Counter-Strike 2, popularly known as CS 2, is the successor to the popular first-person shooter game, Counter-Strike:GO (CS:GO). After weeks of speculations, Valve, the game’s developer, finally announced the release of CS 2, which is an overhaul of the original game, introducing new features, better lighting and visuals, map reworks and overhauls, and a reworked smoke system. This article is a guide to all you need to know about the upcoming game, including its release date, price, platforms, and new features.
Table of Contents
Counter-Strike 2 Release Date
As of this article’s writing, Valve has yet to give an exact release date for CS 2. However, the game is expected to launch sometime in the summer of 2023, between May and June. The release date could be pushed back if there is a need for added polish and bug-squashing.
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Counter-Strike 2 Price & Platforms
Counter-Strike 2 will be a free-to-play game like its predecessor, CS:GO. Valve confirmed this on the official FAQ page. Additionally, the game is only available on PC for now. There has yet to be any confirmation of plans to port the game to consoles such as PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X.
CS2 vs CS:GO: What’s New In Counter-Strike 2
Counter-Strike 2 brings many new features which aim to modernize the original game. One of the biggest changes is using Valve’s new Source 2 engine, which brings improved lighting, realistic materials, lighting, and reflections.
Additionally, some of the most popular CS:GO maps have been upgraded using the new engine’s light system. Valve categorized the map reworks into three categories, including Touchstones, Upgrades, and Overhauls. Touchstones refer to the legacy foundation maps updated with gameplay changes, graphics, and lighting upgrades. Upgrades include maps with the Source 2 facelift, improving lighting, textures, and reflections. Overhauls refer to the oldest maps in the game that have been completely remade for CS2. Furthermore, Valve has reworked the smoke system in the game, making it dynamic and two-way.
Counter-Strike 2 Beta Test
Valve has also announced a beta test for Counter-Strike 2. However, only a limited number of players can access the test. To participate, players must register their interest by following Valve’s official CS:GO Twitter account or subscribing to the game’s official mailing list. Once selected, participants will receive an email with a code, which they can use to access the beta test.
Conclusion
Counter-Strike 2 overhauls the popular first-person shooter game, Counter-Strike: GO. Valve has made many changes to the game, including better lighting and visuals, map reworks and overhauls, and a reworked smoke system. Additionally, the game will be free-to-play and is expected to launch in the summer of 2023. Although there is no official release date, players can participate in the beta test by following Valve’s official CS:GO Twitter account or subscribing to the game’s official mailing list. Overall, CS 2 is an exciting game that promises to modernize the original game and provide a fresh experience for new and old players.
