On the night of August 31 to September 1, Valve pleased Counter-Strike fans with a major update. Although CS2 still remains available to only a part of the players, their number is gradually expanding, and the release of the update allows us to hope that a full-scale release is just around the corner. This time the changes affected several aspects of the game.
Inferno Update
First of all, Counter-Strike 2 has a new map, namely Inferno. Even before its release, there were rumors in the community that it would be significantly reworked, and they turned out to be true. Although the style of the map remains the same, there are many small details added to the map that add to the realism and atmosphere. In addition, for some reason the library changed its purpose – now this location is called a wine storage room.
New format
Another significant innovation was changes in the matchmaking system. For several years now, there have been concerns in the community that competitive matches take too much time and are therefore less fun for viewers. For a long time, the developers were looking for an opportunity to change the ratio so that teams would have enough opportunities to express themselves, but the game would be perceived as more dynamic. It looks like Valve has found a solution: now the number of rounds will be reduced from 30 to 24, and in order to keep the map, the team will need to win 13 rounds.
This format, called MR12, will be used in both casual and competitive matches. Viewers will also see it at the first majors where CS2 will be used. Interestingly, up to 13 rounds were also played in long-standing Counter-Strike 1.6 competitions at the beginning of the 2000s. Soon, CS:GO fans will be able to see how well this option works these days.
Matchmaking updates
The matchmaking system itself has also undergone changes. There is a new Premier Mode, aimed at those players who want an experience as close as possible to eSports competitions. The list of maps for each match will be formed using a veto system, as in most major events, and based on the results, players will be able to increase their level in the regional and world rankings.
The usual competitive mode will also remain, but it will be perceived more as a training session for Premier Mode. In it, the rank will be calculated separately for each map, which will allow players to more effectively practice their skills and not face overly difficult opponents on those maps where they still feel uncomfortable. Of course, the normal mode won’t go anywhere – for those who are not at all interested in competition and increasing their rating.
Another good news is that Valve has significantly expanded the number of players who will have access to the new version. Many Prime holders who spend a lot of time in official competitive matchmaking received invitations. Check – perhaps the new version has finally become available to you.
