After months of anticipation, Counter-Strike 2 has finally launched. Continue on to read about the updates, how to play, and more!
A New Era of Counter-Strike
Counter-Strike 2 Comes Out of Beta for the Full Release
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is finally available to play right now after months of running their open beta. They uploaded a launch trailer showcasing a montage of Counter-Strike games over the years, narrated by famed esports host and commentator Alex "Machine" Richardson.
The launch comes after weeks of hints and teases from Valve, going as far as to playfully ask followers on Twitter (X) what they were doing on Wednesday.
Though the release is past the promised "Summer 2023" release timeframe, it’s better late than never. Counter-Strike 2 is now available free-to-play on Steam for all. New updates that were not previously in the beta include a tutorial for new players, a new community server browser, audio improvements, bug fixes, and chickens being given the ability to fall off in Vertigo.
Counter-Strike 2 Takes Over Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
With the launch of CS2, we effectively say our goodbyes to its predecessor, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO). CS2 serves as a complete engine upgrade while also trying to stay as close to CSGO as possible. Valve, not seeing the sense of keeping both similar games active simultaneously, has closed CSGO servers instead of CS2 servers. Players can rest easy as their entire inventory of weapon cases, skins, agents, stickers, and graffiti will be transferred over to CS2 with new graphical upgrades.
This replacement is a first in the series, as previous Counter-Strike mainline titles have always been separate releases. Previous titles can still be purchased on Steam and be played online. Though it’s hard to say goodbye, it’s better to remember the past fondly and look forward to the bright future of Counter-Strike.
