Counter Strike 2 Release Revealed by Valve as Overhauled Free Update

Valve proves it can't count to three with the announcement of Counter Strike 2, a free update for CS:GO.
Valve proves it can't count to three with the announcement of Counter Strike 2, a free update for CS:GO.

The Counter Strike 2 release rumors were true, and Valve has finally pulled back the curtain, announcing a “sequel” to its ridiculously popular competitive shooter in the form of CS2. Instead of being a new product for full price or even some kind of splinter of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, CS2 will be a free update to CS:GO that ports the game to the Source 2 engine and overhauls the visuals.

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In a series of videos on Valve’s YouTube page, the company has detailed the changes that will be happening when CS2 launches.

The most obvious is every map getting redesigned visuals with new sound effects and such, but we’ll also see upgraded and reworked map designs, what Valve is calling “Game-Changing dynamic smoke grenades,” and tick-rate independent gameplay. That last one should be a godsend for players on lousy internet connections.

Related: Will CS2 Release on PS5, Xbox Series X|S?

Furthermore, any purchased items from CS:GO will carry over into the player’s inventories for CS2. If you’ve spent thousands on weapon skins, you won’t have to worry about that cash going to waste. Valve is working to ensure everything is available on launch.

A limited test for CS2 is rolling out to some players now. Those with recent playtime on official Valve servers with no VAC violations will be chosen at random to get a sample of this overhaul. If chosen to participate, you’ll receive a notification on the main menu of CS:GO when they boot it up. For now, Counter-Strike 2 is set to launch on PC in summer 2023. . 

Featured image via Valve.


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Peter Glagowski
Peter is a freelance writer with 6+ years of experience pitching, developing, and publishing engaging reviews, interviews, and features about entertainment (i.e. gaming, film) industry events and announcements.