To master smoke grenades in Counter-Strike 2, setting up a practice server and mastering the correct commands and techniques can give you a significant edge. This guide walks you through everything from creating a custom server to learning advanced smoke throws and practicing with friends, so you can start landing precise smokes and securing key areas on any map.

Setting Up Your CS2 Smoke Practice Server

To get started, you’ll need a custom server to practice smokes without interruptions. Here’s how to set it up:

Enable the Developer Console:
- Go to Settings > Game and set the "Enable Developer Console" option to "Yes." This allows you to enter specific commands to tailor your practice experience.
Launch a Custom Server:
- Open the console (default key is ~) and type map [map name] (e.g., map de_dust2) to load your preferred map.
Activate Commands for Practice:
- With the server live, enter sv_cheats 1 to enable cheats, allowing access to commands that make practice easier, such as infinite ammo and trajectory visualization. Use the following essential commands:
  - mp_startmoney 60000 – Gives maximum starting money.
  - mp_freezetime 0 – Removes freeze time at the start of rounds.
  - mp_roundtime 60 – Sets round time to 60 minutes for uninterrupted practice.
  - sv_infinite_ammo 1 – Provides unlimited ammo.
  - sv_grenade_trajectory 1 – Shows grenade paths.
  - noclip – Enables free movement across the map.
(Source: PC Gamer's guide on smoke practice and essential CS2 commands)
Additional Helpful Commands:
- sv_grenade_trajectory_time_spectator 15 – Keeps the trajectory visible for 15 seconds, ideal for refining throw paths.
- bind l "ent_fire smokegrenade_projectile kill" – Instantly clears smokes for repeated throws.
- bot_kick – Removes all bots for an uninterrupted practice environment.

With these commands set, your server is ready for comprehensive smoke practice.

Practice Routine: Beginner to Advanced Smokes

Now that you have the setup, here’s a routine to build up your smoke skills:

1. Basic Smokes for Beginners

Start with fundamental smokes on popular maps like Dust 2. For instance, use the palm tree leaf on A-Long as a static reference for consistent smokes. This step builds accuracy and helps you get comfortable with basic smoke mechanics.
Example: For the X-Box smoke on Dust 2, align your crosshair with the end of a nearby antenna and throw without jumping. This creates a smoke barrier on A-Long, blocking enemy sightlines.

2. Intermediate Smokes

Progress to more dynamic throws, such as jump throws or smokes that require moving while aiming. Smokes for Connector and Jungle on Mirage, or Banana on Inferno, are great to start. These setups require some finesse and are best practiced with the trajectory command to visualize the path.
Example: On Mirage, learn the smoke for Jungle by aligning with a specific window frame—useful in holding mid-control and denying enemy sightlines.

3. Advanced Smoke Lineups

Master advanced lineups that require precision and timing, like the CT Smoke from X-Box on Dust 2. These smokes are crucial for competitive play and can turn the tide during critical rounds.
Pro Tip: Practice jump throws and running smokes to add unpredictability, making it harder for opponents to counter your positioning.

(Source: Dot Esports' guide on essential CS2 smoke spots and lineups)

Practicing Smokes with Friends for Team Coordination

Practicing with friends adds another layer to your training. To get started:

Set Up a Shared Server:
- Once your custom server is live, invite friends to join and practice. Use commands like mp_warmup_end to skip warmup and mp_respawn_on_death for instant respawn, letting you keep practicing without waiting.
Coordinate Smokes and Strategies:
- Work together to practice common smoke lineups and timing. Use feedback from your teammates to adjust your throws for accuracy. Practicing together also builds coordination for real matches, as you’ll learn how to layer smokes for strategic control of the map.

(Source: Liquipedia's guide on setting up a CS2 practice server with friends)

Map-Specific Smoke Strategies

Mastering map-specific smokes allows you to dominate popular areas on each map:

Dust 2: A-Long, X-Box, and B-Tunnels smokes are essential for controlling enemy sightlines and securing key areas.
Mirage: Smokes for Jungle, Connector, and Window are game-changers for mid control.
Inferno: Banana and A-Site smokes are essential, particularly in high-stakes rounds where sightline control is crucial.

(Source: PCGamesN's guide on CS2 map-specific smoke tactics)

Avoiding Common Mistakes

Learning the correct throws is only half the battle. Avoid these common pitfalls:

Incorrect positioning: Make sure you’re standing in the exact spots for your smokes to land consistently.
Not visualizing paths: Always use the trajectory commands to see where your smoke will go before trying it in a match.
Missing reference points: Use landmarks on the map (like trees, antennas, or windows) for accurate throws.

Adapting Smokes in Real Matches

Applying these smokes in live matches is the ultimate goal. Real matches require you to think on your feet, adjusting throws and experimenting with new lineups based on your team’s position and enemy movements. Practicing under different in-game scenarios helps you build flexibility and adaptability with your smoke strategies.

Quick Tips for In-Game Smoke Adapting:

Adjust based on enemy locations and use unexpected spots to surprise opponents.
Stay mindful of your teammates’ positioning to avoid blocking their sightlines or movement.
Reflect on what worked post-match to refine your approach in future games.

(Source: esports.gg's tips for adapting smokes in live CS2 matches)

Final Thoughts

Mastering smokes in Counter-Strike 2 can give you and your team a serious advantage. Setting up a practice server, learning the commands, and refining smokes on each map will level up your gameplay. Regular practice will make these smokes second nature, allowing you to execute them under any game condition.