In the latest major update, Valve added the first community maps to CS2. While many players hoped for a new operation, the addition of these maps provides exciting new content in a game that rarely receives major updates. The CS2 competitive map pool now includes Thera and Mills. This article will focus on Thera, a creation by FMPONE, and provide you with all the essential information, including important grenade throws.
Thera, which previously appeared in CS:GO as Santorini during Operation Wildfire in 2016, has been remade for CS2. The map was well-received in its earlier version, and its return was eagerly anticipated. Thera, created by FMPONE, has the potential to become a mainstay in the competitive map pool, possibly replacing older maps like Mirage or Vertigo. With FMPONE's success with Cache, Thera is well-positioned to be featured in major tournaments.
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Callouts on Thera
Understanding the callouts on Thera is essential for effective team communication and strategy execution. Here are the key callouts on Thera:
- CT Spawn: The starting point for the Counter-Terrorists.
- Truck: A significant landmark near the middle of the map.
- Mid: The central area of the map, crucial for map control.
- Long: A long corridor that provides access to key areas.
- Short: A shorter pathway often used for quick rotations.
- A Site: One of the bomb sites, located near several key callouts like ramp and door.
- B Site: The other bomb site, with callouts like heaven and stairs.
- Heaven: A high vantage point near B site.
- Connector: A passage that connects various parts of the map.
- Piano Room: A room with a piano, used for strategic positioning.
- Window Corner: A spot near mid with a window providing sightlines.
- Tower: A structure near B site providing elevation.
Refer to the uploaded callouts map for a visual representation of these locations.
Important Grenade Throws
Knowing essential grenade throws can make a significant difference in controlling the map and winning rounds. Here are some critical grenade throws for both the CT and T sides on Thera:
CT Side
- Mid Smoke:
- Position yourself at the edge of the wall next to the pharmacy sign.
- Aim at the blue roof of the building between two spikes.
- Perform a jump throw to block the terrorists' passage to mid.
- A Site Exit Smoke:
- Stand against the wall opposite the pharmacy.
- Aim at the upper left corner of the window.
- Jump throw to close one of the terrorists’ exits to A site.
- Underground Incendiary:
- Stand on the steps on the bridge at A site.
- Aim at the window of one of the houses.
- Make a short run and release the grenade at the top of the stairs to block the underground passage.
T Side
- B Site Stairs Smoke:
- Stand against the wall opposite the graffiti at B site.
- Aim at the center of the lips of one of the creatures.
- Jump throw to smoke the stairs.
- B Site Victory Smoke:
- Stand at the same spot as the stairs smoke.
- Aim at the letter 'Y' in the word 'Victory'.
- Perform a jump throw holding both mouse buttons.
- Mid Window Smoke:
- Stand at the left edge of the railing in mid.
- Aim at the roof of the building and raise the sight slightly higher.
- Step forward and release the grenade while jumping.
- A Site Connector Smoke:
- Stand at the same spot as the mid window smoke.
- Aim at the lower edge of the top of the roof.
- Release the grenade while jumping.
By mastering these grenade throws, you can gain a strategic advantage on Thera, controlling key areas and outmaneuvering your opponents. Practicing these throws in regular matchmaking will prepare you for potential inclusion in the official map pool or the next operation.
Understanding and employing effective tactics is crucial to gaining the upper hand on Thera. Here are some commonly used strategies for both the CT and T sides:
CT Side
Aggressive Mid Control:
- Utilize early smokes and flashes to gain control of mid.
- Position one or two players aggressively in mid to disrupt T advances and gather intel.
- Use a combination of utility to delay or prevent T pushes through mid.
A Site Defense:
- Use the incendiary grenade in the underground passage to deter fast A rushes.
- Position one player at A site with another rotating from mid or B site as needed.
- Utilize the A site exit smoke to block T sightlines and limit their options.
B Site Hold:
- Use the heaven position to cover the main entrance to B site.
- Employ smokes and incendiary grenades to block T entry points and force them into unfavorable engagements.
- Rotate players between B stairs and over site to maintain control and flexibility.
T Side
Mid Control and Split Push:
- Secure mid control with smokes and flashes to isolate CT defenders.
- Split your team to push A or B from multiple angles, creating pressure on CT rotations.
- Use the mid window smoke to block CT sightlines and enable safer passage.
Fast B Execution:
- Use smokes to block the B doors and stairs, isolating CT defenders on site.
- Employ flashbangs and molotovs to clear key positions and force CTs out of hiding.
- Push as a unit to overwhelm B site defenders quickly.
A Site Pressure:
- Use connector and zigzag smokes to limit CT vision and mobility.
- Apply constant pressure on A site with utility and coordinated pushes.
- Use the piano room window smoke to block CT rotations and create safe planting opportunities.
Important Timings
Mastering the timings on Thera is essential to executing strategies effectively and gaining the upper hand in engagements. Here are some key timings to keep in mind:
CT Side
Early Mid Smoke:
- Throw the mid smoke immediately after spawning to block T vision and control mid.
- This smoke buys valuable time for your team to position and gather information.
A Site Incendiary:
- Use the incendiary grenade in the underground passage as soon as you hear or suspect a fast A push.
- This delays the T advance and forces them to reconsider their approach or take damage.
Rotations:
- Be prepared to rotate quickly between A and B sites based on the information gathered from mid and early engagements.
- Efficient rotations can prevent site overruns and allow for effective retakes.
T Side
Early Mid Control:
- Use smokes and flashes to gain mid control within the first 10-15 seconds of the round.
- Establishing mid control early provides flexibility for split pushes and site takes.
B Site Execute:
- Begin executing your B site strategy around the 1:20 mark to ensure you have enough time to clear the site and plant the bomb.
- Coordinate utility usage to avoid delays and maximize effectiveness.
A Site Pressure:
- Apply pressure on A site within the first minute of the round to keep CTs on their toes.
- Use smokes and flashes to force CTs out of key positions and create planting opportunities.
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Conclusion
Thera is an exciting addition to the CS2 competitive map pool, offering a fresh and dynamic environment for players to master. Understanding the callouts, perfecting grenade throws, employing effective tactics, and mastering important timings are crucial for success on this map. Whether you are playing in regular matchmaking or preparing for its potential inclusion in the official map pool, practicing these strategies will give you a significant advantage. Embrace the challenge of Thera, and elevate your gameplay to new heights.
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