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.

Accessing Console Command

After entering CS2, you must open the console command box. You can do this by pressing the “~” key. If you find that the console does not open, navigate to the “Game” tab in the settings and enable the console command there.

Joining the Server

In the console command box, paste the IP address you previously copied and hit enter. Following this step, the game will automatically begin loading you into the chosen server.

Handling Custom Map Errors

The Problem

If the server is running a custom map, you may encounter an error stating “Map was not found.”

Solution: Map Downloads

This error occurs because Community Servers frequently utilize custom Workshop maps created by players. To join such a server, you must first download the required map and place it into the specific directory indicated.

Conclusion

Joining Community Servers in Counter-Strike 2 has undeniably changed, requiring a shift in how players access these game modes. While the new Steam-based hosting may cause some initial confusion, once familiarized with the process, it remains straightforward. This guide should serve as a comprehensive resource for players looking to join Community Servers in CS2, offering step-by-step instructions and solutions to common issues.

Also Read: