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NUKE

Nuke is one of the most iconic and complex maps in Counter-Strike 2, offering a dynamic battlefield for both Counter-Terrorists and Terrorists. Known for its verticality, tight choke points, and strategic play, Nuke challenges players to master map control, utility usage, and team coordination. This guide will help you understand key areas, strategies, and tips.

Overview

The Nuke Map is one of the most tactically complex maps in Counter-Strike 2, requiring precise coordination, utility usage, and strong positional awareness. The map is unique in its multi-level design, featuring two distinct bombsites: A (Upper) and B (Lower). These sites are connected by a network of vertical and horizontal pathways, making rotations crucial for both attackers and defenders.

One of the defining characteristics of Nuke is its multiple levels, which force players to think beyond just lateral movement. The ability to rotate efficiently between A and B through areas like Vents, Ramp, and Secret can determine the outcome of a round. Unlike most maps, Nuke requires strong map knowledge and adaptability to navigate these levels effectively.

Another key aspect is the tight spaces spread across the map, particularly in areas such as Vent, Hut, and Squeaky. These close-quarter combat zones demand precise aim and quick reflexes, as engagements often happen in split-second windows. Defenders must hold these angles carefully, while attackers need well-timed utility to clear common hiding spots.

Controlling the Outside area is another essential part of Nuke’s gameplay. Outside and Garage are pivotal zones where long-range fights frequently occur. Gaining control of Outside allows Terrorists to access Secret, leading to B site or setting up split pushes for A site. Counter-Terrorists, on the other hand, must hold these positions effectively, often relying on AWPs, smokes, and crossfire setups to delay enemy advancements.

Due to Nuke’s vertical nature, sound awareness plays a crucial role in gathering information. Footsteps, vent drops, and ladder movements can reveal enemy positions, giving defenders a chance to react accordingly. Players who master sound discipline—both listening for enemy movement and masking their own—gain a significant advantage in clutch situations.

Overall, Nuke is a map that rewards strategic play, teamwork, and adaptability. Its unique layout, multi-level combat, and emphasis on rotations make it a standout map in CS2, challenging players to think critically and execute their plans with precision. Whether you’re an attacker or defender, understanding the intricacies of Nuke’s design and flow is essential for success.

About

Map Type: Bomb-defusal
Faction Terrorist: Phoenix Connexion, Eastern Europe
Faction Counter-Terrorist: SAS (Special Air Service), UK
Location: USA
Release Year: 1999
Map code: de_nuke

Logo

Nuke Map Callouts

T Start – The spawn area for Terrorists.
CT Start – The spawn area for Counter-Terrorists.
Outside – The large open area leading from T Start to Garage, Secret, and Mini.
Silo – A tall cylindrical structure near T Spawn, often used for boosting and peeking Outside.
Garage – A structure near Outside where CTs can hold angles to contest T control.
Mini – A small room near Outside that connects to A site.
Secret – A pathway leading underground to the B bombsite, accessed from Outside.
A Site – The upper bombsite inside the main building.
Hut – An entrance to A site from Lobby.
Hut Roof – The roof area above Hut.
Squeaky – A small door leading into A site from Lobby.
Rafters – Elevated walkways above A site.
Crane – A structure inside A site, useful for cover.
Heaven – An elevated position overlooking A site.
Hell – A lower area beneath Heaven leading to B or CT Start.
Locker Room – A room near CT Spawn that connects to Heaven.
Observation – A viewing area near A site for CTs.
B Site – The lower bombsite underground.
Decon – A door leading into B site from Secret.
Control Room – A room overlooking B site, often used for defense.
Tunnels – Pathways leading to and from B site.
Ramp – A sloped pathway leading from Lobby to B site.
Trophy – A room near Ramp where Ts can hold before pushing.
Vending – An area near Trophy used for additional cover.
Admin – A hallway near CT Spawn leading towards Ramp.
Landing – An area connecting Ramp and Trophy.

Tactical Strategies

Terrorist Side

To gain Outside control, utilize smokes to block CT vision from Garage and Mini, allowing your team to move safely. Securing Secret provides a crucial pathway to the B site, enabling a strategic attack. Additionally, having teammates lurk around Lobby and Ramp helps maintain pressure across the map, keeping defenders uncertain.

For A site executes, deploy smokes and flashes to blind CTs positioned in Heaven and Mini, limiting their visibility and response time. Use Molotovs to clear out critical positions like Hut and Vent, forcing defenders out of cover. A well-coordinated split push from Hut and Squeaky creates multiple angles of attack, overwhelming the defense.

Executing a Ramp to B take requires effective utility usage. Use flashes to blind the Ramp player and quickly secure the area. From there, pushing into Decon and Control Room provides a strong post-plant advantage, making retakes significantly harder for the Counter-Terrorists.

Counter-Terrorist Side

When defending Outside, positioning an AWPer in Garage or Secret allows for long-range picks, denying Terrorists easy map control. Utilize smokes and Molotovs to delay enemy aggression, forcing them into uncomfortable positions. Additionally, playing off teammates for crossfire setups ensures better chances of eliminating opponents before they can gain ground.

To effectively hold A site, control Squeaky with aggressive Molotovs, preventing early rushes. Positioning a player in Heaven provides critical overwatch over the site, allowing for quick rotations and better defensive angles. Meanwhile, adopting passive angles and coordinating crossfire setups between Mini and Hut players strengthens the site’s defense, making it difficult for attackers to execute successfully.

For defending B site, maintaining a player close to Ramp helps gather early information and contest enemy advances. Delaying site takes using smokes and incendiaries can significantly disrupt T-side plans, buying valuable time for rotations. Holding Control Room provides a strong retake position, giving defenders an advantageous angle to reclaim the site after a plant.

Tips

Nuke in Counter-Strike 2 is a map that rewards strategic planning, teamwork, and mechanical skill. Whether you’re attacking as Terrorists or defending as Counter-Terrorists, mastering Nuke requires practice and coordination. Use this guide to sharpen your knowledge and improve your gameplay on one of CS2’s most challenging maps.

Gallery

Terrorist Spawn view in Nuke, showing the initial perspective of the attacking team.

Rooftop area in Nuke, often used for smoke lineups and tactical positioning.

B Bombsite in Nuke from Counter-Strike 2, showcasing the reactor and control room.

CT Spawn in Nuke, the Counter-Terrorists’ starting area in Counter-Strike 2.

Garage in Nuke, an essential control point for Counter-Terrorists in CS2.

A distant view of Outside in Nuke, capturing its wide-open layout.

Another perspective of the Outside area in Nuke, showing the industrial setting.

Lobby in Nuke, a common staging area for Terrorists in Counter-Strike 2.

Outside area in Nuke, leading to Secret and Mini in Counter-Strike 2.

A Bombsite in Counter-Strike 2’s Nuke map, featuring the iconic twin silos and multiple entry points.

Conclusion

Nuke in Counter-Strike 2 is a map that rewards strategic planning, teamwork, and mechanical skill. Whether you’re attacking as Terrorists or defending as Counter-Terrorists, mastering Nuke requires practice and coordination. Use this guide to sharpen your knowledge and improve your gameplay on one of CS2’s most challenging maps.