How to place the best Smokes in Ascent in Valorant Episode 8
Ascent, the first map introduced after Valorant's official release, has solidified its place in the game's history as one of the most competitive and balanced maps. If you want to call yourself a real Valorant player, you need to know Ascent like the back of your hand. This map requires precise smokes for both attackers and defenders, making the choice of a controller agent crucial. In this guide, we dive into the best Ascent smokes to boost your team to victory, taking a look at the strategic insights for both sides of the battle.
Omen is the Ideal Controller Agent for Ascent
While Ascent can be dominated by any controller agent, in the hands of the right player, the community’s favorite is, without the shadow of a doubt, Omen. His versatility, quick smoke recharges, and the strategic utility of his Paranoia ability make him the top pick for Ascent. Despite occasional appearances from Astra, Brimstone, Viper, and Harbor in the pro scene, Omen remains the controller of choice for Ascent in Valorant Esports.
Ascent Smokes for Attackers: Precision and Control
Executing a successful attack on Ascent demands a keen understanding of smoke placement. For an A site push, securing A main control is crucial.
Smoke off A Heaven and A Short near the doorway to maximize coverage, but be cautious of opponents attempting to push through. Similar considerations apply for a B site push, emphasizing control of B lobby and careful execution through Market and the CT angle. Mid control is key on Ascent, offering game-deciding advantages for attackers. Smoke A Link and Market to establish a clear pathway for a B site push. These smokes deny Operator players early picks and apply pressure through mid, shaping the course of mid-round battles |
Ascent Smokes for Defenders: Stalling and Retaking
Defense smokes play a vital role in stalling attackers and facilitating retakes. In A main, a standard smoke effectively stalls or retakes the A site, blocking a crucial chokepoint for attackers.
A preemptive one-way smoke provides an early boost, a tactic often associated with Omen's dominance as a controller. Similarly, B main requires a defensive/retake smoke toward the chokepoint. This smoke proves pivotal in retake situations, disrupting crossfires between B main and other critical areas. A one-way smoke in B lobby can also be deployed for early skirmishes or to position an Operator aggressively. |
Mid Control: Ascent’s Core Intersection
Mid-angles on Ascent are game-changers, influencing early fights, mid-round rotations, and overall map control. For attackers, smokes for top-mid (A Link) and Market are important strategic choices. These smokes set the stage for a B-mid split, applying pressure to defenders and boosting the attackers chances to catch them off guard.
However, adaptability is key. If defenders anticipate a B site attack or if a pick happens on A, a pivot to A Link with a mid smoke ensures safe passage for your team. Despite smokes obscuring vision, defenders should keep an eye out for opponents pushing through with flashes and initiator utility.
To master Ascent, the placement of smokes is only part of the equation. How players navigate these smokes, strategize around them, and anticipate their opponents' movements are equally important factors. As the shadows travel across Ascent, tactical precision and adaptability become the cornerstones of victory on this historic map.
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