Warzone 2 introduced players of Activision’s battle royale to an all-new map, Al Mazrah, where DMZ is played. This new map has various points of interest scattered throughout the landscape, ranging from safe locations to fortresses. As any seasoned Call of Duty player knows, spawn locations are the most important spots to be aware of.
In DMZ, players have no control over where they spawn and with dozens of possible locations in Al Mazrah, players may start many lobbies lost and scrambling for cover. Some spawn locations are undoubtedly more advantageous than others, either closer to potential loot locations or further away from major conflict areas.
All spawn locations on Al Mazrah in DMZ
As seen on this marked map of Al Mazrah, there seem to be clusters of spawn points bunched up near the outskirts of the map, allowing players to branch out and explore the areas surrounding. As a result, there are no spawn points in the center near points of interest like Zaya Observatory and the Sattiq Cave Complex, meaning you’ll likely need to fight for these locations.
Players will notice that if you spawn near Taraq Village, east of Al Sharim Pass, or near Sawah Village, you will most likely run into an enemy team in the opening moments of the raid. If all players drop in without any equipment, there will be a mad rush for gear resulting in firefights.
The best spawns for any players who aren’t looking to get into much PvP conflict lie on the western side of the map, with isolated spawns near Al-Safwa Quarry, Hafid Port, and Sa’id City. There are also two spawns near Al Malik Airport, making it a decent start for those without any gear, given they’ll likely have the entire airport and mall to themselves to load up.
Related: The best DMZ weapons and loadouts
The city itself is largely untouched in the opening of a match, but expect that by the time teams move into the buildings, they’ll be fully equipped and ready for a brawl.
For those wanting to drop down underground into Koschei Complex, landing in the south of the map is a killer blow. You’ll need to travel to the north to enter the complex, and by the time you break through and reach Koschei’s Chemical Plant, many teams will have beaten you there. Be cautious when entering Koschei Complex later in a match.
All spawn locations on Ashika Island in DMZ
Ashika Island is tiny compared to Al Mazrah, so while there are fewer spawn points, you’ll very likely encounter enemy players no matter which direction you head in. Teams that spawn in the north will also have easier access to a vehicle, meaning they can drive directly to you when you spawn in.
Don’t be fooled by the emptiness of Port Ashika. While the zone lacks enemy operators at the beginning of the map, it is one of the most resourceful locations on Ashika—making for a bit of a mousetrap.
I definitely recommend entering Ashika Island with a fully equipped character, but for those who want more of a challenge, I’ve found sticking to the underground passages below Tsuki Castle is a great way to gear up. The castle, as well as the Strongholds normally found at E4 and E6, are the most contested parts of the map. Tread carefully unless you’re actively seeking a fight, otherwise don’t let me stop you.
All spawn locations on Vondel in DMZ
Like Ashika Island, dropping into Vondel will have you begin from the edge of the city, where you’ll work your way inwards. The Castle is the most secluded area of the map, but be warned—numerous Phalanx and Shadow Company faction missions in Season Five see players travel to the point of interest for quests.
Related: All Shadow Company faction missions and rewards in DMZ
I’ve found the Mall and Market become contested very early on in Vondel raids, but the tight passageways and numerous buildings make it easy to navigate without detection—as long as you’re quiet.
Be very careful when calling in the exfil chopper, too: there are plenty of vantage points players take to get a view of the city and while the fog has been restricting vision, popping a flare for exfil gives your location away to almost everyone.