CS2 Mirage: The Essential Smokes Guide (2025)
Mirage is the most played map in Counter-Strike history. Knowing the basic utility is no longer optional; it is a requirement to leave Silver. In CS2, the new volumetric smokes expand to fill spaces, meaning your lineups need to be precise to avoid leaving gaps.
This guide covers the three critical areas: Taking Mid control, Executing A Site, and Rushing B.
1. The Instant Window Smoke (T-Spawn)
This is the most important smoke in the game. It allows your team to take Mid control without getting picked by an AWP in Window.
- Position: Stand next to the trash can in T-Spawn (hold D against it).
- Aim: Look at the rug hanging on the balcony. Aim at the bottom-right corner of the cream-colored railing.
- Action: Hold 'D' (move right) for a split second and Jump-Throw simultaneously.
Note: There are different lineups for different spawn positions. I recommend downloading a "Practice Config" to test the spawn-based variations.
A-Site Executive Lineups
Stairs Smoke
Position: Stand on the first step of the platform outside A-Palace.
Aim: Find the gap between the Tetris boxes and the wood scaffolding.
Aim in the center of the sky above it.
Action: Simple Left-Click Throw.
Result: Lands perfectly on top of stairs, blocking vision from
Connector and Jungle.
Jungle/Connector Smoke
Position: Same platform, but stand in the middle of the third
pillar.
Aim: Look at the inverted trapezoid in the sky made by the building
architecture.
Action: Left-Click Throw.
Result: Blocks the Jungle cross and Connector vision. Combine with
Stairs smoke for a full wall.
CT Spawn Smoke
Position: Outside A-Ramp, hug the wall near the door.
Aim: Top of the antenna sticking out of the building.
Action: Jump-Throw.
Result: Blocks CT rotation. Essential for planting safe.
2. B-Site Execution: The "Market" Window
Rushing B often fails because of the AWPer in Market (Kitchen) window. This smoke neutralizes them.
Position: B-Apps (Apartments), back corner near the TV.
Aim: Top left corner of the blue tower visible through the window.
Action: Jump-Throw while running forward one step.
Result: The smoke flies through the window and lands inside Market,
blocking the window view completely.