Mirage Callouts in CS2: What Every Map Location Name Means

Mirage callouts in CS2 are the specific terms teammates use to refer to different sections of the Mirage map. These terms act like a shared language that allows for faster communication during intense battles. Instead of saying “there’s an enemy hiding behind those stacked boxes near A,” players simply call “Tetris.” This keeps communication short, clear, and effective.

Knowing the Mirage callouts such as Palace, Jungle, Connector, and Firebox helps beginners understand where to look, where to move, and how to react in real time. Mastering Mirage callouts in CS2 builds stronger coordination, whether you are attacking as a Terrorist or defending as a Counter-Terrorist.

Mirage Callouts in CS2 – Full Map Breakdown

A Site – The Heartbeat of Mirage Offensives

• Layout: A Site is the primary bomb planting zone on the right-hand side of Mirage, framed by A Ramp, Tetris, Triple Box, Firebox, and Palace Balcony. It is one of the two main objectives where Terrorists can plant the bomb.
• Strategic Value: This site is heavily contested. Counter-Terrorists often rotate here from Spawn, holding key defensive angles at Ticket Booth and Stairs. Attackers usually approach through A Ramp or Palace. For beginners, think of this site as the “main stage” where most flashy executes happen.
• Name Origin: “A Site” simply comes from the bombsite letter.
• Pro Advice: Beginners should learn how to smoke off Ticket Booth (to block defenders watching from Spawn) and Stairs (to block defenders watching from Mid). Flashing over Ramp before pushing helps clear angles.
• Common Mistakes: Many new players plant the bomb too early without clearing Firebox or Triple, which often leaves them exposed to hidden Counter-Terrorists. Always check the close corners before planting.

Palace – Tiered Surprise Lane

• Layout: Palace is the elevated corridor overlooking A Site. Players drop from Palace Balcony directly onto the bombsite, or peek from the doorway to challenge defenders.
• Strategic Value: From Palace, Terrorists can catch defenders off guard by dropping into the bombsite while teammates push from Ramp. Palace also allows attackers to watch common hiding spots like Firebox or Triple Box.
• Name Origin: It resembles a small castle structure, hence the name “Palace.”
• Pro Advice: Beginners should throw a molotov grenade onto the Balcony Shadows (the corner directly below the Palace exit), as Counter-Terrorists often hide there. Always check angles carefully before dropping.
• Common Mistakes: Jumping out carelessly can expose players to Jungle or Mid. It’s better to coordinate with teammates so Palace pressure is combined with a Ramp push.

Tetris – Stacked Box Entry Point

• Layout: Tetris is a group of stacked boxes located between A Ramp and A Site. Attackers often use it as a cover point while preparing to push onto the bombsite.
• Strategic Value: This area is the launching pad for A-site attacks. Terrorists can stop here safely before throwing grenades or waiting for teammates. Counter-Terrorists sometimes hide nearby to catch attackers off guard.
• Name Origin: The box formation looks like a piece from the old video game “Tetris.”
• Pro Advice: Always clear the angle behind Tetris (called Sandwich) and check Triple Box before committing to site. A flashbang over the roof can blind defenders holding A Ramp or Jungle.
• Common Mistakes: New players often linger too long at Tetris, giving defenders time to rotate and surround them. This area should be used as a staging point, not a permanent hiding spot.

B Apartments – Soft Approach to B

• Layout: B Apartments (also called “B Aps”) is the long corridor leading from T-spawn toward the B Site. From here, players can peek into B Balcony, Van, and the bombsite itself.
• Strategic Value: It’s the stealthiest route into B. Terrorists usually walk quietly through Apartments to avoid giving away sound cues. From here, teams can execute a B rush or split with Mid control.
• Name Origin: The multi-level, hallway-like layout resembles stacked apartments.
• Pro Advice: Smoke the Market Window and Market Door before attempting to plant the bomb. Aim to eliminate defenders at Van first, since they have strong cover and vision.
• Common Mistakes: Beginners often run loudly through Apartments, alerting Counter-Terrorists. It’s better to walk (shift key) to stay silent until the execute begins.

Stairs – A Site’s Defensive Anchor

• Layout: Stairs is the sloped staircase between A Site and Jungle, connecting to Connector and Mid.
• Strategic Value: Counter-Terrorists hold from Stairs to stop A pushes. The elevated position gives defenders vision over A Ramp and Palace.
• Name Origin: Simply taken from the staircase structure.
• Pro Advice: When attacking A, throw utility toward Stairs to force defenders away. Pre-aim the common angle where snipers stand.
• Common Mistakes: Forgetting to check Stairs when planting or pushing A almost always leads to an easy death.

Firebox – Defensive Hideout

• Layout: Firebox is the back-right corner of A Site, tucked beside Tetris and Triple.
• Strategic Value: It’s one of the most common hiding spots for Counter-Terrorists, especially during clutch situations.
• Name Origin: Its tight, boxed-in feel earned it the “firebox” nickname.
• Pro Advice: Use a molotov grenade to flush out this position before planting.
• Common Mistakes: Many beginners forget to clear Firebox, leading to surprise kills that can change a round.

Window – The Sniper’s Nest

• Layout: Window is the elevated room overlooking Mid, accessible to Counter-Terrorists early in the round.
• Strategic Value: From here, defenders can pick off Terrorists moving toward Top Mid.
• Name Origin: Named after the large glass opening.
• Pro Advice: Terrorists should smoke Window early if they want Mid control. Flashes are also key to blind defenders.
• Common Mistakes: Staying exposed at Top Mid for too long leaves players vulnerable to snipers holding from Window.

Short – Fast Track to B Site

• Layout: Short (also called Catwalk) is the curved path connecting Mid to the entrance of B Site.
• Strategic Value: Counter-Terrorists use Short to rotate quickly to B, while Terrorists may push through Short during Mid splits.
• Name Origin: The short distance from Mid to B inspired the name.
• Pro Advice: One well-timed flash is usually enough to blind defenders on B Platform.
• Common Mistakes: Beginners often forget to check Cat (the corner near Short), leading to easy ambushes.

Underpass – Sneaky Rotation Route

• Layout: Underpass is the tunnel running beneath Mid, connecting Top Mid to B Apartments.
• Strategic Value: It allows Terrorists to rotate silently or surprise defenders holding Mid.
• Name Origin: Simply named for being the underground passage.
• Pro Advice: Walk to stay quiet and check both bends carefully.
• Common Mistakes: Running or jumping gives away footsteps, alerting defenders above.

Jungle – Vital Corridor Linking A to Mid

• Layout: Jungle connects Mid and Connector to A Site.
• Strategic Value: Holding Jungle allows Counter-Terrorists to rotate quickly and cut off Terrorist pushes.
• Name Origin: The dense, greenish textures gave it the “Jungle” nickname.
• Pro Advice: Smoke off Window before pushing Jungle to limit vision.
• Common Mistakes: Overextending without utility often leads to easy picks for defenders.

Connector – Crucial Choke Point for Control

• Layout: Connector is the hallway linking Mid to A Site.
• Strategic Value: Controlling Connector gives Terrorists multiple attack options and prevents defenders from rotating easily.
• Name Origin: Straightforward – it connects Mid to A.
• Pro Advice: Use smokes and flashes to push through safely.
• Common Mistakes: Charging without clearing Mid Boxes or Ladder Room is risky and often fatal.

Market – Sneaky Approach to B Site

• Layout: Market is the room near B Site, with windows overlooking the bombsite.
• Strategic Value: Counter-Terrorists use Market heavily during retakes.
• Name Origin: The design looks like a small shop or market.
• Pro Advice: When attacking B, always smoke Market Window and Door to cut off vision.
• Common Mistakes: Ignoring Market control leads to easy retakes for defenders.

Mid – The Battle for Map Control

• Layout: Mid is the wide, central area of Mirage connecting both bombsites.
• Strategic Value: Mid control is crucial. Terrorists use it to split A or B, while Counter-Terrorists use it to hold rotations.
• Name Origin: Simply the middle of the map.
• Pro Advice: Always coordinate utility before fighting Mid-smoke Window, flash Top Mid, and push together.
• Common Mistakes: Pushing alone or without support often leads to unnecessary deaths.

Mirage Map Callouts – Quick Reference Table

FAQs

What are “Mirage callouts” in CS2?

They’re standard names for areas on the CS2 Mirage map callouts layout, used for quick team communication in competitive matches.

Why do callout names sometimes vary between players?

Regional habits, language, and history from Mirage CSGO map callouts can create slight differences.

Can you win without knowing Mirage callouts?

Possible but unlikely – knowing Mirage CS2 callouts map helps coordinate strategies and avoid confusion.

Which Mirage positions are the most important for map control?

Connector, Window, and Catwalk control Mid – the core of the Mirage CS2 map callouts strategy.