General Information
Nevertheless, CS2 captures the essence of Counter-Strike. Although the foundation seems a bit thin and unstable now, I believe Valve will eventually create an FPS that surpasses CS:GO.
For the average Counter-Strike fan, CS2 might feel more like a big CS:GO update than a true sequel. Yes, CS2 runs on Valve's newer Source 2 engine, with minor menu changes and significant grenade mechanics updates. But at its core, it's still terrorists versus counter-terrorists, with budgets fluctuating based on headshot counts. Jump into a CS2 match, and it'll feel very familiar. This was expected, though. CS2 was always meant to refine a winning formula, not introduce drastic changes like wall-running or a perk system.
Switching from CS:GO to CS2 is straightforward, with settings, binds, and cosmetics carrying over. As a returning player, I quickly found my footing, which is commendable. However, the game still struggles to guide newcomers on crucial aspects like adjusting aim sensitivity, customizing crosshairs, or explaining game modes. New players might need to rely on guides or experienced friends to navigate these challenges, indicating room for improvement in CS2's tutorial system.
While your experience may differ in Casual matches, which remain a chaotic mix of players and explosives that overshadow the nuances of bomb defusal, CS2 truly shines in Deathmatch, Competitive, or the new Premier mode. These modes capture the essence of Counter-Strike's crisp gameplay. Beyond the satisfying gun mechanics, CS is about strategic decision-making. It's about responding to your teammates' movements on the map and reacting to sudden bursts of gunfire that break long silences. Are you watching your allies' backs? Is it time for a full-on B rush? The answers are yes and absolutely, without a doubt.
A closer look at the minor changes reveals their significant impact on match management. The new inventory system allows you to customize your weapons pool with ease, finally letting you have both CT assault rifles available in the buy menu if desired (which is thrilling). The updated buy menu now shows small indicators under each weapon's icon, helping you quickly assess your team's loadout between rounds. There's even a convenient refund option to correct mistakes or manage last-minute budget constraints.
The most noticeable change is visual. Maps are brighter and more colorful, with improved visibility in previously dark areas. Mirage's palace now boasts a gleaming marble floor, Overpass's monster graffiti wraps impressively around the tunnel, and Inferno's apartments are so stunning you'd want to vacation there (noise might be an issue, but it's worth it). The days of bland, textureless walls are gone, and it's a welcome improvement.
Less obvious but equally impressive are the changes to grenade behavior. Unlike CS:GO's static smoke grenades, CS2's smoke reacts to its environment. It curves around arches, spreads outwards, or shoots upwards when confined to narrow spaces. Interestingly, explosions from regular grenades temporarily clear smoke, potentially exposing hidden players. Even shooting through the edges of a smoke cloud can cause it to shift, possibly revealing enemies.
These improvements, while subtle, add depth to the gameplay and enhance the overall experience. The new grenade mechanics, in particular, introduce new tactical possibilities that skilled players can exploit. Combined with the visual upgrades, these changes make CS2 feel like a significant step forward, even if the core gameplay remains familiar.
The smoke grenade modifications seem to impact both casual and competitive players equally, as they fundamentally alter their basic use as quick visual barriers and change how top-tier players utilize them. Even as a casual player, I've noticed new possibilities with the updated smokes. Instead of passively waiting for them to dissipate or being caught off guard by emerging enemies, it now feels like you can actively manipulate smokes in harmony with CS's overall gameplay mechanics.
While these improvements to maps and grenades are commendable, CS2's launch lacks several popular features from CS:GO. Mac support is missing, as are game modes like Arms Race and War Games. The console lacks the option to switch to left-handed view. Beloved maps such as Cache and Train are absent. These elements will likely be added over time, but it's frustrating that we can't access them in CS:GO anymore since Valve discontinued it. It's understandable why some players feel CS2 has "halved the game."
There's also discussion about the "overhauls" of maps like Inferno and Italy, and what "overhauled" truly means to most players. For casual players like myself, many changes are as subtle as finding a lobster with pink eye. Most alterations involve minor adjustments, like shifting a ledge slightly, catering to the segment of the community that values such details. This exemplifies how CS2's updates may seem more significant to some players while barely noticeable to others.
Observing pro players' streams, there's considerable discussion about CS2 feeling different from CS:GO. Movement doesn't seem as fluid, and weapon spraying feels less precise. The new 64 tick/sub-tick servers apparently fall short (though I'm not familiar with the concept of sub-tick). For long-time enthusiasts and serious CS players, it appears CS2 has some ground to cover. As a former serious player who now plays casually, I agree that maintaining accuracy while firing continuously feels slightly off in CS2. I've also experienced being shot around corners, which didn't occur in CS:GO and might be related to the server tick rate. Nevertheless, I find my CS2 matches just as exciting as before, and I believe most players will too.
These changes and improvements, while varying in impact for different player groups, collectively contribute to CS2's evolution. The game strikes a balance between preserving the core Counter-Strike experience and introducing new elements that add depth and complexity. As the community adapts to these changes and Valve continues to refine the game, CS2 has the potential to become an even more engaging and competitive experience for players of all skill levels.
As with any video game, CS2 wraps up matches with cosmetic rewards. If you purchased CS:GO previously, you'll receive "Prime Status" at no cost in CS2; otherwise, it's £15. Prime Status unlocks competitive and premier modes, plus queues with other Prime members. Valve intends this to match you with players who value FPS games. However, I've encountered both friendly and toxic players, so its effectiveness is questionable. Prime also enables the Weekly Care Package, allowing you to choose two cosmetic rewards upon leveling up. It's a nice touch, I suppose.
Valve continues with paid loot crates and associated marketplaces. However, it's not overly intrusive, and you can opt out if desired. I personally ignore skins and crates, and the game doesn't pressure me or penalize me for this choice. While I dislike the gambling aspect and wish it didn't exist, players can easily avoid it.
Honestly, I feel I've moved past my CS days. It's an FPS that demands a lot, so those seeking a more casual shooter should look elsewhere. However, for newcomers, returning players, or veterans, CS2 offers exciting matches that can shift dramatically with clever plays or impressive shots. Many will find it similar to CS:GO with improved grenades and enhanced maps, while others might prefer the original CS:GO. Currently, CS2 is a solid update to a proven formula, but it's missing many fan favorites. Given time, though, it could become something truly special.
The game doesn't bombard you with pop-ups or punish you for ignoring cosmetic elements. It's an FPS that requires focus and skill, not suited for those wanting to play mindlessly. CS2 provides thrilling matches that can turn on a dime, whether you're new to the series, returning after a break, or a seasoned player. While some may see it as CS:GO with minor upgrades, others might long for the original. At present, CS2 is a commendable iteration on a classic formula, albeit missing some beloved features. With time and development, it has the potential to evolve into an exceptional gaming experience.
