CS2 Map Pool Explained

One of the key questions when coming into CS2 is “which maps will I be playing?” After all, whether you’re a One Map Mike, or an All-Maps Alan, you’ll want to know whether your favorite maps will be playable in the new version of CS2. So, what can you expect?

Currently available maps

Active Map Pool: Mirage Overpass Vertigo Ancient Inferno Nuke Anubis

So, how do these new maps look?

Mirage returns with cosmetic enhancements. The Maghreb-based maps seem to be deemed good as-is. While the meta will change due to new smoke mechanics, the map itself remains an evergreen of sorts. So, if you’re one of those Mirage one-tricks, worry not, you’ll still be able to anchor B with no issue.

However, as we travel to Italy, things have changed. Inferno’s look is completely different, and while the layout remains unchanged, the map itself has a brand new design and vibe. More colorful, bright and vibrant, this version of Inferno is a joy to look at, with some minor changes to gameplay stemming from the retexturing. It’s going to be interesting to see how those changes impact the meta as time goes on.

Similarly, Overpass has gotten some new textures, making it brighter and more vibrant (that’s the general CS2 vibe, it would seem) without key changes to the layout. The changes are most noticeable on the approach to the A-Site, as the new park is far brighter than anything we’ve seen before. The classic toilets have been replaced by a subway station, and Optimus has gotten a new coat of paint, along with some of the park walls. Long has also become a Biergarten, so once you’re done kicking your opponents’ butts, you can kick back and enjoy a cold one there.

Nuke also got a facelift, while retaining all the modifications that made it playable and more even over the years. With the new smoke mechanics and MR12 format however, this CT-sided map has already shown to be a n interesting one in

Finally, Vertigo, Ancient and Anubis have also gotten subtle improvements and remain in the active Duty Map Pool.

Reserve/Hostage Group: Dust II Office

Dust 2 is back, because, of course, it is. The ultimate classic was the first map tested in CS2 and the changes to it are mostly cosmetic, as its big CS2 rework changed it to a modern version. Here, visibility is the name of the game. So, if you’re a Dust 2 fanatic, not much changes for you, it’ll be back around.

The more casual among us will be happy to know that Office received a full on refresh, changing its look and feel. While it’s unlikely to ever enter any sort of competitive play, it’s sure to be fun for hostage mode fanatics.

##The Maps to Come

We’re still waiting to see the reworked Train, but it has been announced as coming and it will likely make its grand return to the Active Duty Map Pool.

Finally, when it comes to a proper throwback, Cobblestone is rumored to be returning in a winter edition. We’re not sure when it comes out, and how it’s going to look in the end, but we’re hoping for some epic showdowns.

If you’re a casual fan, you’ll also be happy to hear that Office isn’t the only Hostage Map remake. Italy will also be getting some improvements. Will the recently-reintroduced Tuscan be entering competitive play? Well, we’ll have to wait and see.

##The absentees

Finally, there’s a big gaping hole in the Map Pool, and for legal reasons we’re unlikely to see it fixed by launch. Cache does not seem to be coming to CS2, so unfortunately it’s unlikely we’ll see epic juan deags from A to connector, or awesome connector AWPing anytime soon.

This is due to various legal issues related to the ownership of Cache, meaning Valve doesn’t want to risk putting it in the game without proper licensing. While fan versions will likely show up sooner and later, unless Valve figures out a way to acquire it from the owners.

What will the map pool look like after the changes?

It’s hard to say. It’s unlikely Mirage, Inferno or Overpass go anywhere as they seem to be absolute staples of the game. The newer maps are in danger of being rotated out, particularly Vertigo, which may have overstayed its welcome as a "gimmick map." However, Valve has shocked us in the past, so who knows what Premier Mode players will be playing in the coming years.

Finally, Operations might shake things up in the worlds of CS2, with new casual maps appearing to introduce a few twists here and there. Whatever the case, we're excited to see what comes next, and to bring you the best skins on PirateSwap!

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