Molotovs are one of the most useful grenades in CS2. Whether you’re defending a bombsite or trying to push a stubborn CT out of cover, understanding how this utility works is essential. This article explains the mechanics, damage system, and best uses of Molotovs in CS2.
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Understanding CS2 Molotovs
Molotovs aren’t just about throwing fire, they follow specific mechanics that can give you an edge if used correctly. Below are the core concepts to understand before using them effectively:
- How Molotovs spread and how long they last
- The damage they deal and how it scales
- How bounces, surfaces, and timing affect their explosion
- Cost differences between T-side and CT-side fire grenades
- Most effective ways to use them in a match
Let’s break down each part in detail.
Expert Take
“Molotovs are one of the most versatile utilities in CS2, but they require proper understanding to get real value from them. You can’t just throw them randomly- learn the bounce mechanics, explosion timing, and how to combine them with other utility. Especially in post-plant or retake scenarios, knowing when and where to use a Molotov can win or save rounds.” – Pawel ‘Biegan’ Bieganowski
CS2 Molotov Mechanics
Molotovs break on impact and cover the ground in fire, dealing damage to anyone standing in the flames. They’re great for holding areas, delaying pushes, or pushing enemies out of cover. Key mechanics include:
Spread and Duration: The flames last approximately 7 seconds for both, Molotovs and Incendiary Grenades. However, since the Fire Sale, Molotovs cover a slightly larger area compared to Incendiary Grenades.
Damage: The fire deals escalating damage, with a certain number of damage points per second. The damage starts at 1 point per hit or second and then increases to 8 points per hit, eventually reaching the limit of 40 damage points per second with full armor penetration.
Bounce and Explosion Timing: If the Molotov hits a walkable surface angled 30° or less, it breaks instantly. If not, it explodes in 2 seconds unless it’s within 128 units of a valid surface.
Price: T-side Molotov = $400. CT-side Incendiary = $500. Despite the price difference, both grenades have the same mechanics.
Uses of CS2 Molotovs
Molotovs serve multiple tactical purposes across every match. Some of the most common uses include:
1. Area Denial: Drop them in choke points or narrow entryways to stop or delay enemy pushes.
2. Flushing Out Enemies: Force opponents out of corners, boxes, and other cover by throwing a Molotov into their position.
3. Retake and Post-Plant: Use Molotovs to stop defuses or deny site control during a retake, especially when time is low.
Want to learn powerful Molotov throws that work on each map? Check out our full guide: Best CS2 Molotovs.
[RELEVANT: CS2 Smokes Guide]
Summary
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Function | Molotovs spread fire to control areas, block enemy pushes, or flush out opponents. |
| Fire Duration & Spread | Flames last about 7 seconds, covering a larger area than Incendiary Grenades. |
| Damage | Damage escalates from 1 to 8 points per hit, maxing at 40 per second with full armor penetration. |
| Bounce & Explosion | Breaks on walkable surfaces ≤30° angle or explodes after 2 seconds if no surface hit; can bounce off objects. |
| Price | Molotov costs $400 for Terrorists; Incendiary Grenade costs $500 for CTs; mechanics are identical. |
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Conclusion
Knowing how Molotov works can make a difference when using them in competitive situations. You can always practice with timing and throwing angles in custom matches to perfect your mechanics.
