Flanking is one of the most powerful strategies in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7, and mastering it can elevate your gameplay from average to exceptional. If you're tired of running headfirst into the enemy's line of sight and getting gunned down, it’s time to learn how to flank effectively. Whether you're playing solo or with a team, flanking can give you the upper hand in tight situations. In this guide, we’ll break down the key steps for flanking enemy teams and turning the tide of battle in your favor.

Understand the Map Layout

Before you start flanking, it's essential to get a good grasp of the map you're playing on. Every map in Black Ops 7 has its own unique layout, with chokepoints, open areas, and hidden corners that can be used to your advantage. Knowing where the enemy might be positioned will help you choose the best route for a successful flank.

For example, some maps have great verticality, meaning you can use elevated areas to sneak behind enemies who are focused on the ground-level action. Look for sneaky paths around buildings or areas that are less traveled. Keep in mind, though, that these areas are often prime spots for ambushes, so stay alert.

Timing Is Everything

One of the biggest mistakes players make when flanking is poor timing. You don’t want to rush into a flank just as the enemy turns around or starts to move into a different position. Wait for the right moment when the enemy is distracted or engaged in a gunfight with other players. Ideally, this is when their attention is divided, leaving them vulnerable to a surprise attack.

A good time to flank is when your team is pressuring the enemy in one area. This forces the enemy to focus on a single direction, giving you a window of opportunity to approach from the side or behind.

Use the Right Loadout

While you’re flanking, you’ll want a loadout that lets you move quickly and quietly. Opt for perks that help you stay undetected or increase your mobility. Ghost is a great choice to avoid UAV detection, while Dead Silence can help you move without making a sound, making it easier to catch enemies off guard.

A light and nimble loadout is ideal for flanking. Sniper rifles and heavy weapons may be useful in certain situations, but for flanking, submachine guns or assault rifles with high mobility are your best friends. A well-timed melee attack can also be the perfect way to finish off unsuspecting enemies, so always keep an eye out for opportunities to sneak up behind someone.

Utilize Environmental Cover

As you make your way behind enemy lines, remember to use environmental cover to your advantage. Walls, crates, cars, and other obstacles provide perfect hiding spots that can shield you from enemy fire. While moving through these areas, be mindful of your surroundings. Don’t just blindly sprint from cover to cover — take your time and move strategically. Keep an eye on windows and high ground where enemies might spot you.

Flanking doesn't mean just running around aimlessly; it’s all about being patient and moving with intent. If you see an enemy in a window, wait for them to move or for their attention to shift before advancing.

Disrupt the Enemy’s Focus

Once you’re in position, it’s time to strike. The best way to approach a flank is by catching enemies off guard and disrupting their focus. The key is to strike quickly and decisively. Throwing off the enemy's aim or making them panic can create confusion, which often leads to mistakes. This is especially effective when you’re flanking in Black Ops 7, as the chaotic nature of the game makes it easy for enemies to lose track of you.

If you're playing on console, it’s essential to practice aiming and movement in BO7 bot lobbies for console players. These lobbies give you a chance to practice flanking and movement without the pressure of live enemies. Plus, you can experiment with different strategies and refine your skills before jumping into competitive play.

Be Aware of Enemy Flankers

While you’re focusing on your own flanking moves, always stay aware that the enemy might try to flank you too. Flanking is a common tactic, so be ready for it. Keep an eye on your radar and listen for footsteps or gunshots that might indicate an enemy is trying to sneak up behind you. If you’re too aggressive with your flanking, you might find yourself exposed from the rear.

Additionally, if you're finding it tough to break into competitive matches or just want to practice different strategies, black ops 7 bot lobbies can be a useful tool for learning how to deal with enemies in various situations. These lobbies allow you to hone your reflexes and familiarize yourself with enemy behavior patterns.

Know When to Retreat

Flanking isn’t always about getting the kill; sometimes it’s about the element of surprise and creating chaos in the enemy’s ranks. If you flank successfully but find yourself outnumbered or surrounded, it’s often better to retreat and reposition rather than risk a fight you can’t win. Remember, Black Ops 7 is all about survival and adapting to the situation — don’t be afraid to back off if the flank isn’t going as planned.

Flanking in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is all about patience, timing, and using the environment to your advantage. It can be incredibly rewarding when done correctly, but it takes practice to master. Whether you’re using BO7 bot lobbies for console players to fine-tune your skills or jumping into live games to put them to the test, make sure you’re always thinking two steps ahead.

At the end of the day, flanking is about catching your enemies off guard and controlling the battlefield from unexpected angles. Keep practicing and refining your techniques, and soon enough, you’ll become the player that everyone fears on the other side of the map.