Site Retake
A bomb-defusal mode with asymmetric teams and preset loadouts.
Retakes is a limited-time game mode in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, available only during certain operations, where three Terrorists defend an already planted C4 against four Counter-Terrorists. Players are given preset weapon loadouts per round to retake or defend the bomb site.
- Context
- Bomb Defusal Scenarios
- Primary Goal
- Recover Site / Defuse Bomb
Lore & Background
The Retakes game mode was introduced as a community-created mode and later appeared in official matchmaking during certain operations, but it was not added as a permanent official mode alongside Wingman or Danger Zone. In Retakes, three Terrorists defend an already planted C4 against four Counter-Terrorists. Players are given preset weapon loadouts per round to retake or defend the bomb site. This mode is distinct from the standard Competitive mode, which pits two teams of five players against each other in a best-of-30 match. The Retakes mode focuses on the specific tactical situation of reclaiming a site after the bomb has been planted, emphasizing coordinated pushes, utility usage, and quick decision-making under the pressure of a ticking timer.
In Their Own Story
The timer ticks down from forty seconds. Smoke billows across B site, obscuring vision as the enemy team consolidates their hold on the bomb. Two defenders remain, separated by a wall of fire and confusion. One peeks through a smoke gap, drawing fire with a precise spray, while the other flanks from the shadows, silencing the last attacker before rushing the device. The beeping grows frantic, but hands steady as they place the defuser.
Reader's Guide
In Retakes, three Terrorists defend a planted C4 against four Counter-Terrorists. Each round begins with players selecting a loadout card to aid in retaking or defending the bomb site.
Did You Know?
- Retakes was a limited-time mode during operations, not one of the nine official game modes in Global Offensive.
- The mode pits three Terrorists against four Counter-Terrorists with a pre-planted bomb.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Site Retake in Counter-Strike?
It is a tactical situation where the Counter-Terrorist team attempts to regain control of a bomb site after the Terrorists have planted the C4. This scenario requires coordinated pushing and utility usage to clear angles before time runs out.
Is Site Retake an official game mode?
While often played as a community workshop mode, it has appeared in official matchmaking during specific operations or limited-time events. It is not currently a permanent standard option in the base menu alongside Casual or Competitive.
What is the primary objective during a retake?
The defending team must eliminate all Terrorists holding the site and defuse the bomb before it detonates. Success depends on splitting forces effectively to pressure multiple angles simultaneously.
Why are retakes considered high-stakes engagements?
These moments occur when initial defenses have failed, leaving the team with limited time and often fewer players than the attackers. Losing a retake usually guarantees a round loss for the Counter-Terrorists.
How does utility usage differ in retake scenarios compared to defense?
Players must prioritize smokes and flashes to block sightlines while pushing into confined spaces where enemies are waiting. Explosives like Molotovs are often used to force Terrorists out of cover within the site.
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