The launch of CS2 was a huge moment in the gaming world. Gamers from all over flocked to Steam to check out the updated version of the iconic first-person shooter.
Like its predecessor, CS:GO, CS2 is free to play if you have a Steam account. But is everything in CS2 actually free? Well, kind of.
So, Is CS2 Actually Free?
In short, yes! CS2 is a free first person shooter game available on the Steam store. However, you can also purchase a paid feature, which is a CS2 Prime account. All CS2 Prime players enjoy the benefits of extra perks within the game, and much of the players’ feedback is positive, especially on the overall gaming experience.
CS2 Free Version
The CS2 free version of the game provides players with access to every type of matchmaking mode in the game, except for two, which are the Ranking Matchmaking and the Wingman Mode.
A free CS2 account lets you enjoy the free matchmaking services, as well as collect and trade the all important CS2 skins. Although playing for free is preferential, you are more likely to come across cheaters and Smurf accounts. You also won't be able to get your CS2 rank in the free-to-play version.
CS2 Paid Version
Players who purchase the Prime status are provided with a multitude of benefits, one of which being the exclusive weekly drops and instant access to Ranked Matchmaking. This means that players will also have the ability to progress further in the Competitive Skill Groups and gain XP.
Prime matchmaking offers better protection against smurfs and cheating accounts, making for a smoother experience. Plus, Ranked Matchmaking gives you a more balanced game by matching you with players who have similar skill levels.
How to Get CS2 Prime Status?
To tackle smurf accounts and cheaters, CS2 Prime has been made more exclusive by placing it behind a paywall. Now, players need to buy Prime status from the Steam store to access it.
To gain access to the Prime Status -
- Get a CS2 free version of game via your Steam account.
- Open the CS2 game on their Steam store.
- Click “Add to Cart” for the Prime Status.
- Select “Purchase for myself” and finalize the Steam transaction.
Before downloading the free-to-play CS2, make sure you're on the official Steam store and nowhere else. Never download the game from any other source, as it could be a harmful file that risks your computer's safety.
Once you’ve gone through the installation wizard and have the game fully installed, you’ll have a free-to-play version of the game where you’re ready to play, collect skins and upgrade to the Prime Status anytime in the future.
The free version of CS2 is fine to play. But it's always worth paying that little extra for Prime to enhance your experience and enjoy a more balanced, cheat-free environment.
