CS: GO returns to Steam as a separate install to Counter-Strike 2!
Valve has finally let players install the classic game as its own launcher without CS2.
But what works on this version, and can we still play online?
CSGO Returns
CSGO returns to Steam in a big way, as in the way it should have been from the start. When Valve released CS2, they forced everyone’s application of the game to update. This meant players would only be able to play CS2 unless they messed around with the launcher files.
But now Valve has opened the floodgates and lets players have their way. You can now download Counter-Strike: Global Offensive from its own store page. Although this does not sound like big news, this is huge for fans.
Firstly, all the original maps are there and waiting for you to hop in. They can be played with bots or on private servers. Cache, Cobblestone, Lake and more are all there and waiting!
Game modes like Competitive, Wingman, Casual, Deathmatch and War Games are back. However, Danger Zone is not active, as it requires the online aspect. When you boot it up, it will say ‘connecting to CS:GO network’.
CSGO returns with bots and private servers but not public ones. So you cannot hop into a quick play match on an official server. Nor can you view your Counter Strike skins, as those require a connection to your account.
Although, by using Steam’s server lobby browser in the Steam overlay, we can find dedicated fan servers to play on instead. We just have to manually import the IP into the console and connect from there.
But it is unlikely Valve will restore the matchmaking for this Counter-Strike version, as it will tank CS2.
CSHome
Because ever since CSGO Returns, the player count has shot up to more than 50k players! There are currently more active players on this old version than Deadlock.
The reason for this is more than nostalgia for some gamers. Starting Off the game is small in size at only 16GB and is easy to run. CS2 demands near 80GB of storage, and if that’s not on an SSD at least, then get ready for slow loading, brother.
Also, the game is overall just less demanding, running on pretty much anything. Not to mention a lot of players just prefer how this one plays over CS2. The game feels more responsive; aiming feels sharper and better overall. Sure, the visuals are a downgrade, but the feel is so good.
And for a lot of us, we just want to see the maps that Valve have still not bought over in 2 years! Cache, Agency, Assault, Militia, Dust 2 and more. All the stars are here and waiting for you!
Also, CSGO returns along with the influx of modders that are bound to crack open this clam. If Valve added it to the Steam Workshop once more, letting us play the OG maps from back in the day, then that’s just perfect.
Play this version yourself if you have not or to see what has changed over the years. Trust me, Vertigo feels a lot better without the sidewalk on A!
