Vertigo Smokes and Grenade Lineups

Vertigo transforms traditional CS:GO combat into a multi-level tactical puzzle where grenade mastery becomes your primary weapon. This high-rise construction battlefield challenges conventional strategies with its stacked bombsite design and vertical engagement zones that fundamentally alter utility behavior and strategic priorities.

When navigating Vertigo’s complex architecture, players encounter three distinct combat layers that require specialized utility approaches. The map’s compressed choke points and overlapping sightlines create unique tactical problems that standard flat-map strategies cannot solve effectively.

The structural complexity creates specific win conditions where single utility pieces can determine round outcomes. Unlike horizontally designed maps, Vertigo forces engagements across multiple elevations simultaneously, demanding split-second utility decisions.

Map Structure Analysis

Vertigo’s layout features two primary combat zones separated vertically rather than horizontally. A site sits above mid and B site, creating natural high-ground advantages that utility must either secure or neutralize.

Sound-Based Positioning

Audio intelligence becomes critically important on Vertigo due to metal surfaces, scaffolding, and vertical sound propagation. Footsteps above or below provide crucial rotation timing information that should guide your utility deployment decisions.

Utility Behavior Differences

Grenade physics operate differently on Vertigo due to the vertical architecture. Smokes require exact placement to cover multi-level sightlines, while molotovs exhibit unpredictable bounce patterns off construction materials.

Neglecting proper grenade usage on Vertigo essentially handicaps your team’s strategic options. This map systematically rewards teams that understand how to manipulate space and time through calculated utility deployment rather than raw aiming skill alone.

Professional teams demonstrate that utility coordination directly correlates with Vertigo dominance. Their approach transforms basic smokes and molotovs into sophisticated tools for controlling round tempo and enemy movement patterns.

Beyond simple vision blocking, Vertigo smokes serve multiple tactical purposes including stalling enemy advances, baiting counter-utility, and creating false positional information.

Strategic utility application enables teams to dictate engagement terms rather than react to enemy initiatives. This strategic control becomes particularly valuable in late-round scenarios where time management becomes critical.

Utility timing represents another critical dimension where Vertigo differs from other maps. The compressed rotation times between sites mean that utility decisions must account for rapid defensive repositioning.

Before exploring specific lineups, understanding how each grenade type functions within Vertigo’s vertical environment is essential for effective application.

• Smokes: Vision obstruction tools that must account for multiple elevation levels. They’re indispensable for covering exposed areas like A ramp approaches, B staircase entries, and mid window sightlines.
• Molotovs/Incendiaries: Area control instruments that force enemy movement or deny positioning advantages.
• HE Grenades: Damage-dealing explosives optimized for finishing wounded opponents or punishing predictable rush patterns.
• Flashbangs: Temporary blinding devices requiring precise timing to avoid compromising teammate positioning in tight corridors.

Every utility deployment on Vertigo must serve specific tactical objectives rather than generic area denial. The vertical nature amplifies both the rewards of precise utility and the penalties for careless deployment.

The coordination between different grenade types creates synergistic effects that maximize tactical impact. Understanding these interactions separates competent utility users from truly dominant strategic players.

Mastering fundamental smoke placements provides the foundation for Vertigo strategic dominance. These essential lineups divide logically into three primary combat zones with distinct tactical requirements.

A Site Entry Smokes

• Ramp Smoke: Foundational vision denial from CT close positions. Position near T staircase, target specific beam section, execute jump-throw for optimal coverage and movement facilitation.
• Left Site Smoke: Critical for neutralizing defensive angles near default planting positions, enabling secure bomb deployment.
• Heaven Smoke: Advanced placement that eliminates elevated CT oversight, essential during full-squad coordinated executions.

Mid Control Smokes

• Mid Window Smoke: Facilitates mid advancement without exposure to construction or CT sniper positions.
• Connector Smoke: Rotation vision obstruction that establishes mid-to-connector control dominance.

B Site Smokes for Executes

• CT Smoke: Deployed from scaffolding or elevated ramp positions to eliminate rear site defensive oversight.
• Default Plant Smoke: Strategic coverage of primary bomb planting locations.
• Heaven Smoke (B site): Vital for neutralizing sniper oversight from elevated positions during site execution phases.

When deployed in coordinated sequences, these smokes systematically dismantle defensive setups and force opponents into disadvantaged engagement scenarios.

Molotovs and HE grenades serve critical functions beyond simple damage dealing—they control combat tempo, force enemy repositioning, and systematically eliminate defensive hiding positions.

Molotovs to Clear Common Angles

On A Ramp, the sandbags position represents a classic defensive stronghold. CT players frequently utilize boosted positions or tight angle holds in this area.

• Position near T spawn ramp approach.
• Target upper beam corner above sandbags cluster.
• Execute jump-throw binding for consistent deployment and maximum area coverage effectiveness.

This molotov deployment pattern ensures comprehensive coverage of sandbags territory, systematically forcing out concealed defenders and creating elimination opportunities.

Another essential technique involves the A site molotov behind default positioning. When CT defenders retreat during execution phases, this area becomes their primary fallback position.

Across Mid territory, molotov applications effectively neutralize players utilizing metal box, ladder, or construction hiding spots. These confined spaces frequently serve as smoke-play positions that molotov deployment can systematically eliminate.

HE Nades to Punish Rushes and Forcebacks

HE grenades frequently receive insufficient attention despite their significant tactical potential, particularly within Vertigo’s choke-point intensive design architecture.

Strategic pre-nading of A ramp push patterns can inflict 30-60 damage points against advancing enemies.

Within mid control battles, bounced HE deployments off metallic surfaces behind ladder or T mid box positions can disrupt lurking patterns or force defensive repositioning.

Basic utility knowledge provides foundation, but advanced techniques deliver competitive advantages. These sophisticated approaches include specialized smoke formations, deep coverage tactics, and utility denial methodologies.

One-Way Smokes and Their Use

One-way smoke deployments, while occasionally controversial, deliver exceptional effectiveness when applied correctly within strategic frameworks.

• Position alignment with right ramp beam structure.
• Aiming alignment at mid-height metallic divider elements.
• Smoke deployment targeting partial ledge coverage for optimal one-way visibility advantages.

This creates limited visibility corridors that enable peeking advantages while maintaining substantial concealment benefits.

Cross-Smokes and Deep Coverage

Advanced cross-smoke formations excel during execution scenarios. For example, capturing A site effectively utilizes double smoke configurations—one covering left site wall and another eliminating heaven oversight.

At B site control, employing double smokes systematically blocks CT and heaven defensive positions simultaneously.

During mid take operations, smoke deployments that eliminate CT view through ladder positions, combined with deep window smoke coverage, enables team advancement while simultaneously threatening both primary bombsite locations.

Grenades transcend individual tools when teams master coordinated deployment strategies. Synchronized utility application transforms individual grenades into devastating tactical systems.

Executing a Coordinated A Push

An optimal A site execution initiates with early ramp pressure application. One team member deploys left site coverage, another executes molotov for sandbags clearance, while a third executes flash over the ramp deployment.

Once forward elements secure sandbags territory, preparation commences for main execution phase:

• Primary smoke deployment covering heaven from scaffolding positions.
• Secondary molotov deployment targeting default defensive positions.
• Coordinated double flash deployment followed by simultaneous site entry execution.

This comprehensive tactical sequence systematically eliminates defensive advantages while minimizing team exposure during critical execution phases.

Fake Execute Setups Using Utility

Vertigo’s structural design creates ideal conditions for fake strategies execution.

Teams can also employ dry utility deployment strategies—executing flash and molotov deployments at A ramp while simultaneously advancing B site creates strategic deception opportunities.

Fake execution success depends on creating convincing tactical illusions through realistic utility pattern simulation.

Utility lineup knowledge provides limited value without consistent execution capability. The pathway to mastery involves deliberate practice methodologies that transform theoretical knowledge into practical execution skills.

Best Workshop Maps for Utility Practice

Access the CS:GO Workshop environment and locate specialized training resources including:

• “Yprac Vertigo Guide” – Provides visual guidance systems, sequential lineup instructions, and integrated challenge mechanisms for smoke, molotov, and flashbang deployment mastery.
• “Training_aim_csgo2” + “Recoil Master” – While primarily focusing on aiming fundamentals, these resources facilitate effective warm-up routines between dedicated utility training sessions.

These specialized training environments enable isolated grenade practice with repetition until skill internalization occurs.

Setting Up Binds and Commands for Practice

Before entering practice server environments, utilize these configuration commands for unlimited utility access and rapid reset capabilities:

sv_cheats 1
sv_infinite_ammo 1
ammo_grenade_limit_total 5
mp_roundtime 60
mp_restartgame 1
bind "ALT" "+jumpthrow"

The jumpthrow binding configuration delivers critical consistency for long-distance smoke deployment requirements.

Additionally implement:

noclip
sv_grenade_trajectory 1
sv_grenade_trajectory_time 10

These configuration parameters enable aerial navigation and grenade trajectory visualization for immediate error identification and aiming refinement.

Repetition methodology represents the core skill development principle. Avoid sporadic practice sessions—instead implement structured repetition with measurable performance benchmarks.

On Vertigo’s vertical battlefield, molotovs and HE grenades serve as tactical instruments that dictate engagement timing and positioning. Unlike other CS:GO maps where utility primarily supports gunplay, Vertigo transforms these tools into primary weapons for controlling space and forcing enemy movement patterns.

Molotovs function as area denial instruments that force defenders out of entrenched positions, while HE grenades punish predictable movement through choke points. Professional teams consistently demonstrate that proper incendiary usage can single-handedly win rounds by creating temporary no-go zones that disrupt enemy executes.

The map’s unique architecture with multiple levels and tight corridors means traditional peeking angles often lead to unfavorable trades. Instead, smart utility deployment allows you to engage on your terms, transforming defensive holds into offensive opportunities through calculated displacement of enemy positions.

Clearing A Ramp Sandbags Position

Defenders frequently utilize the sandbags area on A ramp for boosted sightlines and tight angle holds. To effectively clear this common defensive strongpoint:

• Position yourself near T spawn ramp approach
• Align your crosshair with the upper beam corner positioned above sandbags
• Employ a consistent jump-throw binding for reliable trajectory

This specific molotov placement ensures complete coverage of the sandbags zone, forcing any concealed opponents into vulnerable open-space engagements.

Mid Area Containment and Clearance

Mid presents multiple concealed positions where players exploit smoke coverage, including behind metal box, near the ladder access point, and within construction area corners. Deploying a molotov here represents minimal economic investment for substantial territorial gains by enabling safer lurker advancement.

B Site Execution Support Mollies

During B site executions, molotovs directed toward the close corner or boost box significantly increase early push safety parameters. Simultaneously, targeting behind B default during plant phases displaces defenders holding post-plant angles, dramatically increasing successful detonation probabilities.

HE grenades frequently receive inadequate attention despite their substantial damage potential within Vertigo’s choke-point concentrated design.

For example, pre-emptively deploying an HE grenade against A ramp push initiatives can inflict 30–60 damage on advancing opponents. When synchronized with a molotov deployment, this combination can critically wound or eliminate enemies before visual contact occurs.

Mid Control and Territory Denial

In mid engagements, bouncing an HE grenade off the metallic surface behind the ladder or from T mid box positions effectively counters lurker advancements or compels defensive repositioning. Paired with teammate molotov coverage, this evolves into a lethal utility combination frequently yielding elimination-free territorial acquisition.

HE grenades prove exceptionally valuable during post-plant retake scenarios where eliminating already-damaged opponents becomes critical.

When retaking B site and suspecting opponent concealment behind the default pillar, employ wall-bounce techniques—the resulting explosion either secures the elimination or sufficiently weakens adversaries for successful engagement peeks.

Popflashes and tactical support grenades fundamentally alter engagement dynamics on Vertigo. The map’s confined spaces and rapid encounter frequency mean individual flashbang deployments frequently determine duel outcomes. These should become reflexive components of your strategic arsenal whether supporting teammates or facilitating personal advancement.

Cross-map Flashbang Coordination

Among the most impactful popflash deployments are those supporting A ramp peeks. From CT defensive positioning, station yourself at the rear-left sector of site and launch a high-arcing flash over the perimeter railing onto ramp territory. The detonation occurs behind protective cover, blinding advancing T-side players unexpectedly. This creates optimal conditions for teammates to execute wide peeks securing uncontested eliminations.

From T-side offensive maneuvers, projecting flashes above ramp scaffolding before initiating pushes remains essential. Utilize jump-throw mechanics to achieve mid-air detonation precisely above the entry corridor—this maintains teammate visual capability while surprising defensive opponents.

Site Entry and Retake Support Applications

For mid support operations, a stationary flash deployment behind metal box establishes advantageous conditions for AWPer or rifler peeking initiatives. This approach also proves valuable during rapid rotation scenarios to safely clear ladder or connector access points.

At B stairs approaches, flashbangs redirected off wall surfaces into upper scaffolding regions can visually impair anyone maintaining tight defensive positioning from site control. When attempting entry facilitation onto site control, this throw becomes non-negotiable for successful execution.

Vertigo stands apart in the CS:GO map pool with its multi-level construction site design that creates intense vertical engagements. Unlike traditional flat-surfaced battlegrounds, this map demands precision grenade usage due to its stacked bombsite layout and tight choke points that amplify the impact of every smoke and flashbang thrown.

The vertical architecture fundamentally changes how utility behaves. Smokes must be placed with exact positioning to properly cover sightlines across different elevations. Molotovs often ricochet unpredictably off metal scaffoldings and concrete dividers, requiring players to account for bounce physics that don’t exist on other competitive maps.

Sound becomes your most valuable intelligence tool on Vertigo. Footsteps echoing from above or below provide critical rotation information, while grenade sounds telegraph enemy positioning and intentions more clearly than on any other CS:GO battlefield.

What makes Vertigo particularly punishing is how quickly teams can rotate between sites. With bomb sites stacked vertically and mere seconds apart, players must execute counter-utility with split-second timing. This emphasizes the need for consistent, reliable grenade lineups that work under pressure.

Unlike Mirage’s methodical executes or Inferno’s banana control battles, Vertigo compresses its most critical fights into confined spaces where a single well-placed smoke can determine round outcomes.

Mastering Vertigo requires specific smoke lineups that control the map’s most contested areas. These aren’t just vision blockers—they’re tactical tools that dictate engagement timing and positioning.

A Site Entry Blockades

• Ramp Control Smoke: Position yourself near T stairs and aim for the upper beam support. A properly executed jump-throw creates a smoke curtain that allows safe advancement up the ramp while cutting off CT angles from site and heaven.
• Left Site Denial: This smoke blocks the close-left angle near default plant spot, creating safe planting opportunities during executes.
• Heaven Blockade: An advanced lineup thrown from scaffolding that eliminates the elevated CT advantage during site takes.

Mid Window Denial

• Mid Window Smoke: Enables mid pushes without exposure to AWPers holding from construction or CT spawn.
• Connector Control: This smoke blocks rotation vision and establishes mid dominance, which is crucial for split executes on either site.

B Execute Coverage

• CT Spawn Smoke: Deployed from scaffolding or top ramp, this smoke eliminates back-site defender vision during B hits.
• Default Plant Coverage: Creates a safe zone for bomb planting by obscuring common post-plant angles.

Molotovs and HE grenades serve dual purposes on Vertigo—they’re not just for damage but for tempo control and positional manipulation.

Angle Clearing Mollies

On A Ramp, the sandbags position remains a defender stronghold. To effectively clear it:

• Position near T spawn ramp with clear line of sight to the upper beam structure.
• Execute a jump-throw bind to ensure the molotov lands deep into the sandbags area, forcing out any CTs holding aggressive angles there.
• The resulting forced movement often creates easy frag opportunities as defenders scramble for new positions.

Another critical molotov targets the A site behind default position. When CTs retreat during executes, this becomes their fallback point. Timing the molly to detonate as your entry smokes bloom generates maximum defensive disruption.

At Mid, molotovs become essential for clearing players utilizing metal box, ladder, or construction hideouts. These tight corners frequently serve as smoke-play positions that require incendiary clearance.

HE Grenade Damage Optimization

HE grenades deliver their maximum impact when used preemptively against predictable enemy movements.

For example, pre-nading the A ramp push timing can inflict 30-60 damage on rushing opponents before visual contact is established.

In mid engagements, bouncing an HE off the metal wall behind ladder or T mid box disrupts lurk attempts and forces positional adjustments.

During post-plant scenarios, HEs excel at finishing tagged enemies. If retaking B and suspecting a defender behind the default pillar, a well-placed bounce nade either eliminates wounded opponents or softens them for follow-up engagements.

When facing post-plant situations, your utility becomes the decisive factor between successful retakes and round losses. Vertigo’s compressed retake scenarios demand surgical precision rather than brute force approaches.

A Site Retake Execution

Deploying a smoke for ramp control during retakes obscures terrorist sightlines from common post-plant positions, enabling safer site re-entry.

Combine this tactical smoke placement with deep flashbangs over site to blind defenders positioned behind default, scaffolding, or heaven boost angles to create multi-layered pressure.

A strategically placed molotov targeting behind default flushes out enemies from their planted positions.

If coordinating with a teammate possessing a defuse kit, smoking the bomb itself enables fake defuse baits while teammates capitalize on sound queues for coordinated peeks.

B Site Retake Tactics

For B site retakes, utilize a smoke on either default plant location or heaven view angles. This vision denial permits stealthy site infiltration while defenders remain visually compromised.

When confronting enemies known to utilize behind pillar or scaffolding positions, a molotov deployed from construction either eliminates defenders or forces them into disadvantageous peek scenarios.

One frequently overlooked retake technique involves the HE + flash combo. Bounce an HE grenade off the wall behind default, then immediately flash and execute the push. This approach not only inflicts preliminary damage but also creates temporary blindness windows for aggressive swings.

The fundamental principle of successful retakes revolves around coordinated utility layering rather than simultaneous deployment. Apply pressure sequentially—initial smoke deployment, followed by molotov area denial, then coordinated flashbang support.

Critical Insight: Avoid dumping all grenades simultaneously. Instead, create staged pressure that makes opponents feel progressively trapped and positionally constrained.

Even experienced competitors frequently commit utility errors that surrender winnable rounds. Vertigo’s structural complexity amplifies the consequences of poor grenade decisions compared to other competitive maps.

Timing and Resource Management Errors

One prevalent issue involves overusing grenades too early during round phases. For instance, CTs often exhaust both smokes and molotovs within the initial 20 seconds at A ramp, leaving them resource-depleted if terrorists execute late-round attacks.

If the opposing team successfully baits defensive utility, they’ve essentially secured the round through strategic resource depletion rather than tactical execution.

Similarly, players frequently deploy panic smokes—grenades thrown without clear tactical purpose or with suboptimal placement positioning.

On the terrorist side, a classic mistake involves mismatched smokes during executes. When one player throws prematurely while another delays, the staggered utility deployment provides defenders with optimal timing windows for counter-attacks.

Communication and Coordination Breakdowns

Utility deployment must represent a team effort rather than individual initiative. One player flashing mid while another attempts solo peeks creates tactical dissonance rather than coordinated pressure.

During A site pushes, every team member must understand their specific role assignments: who deploys the heaven smoke, who handles sandbags molotov clearance, and who provides flashbang support.

Many players neglect to communicate what they’ve used. If a defender announces “I smoked ramp” but omits mentioning available molotov resources, teammates may incorrectly assume complete site coverage and make positioning decisions based on incomplete information.

Another critical error involves repeating patterns. Consistently deploying identical smoke placements every round enables opponents to adapt their counter-strategies accordingly.

Solution Framework: Implement utility variation through delayed deployments, fake execution patterns, or double-smoke setups when tactically appropriate.

Avoiding these fundamental utility mistakes can produce immediate win rate improvements. Intelligent grenade usage revolves around patience, coordinated execution, and tactical unpredictability.

Knowing utility lineups proves worthless without consistent execution capability. The distinguishing factor? Deliberate practice methodology. Let’s examine how to refine your grenade proficiency and transform theoretical knowledge into reflexive execution.

Workshop Map Drills

Navigate to the CS:GO Workshop interface and locate specialized training maps such as:

• “Yprac Vertigo Guide” – Provides comprehensive visual guidance, systematic lineup procedures, and integrated challenge modes for smoke, molotov, and flashbang deployment.
• “Training_aim_csgo2” + “Recoil Master” – While primarily focused on aim training rather than utility mastery, these resources facilitate warm-up routines between dedicated practice sessions.

These specialized training environments enable isolation of individual grenade types for repetitive practice until execution becomes automatic.

Console Command Configuration

Before entering practice servers, implement the following commands for unlimited utility access and rapid reset capabilities:

sv_cheats 1
sv_infinite_ammo 1
ammo_grenade_limit_total 5
mp_roundtime 60
mp_restartgame 1
bind "ALT" "+jumpthrow"

The jumpthrow binding remains essential for consistent long-distance smoke placements that require precise timing synchronization.

Supplement your practice with additional commands:

noclip
sv_grenade_trajectory 1
sv_grenade_trajectory_time 10

These command implementations permit aerial navigation and grenade trajectory visualization for immediate error identification and technical refinement.

Practice Principle: Repetition establishes foundation. Avoid practicing ten smokes once—instead, drill identical smoke placements twenty times consecutively. Introduce performance pressure through timed challenges: can you execute your complete A site utility setup within ten seconds?

Mastery development stems from concentrated effort rather than random gameplay. Dedicate twenty minutes daily to focused utility practice and observe measurable improvement within one week.

Vertigo transforms CS:GO’s traditional horizontal combat into a multi-level strategic challenge where grenade placement becomes your primary weapon. The map’s stacked bombsite design creates unique vertical angles that traditional flat maps like Dust2 never present, making utility mastery non-negotiable for competitive success.

When newcomers experience Vertigo, the confined passageways, rapid repositioning, and tiered engagement zones often create spatial confusion. This battlefield penalizes mistimed movements while rewarding calculated grenade deployment with territorial advantage and site control. Unlike more familiar battlegrounds such as Mirage or Inferno, Vertigo presents a significantly steeper learning curve regarding effective smoke and explosive usage, primarily due to the compressed spaces and critical importance of controlling narrow access points.

What makes Vertigo strategically compelling is how directly utility application influences victory conditions. For instance, a strategically positioned smoke at A entrance can stall aggression or create unfavorable engagement scenarios for attackers. Perfectly timed incendiary devices can completely neutralize mid-area lurkers. And if you believe grenades serve only offensive purposes—reconsider immediately. Defensive utility deployment proves equally crucial, particularly given how swiftly squads can reposition and re-assault objectives.

Therefore, to advance through competitive tiers and establish supremacy on Vertigo, superior marksmanship alone proves insufficient—you require grenade expertise. This comprehensive guide explores all critical smokes, molotovs, flashbangs, and explosive grenades required to outmaneuver opposition, secure territory, and secure rounds with professional precision.

Vertigo’s Structural Uniqueness Compared to Conventional Maps

Vertigo’s distinctive character originates from its architectural layout and combat engagement dynamics. It stands as the sole arena where auditory awareness surpasses usual importance—footsteps from above or beneath can indicate rotation or aggressive positioning. And because construction follows vertical principles, grenades exhibit different behavioral patterns. Smoke coverage demands pinpoint accuracy; molotovs carom erratically off structural elements and barriers, while flash deployment presents increased difficulty in achieving effectiveness without compromising allies’ vision.

When contrasted with more linear environments such as Dust2 or Overpass, Vertigo concentrates territorial contests into more confined zones. A ramp represents one of the most intensely contested spaces across all CS:GO battlegrounds. Maintaining or assaulting this territory necessitates flawless utility implementation—smokes for sightline obstruction, incendiaries to counter aggression, and flashes to establish peek advantages. Mid control involves calculated risk and potential reward; losing early dominance without grenade support means conceding split-pressure threats against either objective.

Another significant differentiator involves rotation velocity. Because bomb sites stack vertically with mere seconds separation, competitors must prepare to deploy counter-utility immediately. This further underscores the necessity of mastering reliable grenade lineups for both assault and defense scenarios.

In essence, Vertigo transcends simple angle holding—it’s about managing chaos through strategic utility deployment.

Now we explore the foundational element—critical smokes every competitor must master for Vertigo dominance. These represent the fundamental lineups that frequently determine round outcomes. We’ll categorize coverage by A site, central area, and B objective.

A Site Assault Smokes

• Ramp Vision Block: An elementary yet vital smoke to obstruct visual contact from defensive players holding close positions. Position near T staircase, align with specific structural beam section, and execute jump-throw. This provides concealment for ramp advancement.
• Left Objective Smoke: Employed to screen the immediate-left angle adjacent to default planting location. This permits terrorists to establish bomb placement without exposure to defensive peeks.
• Upper Level Smoke: A more sophisticated lineup that blocks elevated defensive sightlines, essential during coordinated squad executions.

Central Control Smokes

• Mid Window Smoke: Enables advancement through central corridor without detection by sniper specialists or riflemen positioned from construction or defensive spawn.
• Passage Smoke: Assists in impeding rotation vision and grants command over central-to-connector passage.

B Site Execution Smokes

• CT Spawn Smoke: Launched from scaffolding or upper ramp, it obstructs visual contact from rear site positions.
• Default Planting Smoke: Screens the area where you’ll position explosive device.
• Upper Level Smoke (B objective): Critical for avoiding sniper sightlines from elevated positions.

Each smoke deployment, when synchronized, can eliminate defensive sight advantages and compel opposition into disadvantageous firefights.

Molotovs and explosive grenades prove indispensable on Vertigo—serving not merely for damage infliction, but for pace management, movement coercion, and defender displacement. One strategically placed incendiary can secure round victory by denying crucial positioning or delaying aggression sufficiently for squad rotation. Let’s examine the most impactful molotov and HE grenade deployments across Vertigo’s terrain.

Incendiary Deployment for Common Angle Clearance

At A Ramp, the sandbags location represents classic defensive concealment. Frequently observed defensive players utilizing elevation advantages or maintaining tight angles there. To deploy incendiary:

• Position adjacent to terrorist spawn ramp.
• Align toward upper beam corner above sandbags.
• Utilize jump-throw binding.

This molotov distribution perfectly covers sandbags territory and forcibly ejects any campers—often resulting in straightforward eliminations.

Another critical knowledge point involves A site incendiary behind default. When defensive players retreat during executions, this position provides their safety perimeter. Igniting it precisely as smoke deployments expand generates confusion and obstructs secure planting alternatives.

Within Central Area, molotovs can be employed to flush out competitors hiding behind metal container, ladder, or construction. These represent confined spaces that opponents frequently exploit to navigate around smoke screens. Deploying incendiary there constitutes low-investment, high-yield maneuver that clears territory for lurking specialists.

At B Staircase, molotovs directed toward immediate corner or elevation box renders early aggression significantly safer. Igniting behind B default also proves important during executions to displace defenders from post-plant positioning.

HE Grenade Implementation for Rush Countering and Position Forcing

HE grenades often receive inadequate attention—yet they contain substantial potential, particularly within Vertigo’s choke-point intensive architecture.

For example, pre-deploying explosive toward A ramp aggression can inflict 30–60 damage upon rushing adversaries. Combining this with incendiary deployment can seriously injure or potentially eliminate opponents before visual contact.

In central corridor, a ricochet HE off metallic barrier behind ladder or T mid container can halt lurking maneuvers or compel movement. When synchronized with teammate’s incendiary, this transforms into lethal utility combination that frequently yields elimination opportunities or territorial gains.

HEs also excel for finishing wounded players during post-plant situations. If you’re retaking B and suspect presence behind default structural element, carom explosive off wall—it will either eliminate or weaken them for subsequent peeks.

Overall, molotovs and HEs transcend situational tools—they represent foundational components for territorial command and retake methodologies. You should never approach Vertigo without minimum one incendiary available.

Observing professional Vertigo gameplay can substantially enhance your comprehension of utility implementation. Elite squads like Vitality, FaZe, NaVi, and G2 have demonstrated surgical precision regarding smoke, molotov, and flash deployment on Vertigo. The arena rewards cooperative play and timing precision, with professional-level utility lineups representing significant differentiators.

Consider Team Vitality as illustration. Their A executions demonstrate textbook perfection. They systematically employ triple smoke coverage for upper level, left objective, and top ramp, synchronized with incendiaries for sandbags and behind default. While this might appear excessive, it ensures secure site penetration and compels defensive positioning into passive stances.

NaVi frequently utilizes deception utility to manipulate rotations. For instance, they deploy full A execution utility while maintaining lurking presence centrally. As defensive specialists rotate, that competitor infiltrates connector or flank maneuvers B objective, collapsing defensive structure from dual directions.

Another excellent example involves FaZe Clan’s defensive configurations. They employ tiered utility to delay aggression and create elimination opportunities. Dual molotovs at ramp entrance, smoke coverage for scaffolding, and precisely timed flash deployment over crane structure collectively establish danger zone that penalizes impatient terrorists.

These organizations never deploy grenades arbitrarily—they utilize them to command tempo, condition opposition, and execute maneuvers with precision.

The optimal methodology for learning from professionals involves reviewing demonstration replays:

1. Navigate to HLTV.org or utilize GOTV within CS:GO.
2. Select Vertigo match from top-tier squad.
3. Observe single competitor’s perspective and document timing and rationale behind utility deployment.

Maintain awareness regarding subsequent elements:

• Do they deploy smokes early or postpone?
• Where are they directing incendiary deployment?
• How do they flashbang for squadmates?

You’ll commence recognizing tactical sequences—and once comprehending underlying logic, you can implement within personal matches. Even incapable of replicating every lineup, the strategic foundation behind deployments will elevate your match awareness considerably.

Defensive Utility Implementation from Counter-Terrorist Perspective

While most instructional content concentrates on terrorist executions, defensive specialists maintain equivalent power through utility—particularly within arenas like Vertigo where intelligence denial proves critical.

Strategically timed smoke deployment on A ramp postpones any early aggression. Combine with incendiary deployment on sandbags or scaffolding, and you dictate engagement rhythm. Avoid overextension—simply employ grenades to delay, collect intelligence, and await reinforcement.

At B objective, screening staircase early prevents rapid territorial command. Molotovs launched from construction toward scaffold elevation container can prevent terrorists from securing early positioning.

Regarding central corridor, straightforward passage smoke or incendiary deployment toward ladder can obstruct lurking maneuvers and delay split-pressure tactics.

Intelligence Denial and Territorial Command

Defensive specialists must additionally concentrate on countering map dominance. If terrorists consistently advance A ramp, modify approach. Instead of engaging with firearms, contest with utility. Incendiary ramp deployment at 1:15, then smoke coverage at 1:00—suddenly, terrorists possess 40 seconds and zero control.

Employ flash deployment defensively also. A popflash originating behind A objective can enable your sniper specialist to peek for intelligence. Well-executed flashbang into B staircase permits your teammate to re-aggress and verify lurking terrorist presence.

During professional competition, defensive specialists never merely respond—they dictate round progression through grenade utilization. And you should implement similarly.

Even veteran competitors commit utility errors that sacrifice rounds. Vertigo penalizes suboptimal grenade deployment beyond any alternative arena due to vertical architecture, confined angles, and auditory-sensitive layout. Understanding what not to execute proves equally important as mastering your lineups.

Overutilization and Misapplication of Utility

Among most frequent issues involves excessive grenade deployment too early during round progression. For example, defensive specialists frequently exhaust both smoke and incendiary resources within initial 20 seconds at A ramp, leaving them vulnerable if terrorist execution occurs late. If terrorists bait utility deployment, they’ve secured round victory through default positioning.

Similarly, competitors often deploy panic smokes—grenades launched without clear strategic purpose or with inaccurate placement. Suboptimal smoke deployment can generate one-way vision advantages for opposition, obscure teammates’ sightlines, or even isolate players attempting rotation.

From terrorist perspective, classic error involves unsynchronized smoke deployment during executions. If one competitor deploys prematurely, and another experiences delay, the staggered utility provides defensive specialists perfect timing for counter-strikes. Poorly positioned smokes at A ramp or central window create substantial openings for sniper specialists to peek through. This negates entire smoke deployment objective.

Coordination Deficiencies and Communication Breakdowns

Utility must represent collective effort, never individual maneuver. One competitor flashing central corridor while another attempts solo peeking proves ineffective. If you’re assaulting A objective, everyone must comprehend tactical blueprint: who screens upper level, who deploys incendiaries for sandbags, who throws flash deployment? Without synchronization, utility becomes wasted—or worse, it blinds and damages your own squadmates.

Many players additionally fail to communicate resource expenditure. If defensive specialist states “I screened ramp,” but omits incendiary availability status, teammates might withdraw or presume objective coverage. Communication proves paramount.

Finally, there exists the complication of repetitive tactical sequences. If you deploy identical smoke every round, opposition will adapt. They’ll advance through, pre-fire your incendiaries, or time their executions to counter your configuration. Vary approaches. Postpone, deceive, or dual-smoke when necessary.

Evading these errors can immediately enhance victory percentage. Intelligent utility involves patience, coordination, and unpredictability.

Optimal Workshop Maps for Utility Training

Navigate toward CS:GO Workshop and locate maps including:

• “Yprac Vertigo Guide” – Provides visual instructions, sequential lineups, and integrated challenges for smokes, molotovs, and flashes.
• “Training_aim_csgo2” + “Recoil Master” – While not utility-centric, they assist warm-up procedures between training sessions.

These training environments enable isolation of individual grenade types and repeated attempts until achieving consistency. You can mark positions, record configurations, and practice timing precision.

Configuration Setup for Binds and Practice Commands

Before entering practice server, implement subsequent commands for unlimited utility and rapid reset capabilities:

sv_cheats 1
sv_infinite_ammo 1
ammo_grenade_limit_total 5
mp_roundtime 60
mp_restartgame 1
bind "ALT" "+jumpthrow"

The jump-throw binding proves essential for consistent long-distance smoke deployment.

Additionally, employ:

noclip
sv_grenade_trajectory 1
sv_grenade_trajectory_time 10

These enable aerial navigation and grenade trajectory observation. You’ll immediately identify deployment errors or refinement requirements.

Repetition represents key component. Never simply practice 10 smokes singularly. Drill identical smoke deployment 20 consecutive iterations. Introduce pressure through timer implementation—can you deploy all A execution grenades within 10 seconds?

Mastery originates from concentrated effort, never random gameplay. Allocate 20 minutes daily for utility practice and you’ll observe results within one week.

No reproduction without permission：Tsp Game Club » Vertigo Smokes and Grenade Lineups