execute.
The key here is timing. You want to throw the HE as early as possible but avoid wasting it if the opponents aren’t pushing. If you have sound cues or information from your teammates, you can combine this with a flashbang or molly to stop a full-blown rush in its tracks.
Molotovs for Site Clears
Molotovs are more than just denial tools — on Anubis, they’re essential for clearing out tricky off-angles and common hiding spots. Fire forces players to move, and in CS2, that often means running into your crosshairs.
Essential Site-Clearing Molotovs:
- A Site – Triple Boxes:
- Position from A Main, aim at the roof above the boxes.
- Use a jump-throw to land the molly behind the triple stack.
- This flushes out players holding the off-angle that watches for site crosses.
- B Site – Close Left:
- From B Main, aim at the top of the short wall near the door frame.
- A simple throw lands the molotov at close left, forcing defenders out into the open.
- Mid – Connector:
- If you’re pushing mid, a molly thrown into connector from mid stairs can burn out anyone holding with an AWP or rifle.
- This is particularly useful when executing mid splits.
Always follow up molotovs with a flash or a peek — burning someone out only works if you’re ready to capitalize on their movement.
Denying Plant with HE or Molotov
Let’s say your opponents have site control and are about to plant. This is the perfect opportunity to delay or even stop the plant using well-placed utility.
Best Spots to Deny Plant:
- A Site – Default Plant Behind Pillar:
- From Heaven or CT, bounce a molotov off the arch to land near the bomb plant spot.
- Alternatively, toss an HE grenade to interrupt and possibly kill the planter.
- B Site – Front Site Plant:
- From Heaven or bridge, aim at the corner of the wooden crate.
- A molly here will cover both the default and secondary plant zones.
These utility plays aren’t just good for stalling — they can win you rounds. Every second you delay a plant buys time for teammates to rotate or reposition.
One-Way Smokes That Win Rounds
One-way smokes are borderline unfair when used correctly — and Anubis offers several deadly setups that let you see without being seen.
Top One-Way Smokes:
- A Main – Under Arch Smoke:
- Stand behind the door, aim at the left window frame, and throw a smoke that sits partially inside the pillar.
- From your position, you’ll see legs of enemies pushing, but they won’t see you at all.
- Mid – Bridge Smoke:
- Throw a smoke from CT side that lands on the ledge of the bridge.
- You can crouch peek from the bottom and spot enemies trying to take control.
Use these only when needed. Overusing one-way smokes makes them predictable — mix them in with standard plays for maximum impact.
Off-Angle Pop Flashes to Disrupt
Pop flashes from off-angles can surprise enemies who think they’re safe behind cover or holding passive angles.
Examples:
- B Site – Close Right Pop Flash:
- From B Main, bounce a flash off the right arch pillar.
- It pops instantly, blinding any CT playing close or trying to swing wide.
- Mid to Connector Flash:
- Throw a flash off the upper connector wall from mid stairs.
- It explodes just inside, catching any CTs trying to retake mid control.
These flashes are gold in late-round scenarios or when you’re trying to isolate a key frag. The trick is to throw them quickly and follow them up with fast peeks.
Setting Up Teammates with Lineups
CS2 isn’t a solo game — and on Anubis, the best lineups often rely on coordination between teammates. You smoke, they flash. You molly, they peek. These combos create clean entries and unstoppable retakes.
Key Coordinated Utility Combos:
- A Main Push:
- You throw the A Site smoke.
- Your teammate flashes Heaven.
- Entry fragger goes in full speed.
- Mid Take:
- One player smokes connector.
- Another flashes bridge.
- Lurker holds for a late peek from water.
Practice these setups regularly with your team or stack. The smoother your timing, the harder it is for the enemy to react.
Calling Utility Rotations and Support
Knowing when to rotate your utility is just as important as knowing lineups. If your B Site teammate has no more smokes, and you’re holding mid with a full nade set — consider rotating a smoke or molly to support them.
Effective communication looks like this:
- “I’ve got mid smoke, need one A.”
- “Flashing B site, peek with it.”
- “No nades left, need a molly for Water.”
This kind of real-time coordination can turn even low-buy rounds into win conditions. And if you’re the IGL or shotcaller, it’s your job to direct that utility economy like a general on the battlefield.
Using Workshop Maps and Practice Servers
There’s no shortcut to mastering grenade lineups — you have to put in the hours. But the good news is, with the right tools, you can accelerate your progress massively. One of the best ways to practice utility on Anubis is by using dedicated CS2 workshop maps and private practice servers.
Why Workshop Maps Are Essential:
- They provide grenade preview tools so you can see the arc and landing point of smokes.
- They have pre-marked spots for common throws, making it easier to learn consistent lineups.
- You can practice without interference from teammates or bots.
Recommended Practice Maps:
- Yprac Anubis Guide – One of the best maps for interactive training.
- Crashz’s Crosshair and Grenade Training – A solid map for setting up crosshairs and jump-throw binds before practicing lineups.
Setting Up a Private Practice Server:
- Launch CS2 and enable the console.
- Load Anubis with
map de_anubis. - Use commands like:
sv_cheats 1sv_infinite_ammo 1sv_grenade_trajectory 1sv_grenade_trajectory_time 10mp_roundtime 60mp_restartgame 1
These commands allow unlimited nades, show the full path of each throw, and give you endless time to experiment. Record your own custom lineups, or improve consistency on existing ones.
Creating Your Own Consistent Lineups
While learning community lineups is a great start, creating your own gives you a serious edge. Your custom smokes and flashes are harder to predict — and in high-level games, unpredictability wins rounds.
Tips for Building Your Own Lineups:
- Choose consistent landmarks: Use crates, beams, or wall cracks for precise crosshair placement.
- Use a jump-throw bind for long-distance smokes. (Example: bind “ALT” to
+jump; -attack). - Practice each throw at least 10–20 times to ensure consistency.
- Record them and share with your team.
Get into the habit of practicing for 15 minutes a day. Like shooting drills, lineup training builds muscle memory and game-day confidence.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Even pros mess up smokes — but the key difference is how often and how badly. Misthrown grenades on Anubis can give away positions, expose teammates, or leave choke points wide open.
Top Mistakes to Avoid:
- Throwing too early: This often causes grenades to bounce off teammates or miss their mark.
- Incorrect jump-throws: If your bind isn’t working or you mistime your jump, your smoke will go flying off the map or fall short.
- Flashing teammates: This is a common mistake in pug games. Always warn your team (“flashing mid!”) before tossing a pop flash.
Fixes:
- Practice your mechanics offline.
- Double-check your binds and crosshair placements.
- Use visual markers in-game as references (door frames, windows, etc.).
Utility isn’t just about what you throw — it’s when you throw it. Think of it like jazz. When everything’s in sync, it’s beautiful. When it’s not, it’s noise.
Action Checklist
- Practice all essential smoke lineups for A site, B site, and mid control using workshop maps
- Configure jump-throw bind and optimal crosshair settings for precision throws
- Coordinate utility usage with teammates during practice sessions
- Study professional team demos to understand advanced utility coordination
- Adapt utility strategies based on economy, opponent patterns, and team composition
- Practice A Site default smoke from A Main door corner 10 times daily
- Master B Main to B Site smoke with crouch positioning
- Coordinate mid control smokes with teammate flashes
- Learn at least two pop flash lineups for each site entry
- Set up private server with grenade trajectory commands for practice
- Practice all three pre-nade spots for 15 minutes daily to build muscle memory
- Master the jump-throw molotov for A Site triple boxes clearance
- Coordinate utility timing with teammates using 3-2-1 countdown system
- Learn and implement plant denial molotovs for both A and B sites
- Study pro demos to understand utility sequencing and economic management
- Implement economic utility prioritization strategies in match play
- Practice A site default smoke lineup 10 times daily for consistent execution
- Master at least two one-way smoke setups for unexpected advantages
- Coordinate utility combos with teammates in practice sessions
- Learn and execute coordinated mid control with smokes and flashes
- Watch pro demos to understand utility timing and coordination
- Create and test at least three custom lineups for your playstyle
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