03/11

DUST 2

Table of Contents

Introduction

Dust2 is still one of the most legendary maps in the Counter-Strike (e.g., CS1.6) series. With Counter-Strike 2, it’s had some upgrades that make it feel fresh while keeping the layout players know and love. This guide walks you through the essentials – key areas, tactics, and a few tips that can help you improve your gameplay.

Overview

Dust2 still has the same familiar structure, but with a new look. Lighting and textures have been upgraded, making the map more visually appealing and easier to read. One big change in CS2 is how smoke grenades work – they now interact with gunfire and utility, which opens up new ways to use them during fights.

The lighting has also been adjusted to make it easier to spot enemies in tricky spots. Plus, the game’s updated physics mean grenades bounce more naturally. That makes things like flashbangs and smokes more consistent, helping players plan better and react faster. Movement tweaks also affect how you peek and hold angles, so it’s worth taking some time to adjust.

About

  • Map Type: Bomb-defusal
  • Faction Terrorist: Phoenix Connexion, Eastern Europe
  • Faction Counter-Terrorist: SAS (Special Air Service), UK
  • Location: Morocco
  • Release Year: 2001
  • Map code: de_dust2

Logo

Dust2 map logo in Counter-Strike 2, featuring a crown, laurel wreaths, and intricate circular patterns.

Dust 2 Map Callouts

T Start – Where the Terrorists begin the round.

T Ramp – The ramp that leads from T Spawn toward the mid and tunnels.

Outside Tunnel – Just before you go into Upper Tunnel.

Upper Tunnel – Leads directly to the B Site.

Lower Tunnel – Connects Upper Tunnel to Mid.

Tunnel Stairs – Takes you down into Lower Tunnel.

Top of Mid – The center of the map; connects to Catwalk and Mid Doors.

Outside Long – Area in front of Long Doors.

Long Doors – Double doors that lead to Long A.

Middle – The center lane of the map.

Mid Doors – Separates Mid from the Counter-Terrorist side.

Catwalk – Elevated path heading to Short A.

Short Stairs – Stairs that go from Mid up to Short A.

Extended A – Area between Short A and the A bombsite.

CT Start – Where the Counter-Terrorists begin.

B Doors – Entrance to B from Mid.

B Hole – Back part of the B Site.

Under A – The lower level beneath the A Site.

A Ramp – Ramp that leads up to A Site.

A Site – Main bombsite at A.

Long A – Long path from Long Doors to A Site.

Pit – A deep corner at Long A, often used to hold angles.

Side – Area near Long A and Pit.

Tactical Strategies

Terrorist Side

To take control of Long A, use smokes on Long Doors and flash your way through. Once you’ve cleared it, you can push up toward A. For a Mid to B Split, you’ll want to smoke Mid Doors so you can cross safely, then hit B from both Tunnels and Mid at the same time. A Short A push means working your way up Catwalk, then using flashes and smokes to break into A.

Counter-Terrorist Side

When defending A, keep one player at Long (preferably with an AWP or rifle) and another watching Short to cover both angles. Over at B, try placing one player in B Hole and another deeper in site to create a strong crossfire. To control Mid, throw down utility to block T-side vision and slow down any Mid to B plays. Pushing aggressively now and then – like moving into Upper Tunnel or pushing Long early – can also help you grab map control and info before the enemy sets up.

Tips

Smoke grenades are key – use them to block lines of sight at places like Mid Doors, CT Spawn, and A Site. This makes it easier to rotate or take map control. Flashbangs can make or break your entry, especially when pushing Long A or trying to burst into B. Always listen – footsteps and utility sounds can give away enemy positions. And don’t forget your crosshair placement – keeping it at head height makes a huge difference in fights. Above all, talk to your team. Good communication leads to better plays and more wins.

Gallery

Conclusion

Dust2 continues to be a fan favorite in Counter-Strike 2, and knowing it well gives you a big edge. The more familiar you are with the map, the better your chances of winning. Whether you’re on offense or defense, having a strong understanding of strategies, positions, and utility will help you stay ahead of your opponents.

Want to sharpen your skills even further? Don’t stop here – check out other classic and competitive maps like Ancient, Anubis, Inferno, Italy, Mirage, Nuke, Office, Overpass, Vertigo, and Train. Each has its own twists, tactics, and secrets waiting to be mastered.