The launch of the Winter Offensive update brings with it a stunning, yet unforgiving new battlefield: Ice Lock Empire State. This map is a masterclass in verticality and close-quarters conflict, setting the stage for chaotic infantry battles across New York’s iconic frozen urban landscape. The environmental change—sheer ice, limited sightlines, and dramatic altitude shifts—demands a complete overhaul of traditional strategies. To win, squads must understand three critical elements: the central high-ground, the perilous flanking tunnels, and the necessity of controlled aggression.

The Central Prize: Empire Tower and Verticality

The Empire Tower stands as the map’s definitive centerpiece and highest point of conflict. Control of this central flag (usually objective B or C) dictates the flow of the entire match.

  • Sniper Nests: The rooftop and the three highest floors offer unparalleled sightlines down the frozen avenues and into the lower skyscraper interiors. Dedicated Recon players must establish dominance here immediately. The danger, however, is being easily identified and suppressed by enemy LMG fire. Always maintain constant movement between cover points.
  • The Ascent: The only viable way to take the Tower is through coordinated vertical pushes—via exterior gondolas, internal elevators, or the narrow stairwells. Assault teams should use Smoke Grenades to block the stairwell vision and utilize a Sundance or Grappling Hook Specialist to bypass choke points entirely.

Frozen Avenues and Flanking Routes

The lower sections of the map—the frozen avenues and shattered pedestrian walkways—are lethal kill zones, often dominated by vehicles and long-range fire. This makes flanking the key to breaking stalemates.

  • The Subway Tunnels: These subterranean routes, now partially frozen and accessible, are the most crucial flanking lanes. They allow infantry to bypass vehicle spam on the main roads and emerge directly under enemy-held skyscrapers. Tip: Equip the Motion Sensor to detect enemies attempting to seal the tunnel exits.
  • Perilous Ice Slicks: The sheer ice on the main avenues dramatically reduces vehicle maneuverability and infantry traction. This is a blessing for Engineers; AT Mines placed on the slickest sections are virtually unavoidable, forcing high-speed vehicles into deadly slides.

Vehicle Strategy: High Risk, High Reward

Vehicle usage on Ice Lock Empire State is a tightrope walk. Air assets are essential for rapidly repositioning teams to the crucial Tower rooftop, but the confined airspace and proximity to tall buildings make them vulnerable to smart Ranger drone placement and lock-on rockets.

Ground vehicles, especially tanks, should strictly stick to the main avenues to leverage their armor, but must avoid the numerous tight alleyways where they become easy prey for C5-equipped Assault Specialists waiting in ambush.

To conquer the frozen megacity, abandon slow sieges. Ice Lock Empire State rewards aggressive, coordinated pushes that utilize the verticality and hidden tunnels. Master the three dimensions of this map, and your squad will emerge victorious from the frozen chaos.