UPDATE: Counter-Strike 2 is now available!!!
— CS2 (@CounterStrike) September 27, 2023
The air is thick with anticipation, and the excitement can be felt across forums, discords, and online platforms. Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), the sequel to the iconic Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), is supposed to launch today, and if the cryptic hints are anything to go by, gamers around the globe should be poised to dive into the new installment.
Release Timing Across the Globe
- United States:
- West Coast (PST): September 27, 2023, 10:00 AM
- Central (CST): September 27, 2023, 12:00 PM
- East Coast (EST): September 27, 2023, 1:00 PM
- Europe:
- UK (BST): September 27, 2023, 6:00 PM
- Mainland Europe (CEST): September 27, 2023, 7:00 PM
- Asia:
- India (IST): September 27, 2023, 10:30 PM
- China (CST): September 28, 2023, 1:00 AM
- Japan (JST): September 28, 2023, 2:00 AM
- Oceania:
- Australia (AEST): September 28, 2023, 3:00 AM
Last week, the official Counter-Strike account on Twitter, which has now been referred to as ‘X’, dropped a mysterious hint asking followers about their plans for the upcoming Wednesday. To further fan the flames of speculation, on Tuesday (September 26th), the header image was switched out for one that declares, “Dawn of The Final Day,” hinting at the end of the CS:GO era.
Adding more fuel to the fire, Twitch made a significant move by renaming the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive category. It’s now dubbed ‘Counter-Strike,’ signaling the ushering in of a new chapter with CS2. The platform now streams both CS:GO and the limited CS2 beta test under this unified category.
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
For those looking to jump into CS2 immediately upon release, you’d be wise to ensure you have enough space. The CS2 beta had an initial size of about ~26.GB, but after uncompression, it expanded, with the final installation touching ~32.GB.
Early birds with access to the CS2 limited test have reported a smooth transition, especially about in-game assets. It seems the CS2 gun skin economy will build upon CS:GO assets, offering players updated visuals while retaining value. Skins from CS:GO reportedly appear revamped in CS2, making the most of the enhanced capabilities of the Source 2 engine.
The countdown has truly begun. As the community awaits with bated breath, keep an eye on this space for more updates and changes, if any. And as always, let us know your thoughts and expectations for Valve’s next-generation tactical FPS, Counter-Strike 2.
