CS2 Beginner's Guide

CS2: Beginner's Guide – How to Get Started

Whether you're picking up a virtual weapon for the first time or you're a seasoned veteran, this guide is designed to help you understand the basics of Valve's latest addition to the Counter-Strike series. We offer you an overview of the fundamental elements of the game as well as practical tips to make your first CS2 matches as smooth as possible.

Basics of CS2

In CS2, two teams of five players each, Terrorists (T) and Counter-Terrorists (CT), compete against each other on various maps. In the first half of the game, you are a member of one of the teams, and after halftime, you switch sides.

Game Rounds

The game consists of an MR12 system, where each half contains 12 rounds. To win, a team needs 13 round victories. In the event of a tie, the game goes into an overtime of six rounds.

Maps and Game Modes

The game features several maps, each offering different challenges and strategies. Most maps are based on a bomb disposal task, where the T-team's goal is to plant a bomb and the CT's task is to prevent it or defuse the planted bomb. There are also hostage maps, which offer a different gameplay experience, but these are not available in the game's "main mode" or premier.

Weapon Selection

Each round begins with a short buying time, during which you can purchase weapons and equipment based on the funds accumulated from your game performances. It's important to plan your purchases and savings carefully, as the right weapon choice can turn the tide of the game. Sometimes it's wise to save, or "eco," so you have more to spend in the next round.

Shooting

Aiming: Good aiming is key to successful gameplay. Practice keeping your crosshair at enemy head height and shooting in short bursts. Remember, your weapon's recoil increases when firing, and shooting while moving significantly reduces accuracy.
Pre-emptive Shooting: As you learn the layouts of the maps, try pre-emptive shooting around corners and obstacles where enemies might be hiding, especially if you hear an enemy approaching.
Peeking and Moving: Learn to peek quickly from cover and use strafing (sideways movement) to your advantage when searching for enemies. However, do not expose yourself for too long.
Recoil Control: Familiarize yourself with the recoil patterns of primary weapons (AK47, M4) and practice controlling them. This is particularly useful in tight situations when facing multiple enemies and you don't have time to wait for recoil to reset.

Strategic Positioning

It's important in the game to choose the right locations and angles. Change your position slightly each round and use the element of surprise to your advantage. Remember, a good defensive position can make you a harder target to hit.

Silence is Golden

Sounds are important in CS2. Hold the Shift key to walk silently, so you don't reveal your location with noises.

Utilizing Grenades

Grenades are an essential part of CS2's strategy, enabling diverse tactics on the field. Here's a quick overview of grenade basics:

Smoke Grenades: Create visual cover. Use them to cover your movements or block the enemy's view.
HE Grenades: Effective for causing damage. Best used in tight spaces and to finish off weakened enemies.
Flashbangs: Temporarily blind enemies. Learn to throw them strategically.
Molotovs and Incendiary Grenades: Block enemy movements and force them out of hiding spots.

Each map has several grenade "lineups." Here's an example of the A-site stairs smoke on Mirage.

Position yourself on the first step, facing directly towards the white support structure (marked in yellow in the picture).

Next, look up to the right and find the spot shown in the picture.

Find the right spot in the game by imagining the lines shown in the lower picture and their intersection point.

If done correctly, the smoke should look like this:

Team Cooperation

Communicate with your teammates and take advantage of the communication tools provided by the game. Learning map-specific "callouts" and using the ping feature when necessary can significantly improve your team's coordination.

Summary

As a beginner in CS2, it's important to focus on learning the basics. Every match played offers new learning opportunities, so patience and practice are keys to success. Welcome to the Counter-Strike community – we hope you enjoy the game!