Counter-Strike 2 will completely revamp the game’s maps, setting a new standard for the tactical shooter.
Maps are everything in Counter-Strike, whether it’s 2 or Global Offensive. Valve knows this very well, as the reveal of CS2 confirmed the inclusion of several iconic venues. However, while some will keep the exact same layout, others will get special treatment with major gameplay changes. Here are all the confirmed maps in Counter-Strike 2 and which ones are getting major reworks.
The three trailers revealed a number of maps confirmed to be in the limited beta test for Counter-Strike 2. Here are all of the different locales shown off in the trailers.
- Ancient
- Dust 2
- Italy
- Mirage
- Nuke
- Overpass
- Train
While these were the only maps shown off in the trailer, it’s likely that CS2 will have dozens of other available maps when it launches in the summer. Other classics like Cache, Cobblestone, Train, and Office will probably be playable, and active duty maps like Anubis and Vertigo are practically guaranteed. Expect more map announcements when CS2 gets closer to release later this year.
Classic CSGO maps look amazing in Counter-Strike 2
The first category is what Valve is calling “touchstone” maps. These are extremely popular maps that don’t need adjustments, so they only get some of the visual upgrades brought by the Source 2 engine. These are meant to help transition players to the new engine by essentially replicating the feel of Source 1. In the official map video, Valve singles out Dust 2, Mirage, and Train as touchstone maps.
The second category are upgrades, which are maps that will receive major visual changes when Counter-Strike 2 launches this summer. These upgrades will enhance the maps’ lighting, textures, and reflections to represent the power of the Source 2 engine. They don’t change from a gameplay perspective, but they will still feel totally fresh. Upgraded venues confirmed for Counter-Strike 2 include Ancient and Nuke.
The final and most extreme category are overhauls, which are completely rebuilt maps that take full advantage of Source 2’s myriad new features. The selection for these maps include Inferno, Italy, and Overpass. Italy is a surprising inclusion, as the map isn’t even in active duty at the time of writing. That could be a hint that it will make its way to competitive play eventually, possibly even replacing Mirage.
