Counter-Strike 2 is now available and free to play.

Valve has released Counter-Strike 2, making the new version available as a free to play title on Steam. Counter-Strike 2 replaces Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) on the platform and is positioned as a major upgrade rather than a separate paid sequel.

Quick facts

Release date: September 27, 2023
Platform: PC (Steam)
Business model: Free to play
Upgrade path: Free upgrade for existing CS:GO players, inventories carry over
Season: Premier Season One launches alongside release

What is new in Counter-Strike 2

Counter-Strike 2 moves the series onto the Source 2 engine and introduces significant technical and gameplay updates. Valve highlighted features such as improved server responsiveness, upgraded lighting and visuals, and reworked map builds.

One of the most discussed changes is how smoke grenades behave. Valve described smoke as dynamic and volumetric, interacting with lighting and reacting to bullets and explosions, which can temporarily clear sightlines and change how players control space.

Modes and competitive play

Valve said Counter-Strike 2 launches with the game’s core competitive modes and introduces Premier as a new centerpiece for ranked play. Premier uses a map pick and ban format and a CS Rating system designed to track performance over a season.

Skins and inventories carry over

Valve confirmed that players keep their CS:GO inventories, including weapon finishes, gloves, and other cosmetics. All items were updated to take advantage of Source 2 lighting and materials.

Where to download

Counter-Strike 2 is available to download on Steam. Players can install it directly from the store page, and purchases such as Prime Status and skins remain tied to Steam accounts.

Sources

Steam News (Sep 27, 2023): Counter-Strike 2 is now available – https://store.steampowered.com/news/app/730/view/3747614808335403091
Official Counter-Strike site (CS2 overview) – https://www.counter-strike.net/cs2
The Verge (Sep 27, 2023): Valve launches Counter-Strike 2 – https://www.theverge.com/2023/9/27/23893279/valve-counter-strike-2-launch