In the intensive and tactical world of Counter-Strike, every object in your inventory is equally important. Flashbangs, smoke grenades, and frag grenades are often given priority but the decoy grenade is one of the most underrated gadgets. When used properly, these can be a game-changer since they provide an unexpected edge. Specifically, they can disrupt enemy plans or create opportunities for a team. In order to have an in-depth knowledge of decoy grenades, we will discuss their true potential. In addition, we will suggest strategies on how you can incorporate them into your gameplay.
Why Understanding and Using the Decoy is Important?
At first sight, purchasing a decoy grenade may appear wasteful. The basic purpose of this tool is to mimic gunshots. More specifically, they replicate the sound made by the weapon in hand when thrown. For instance, if you’re holding an AWP, they will mimic the firing sounds of an AWP. This simple trick during a fight has great advantages in terms of strategy outcomes on battlefields. The decoy grenade is only $50 making it the most affordable device among all others. Moreover, it has the potential to be one of the most powerful grenades if used wisely.
One of the crucial elements in using a decoy grenade is psychological warfare. As much as reflexes and aim are key elements, Counter-Strike is also played within one’s mind. A decoy grenade gives players the power to make enemies see where they are not. Furthermore, it removes the ability of them to imagine what happens next in the game. This confusion is the psychological warfare that turns the tides in your favor.
Decoy grenades are especially useful in controlling and influencing the map. In particular, the maps with more than one bomb site and certain crucial points are perfect for decoys. For instance, if you place a decoy, then the enemies will be distracted to the location where the decoy is, creating an opportunity for your team. Here are a few scenarios where decoy grenades truly shine:
Fake Rush: On maps like Dust II or Mirage, where spawn points are relatively near to bomb sites; throwing a decoy grenade towards a bomb site can create the illusion of a rush. This may cause the enemy to move players toward that site which allows your team to take advantage of a weaker defense on another site.
Checking Corners: For post-plant situations or when trying to take control of a bomb site, you can use decoy grenades to clear corners. These enemies might give themselves away by reacting audibly hence allowing your teammates crucial information.
Position Holding: In defending a bomb site, tossing out a decoy grenade will give the impression of more defenders than actually there. This can discourage the opponent from advancing and enable your side to rotate or get support on time.
Synergizing with other grenades: You can use decoy grenades alongside other types to create useful combinations. For example, you can pair a smoke grenade with a decoy by throwing both together at an enclosed space or site. This creates the illusion of an ongoing fight or pressure causing your enemies to stay back. Consequently, this gives you more time to take control of the map. Similarly, you can use a decoy with a well-timed flashbang. By drawing attention with a decoy, a flashbang at the right moment can leave your enemies blinded and at your mercy.
How to Master Decoy Grenades?
Now that you have a basic understanding of how decoy grenades work, it’s time to master them and leave your enemies in ashes. To master them, you need to follow a few guidelines to maximize their efficiency.
Firstly, you need to familiarize yourself with the range and speed of decoys. To do this, aim your crosshair and position anywhere to throw them. After a few tries, you’ll understand how far they go, the speed they go at, and how much they bounce before activating. Consider the enemy’s likely positions and movements, and throw the decoy in a way that will disrupt their plans.
Since decoys mimic the sound of the weapon you are holding, think carefully about which weapon will leave a bigger impact. For example, certain situations will require an AR while others may require an AWP. Lastly, coordinate with your team when using decoy grenades. This way, your team can capitalize on the confusion created by the decoy.
How Do Pros Use Decoys to Win Games?
You can learn a lot of skills and techniques from professional and veteran players of CS2 to win games. One of these skills is how they use decoys in innovative ways to completely baffle their enemies.
One such technique is the double fake. In high-stakes matches, a double fake can be incredibly effective. This involves throwing a decoy grenade to simulate a push and then executing a real push on a different site. The initial decoy draws enemy rotations, and the second push takes advantage of the scattered defense.
Another interesting one is the bait and switch. In clutch situations, a decoy grenade can be used to bait an enemy out of hiding. Throw the decoy in one direction, then quickly change your position. The enemy might reveal themselves by reacting to the sound, giving you the upper hand.
A simple yet underrated one is the post-plant deception. After planting the bomb, using a decoy grenade can create the illusion that a teammate is holding a particular angle. This can mislead the enemy and buy precious time for the bomb to detonate.
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Conclusion
The decoy grenade is a very versatile utility in CS2 and is usually not given much attention by players. It can influence the enemy’s perception and aid in getting control over the map. Additionally, it helps in getting better positioning over the enemy, making it a useful tool for any player. Finally, in CS2, deceiving the enemy and playing with their heads is as effective as good aim and reflexes. So, the next time you’re in the buy menu and ignore the decoy grenade, think again if you don’t want to lose the game.
