Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has revamped the way Community Servers function, which has left some players puzzled. Unlike previous titles in the franchise, Community Servers in CS2 are now hosted on Steam rather than within the game itself. Consequently, the traditional method of joining these servers has changed. This detailed guide aims to shed light on how you can join Community Servers in CS2, covering all the steps required and explaining the complications you might encounter.
The Shift to Steam: A Fundamental Change
New Hosting Environment
CS2 has deviated from its predecessors by hosting Community Servers on Steam. The implications of this shift are significant. When you log into CS2, the game interface no longer allows you to browse through Community Servers directly.
Impact on Players
This change has led to some confusion within the community. Community Servers have always played an essential role in the Counter-Strike experience. They offer a plethora of game modes such as Deathmatch, 1v1 Arena, and other practice modes. The transition to Steam-based hosting has therefore necessitated an adjustment in how players access these servers.
Step-by-Step: How to Join a Community Server in CS2
Finding the Server on Steam
Upon logging into Steam, you will have access to a list of all the live Community Servers for CS2. To proceed, you need to search for the server you wish to join. The server can feature any game mode you prefer, be it Deathmatch, FFA Deathmatch, Retakes, or others.
Copying the Server's IP Address
Once you've selected a server, your next task is to copy its IP address. After doing this, launch CS2.