For the purposes of this guide, we’re dividing Black Gold into five main sections:
- Security Gate
- Chimneys
- Main Warehouse
- Train Docks
- Backlot
Security Gate
This area includes the Security Gate, Cargo Dock, Side Warehouse, and Chem Spill.
Set on flat ground between the Cargo Dock and Side Warehouse, this section of the map rewards weapon skill over positioning, as there are fewer objects to climb on or places to set up ambushes, meaning that gunfights often come down to who is the better marksman. The Cargo Dock may be the hottest point of contention here, as the parked delivery trucks provide greater cover options within a small area.
Don’t pass up the truck and barrels in Chem Spill just before the Main Warehouse’s west entrance. It’s a solid piece of cover you can move around while scouting the more open surrounding areas, and you can get on top of it for a height advantage.
Chimneys
This area includes West Chimney, Middle Chimney, Control Room, and East Chimney.
Ladders, crates, vehicles, stone walls, and ledges: This area is full of climbing potential on and around the three chimneys. The swifter you change your position and elevation here, the greater the advantage you’ll have over enemy Operators who just can’t pinpoint your position. Look for creative opportunities as well, like running along the top of the wall connecting the Middle and East Chimney, using it to jump from chimney to chimney without touching the ground.
Main Warehouse
This area includes the Main Warehouse, Chem Drop-Off, and Chem Lab.
Inside the Main Warehouse, on its west end, you’ll find Chem Drop-Off. This large, open space has a climbable truck and barrels in the center and a staircase leading up to a smaller upper level. The Chem Lab on its east end has a lower ceiling and more spread-out cover. Stacked crates within offer another passage to the upper level.
The perimeter of the Warehouse is surrounded by motion sensors that turn on the lights when detecting nearby movement. There are sensors located over all the ground-floor entrances, as well as above each of the side roofs. If a light turns on, there’s likely an Operator on the move.
Train Docks
This area includes just the Train Docks.
Running south alongside the Main Warehouse, Train Docks is a narrow combat zone hemmed in by a burning train. The truck in the middle of the path blocks direct sight to the other side; run around it or climb on top of it for a better view and easy transit into the top story of the Warehouse.
Watch the motion sensors above and below here to catch enemies coming out of the buildings. And yes, attempting to climb over the burning oil barrels may result in serious injury.
Backlot
This area includes the Backlot, Tunnel, Offices, Server Room, and Surveillance Room.
The parked vehicles and small offices here create a tight-knit environment that favors close- to mid-range combat as Operators battle across the road and through the offices. While you can’t climb on top of the security office, you can get on top of the other building for a better view of the space ahead, both toward the Main Warehouse and around the East Chimney.
When enemy streaks are threatening you from above, the security office provides good cover while you plan your next move. Also note the truck with the open back — this is a prime spot for ambushing enemies approaching objectives in the area.