Cross Field Control (Crossing)

Cross Field Control is a descriptive term for situations where diagonal lanes from different bunkers cross over the same region of the field. When drawn on a map, these lanes often form an X shape, with the center of the X located over high-value bunkers, gaps, or corridors.

This pattern can limit movement in several ways. A player who tries to cross from one side of the field to the other may pass through both arms of the X. A bump between interior bunkers may also intersect one or more of the crossing lanes. As a result, any attempt to move through the central area becomes more risky while the pattern is active.

Cross-X control is often seen when back or midline players select bunkers that naturally support diagonal lanes, such as center bricks, tall wedges, or certain dorito and snake inserts. From these locations, they can send paint through open windows that intersect each other over shared spaces.

The pattern is dynamic and depends on the current positions of both teams. If one of the players maintaining the crossing lanes is eliminated or forced to change bunkers, the X shape changes or disappears. Conversely, new crossing patterns can emerge as players advance or rotate into different positions.

The term is mainly used to describe and analyze how overlapping diagonal lanes shape the field, rather than to prescribe any particular setup. It helps explain why certain routes feel especially difficult to cross at specific stages of a point.