Highlights
- Counter-Strike 2 has introduced shiny overhauls and layout tweaks to all its maps, making them familiar yet innovative.
- The new versions of Overpass, Office, Nuke, Ancient, Vertigo, Inferno, Mirage, and Dust 2 have received visual improvements and some gameplay enhancements.
- Players are embracing the changes, finding new tactics and enjoying the fresh visuals, while still feeling at home with the iconic maps they know and love.
Counter-Strike maps have drastically changed and evolved over the years, with each new iteration being drastically different from the previous one yet still familiar and recognizable. The new game, Counter-Strike 2, is no exception, with every single map getting a shiny overhaul and numerous layout tweaks and rebalances.
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While some maps have been more dramatically changed than others, players should still feel right at home with most of them. Certain changes, such as the new Mid for Dust 2, took some time to get used to, but players are mostly embracing the new maps, finding new and innovative tactics, smokes, and flash lineups.
8 Overpass
Average Competitive Queue Time - 4:12
Overpass has always held a special spot for many players, with its rich history and a unique layout. The map has always been quite unique, with an actual moving train in the background of the map and the many multi-leveled tunnels and staircases.
The new version does a lot to improve the recognizable atmosphere, with great new lighting and a fresh water overhaul. The map looks a lot newer, and the bright and warm lighting of the environment really adds a lot to the urban atmosphere, welcoming new players and veterans alike.
7 Office
Average Competitive Queue Time - 3:52
While the Office hasn’t seen too much professional recognition, many players still love the map in Casual and Competitive matches. The “hostage” format, as opposed to the usual “defuse,” presents a unique look at how the game can be played, with a different approach to how the sides go about taking their objectives.
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When it comes to the rework, most of the map has been untouched in terms of layout, and players will quickly adapt to the new version. Visually, the map looks great, and the new glass-breaking system comes into play a lot here.
6 Nuke
Average Competitive Queue Time - 3:30
Nuke hasn’t ever looked better than this. The new lighting hits the fresh textures and models absolutely beautifully, and it really does look like the sunniest of sunny days. The layout has gone untouched, and instead, most of the work went towards the clean visual style, giving the map a much-needed new paint job.
The map still retains its unique properties, such as the physical proximity of the two bomb sites, the risky air vents that connect them, and the expeditions. Overall, it feels great to play on this version of the map thanks to all the beloved features and the new glossy finish.
5 Ancient
Average Competitive Queue Time - 3:06
Ancient is a relatively new map, especially when compared to some of the other ones on the list. It was first introduced to CS: GO back in December 2020 and has been visually retouched for the new game. The iconic greenery of the map looks incredible with the new engine, and the atmospheric lighting brings it all together.
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While it hasn’t garnered as much love as some of the other maps, it is still quickly growing in popularity, with many players gradually warming up to the jungle aesthetic. Overall, it is a great addition to the "main" competitive map pool.
4 Vertigo
Average Competitive Queue Time - 2:18
Even if it never gained the mainstream popularity of some of its peers, the vertigo-inducing map has always been a favorite for many players. With the unique vertical map layout and the incredible views of the city below, players likely spent countless hours in the towering buildings.
The new version has also greatly benefited from the fresh engine, and the visual update has done wonders for the map. The map now plays as great as it looks, and those who have already found a love for it will not be disappointed.
3 Inferno
Average Competitive Queue Time - 2:20
Inferno is a beloved map due to its balanced design and strategic depth. The map's layout encourages tactical play, offering multiple routes for both Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists. Its narrow corridors and tight spaces create intense firefights, promoting skillful aim and teamwork.
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The new version has really put its best foot forward, with stunning visuals for every little corner of the map. Newer players would be forgiven for getting distracted by the rich decorations and glistening surroundings. The creators have really given the deserved attention to one of the fan favorites, and both newcomers and veterans will enjoy the invigorated map.
2 Mirage
Average Competitive Queue Time - 2:17
Mirage has always been one of the most played maps in CS: GO, with both professionals and casual players highly favoring this fairly balanced map. The visual difference with the new version might be one of the most noticeable out of all the reworked maps.
Compared to the old, beaten landscape and interiors, the new map features beautiful decorations and textures, making almost every surface shine and glisten under the new lighting. Most players have received the fan-favorite very warmly, with it still being one of the most popular maps for Casual, Competitive, and E-sport play.
1 Dust 2
Average Competitive Queue Time - 1:47
Dust 2 has been the most iconic map for many years, and to this day, has the shortest queue time out of any other map. There are many reasons for its popularity, from its intuitive layout, many interesting angles, and the various tactical approaches that the map allows players.
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Even though many could navigate the map with their eyes closed, the new version feels fresh and polished. The lighting greatly enhances the overall feel of the map, somehow making it feel much bigger than it is. The vibrant color scheme and the familiar locale will also make everyone feel at home while they explore.
