Counter Strike name holds a special place in our hearts, much more than just a game we play. It unites millions from every corner of the world, bridging language barriers, beliefs, cultures, and even our favourite breakfasts. Since 1999, we’ve gathered around our screens, side by side in the virtual world, bonding over this iconic game. As the years have rolled by, CS has grown and adapted, capturing our hearts and keeping us hooked. So, what’s the secret recipe that has Counter Strike shining bright and stealing our hearts – or in other words: How is Counter Strike still popular in 2023?
The answer to this question is as varied as the players who adore it, with some reasons being deeply personal. For instance, Counter Strike might be the very first online game experienced by those born in the early 90s. Or perhaps it’s the summary of internet cafes, where skipping school with mates meant endless rounds of CS 1.6. Whatever the reason that ignites your passion, one fact remains: CS:GO has reached its pinnacle of popularity, and that bodes brilliantly for CS2.
Related: What Is the New Tick Rate of Counter-Strike 2?
Why Is Counter Strike Still Popular?
Before diving into the heart of the matter, allow us to jog your memory about something we often know but tend to overlook. Counter Strike first burst onto the scene as a stand-alone game in 1999, a whopping 24 years ago. When you realise that the very first video game is 64 years old, it becomes apparent that CS is no spring chicken. This FPS has been our faithful companion for a quarter of a century, and it’s bigger and better than ever.
The enduring popularity of Counter Strike can be attributed to two main factors: Focus around the community and technical aspects. We’ll touch upon each of them briefly, but first, let’s take a moment to acknowledge a record-breaking achievement. On May 6, 2023, CS:GO shattered the all-time record for simultaneous online players, boasting an astounding 1,802,853 player. With that impressive figure in mind, let’s explore the reasons behind its triumph.
Being Community-Based
From its inception, Counter Strike has always been a game that thrives on community spirit. Long before savvy social media posts were a thing, players were banding together to build their very first CS servers. This rich, organically-grown culture, nurtured over 24 years, lies at the heart of Counter Strike’s enduring appeal. No matter how many billions are spent, it’s impossible to replicate the sense of camaraderie that the CS:GO community boasts.
It’s not something money can conjure when tens of thousands of people in chat type “1G” as someone perishes in a self-inflicted molotov blaze. Nor can you force the “JAME TIME” joke into existence. The community’s warm embrace of Shroud, the crowning of S1mple as the GOAT, or Machine and Spunj’s unforgettable rendition of Cadian—these are the moments that will be etched in our memories a century from now.
Yes – the future of this game is Counter Strike 2. And thanks to the culture that has developed through different games for 24 years, no one misses the past. On the contrary, it awaits the future with much greater excitement. This is one of the main reasons Counter Strike is still popular. With CS2 on the horizon, the game, its culture, and the glorious moments we share will be infused with an even greater sense of excitement than ever before.
Technical Aspects
For 24 years, the ever-evolving technical elements have underpinned the growth of the aforementioned culture. Each new Counter Strike game has consistently outshone its predecessor, and a glance at the game’s innovations suggests history will repeat itself. The result? A game that is simply unrivalled as the best competitive FPS.
Do you recall when Valorant was first announced? There was a near-universal certainty that Riot Games’ new FPS would sound the death knell for the ageing CS:GO. We empathise with those who made that prediction; After all, Valorant is a vibrant, dynamic, and thrilling game. It remains so to this day, providing ample enjoyment in its own right. However, when it comes to pure mechanical FPS prowess, Counter Strike still reigns supreme. This fact alone accounts for CS:GO’s unparalleled popularity.
On the subject of Counter Strike’s technical merits, let us also acknowledge the professional aspect. The esports scene, which took root with 1.6 and soared to new heights with CS:GO, is truly awe-inspiring. Counter Strike is a joy to play, but watching it at the pro level is an experience unto itself. When you witness the exploits of Zywoo, Niko, or Bit, your admiration for the game grows exponentially.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is CS:GO an Old Game?
Yes – Counter Strike: Global Offensive is an 11-year-old game. Over the years, numerous updates have given it a modern looks, but at its core, it’s certainly showing its age. Valve likely shares this sentiment, as they are hard at work on Counter Strike 2. Considering that Counter Strike is still popular, the release of CS2 will undoubtedly be embraced by millions of eager players.
When Will Counter Strike 2 Release?
Counter Strike 2 is set to make its grand debut in the summer of 2023. As a free “Upgrade pack” for CS:GO, it will be readily available to all players. While the precise date remains shrouded in mystery, we eagerly anticipate an announcement in the coming weeks. The game will be exclusively available for download and play on Steam. Alongside modes like Ranked matchmaking, all maps from CS:GO will make a triumphant return in Counter Strike 2.
Is Counter Strike 2 Worth It?
As it stands, the limited-player beta of Counter Strike 2 is shaping up quite nicely. For the time being, only Dust 2 is available, but the newly implemented game mechanics are functioning seamlessly. With no price tag attached, the game will be completely free to download and play. For those who fancy a bit of a splurge, loot cases can be purchased with real money, but rest assured, the contents will be purely cosmetic, ensuring that the game steers clear of pay-to-win features.
Author Profile
- My journey into the world of video games began at four, when I was first introduced to arcade machines in 1996. Over the past decades, I've been fortunate enough to witness the incredible evolution of gaming, as it has grown from a niche hobby to a thriving art. Today, I'm dedicated to creating content that celebrates all genres of games. We will talk about them at Player.me.
