Go BackHow to practice smokes in CS2: Tips, Commands, Best strategies
By Gabriele Asaro
11 min read
Updated on

How to practice smokes in CS2: Tips, Commands, Best strategies

To smoke effectively in CS2, set up a custom server, use console commands, learn lineups, and dedicate time to repetition.

But that's not all.

I've been playing Counter-Strike for over 10 years and have spent hours perfecting my smoke lineups.

In this article, I'll share the best ways, tips, and commands to smoke in CS2.

Follow these, and you'll understand smoke mechanics and improve your game, which will make all the difference in your matches.

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The best strategy to practice smokes in CS2

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Smoking in Counter-Strike 2 is key to being tactical.

As a CS:GO and CS2 player, I know how good well-timed smokes can be in blocking enemy vision and allowing your team to make plays.

Follow these, and you'll be a smoke master. Grab your grenades, and let's get into CS2 smoke practice!

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1. Setup a custom practice server

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First you need to setup a custom practice server. Follow this step-by-step guide:

  1. Launch CS2 and click on "Play CS2" at the top of the screen
  2. Click on "Workshop Maps" in the dropdown menu
  3. Choose a map you want to practice on and click on "Start Local Server"
  4. Open the console and enter the following commands:
    • mp_maxmoney 60000 (gives you enough money to buy smokes)
    • mp_startmoney 60000
    • mp_roundtime_defuse 60 (extends the round time to 60 minutes)
    • mp_warmup_end (ends the warmup period)
    • mp_restartgame 1 (restarts the game with new settings)
    • sv_cheats 1 (enables cheats)
    • sv_infinite_ammo 1 (gives you infinite ammo)
    • sv_grenade_trajectory 1 (shows grenade trajectories)
    • sv_showimpacts 1 (shows bullet impacts)

To quickly clear bad smokes, set up a bind key by entering the following command in the console:

  • bind KEY "sv_grenade_trajectory 0; sv_grenade_trajectory 1" (replace KEY with your desired key)

Save these commands in a practice config file for easy access next time.

I find that having a private server with these settings helps me focus on practicing smokes without worrying about money, warmup time, or short rounds.

The infinite warmup and extended buytime are especially useful.

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2. Use useful console commands for practicing

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Next, you should know some useful console commands for practicing:

  1. Press the tilde key (~) to open the console.
  2. Enter sv_cheats 1 to enable cheats.
  3. Type noclip to fly around the map freely.
  4. Use bot_kick to remove bots from the server.
  5. Enable infinite ammo with sv_infinite_ammo 1.
  6. Visualize smoke and grenade impacts using sv_showimpacts 1.
  7. If needed, use stopsound to mute game sounds for better focus.
  8. Set a longer round time with mp_roundtime_defuse 60 (for 60 minutes).

These commands create a distraction-free environment, allowing you to practice nades effectively.

Noclip helps you reach tricky spots, while infinite ammo ensures uninterrupted training.

Seeing grenade impacts with sv_showimpacts 1 provides visual feedback to refine your throws.

Lastly, extending the round time lets you perfect your smokes without rushing.

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3. Learn smoke lineups

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Learning smoke lineups is crucial for mastering smokes in CS2.

I've found that the best way to do this is by using online resources like YouTube tutorials from creators like NartOutHere and CS2 community guides.

You can also use our CS2 and CS:GO nades tool to learn lineups quickly and easily.

This tool covers essential smoke placements for popular maps such as Dust 2, Inferno, Mirage, Nuke, Ancient, Anubis, and Overpass.

Once you've learned some lineups, practice throwing them into your custom server.

I like to use the sv_grenade_trajectory 1 command to see if my smoke lands where it should. It's satisfying to nail a lineup and watch the smoke bloom in the perfect spot.

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4. Start practicing

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Set aside dedicated time each day to practice different smoke lineups.

Consistency is key when learning how to practice smokes effectively.

  • Incorporate the use of smokes into your actual gameplay. Jump into matches and deploy those smoky grenades you've been perfecting.
  • Keep a mental note (or jot it down) of which CS2 practice smokes you find most useful. Focus on using those lineups more frequently.
  • Watch a full video demonstrating various in-game smoke strategies. Seeing the process in action can cement the concepts.

Remember, consistent, focused practice coupled with practical application is the key to mastering smokes.

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List of all commands for practicing smokes in CS2

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Here is a list of all commands for practicing smokes:

  • sv_cheats 1: This turns on cheats, allowing all other commands to work.
  • bot_kick: Removes all bots from the server so you can practice alone.
  • mp_warmup_end: Ends the warmup period, letting you start the round immediately.
  • mp_freezetime 0: Sets the freeze time to zero, so you can move as soon as the round starts.
  • mp_roundtime 60: Sets the round time to one hour, giving you plenty of time to practice.
  • mp_maxmoney 60000: Allows you to have $60,000 in-game, so you can buy everything you need.
  • mp_startmoney 60000: Gives you $60,000 right from the first round.
  • sv_infinite_ammo 1: Enables infinite ammo for all weapons, including grenades.
  • sv_showimpacts 1: Shows bullet impacts, helping you see where your shots land.
  • sv_showimpacts_time 10: Extends the visibility of bullet impacts to 10 seconds.
  • sv_grenade_trajectory_prac_pipreview 1: Shows where your grenade will land, making it easier to practice smokes.
  • ammo_grenade_limit_total 5: Allows you to carry all five grenades instead of just four.
  • mp_restartgame 1: Restarts the game, letting you start fresh whenever needed.

Two other useful commands are grenade_trajectory, which shows the path of your last thrown grenade, and last_grenade, which lets you rethrow your previous grenade.

Practice with these commands, and you'll be throwing perfect smokes quickly!

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6 useful tips for practicing smokes in CS2

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Smoke grenades are a powerful tool in CS2, providing strategic advantages and opportunities for creative gameplay.

I'll give you 6 useful tips for practicing smokes.

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1. Understand map layout

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First tip, you must understand map layout:

  • Spend time exploring each map in CS2. Create an offline server with a high fps limit and just run around. Pay close attention to the paths, corners, and sneaky spots where enemies could hide.
  • Use online resources and community guides. Some great YouTube videos and Steam guides detail each map's layout.
  • Focus on learning the potential choke points. These areas where smokes can be super effective at blocking enemy vision and giving your team an advantage.
  • Pay extra attention to common spots where the CT side likes to hold on each map. Knowing these positions will help you plan your t-side smokes better.

The better you know the ins and outs of each map, the more effective your smokes will be. Take the time to internalize the layout - it's worth it!

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2. Understand CS2 physics

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To throw a good nade, you must understand CS2 physics:

  • Use the grenade camera to see where your smoke lands. This helps you adjust your crosshair placement for more accurate throws.
  • Pay attention to how smokes bounce off different surfaces. Nades react differently when hitting walls, floors, and objects.
  • Experiment with different angles and positions. Slight adjustments to your crosshair can make a big difference in where your smoke lands.
  • Don't be afraid to use unconventional throws. Sometimes, bouncing a smoke off multiple surfaces can help you hit tricky spots.
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3. Experiment in live games

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Practice your smokes in live and online games:

  • Play casual games first to get comfortable using smokes in various scenarios.
  • As you gain confidence, transition to competitive matches for a greater challenge.
  • Observe how experienced players use smokes and learn from their strategies.
  • Don't be afraid to try new smoke placements and timings; experimenting is key.
  • Pay attention to how smokes impact the game's flow and adjust accordingly.

I've found that playing live games is the best way to truly understand the nuances of using smokes effectively.

While practicing in a controlled environment is important for learning lineups and timings, nothing beats the experience of using smokes in a real match.

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4. Watch pro players using smokes

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Have you ever considered watching some professional players to learn smokes?

  • Observe how pros select smoke locations based on the situation.
  • Notice the timing of when they throw smokes during rounds.
  • Look for videos where pro players break down their smoke tactics.
  • Try to understand why certain smokes are thrown in specific spots.

I've learned so much by studying smokes used in pro matches. Seeing them used in a high-stakes competition provides valuable insights you can't get elsewhere.

Many pros also share smoke tutorials on Twitch streams or YouTube.

Dedicating time to watching and learning from the best will level up your smoke game. Just remember, it takes practice to master the techniques yourself.

Pros make it look easy, but executing effective smokes requires precise timing and coordination with your team.

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5. Learn timing when throwing smokes

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In an FPS game like CS2, timing is key. You need to know when to throw a smoke and how long the smoke lasts.

  1. Start by throwing smokes in an empty server.
  2. Use a timer to see how long the smoke lasts.
  3. Throw a flashbang right after the smoke to get the timing down.
  4. Once you've got the timing, add bots to simulate a real match.
  5. Keep practicing until the timing becomes second nature.

The key is to throw the smoke so it pops just before you need it. Too early, and it fades; too late, and you lose the advantage.

And always follow up with a well-timed flashbang to maximize the effect.

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6. Communicate with your team

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Don't forget to communicate with your team efficiently:

  • Use voice chat or text chat to let your team know when and where you're throwing smokes. I find voice chat more effective for fast-paced communication.
  • Be specific about the location and timing of your smokes. For example, instead of just saying "Smoking mid", say something like "Smoking middle doors in 3, 2, 1".
  • Make sure to throw your smokes at the communicated time so your team can coordinate and take advantage of them. There's nothing worse than telling your team you're smoking an area and then not delivering.
  • If you spot enemies through your smoke, quickly relay their position to your team. Those few seconds of intel can make the difference between winning and losing the round.
  • Don't spam too many comms about your smokes. Communicate them clearly and concisely so you don't clutter comms and still have space to make other important callouts.
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How to throw smokes in CS2

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If you still don't know how to throw nades and smokes, let me clear it out for you:

  1. Select the smoke grenade and make sure it's in your inventory. You can purchase one at the start of each round.
  2. Choose the throw type:
    • Left-click throw: Press the Left Mouse Button (LMB) while stationary.
    • Right-click throw: Press the Right Mouse Button (RMB) to throw the grenade before you.
    • Two-button throw: Press both mouse buttons, then release to throw the grenade.
  3. Aim your crosshair at the specific point where you want the smoke to land. The exact point varies depending on the smoke you're throwing and the map you're playing on. Use the grenade camera for more precise aiming.
  4. Throw the smoke. After aiming, use one of the above methods to throw the smoke. Timing is crucial, especially when throwing smokes for your t-side teammates.
  5. Practice. Mastering smoke throws requires practice. Try different maps and situations, and consider combining smokes with flashbangs for maximum effect.
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Why should you practice smokes?

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Practicing smokes is key to improving your CS2 gameplay. A well-placed smoke in the site can give you a huge advantage by blocking enemy vision so you can move or plant the bomb in the site.

Also, coordinating smokes with other utilities like flashbangs will help your team execute strategies better.

The more you practice, the better you will get at throwing smokes – a game-changer in clutch moments.

Also, smokes allow you to control key areas of the map, deny enemy access, or force bad routes.

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How much is a smoke in CS2?

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In CS2, a smoke grenade costs $300. It's a crucial utility item for executing strategic plays and obscuring enemy vision.

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Can you practice smokes with your friends?

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Yes, you can practice smokes with your friends in CS2. Practicing smokes together is a great way to improve teamwork and communicate with your team.

When practicing with friends, take turns throwing smokes and give each other feedback on placement and timing.

You can also use this time to discuss strategies and how to use smokes in different situations.

Communication is key in competitive play, so make the most of your practice sessions with friends.

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How to practice smokes with your friends

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Here is how to practice smokes with your friends using Hamachi:

  1. Enable the console in your game settings.
  2. Choose a dedicated host who will start a practice map. I suggest picking a map for which you want to work on smokes.
  3. Download and install Hamachi, a virtual private network that allows you to create a room for you and your friends. This way, you can easily connect to each other's servers.
  4. The host must copy their IPv4 address from Hamachi and share it with the group. Make sure everyone has the correct address.
  5. Your friends can then connect to the server by opening the console in CS2 and typing "connect < host's IPv4 address>". Make sure to replace "< host's IPv4 address>" with the address shared by the host.

Alternatively, you can set up a dedicated server:

  • Locate the cs2.exe file, which should be in the following default path: "\steamapps\common\Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\bin\win64\cs2.exe".
  • You can create a shortcut by right-clicking the cs2.exe file, selecting "send to", and then choosing "desktop."
  • Edit the shortcut properties by right-clicking the newly created desktop shortcut, clicking "properties", and then navigating to the "shortcut" tab. In the "Target" field, add the necessary commands after "...cs2.exe".
  • Launch CS2 through your Steam library.
  • Start the dedicated console using the desktop shortcut you just created.
Gabriele AsaroAbout the author

Gabriele Asaro
Gabriele Asaro

I'm the Head of Research at Clash.gg. With over 7 years of experience in the Counter-Strike niche, I have developed extensive knowledge of the game, its strategies, and the competitive scene. My insights are based on years of in-depth analysis and close involvement with the Counter-Strike community.