Valve has announced the release of Counter-Strike 2, which is built on the new Source 2 engine. While it is currently only available as a limited test, the full version is scheduled to launch later this year.
The company claims that the new game will offer a completely revamped Counter-Strike experience, with improvements to every system, content piece, and component. Although the specific features have not yet been revealed, the sequel will include enhancements such as revamped maps, dynamic smoke grenades, tick-rate-independent gameplay, redesigned visual effects and audio, and the transfer of all CS: GO items to CS2. The game will also be a free upgrade for CS: GO players and free to play for everyone.
The Source 2 engine has brought improvements to Counter-Strike, with some maps being reconstructed entirely for the new game, and others utilizing advanced features of the engine. Smoke grenades in CS 2 now interact with the environment and are dynamic. Bullets can also create holes in walls.
The CS 2 limited test is now available for Windows, and players will be selected to join based on factors such as recent playtime on Valve official servers, trust factor, and Steam account standing. Players who are selected will receive a notification in the main menu, allowing them to participate. Currently, players can access the Dust II map in Deathmatch and “unranked competitive matchmaking,” and they are permitted to post videos and stream CS 2.