Today could be a significant day for the gaming community, as Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is expected to be released on September 27, 2023. The anticipation stems from multiple sources, including official teases from Valve. Last week, the Counter-Strike account on the platform formerly known as Twitter hinted at today’s release by asking, “What are you doing next Wednesday?” The header image of the account was also updated, further amplifying speculations.

On September 26th, the account modified its header image to state “Dawn of The Final Day,” suggesting the end of the CS:GO era. Within hours of the expected launch, the header read “Dawn of A New Day,” subtly confirming that the release of CS2 is imminent. Furthermore, Twitch updated its Counter-Strike category, now encompassing both CS2 and CS:GO streams, adding credibility to the notion that CS2 is on the verge of release.

Counter-Strike 2 Countdown Timer Updates

While the official Counter-Strike account hinted at a 10:00 AM PST release, the game has not been made available at that time. Subsequent hourly updates have been provided:

  • 10:37 AM PST: AMD releases driver update for CS2, adding more assurance of today’s release.
  • 11:05 AM PST: No official word from Valve yet; the countdown timer is extended.
  • 11:33 AM PST: Counter-Strike servers go offline, indicating a possible transition to CS2.
  • 12:04 PM PST: ESL tweet adds further speculation, countdown extended again.
  • 01:03 PM PST: Another hour passes, no release yet, countdown timer further extended.
  • 01:30 PM PST: Status of CS servers changes to “Unknown,” amplifying expectations.
  • 01:40 PM PST: CS2 is officially live, confirmed by an official tweet.

Counter-Strike 2 Update Install Size

Prepare your storage drives as CS2 is expected to require about 35GB of space based on the beta installation size of 32.7GB. The initial update size is 26.4GB, but post-uncompression, it increases. Valve is expected to transition from CS:GO to CS2 smoothly, with player-owned items carrying over but with updated visuals due to the Source 2 engine.

Counter-Strike 2 Gameplay Features

The new game offers several enhancements including improved smokes, better audio and graphics, and overhauled maps. Existing gun skins from CS:GO will appear differently, thanks to Source 2’s advanced lighting features. For example, a simple MP7 | Army Recon skin looks stunning under the new lighting conditions. Detailed guides on these new features are available for those interested.

Final Thoughts

While today is marked as the expected release date for CS2, it’s crucial to stay updated for any changes. Our post will be revised as more information becomes available. Valve’s anticipated transition to CS2 has been a topic of much discussion, and only time will tell how successful it is.

For those keen on keeping track, a countdown timer is available on this page. Let us wait and see what Valve has in store for its next-gen tactical FPS esports title, Counter-Strike 2.

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