CSGO Announces Release of Source 2 and Rebranding to Counter-Strike 2 in 2023.

CSGO recently announced the highly anticipated release of Source 2, and with it, a rebranding of the game to Counter-Strike 2. The announcement was made on Twitter by @CSGO, and has left fans excited for the updates to come. 

Today we're excited to announce Counter-Strike 2. Counter-Strike 2 is an overhaul to every system, every piece of content, and every part of the C-S experience. First, let's talk about smoke grenades: pic.twitter.com/iTtguRHJ0S

— CS:GO (@CounterStrike) March 22, 2023

What We Know About Source 2 

One of the most exciting updates is the implementation of responsive smokes, allowing for more strategic placement of smoke grenades. It is speculated that this feature may remove one-way smokes, but we will have to wait and see. Additionally, hand grenades and bullets will be able to disperse smoke, changing the meta entirely. 

Improved Graphics

The game will also see improvements in graphics, including better lighting, shadows, and textures. However, these changes will not be so drastic as to detract from the familiar gameplay mechanics that fans have come to love. 

Performance

Source 2 is optimized for better performance, but it remains to be seen if this will result in increased or decreased FPS on regular computers. 

128 Tick

Sub-tick updates have been introduced, eliminating the need for tickrate. This change will have a significant impact on the meta, as peeking advantage will no longer be the same. 

Matchmaking

Not much is known about the changes to matchmaking, but it appears that the current ranking system will remain in place. It is unclear if the engine behind matchmaking and the elo-system will be changed. 

Maps

Maps will be rebuilt using Source 2, making it easier for community map makers to introduce new, high-quality maps. Additionally, pixel bugs will likely be eliminated, making it impossible to exploit any unintended features. 

Organizers and Teams

The transition to Source 2 may cause some issues for tournament organizers and teams, who may need to rewrite plugins to adapt to the new engine. 

Skins

Players can rest easy knowing that their skins are safe, but they will see improvements in lighting.

Gameplay Visuals, Environment Effects, UI Enhancements

Players can expect more detailed visuals, improved blood and bullet impacts, and better explosion, fire, and C4 lightning effects. The UI will also be updated with fresh visual effects throughout.

Release Date

Counter-Strike 2 is set to release in the summer of 2023, with a beta version potentially available sooner.