Securing wins in the Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War Open Series will feel effortless once you learn the corners, corridors, and alleyways of Moscow.

This traditional three-lane map built into the busy streets of Russia’s capital is littered with cars for opponents to camp. Fortunately fast-paced Search and Destroy (SND) rounds make rotations and lines of sight far more strategic. Learn how to play like a pro whether you’re taking rush routes on offense or ninja defusing on defense.

2v2 Moscow SND offense tips

Moscow’s twists and turns are different from the more straightforward layouts featured in maps like Crossroads Strike. Moscow is a more varied experience that forces players to experiment with unique routes because there is no direct approach to either bombsite. This makes studying your opponent’s early movements especially important. Pick up on any habits to consistently forge the best possible path toward the objective.

Stay together on offense in almost every situation to reduce the risk of flanks and potentially overwhelm stray enemies. Sandwich A for a greater chance of clearing out the area. It’s as simple as taking one of the northern paths to the bombsite, while your teammate takes the other.

The center of the map features lines of sight that make attacks from the middle to either bombsite tricky. Sprint through the central area if you’re looking for a shortcut or alternate route, but remember that even if you weren’t spotted, that doesn’t mean they didn’t hear you. From there, you can either push up the escalator to A or take one of four paths to B. 

B is nestled in a small room. You can sneak through the northern entrance, take the risky option through the southern courtyard window, or continue around the southern street for your best option: back door flank. There’s also a window on the east side where people like to camp. Take cover behind vehicles and avoid the windows when possible.

Best Search and Destroy gun loadouts for offense

• AK-47: KGB Eliminator, 18.2” VDV Reinforced, Spetsnaz Grip, VDV 50 Rnd Fast Mag, GRU Elastic Wrap
• Krig 6: Infantry Compensator, 19.7” Takedown, Field Agent Grip, Airborne Elastic Wrap, Wire Stock
• AK-74u (Gunfighter Wildcard): Microflex LED, Spetsnaz Compensator, 10.3” Task Force, Steady Aim Laser, Spetsnaz Speedgrip, GRU Mag Clamp, Speed Tape, KGB Skeletal Stock

The AK-47 continues to destroy Black Ops Cold War lobbies ever since launch. Equip the above attachments and recoil won’t be a factor at any range. Plus, its damage is too good to pass up.

The Krig 6 loadout suits all playstyles. The recoil is controllable, ADS is quick, and sprint to fire speed is vastly improved. This AR benefits players that rush or those who want to methodically pick off the other team.

Offense in Search and Destroy is all about speed. This run and gun loadout for the AK-74u increases reaction times and mobility without negating any firepower. 

2v2 Search and Destroy defense lines of sight 

The defensive side of Moscow gives teams more options to split up and take advantage of key positions for surprise attacks. 

Switch positions every round to prevent the other team from figuring out your tactics. The dots on the map are the most effective spots to halt pushes. Practice each line of sight to get a feel for which work best for you. You might even discover a new position through trial and error.

The top of the map is the best place to watch A. Both positions in tandem lock down this section of the map, thwarting almost any quick plant approach. 

The middle dot overlooks the center of the map. This line of sight works as a singular hold point or a tag team spot if you take separate angles. Beware of the blind spot under the overlook. Attackers hugging the wall can easily flank if you aren’t careful.

The two dots on the bottom of Moscow are perfect for holding B. The one in the building is right next to the bombsite, while the outside option offers a clear view of anyone approaching from either side of the street. This powerful setup secures every entrance and the perimeter. It also gives players fewer angles to watch with less fear of surprises.

Kills are all but guaranteed if attackers push you in one of these spots. They also make Rotations easier. Hold one of these solid positions, so your teammate can more confidently take care of bomb plants. 

Best SND weapon loadouts for defense

• Krig 6: Millstop Reflex, 19.7” Ranger Barrel, Field Agent Grip. Airborne Elastic Wrap, Raider Stock
• AK-47: Microflex LED, 18.2” VDV Reinforced, Spetsnaz Speedgrip, Speed Tape, KGB Skeletal Stock
• LW3 Tundra: Stabilizer .308, 28.2” Tiger Team, Front Grip. Speed Tape, Marathon Pad

The defensive setups on Moscow are designed for you to spot enemies before they see you. The always versatile Krig 6 is perfect for those situations. This version of the popular assault rifle is very common. High damage and low recoil make it an objective holding machine.

The AK-47 works well on the other side of the battlefield, too. The attachments increase mobility without reducing power. Expect to effectively lock down both the open and tight-knit areas of the map.

This Black Ops Cold War map is great for snipers. Steady aimers or frantic quickscopers will find solace with this LW3 Tundra loadout. The many pieces of cover make it a great choice to pick off one opponent, hide, and then peek again to eliminate the second. 

Turn Moscow into your very own Russian playground for cash and exclusive prizes using our in-depth 2v2 Search and Destroy guide.