Counter-Strike 2: The Next Generation of Valve's Legendary FPS

Counter-Strike 2 has been announced as the next generation of Valve's legendary FPS and the continuation of CS:GO. After long-running rumors, three new videos were released today showcasing innovations such as going beyond the tick rate, improved maps, and responsive smoke grenades. At the end of the videos, Valve confirmed the game's name and that it will be released in the summer of 2023. They also announced that a limited test for selected CS:GO players has started today.

Hints about the future of Counter-Strike have been emerging for the past few weeks, with many of them being unearthed by the game's loyal modding and data-mining community. Three days ago, these rumors reached a peak when the Counter-Strike 2 trademark was registered by Valve on March 14.

Perhaps the most impressive change is the transition to the tick rate. The tick rate, which was previously an almost seamless method of matching the player's input with the server's every tick, sometimes meant the difference between missing or hitting a shot. Counter-Strike 2 will offer "sub-tick updates," allowing the server to know exactly when your shot occurred and not worry about the time until the next tick.

Valve also announced changes to their maps. They said they want to keep some "touchstone" maps that allow players to calibrate the changes from CS:GO to Counter-Strike 2. Lighting settings may be noticeable, but other changes will be minimal. Other maps will be updated with Source 2 lighting, and the game's oldest maps will be "completely rebuilt."

Finally, it was noted that the new smoke grenades will provide a more responsive and consistent smoke for all players.

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