What is Counter-Strike 2?

Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is a free-to-play tactical first-person shooter developed by Valve. It is the latest iteration of the Counter-Strike franchise, which has been a cornerstone of competitive gaming for over two decades. CS2 features two teams competing against each other: Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists, each with distinct objectives.

The game is built on Source 2 engine and represents a major evolution from CS:GO. It features improved graphics, better hitreg and registration, updated map designs, and numerous quality-of-life improvements. The gameplay loop remains the same: plant bombs, defuse bombs, eliminate enemies, and manage your team's economy across multiple rounds.

CS2 is entirely free-to-play, supported by cosmetic purchases like weapon skins and sticker collections. All players have access to competitive ranked matches, casual modes, and community content. The game emphasizes skill-based gameplay, strategic thinking, and team coordination.