What is CS2?

The long-awaited sequel to CS:GO has finally arrived, and it's not just an upgrade; it's a complete overhaul that captures the essence of Counter-Strike while ushering in a new era of competitive gaming. Let's delve into the numerous updates and improvements that have shaped CS2's journey from limited test to its official release.

CS2's journey began with the beta announcement on March 22, and from the very outset, it promised substantial changes. Two of the early standouts were the introduction of Sub-tick and Volumetric Smokes, marking a fundamental shift in gameplay mechanics. As the beta progressed, Valve remained dedicated to refining the game and responding to community feedback and suggestions.

In a series of recent updates, Valve introduced game-changing features like the new Elo system and MR12 gameplay. These updates not only enhanced the competitive experience but also opened the doors to a broader player base, making CS2 more accessible than ever before. Find the patch notes here.

• Global Offensive Badge and Exclusive Music Kit
  When CS:GO players, who have played the game for at least a week, first launch CS2, they will receive a Global Offensive badge as a token of their participation in one of the most iconic FPS games of all time. Additionally, players will be gifted an exclusive music kit, "Valve, CS:GO," featuring the classic CS:GO soundtrack. This kit, however, won't be tradable or marketable, making it a unique collector's item.

• Improved Hit Registry and Enhanced Spray Control
  One of the most talked-about improvements in CS2 is the revamped hit registry and significantly improved spray control. The revamped hit registry and notably improved spray control in CS2 have become hot topics of discussion within the community, and players have not only been quick to notice these enhancements but have also enthusiastically confirmed their effectiveness.

• Premier Rank Reset and Map-Specific Ranking System
  Premier ranks earned during the testing phase have been reset to level the playing field. What's more, CS2 introduces a map-specific rating system, ensuring that players have distinct ratings for each map they play on.

• Revamped Store Page with Weekly Care Package
  The familiar store section in CS:GO's main menu has undergone a transformation, now emerging as a dedicated store page. The new page features a new Weekly Care Package, allowing players to claim rewards which will be revealed after they earn the threshold XP.

Among a host of significant updates, players will no longer experience the frustrating rubber band effect when colliding with others. The once-annoying C4 defusing and planting sound bugs have been resolved and the Community Server tab now redirects you to a new page. Oh, but most importantly, your chickens aren't safe on Vertigo anymore. Keep them caged.