Our latest CS:GO guide highlights some simple tips to help you play better on Mirage.
There are a couple of popular maps in CS:GO, and Mirage among them. Although this map might not be as hot as Dust 2, it’s one of the go-to options for pro teams, as well as those who play for fun. Speaking of Dust 2, you can read our handy guide for some tips on how to make the most out of that map.
When it comes down to Mirage, it’s important to remember that this map is really important in the Counter-Strike franchise. It’s been around for many years, even though it wasn’t as popular in CS 1.6. However, the map was improved once CS:GO became available; and quickly became one of the preferred options among players. So, let’s go over some of the tips and tricks you should be aware of.
How to play as a Terrorist
Although some people think otherwise, Mirage is a map in favor of Counter Terrorists (CTs); especially if they know what they’re doing. We’ll point out some of the things you have to know when playing as CT later, this first section is devoted to the Terrorists (T).
One important thing that you have to keep in mind while playing on the T side is that you need to control mid. Many pro teams don’t pay much attention to mid because they focus more on B — but having control of mid will make a huge difference. Besides allowing you to pick off those players who rotate to B, you can also ensure that someone won’t rush you. This doesn’t seem like a big deal, but it can have a massive impact on your success. The fact that you have control of mid means CTs have to go back to their base at the B site, which takes more time. One of the things you can do to take control of mid is to use your utility items. Things such as smokes, flashes, and molotovs can make a huge difference if you use them correctly.
Position yourself in a way that will prevent the CTs using their advantage
After pointing out that it’s important to have control over mid, the next thing we’d like to share is related to your positioning. Inexperienced CS:GO players might think that you always need to rush if you’re playing as a Terrorist. Although there are scenarios where this tactic might work, Mirage is one of the maps where this rarely happens.
In order to win the round, your team has to go to different positions. For example, one person should go to the A site to prevent someone from the CTs from rushing and catching the Ts off guard. It’s advisable for another person to stay near the apartment and move to the underpass at some point if the team decides to go to the A-site.
Of course, let’s also not forget the AWPer from the T side. He can either go to A site or stay mid. The latter is most people’s preferred position because it allows them to pick off at least one or two CTs once they move.
Although some teams prefer to focus on A, others emphasize B because they believe it’s easier. Needless to say, this isn’t the case, there are all sorts of things that can go wrong. Since CTs will position themselves in a way that will allow them to kill you in seconds, you need to play smart. One of the things you can do is to use as many flashes as possible. Throw them where you think they work best, and try to catch your opponents while they are flashed. This will allow you to take the lead and gain control of the bomb.
How to play as a CT?
When it comes to playing as a CT, there are different kinds of setups you can follow, depending on whether you’re playing alone or with your friends. The classic option is 2-1-2 (which works for loads of other maps, including Dust 2), but there are loads of additional options to choose from.
Regardless of your setup, Mirage is one of the maps where you have to be active as CT if you want to succeed. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should rush your opponents, but staying in one place and allowing the Ts to have full map control is never a good idea. They can easily rush either bombsite — and win the round with little to no effort.
When it comes down to defending the two bombs, there are different tactics that you can decide to take advantage of. The first one focuses on playing aggressively, whereas the second one will allow you to have enough time to react and hide if things go wrong. For example, there are rounds where you might have to dive in the palace, but there are cases where you can simply stay on the A site near the triple box.
Speaking of the A site, it is advisable to learn how to play near the connector. This is one of the important positions on Mirage because you can be defensive or aggressive, depending on the situation.
The B bombsite
Usually, people consider the B bombsite to be easier to defend than A, at least when it comes down to Mirage. However, if you don’t position yourself properly, your opponents will easily rush and kill you in a matter of seconds.
Most people try to play defensively and stay near the site where they can hide. This has its perks, but those who play aggressively and rush apartments usually achieve better results. Of course, every CS:GO match is different, so try to learn how your opponents work together before deciding which tactics to choose.
It’s worth mentioning CS:GO is one of the games where you have to play a lot in order to get better. Even if you learn all the tips and tricks, it will take time until you start implementing them in every match.