Ancient: The Complete Guide to the Iconic Map and 3D Printed Model
Hey gamers! Youngtendo has another 3D printed map for you - Ancient! This Counter-Strike legend is an absolute gem that deserves a place on every shelf. Let's take a look at its history, interesting facts, and all the callouts you'll find on it. Get ready, let's go!
How it all began
Ancient first appeared on December 3, 2020 as part of Operation Broken Fang for CS:GO. Designed by Valve designers, it quickly became one of the most popular maps due to its unique environment and complex layout. Set in an ancient Central American jungle, inspired by Mayan culture, Ancient brought a breath of fresh air to the competitive map pool. In Counter-Strike 2 (2023), the map received improved visuals and lighting, but its layout remained faithful to the original design. As of April 2024, Ancient has remained in the active map pool and remains a key map for tournaments.
In July 2024, the developers added minor changes – such as new crates at Midu and improved textures at Bombsite B, which affected the strategy on the map. Our 3D printed version takes these changes into account, so you have an exact replica of the current Ancient.
Design and environment
Ancient is a complex map with two bombsites – A and B – and a complex path system that requires strong team communication. The main paths lead from T Spawn through Mid, Donut and tunnels to Bombsite B or through Temple and House to Bombsite A. The environment is inspired by the Mayan civilization – you will find overgrown ruins, stone temples and a jungle atmosphere. Bombsite A is more open, with a large temple and open spaces, while Bombsite B is more closed, surrounded by ruins and narrow corridors. Iconic details such as snake statues or broken stone columns give the map a unique character.
My 3D printed map captures these details perfectly – ancient ruins and all. It's not only a collector's item, but also a great tool for understanding the map layout.
Interesting things that will get you
Ancient is full of little things that fans will enjoy. For example, the snake statue at Bombsite A is named “Snake” and is a popular hiding spot. On the wall near Midu you’ll find the inscription “Beware the Jaguar,” which is a nod to Mayan mythology. The background music, ambient sounds of the jungle, adds to the immersive atmosphere of the map. And did you know that there’s a hidden glyph at Bombsite B that resembles a symbol from Half-Life? That’s just one of the many references Valve has hidden in the map.
Callouts – the key to victory
Communication is key in CS, and Ancient has over 39 callouts to help you find your way around. Here's a complete list with descriptions - and my 3D printed map clearly shows these locations so you can check them out in real life or test your knowledge:
| Callout | Description |
|---|---|
| T Spawn | The area where the Terrorist side spawns, connects to Tunnel and Split. |
| Tunnel | Connects T Spawn to Water, used by Ts for rushing B Site or alternative to Mid. |
| Water | Space between Tunnel and Ruins. |
| Ruins | Connects to Doors, quick route to Ramp, has a box for Ts to hide. |
| Doors | Double doors leading into T Lower from Ruins. |
| Split | Connects T Spawn to Elbow and Stairs, gives quick access to Mid and A Site. |
| Stairs | Connects Split to A Halls. |
| Elbow | Connecting area between Split and Mid, used for mid split by Ts. |
| A Halls | Connects Stairs and A Main, Ts can lurk to prevent CT push from A Site. |
| A Main | Area leading into Long from A Halls. |
| Long | Main entrance for Ts to A Site, allows checking Boost before taking site. |
| Boost | Spot to the right of Long when entering A Site, CTs boost teammates here. |
| Big Box | Large crate next to A Site, not to be confused with Single. |
| Single | Narrower crate next to Plat near A Site, provides cover. |
| Pay | Raised area in the corner next to A Site. |
| A Site | Region between CT Lane, Short, and Big Box, where bomb can be planted on A. |
| Triple Box | Triple set of boxes at back of A Site, safer plant position. |
| CT Lane | Connects CT Spawn to A Site, quick entrance for CTs. |
| Temple | Passageway connecting CT Spawn to A Site. |
| CT Spawn | Area where Counter-Terrorist side spawns, connects to Temple, CT Lane, Snipers Nest, Alley. |
| Snipers Nest | Double doors giving CTs view of Mid, great sniping position. |
| Top Mid | Stairs and tunnel connecting Mid to Snipers Nest. |
| Drink | Large cubby opposite Tunnels in Mid. |
| Mid | Open middle section, gives Ts access to A Side from Elbow or Heaven. |
| Tunnels | Connects Mid to Short, used by Ts for A Site split or CT support. |
| Short | Main entrance for Ts to A Site, connects directly, harder to push unsupported. |
| Xbox | Two crates next to Heaven on Mid, access to Heaven. |
| Heaven | Connects T Lower to Lamp Room and Mid, used for mid split by Ts. |
| Lamp Room | Connects Heaven to Dark. |
| Dark | Small area connecting Lamp Room and House, has cubby for CT surprises. |
| T Lower | Region between Ramp and Heaven, lowest height between these points. |
| Ramp | Slope connecting T Lower to B Site, main entrance for Ts pushing B Site. |
| House | Connects Lamp Room to B Site, narrow doorway, harder entry point. |
| B Site | Region between Ramp, House, and Square, where bomb can be planted on B. |
| Pillar | Stone and wooden structure on B Site, great cover for CTs. |
| Square | Large structure between Back Halls and B Site, gives alternative routes. |
| Back Halls | Connects Alley to Square. |
| Alley | Connects CT Spawn to Back Halls. |
Cultural impact and why we love it
Ancient is not just a map, it’s a phenomenon. Its unique Mayan setting and complex layout have captured the hearts of players around the world. The map has appeared in various fan projects, such as Minecraft, and as an inspiration for airsoft ranges. Its aesthetics and tactical depth make it a favorite for both novices and pros. Our 3D printed version is a tribute to this legacy – a detailed replica that celebrates its unique design and atmosphere.
Whether you're a CS:GO, CS2 fan, or just a collector, this 3D map is the perfect way to get closer to Ancient. You can use it as decoration or as a tool for strategy analysis.
Conclusion
Ancient is more than just a gaming map - it's a piece of history, tactics and art. My 3D printed version brings it home to you in all its glory, with every detail from the snake statue to the jungle ruins. Get it, explore it and let us know what you think! Youngtendo out!