Valorant How-to: A Guide to Conquering Icebox

Act 3 is now live in Valorant, and with a new map and increased servers, the stakes are higher than ever before in competitive as well as pub matches. The latest addition to the roster of maps available is the Icebox. The map feels like an amalgamation of the elements of all the other maps (except the teleporter function in Bind).

Further reading: “Officially Dead”: Evil Geniuses Pro Makes a Huge Claim Against North American Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Icebox is the only map in the game which has its Site A in a closed location. The map offers instances for both close-quarter and long-range fights. In addition to this, the map is ideal for both the attacking and defending sides. However, the fact that the mid-lane on this map is closer to Site B, makes it more advantageous for the defending side.

On the other hand, Site A can prove itself useful for both the attacking and defending side if one can handle surprise close-range fights.

How to claim the new Valorant map on the defending side

For Site B, the defending side can first claim mid for themselves. If they manage to do so, half the match is won right there. The enemy will not be able to use the mid lane for rotation, which also makes Site B a tough cookie to conquer. This is when the defending side can attack Site A, equipped with able fraggers.

In this case, the enemy will try to rush A in the next round since they will have figured the defending strategy. In any case, one long-range player has to hold their ground at mid.

Note: B is a pretty large area and has numerous places to hide. Hold the fort but be alert and on the move.

How to melt the Icebox on the attacking side

Now for the attacking side. As you can see, approaching sites through mid might work in the first round. If you manage it, the next round might not work in your favor. Flanking will be your only option.

Approaching Site B through the kitchen might be a viable plan. Since B is a pretty large area, you can take your time to trick the opponent. However, be on the lookout for snipers and the like.

As for A, be prepared to meet heavy resistance. Being a large enclosed space, A will provide the defending side enough opportunities to ambush you. What always works in enclosed spaces are explosive weapons. In addition to this, make sure to check corners and pair up with a support agent.

If you have confidence in your team and your team is well-equipped, you could try claiming the mid and then deciding which site to go to, depending on the situation. This might be difficult, but if you can manage this, it will shatter the defending side’s hopes for that round. At the same time, you will be on the controlling end of it, which is a sweet deal.

Overall, the mid-lane is a decisive position on this map. Players can avoid it, but attacking mid will make or break your round.

Well, with these in mind, prepare yourself and maybe even participate in the upcoming Valorant World Championship: First Strike!