In Overwatch, CP is an abbreviation for Control Point. These are designated areas on a map that teams must capture and defend to win the game in specific game modes.
Understanding Control Points in Overwatch
Control Points are central to the objective-based gameplay that defines Overwatch. They represent the strategic locations teams fight over, requiring coordinated effort to secure and maintain control.
Game Modes Featuring Control Points
Control Points are a core mechanic in several of Overwatch's iconic game modes:
- Assault (2CP): This mode, often referred to as Two Control Point (2CP), involves an attacking team attempting to capture two sequential points, while the defending team tries to prevent their capture. The attacking team wins by capturing both points within the time limit, and the defending team wins by holding them until time expires.
- Objective: Capture Point A, then Capture Point B.
- Strategy: Attackers need to push cohesively, while defenders set up strong holds and deny entry.
- Control (King of the Hill): In this mode, teams battle over a single, central Control Point. The goal is to capture the point and hold it until your team's score reaches 100%. Matches are best-of-three or best-of-five rounds.
- Objective: Capture and hold the central point to gain score.
- Strategy: Constant skirmishing and objective contesting are key. Teams must be able to win team fights and then quickly set up defenses on the point.
- Hybrid: This mode combines elements of Escort and Assault. Teams first capture a Control Point (like in 2CP or Control), and once captured, a payload is unlocked which must then be escorted to its final destination.
- Objective: First, capture a Control Point. Second, escort the payload to the end.
- Strategy: Requires adaptability, as teams transition from a static objective fight to a moving payload escort.
| Game Mode Type | CP Usage | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Assault | Two sequential Control Points (A & B) | Attacking teams capture points; defending teams prevent. Commonly known as "2CP" in the community. |
| Control | Single, central Control Point per round | Teams fight over one point, gaining score while holding it. Best of rounds format. |
| Hybrid | Initial Control Point capture, followed by a payload escort | Combines the static point capture with a moving objective. |
Importance of Control Points
Understanding and prioritizing Control Points is fundamental to success in Overwatch. Teams that effectively manage their resources, coordinate ultimates, and execute pushes or holds around these points often gain the advantage.
- Team Coordination: Capturing or defending a CP often requires all six team members to focus their efforts on the objective.
- Ultimate Economy: Using powerful ultimate abilities strategically around CPs can turn the tide of a team fight and secure the objective.
- Positioning: Learning optimal positions to defend a CP or to stage an attack on one is crucial for survival and effectiveness.
For more information on game modes in Overwatch, you can refer to resources like the Overwatch Wiki.
