When did CS2 release? Full release date, updates, and more

Counter-Strike 2, also known as CS2, was one of the most anticipated games on release. The first new Counter-Strike title in over a decade had a fan following unlike any other game. With significant improvements already teased, the hype for the upcoming FPS title was at an all-time high.

When Valve first announced CS2, they revealed the game would be released sometime in Summer 2023. The vague timeline left many players frustrated, and coupled with a limited test beta that saw random players receive invites, hype continued building to no end. Then, CS2 arrived at last.

Here's a breakdown of CS2's release date and what changed.

CS2 released on Sep. 27, 2023. The game is now officially available on Steam and is free to play.

Since its official release CS2 has received countless updates, with everything ranging from gameplay and technical improvements to new skins and cosmetics for players to chase.

The build-up to CS2's release was long and, for many, frustrating. Valve announced a limited test of CS2 that was invite-only, but didn't make it clear how people would be invited. As a result, many players who hadn't touched CS:GO in a long time received access, with some even selling their accounts to those hungry for early playtime.

Over time, Valve invited more players until early September when all players were given access to the beta to test server loads. By the end of the month, CS2 was live, and since then more players than ever have played the tactical FPS.

A big part of the community was worried about existing cosmetic skins in CS:GO. However, Valve confirmed existing skins ported over to CS2 upon the game’s release. The game features responsive smokes, improved graphics, and a new sub-tick system that will allow players of all systems to play the game at an optimal level.

Here's how you can download CS2: as long as you fulfill the CS2 system requirements!

Stay tuned to esports.gg for the latest CS2 news and updates.