Multiplayer Maps: General Strategies — Call of Duty: Black Ops II Guide

Multiplayer Maps: General Strategies

Mastering the diverse environments of Black Ops II multiplayer is crucial for consistent victory. While each map presents unique challenges and opportunities, several overarching strategies apply across the board. This section will equip you with the knowledge to dominate any battlefield, focusing on map awareness, objective play, and effective use of your loadout.

Understanding Map Flow and Hot Zones

Every map in Black Ops II has a distinct flow, often dictated by its layout and the placement of key objectives. Identifying these patterns and anticipating enemy movement is paramount.

• Chokepoints: These are narrow areas or doorways that funnel players into close quarters. Examples include the central corridor on Express or the main building entrances on Raid.
  • Strategy: Utilize equipment like Concussion Grenades or Shock Charges to disorient enemies before pushing. Pre-aiming with an SMG like the MSMC or a Shotgun like the Remington 870 MCS can secure easy kills.
  • Counter-Strategy: Avoid rushing chokepoints blindly. Use alternative routes or suppressive fire to break through.
• Flanking Routes: Most maps offer alternative paths around the main engagements. These are invaluable for catching enemies off guard.
  • Strategy: On Raid, the exterior paths around the mansion allow for effective flanking into the pool area or main courtyard. Use a silenced weapon (e.g., PDW-57 with Suppressor) and perks like Dead Silence to remain undetected.
  • Counter-Strategy: Be aware of your flanks. Periodically check corners and use tactical equipment like Claymores or Bouncing Betties to cover your rear.
• Power Positions: These are elevated or strategically advantageous locations that offer good sightlines and cover.
  • Strategy: On Express, the upper platforms overlooking the train tracks provide excellent vantage points for controlling the central objective. Equip a long-range weapon like the AN-94 or a Sniper Rifle (e.g., DSR 50) and perks like Toughness to maintain accuracy under fire.
  • Counter-Strategy: Use smoke grenades (Smoke Grenade) to obscure vision when pushing power positions, or flank them from unexpected angles.

Objective Play: More Than Just Kills

While kills are satisfying, securing objectives is how you win in game modes like Domination, Hardpoint, and Capture the Flag. Prioritize objective play over killstreaks when the situation demands it.

• Domination:
  • Strategy: Focus on capturing and defending flags. On maps like Raid, controlling the B flag (often in the central courtyard) is critical. Use perks like Lightweight and Extreme Conditioning to quickly reach objectives.
  • Loadout Recommendation: A balanced assault rifle (e.g., M8A1) with a secondary like the B23R for close-quarters defense. Equip Trophy Systems to protect captured flags from enemy grenades.
• Hardpoint:
  • Strategy: The Hardpoint constantly shifts. Anticipate its next location and rotate early. On Express, knowing the Hardpoint rotation through the train station and ticketing area is key.
  • Loadout Recommendation: SMGs (e.g., MP7) excel in the close-quarters engagements around the Hardpoint. Consider Flak Jacket to survive enemy explosives.
• Search & Destroy:
  • Strategy: Communication is vital. Coordinate pushes and defenses. On maps like Standoff, knowing common plant sites and defuse routes is essential.
  • Loadout Recommendation: Stealth is paramount. Use Suppressors on your primary weapon, Dead Silence, and Awareness to hear enemy footsteps.

Effective Use of Scorestreaks and Equipment

Your chosen Scorestreaks and equipment can turn the tide of a match. Deploy them strategically for maximum impact.

• Scorestreaks:
  • UAV/Counter-UAV: These are low-cost, high-impact streaks. Deploy them consistently to provide intel or deny enemy intel.
  • Lightning Strike/Hellstorm Missile: Ideal for clearing objectives or eliminating clusters of enemies. On Raid, a well-placed Lightning Strike can clear the pool area or the central courtyard.
  • VSAT/EMP: Game-changing streaks that provide unparalleled map awareness or cripple enemy electronics. Save these for crucial moments, such as pushing a heavily defended objective.
• Tactical Equipment:
  • Concussion Grenades/Flashbangs: Essential for disorienting enemies before entering rooms or pushing chokepoints.
  • Shock Charges: Excellent for area denial, covering flanks, or revealing enemy positions. Place them strategically in doorways or around objectives.
  • Smoke Grenades: Use to obscure vision, cross open areas safely, or provide cover for revives in objective modes.
• Lethal Equipment:
  • Frag Grenades/Semtex: Versatile for flushing out enemies from cover or dealing damage in tight spaces.
  • Claymores/Bouncing Betties: Perfect for covering your rear, protecting objectives, or setting traps in high-traffic areas. Place them just around corners or behind doorways for maximum effect.