Is CS2 Replacing CS:GO?
Fast answer first. Then use the tabs or video for more detail.
- Watch the video explanation below for a faster overview.
- Game mechanics may change with updates or patches.
- Use this block to get the short answer without scrolling the whole page.
- Read the FAQ section if the article has one.
- Use the table of contents to jump straight to the detailed section you need.
- Watch the video first, then skim the article for specifics.
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is indeed replacing Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), with CS2 taking over CS:GO’s spot in the Steam store and retaining all previous reviews, CS:GO skins, and items, which are now CS2 skins and items. The replacement means that CS:GO is no longer playable on official servers, and the game in users’ Steam libraries has been renamed to Counter-Strike 2.
FAQs About CS2 and CS:GO
General Questions
-
Is CS:GO being discontinued? Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) is being discontinued in the sense that it is no longer available as a separate entity, and its official servers are no longer accessible. However, support for a legacy version of CS:GO will end on January 1, 2024, for those who cannot launch Counter-Strike 2 due to hardware limitations.
-
Will CS:GO skins be usable in CS2? Yes, all CS:GO skins are usable in CS2, and everything players have bought for their CS:GO inventory remains accessible in CS2.
-
Is CS2 just CS:GO with better graphics? No, CS2 is not just CS:GO with better graphics; it offers improved rendering, lighting effects, character models, and environmental interactions, making it a more immersive and realistic gaming experience.
Technical and Compatibility Questions
-
Will CS2 run on my PC? To run CS2 at its maximum performance, players need Windows 10 64-bit, 16 GB RAM, and a graphics card like the RTX 2070 or Radeon RX 5700 XT.
-
Will CS2 use Source 2? Yes, CS2 will use the Source 2 engine, which is an upgrade from the engine used by CS:GO, offering features like 128 tick servers and an improved matchmaking system.
Skins and Economy Questions
-
Will CS:GO skins lose value with CS2? Some CS:GO skins might lose their appeal or become outdated in CS2, especially those that cannot take advantage of the new reflection and lighting systems of the Source 2 engine.
-
What skins look best in CS2? Skins like M4A1 S
Hot Rod, Doppler Knives (Phase 2), and AWP -
What is the most expensive skin in CS:GO? The most expensive single skin ever sold in CS:GO is a StatTrak Minimal Wear 661 AK-47 with four Titan Holos, sold for $400,000, primarily due to the value of the stickers used.
Game and Update Questions
-
Is CS2 a new game or CS:GO? CS2 is not a separate game but a major free update to CS:GO, running on the Source 2 engine and offering significant improvements and changes.
-
Will CS2 be separate from CS:GO? No, CS2 replaces CS:GO and is not available as a separate game; it has taken over CS:GO’s spot in the Steam store.
-
Will CS2 cases go up in price? CS2 cases, especially those containing the most valuable skins, tend to increase in value over time, making them a good investment for some players.
-
What did they change in CS2? CS2 features improved graphics, a more vibrant and discernible environment, removal of skyboxes, and overhauled maps with new textures, lighting, and potential gameplay changes.
Community and Support Questions
-
Should I sell my CS:GO skins before CS2? It’s advised to take time to think through before selling CS:GO skins, as some may increase in value in CS2, while others may decrease.
-
Will CSGO 2 be paid? No, Counter-Strike 2 is free to play, with in-game purchases available, and owners of the original CS:GO receive it as a free upgrade.
-
Is CS2 the same as CS:GO? While CS2 builds upon CS:GO, it is distinct due to its use of the Source 2 engine, graphical improvements, and gameplay changes, offering a fresh yet familiar experience for players.