After twelve years of dominating the FPS scene, CS:GO remains a fan favorite. However, in 2023 time came for an upgrade, and CS2 was launched, bringing not just improved visuals but also exciting gameplay changes.

But what are the key differences between CS2 and CS:GO, and which one takes the crown?

The most obvious change to the game is its transition to a smoother engine. CS:GO ran on what was called the ‘Source Engine’, whereas CS2 runs on a more contemporary 'Source 2 Engine'. When CS2 was released, it was considered the largest technical leap forward in the history of Counter Strike. Maps were fully overhauled, completely reworked from the ground up using the new Source 2 engine, while maps that received only an upgrade benefited from the enhanced lighting system.

The Source 2 engine made a huge difference in server performance for CS2, removing the need for tick rate calculations. With the new sub-tick update system, tick rates like 64 and 128 are a thing of the past. Now, the servers can perfectly track every movement, jump, shot or thrown item, making sure everything feels equally responsive. It's a big win for fairness across the board.

CS:GO on the left, CS2 on the right - Image via hothardwire

Naturally, if the engine gets a big upgrade, so do the visual improvements. CS2 brought in a wide variety of improvements, from game textures, object models and general user interface (UI), to weapon and character models. CS2 also features improvements to animations, muzzle flash and even blood spatter VFX. All of this helped to make the gameplay feel crisp, especially when paired with the update to sounds.

There was also some big changes to how the game plays. The new MR12 format shortens match lengths, so you can get more games in the same time. Overtime’s been tweaked too - now it’s three rounds per side, unless one team wins four rounds first. It’s all about making the action faster and more exciting.

CS2 isn't just a direct sequel to CSGO, but a show of what can be made in a new era of innovation. Thanks to the power of the Source 2 engine, it delivers a fresh and exciting Counter Strike experience that’s sure to grab the attention of both new and veteran players.

So, to round it all up, with all the new updates and changes, we think CS2 is set to become the go-to FPS for competitive players!