In Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, the Protocol map offers a tightly constructed and layered combat environment. Situated on what appears to be a decommissioned clandestine military installation, Protocol’s map design is centered around intense close-quarters combat, mixed sightlines, and aggressive verticality. Understanding its Points of Interest (POIs) is essential to mastering the map forblack ops 6 bot lobbies both casual and competitive players. This article provides a tactical breakdown of each major POI on the Protocol map and how to leverage them effectively.
1. Central Artillery Zone
The Central Artillery is the heart of the Protocol map and arguably its most hotly contested area. Its circular layout with multiple entry points makes it both a strategic asset and a death trap for those who fail to hold it properly. The artillery area provides crucial sightlines toward the Radio Tower and both east and west spawn lanes, making it perfect for area control and objective-focused modes like Domination.
Tactics:
Use smoke grenades and tactical flashes to disrupt defenders entrenched inside.
Equip mid-range weapons like assault rifles or LMGs to hold angles and suppress enemies approaching from the outer hallways.
Be mindful of elevated ledges that snipers may use to pick off central players from above.
2. Radio Tower
The Radio Tower is a tall, multi-level structure that offers commanding views of the map’s northern half. It acts as a sniper’s nest and an early warning station for spotting enemy rotations.
Tactics:
Great for long-range specialists; use marksman or sniper rifles with clear optics.
Be wary of being flanked; access to the tower can be gained from both ground and elevated routes.
Deploy claymores or proximity mines on the stairs to maintain control of the high ground.
3. Underground Headquarters (HQ)
The HQ is a confined interior space located beneath the map. It features tight corridors, dim lighting, and multiple small rooms, which make it a prime location for ambushes and rapid flanking.
Tactics:
Equip SMGs or shotguns for maximum effectiveness in tight corridors.
Communicate with your team to avoid multiple players entering from the same angle—crossfire is essential.
Use listening devices or Field Mics to track footsteps, especially in Search and Destroy.
4. The Barracks
Located near the southern quadrant of the map, the Barracks consist of a series of connected dormitories and small armory rooms. These are crucial for spawn control and serve as natural staging points for launches into the central Artillery.
Tactics:
Use the Barracks as a fallback point if your team loses mid-map control.
Secure the area with a teammate to avoid spawning enemies flipping behind your line.
Check windows and doors constantly; it’s a high-traffic zone for flanking.
5. Armory
The Armory houses a mixture of supply crates, metallic containers, and destructible environments. It's more open than the HQ but still provides opportunities for cover-based engagements.
Tactics:
Explosives are useful here; enemies often congregate near cover, making frag grenades and semtex highly effective.
This area often transitions into team fights due to its close proximity to the Artillery. Be prepared for chaotic engagements.
Keep an eye on the map—enemy UAVs may frequently target this zone due to its strategic location.
6. The Walkways and Rooftops
Connecting several POIs are elevated walkways and rooftops. These are accessible via ladders or internal stairs, and they allow players to traverse the map without directly entering its central warzone.
Tactics:
Equip mobility perks like Lightweight and Dexterity to move quickly between rooftops.
These positions are excellent for overwatch roles and support players providing suppressive fire or air support guidance.
Be aware that these areas are exposed—avoid staying stationary for too long.
The Importance of Map Control
While each POI offers unique tactical value, the key to success on Protocol is maintaining rotational awareness and predicting enemy movements. With multiple pathways between POIs and frequent transitions between close-quarters and mid-range engagements, teams that control the vertical spaces and center map typically control the match flow.
Squad leaders should consider rotating roles based on match tempo: if the enemy is controlling the Artillery, two players should rotate through the HQ to flank from below. If your team is pressing into the Radio Tower, ensure there is an overwatch player stationed in the Barracks to prevent rear entry.
Conclusion
Protocol is a map that rewards players who understand the value of positioning, timing, and teamwork. Each POI plays a specific role in the map’s dynamic layout, and understanding their unique challenges and advantages is critical to developing effective tactics. Whether you prefer an aggressive entry-fragging style or a more methodical control-based strategy, mastering these POIs is essential for excelling on Protocol in Black Ops 6. Practice, communicate, and adapt—and Protocol will become one of your strongest maps.
