TL;DR
- Map guides provide interactive smoke tutorials exclusively on CS2’s Train remake
- Access through Practice → Competitive Mode → Train → Load Map Guide
- Four key smokes covered: Ivy, Popdog, A-cross, and connector positions
- Some tutorials require jumping throws and specific reticle alignment
- B-site coverage missing and some smokes have impractical spawn requirements
Games and Esports Articles CS 2
Valve’s innovative Map Guide system represents a significant advancement in Counter-Strike 2’s learning tools, currently exclusive to the newly remastered Train map. These interactive tutorials deliver hands-on grenade training through visual markers and step-by-step instructions, helping players master essential smoke placements without external resources. The system bridges the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical execution, making complex lineups accessible to all skill levels.
The Train map guide specifically teaches four fundamental smoke grenade techniques: Ivy smoke for blocking vision from the ivy corridor, Popdog smoke covering the popular sniper position, A-cross smoke for obscuring the A bombsite crossing, and connector smoke (commonly called Z smoke) for controlling mid-map transitions. While revolutionary, players should note the interface occasionally displays targeting inconsistencies where visual markers don’t perfectly align with described objectives.
Activating the Map Guide requires precise navigation through CS2’s menu system. Begin by launching the game and selecting the Play option from the main menu, then navigate to Practice mode rather than jumping directly into matchmaking. This dedicated training environment ensures you can practice without time pressure or competitive consequences.
- Within Practice mode, choose Competitive Mode ruleset to access the full map layout and proper spawn positions
- Select Train from the available map options – currently the only map supporting this feature
- Locate the “Load Map Guide” button positioned on the left side of the screen interface
- Confirm your selection and launch the map to enter the guided tutorial environment

Once inside the Map Guide environment, identify the circular markers adorned with smoke grenade icons scattered throughout the map. These designated practice zones trigger the tutorial sequences when you position your character within their boundaries. The system provides real-time feedback through both visual cues and text instructions.
- Position yourself precisely on the smoke-indicated circles to activate instructional prompts
- Follow the detailed guidance showing exact aiming points and throwing techniques
- Execute jump throws when specified – certain smoke lineups require this advanced technique
- Monitor the bottom left corner display showing the grenade’s intended landing position
- Adjust your aim using reticle gradations when instructed (e.g., “-1y” indicating vertical adjustment)

Understanding reticle notation is crucial for success. The “y” axis represents vertical adjustment while “x” denotes horizontal movement. These precise measurements ensure consistent smoke placement regardless of individual crosshair preferences. For players struggling with specific lineups, consider practicing the throwing motion without the grenade first to build muscle memory.
While the Map Guide provides excellent foundational training, competitive players should recognize its current limitations. The complete absence of B-site smoke tutorials creates significant tactical gaps in your defensive arsenal. Additionally, certain smoke placements like the Ivy position demand unrealistic spawn point positioning that’s impractical during actual matches.
The Ivy smoke tutorial specifically requires positioning deep within T spawn, a location that would consume precious round time if attempted mid-game. For comprehensive coverage, supplement your training with external Weapons Unlock resources that cover more practical, round-efficient smoke lineups. Advanced tactical planning often requires consulting multiple sources to develop a complete strategic approach.
When encountering targeting inconsistencies between the interface markers and described objectives, trust the textual descriptions over visual cues. Valve will likely refine these elements in future updates, but currently the written instructions provide more reliable guidance. For players seeking to master Complete Guide level proficiency, dedicated practice sessions combining Map Guide fundamentals with community-discovered lineups yield the best results.
Valve possibly teases future CS2 maps on new Train
Action Checklist
- Navigate to Practice → Competitive → Train and load Map Guide
- Practice all four basic smokes (Ivy, Popdog, A-cross, Connector)
- Master jump-throw techniques for required lineups
- Supplement training with external B-site smoke tutorials
No reproduction without permission:SeeYouSoon Game Club » How to use Map Guide on CS2 Train remake? How to activate grenade smoke guide on Train in CS2 Master CS2 Train map guides with step-by-step smoke tutorials and advanced tactical insights
