Black Ops 6: Pro Tactics and Competitive Guide for the Vault Map

U4GM has a bo6 bot lobbies guide.In the ranked and esports side of Black Ops 6, map selection is everything—and the Vault has quickly become a favorite for competitive teams thanks to its tightly balanced layout, predictable flow, and strategic versatility. This article explores how top-tier players are approaching Vault in game modes like Control, Search and Destroy, and Hardpoint.

One of Vault’s greatest strengths as a competitive map is its symmetry. While not perfectly mirrored, the design provides fair entry points for both sides, with equal access to power positions and objective zones. This balance allows for deeper tactical diversity and minimizes coin-flip outcomes often seen on more lopsided maps.

In Control, both teams have to fight over points located in the Data Core and Vault Room. Defenders often set up a two-tier defense with one anchor locking the catwalk above the Vault and two roamers covering the data servers. On offense, teams tend to execute three-man pushes with a fourth watching flank through Freight Dock. It’s all about precision—teams must win trades cleanly or the defenders will reset control with ease.

Search and Destroy turns Vault into a methodical chess match. Bombsite A (Vault Room) offers vertical protection via the catwalk, while Bombsite B (Server Wing) is more exposed but quicker to access. Meta strategy currently favors B-rushes, with fast-entry ARs breaching the hallway while a sniper watches mid-lane from the upper security steps. Defensive teams often send two to each site and shift based on early intel.

In Hardpoint, Vault’s close quarters make each rotation brutal. The first hill usually spawns in the Vault Room itself, leading to early bloodbaths. Successful teams prioritize control of the upper catwalk during this hill, using ARs and Trophy Systems to lock the room. Future hardpoints rotate through the Freight Dock and Sub-Level Tunnels—areas where SMG players shine. Loadout coordination is key, with top teams alternating between fast entries and long-lane anchors.

Communication and timing are critical on Vault. With its verticality and compact design, players need to call out enemy locations quickly and rotate as a unit. Many pro teams designate a player as the “Vault Anchor,” whose sole responsibility is controlling the catwalk or spawn rotation. This role often determines whether a team snowballs or stalls.

The Vault also rewards good movement mechanics. Bunny-hopping through doorways, drop-shotting behind server racks, and slide-canceling around tight corners are frequent tactics seen in ranked lobbies. The map’s tight angles mean one misstep can cost a round. Advanced players use audio cues, like vault alarm resets and server hums, to track enemy rotations.

Loadouts in ranked Vault play typically include one or two ARs, an SMG for entry, and a flex player with mid-range control. Equipment-wise, Stun Grenades and Trophies dominate, with Dead Silence often being the game-changer on S&D rounds.

For competitive players, Vault is a proving ground. Its design eliminates randomness and rewards tight team synergy. Success comes down to pre-planned executes, strong comms, and perfect crossfire setup. In the right hands, Vault becomes less of a map—and more of a stage for pure skill.