Although CS2 remains available to only a limited number of players, Valve continues to develop a new version of CS:GO, which is good news, because each update brings us closer to a release that will be open to everyone. The next update for CS2 was released on August 3, and several noteworthy innovations appeared in it.
Map updates
First of all, the composition of maps in matchmaking has changed. Instead of the updated Vertigo and Overpass, players will now be able to compete on Ancient and Anubis. Since both maps appeared relatively recently in the matchmaking of the main version of CS:GO, there was no need to significantly rework the graphics. The main visual update was improved water rendering. In addition, physical effects have been added to the display of water: for example, the sounds when different types of weapons fall into water are now different. Another cosmetic addition is related to water: chickens now have the ability to swim.
Interestingly, of the maps included in the current competitive map pool, Inferno has never appeared in CS2. It wasn't in the trailer for the new version of the game either. It is possible that in the future it will be replaced by some other card. Given that the first championships will be held on CS2 for many months, the developers have plenty of time to test how various maps function in the new version, make the necessary corrections and decide on the final composition of the map pool.
Other changes
Despite the fact that Wingman mode in CS2 was quite popular, in the update on August 3rd Valve disabled it, probably to make some fixes. Players hope that he will return soon.
Another small but noteworthy update in Counter-Strike 2 – This is the fact that C4 explosives now have an inspection animation. Perhaps this means that there may be skins for this item in the future. In addition, several animations associated with the player's movement around the map have been improved.
The next CS2 update gave data miners a reason to once again look for hints of potential innovations in the game files. It is possible that players will face global changes in the matchmaking system in CS2, which will become more complex. Developers can take advantage of the experience of third-party platforms such as FaceIT and implement a similar rating system into the game. In addition, new resources may appear in the game for beginners. It is likely that the developers expect that after the game is released into open beta, those who have not played CS:GO before will also be interested in it, which means they will need to show the basics of the gameplay. To do this, a tutorial with training missions and matches with the participation of bots may appear in the game.
We can only wait until Counter-Strike 2 is finally released into the public domain and becomes available to all players. So far, only a few lucky holders of invites can evaluate all the listed innovations in practice.
