Twitch’s recent decision to rebrand “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” (CS: GO) to “Counter-Strike” raised the eyebrows of CS fans. This move gains further complexity with the platform’s choice to keep “Counter-Strike 2” as its distinct category, especially considering the anticipation surrounding its hinted release on Wednesday, September 27.
CS:GO, with its decade-long dominance, has been excellent. Its gripping gameplay, a fervent global following, and the birth of some of the most iconic moments in competitive gaming have ensured its position at the top. Even though the image is still the cover of CS:GO, the name of the category is changed (see image below):
Rumors, speculations, and whispers had been circulating in the gaming corridors for quite some time. With its hinted release date nearing, many see Twitch’s decision to separate the two categories as a strategic move to make way for Counter-Strike 2 and distinct the predecessors in a unique way.
Alternatively, as the next chapter in the Counter-Strike saga looms with “Counter-Strike 2”, Twitch might be positioning itself to ensure both games coexist. What do you think? Is it finally time to say goodbye to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive? Well, like it or not, this would likely happen in two days from the time of this writing.
Just a couple of moments later, this is what Twitch said:
To celebrate the next decade of Counter-Strike, we've updated the name of the category. pic.twitter.com/96Ayvl7OuI
— Twitch (@Twitch) September 25, 2023