The big question – Is Counter-Strike 2 a new game or an update to CS:GO?

After weeks of speculation and leaks, Valve finally unveiled details about Counter-Strike 2, the latest edition in the Counter-Strike franchise. Counter-Strike 2 will release in Summer of 2023 and brings significant improvements to the gameplay, smokes, maps as well as graphics. But is it a new game? Or is it an update to the existing title?

Is Counter-Strike 2 a new game?

Counter-Strike 2 is an update to CS:GO and will replace the game in a few months. 

With beta-sign-ups open for Counter-Strike 2, Valve wants you to check your game to see if you have beta access. This means Counter-Strike 2 is going to be an update to the existing game. 

While Valve has not outlined the exact process of transitioning from CS:GO to Counter-Strike 2, they might follow a similar process to Dota 2.

In 2015, Dota 2 Reborn was launched as a separate DLC to the main game. Both games existed side-by-side for a while after which they were merged and only Dota 2 Reborn survived.

When does CS2 release?

Counter-Strike 2 releases in Summer 2023. The game is currently in beta as of March 2023. The game will be in beta testing with players providing valuable feedback to Valve to help them improve the game and remove any bugs. 

It is a free-to-play game and players will not have to buy the game to access it. With improved graphics, variable tick-rates, and new cosmetics, Counter-Strike 2 is going to define the next decade of FPS games.

Here’s all you need to know about Counter-Strike 2 including information about maps, smokes, improved graphics, and much more. The game will have Battle Royale-like lobbies where characters walk onto the screen when you form a lobby. 

Stay tuned to esports.gg for the latest Counter-Strike 2 news and updates.