Flanking

Flanking is approaching enemies from the side or rear by taking a route they are not watching, catching them out of position and unable to react in time. Attackers flank to pressure defenders from two directions, while defenders flank to punish an overcommitted push from behind.

A successful flank trades map control and time for surprise, often producing free kills or forcing a panicked rotation. The risks are isolation and over-extension: a flanker who is spotted or mistimed can hand the enemy an easy trade. Reading rotations, listening for footsteps, and watching flanks of your own are all essential, making flank awareness a constant tactical layer in Valorant.