Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has officially launched, replacing the legendary Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO). Whether you’re upgrading from CSGO or installing CS2 for the first time, this guide will walk you through the steps to get the game running on your system.
Key Takeaways
- CS2 automatically replaces CSGO with a 6GB update via Steam.
- New players can download CS2 directly from the Steam store for free.
- The game will appear in your library once downloaded, ready to play.
Step-by-Step Guide to Downloading and Installing CS2
1. Upgrading from CSGO to CS2
If you already have CSGO installed on your system, the transition to CS2 is simple:

- Launch Steam: Open the Steam client on your computer.
- Update Process: Try to launch CSGO. Steam will automatically begin updating your game to Counter-Strike 2. Note that this update is approximately 6GB in size.
- Complete the Installation: Once the update finishes, CSGO will be replaced by CS2 in your library.

2. Downloading CS2 for New Users
For new players who have never installed CSGO, follow these steps:

- Go to the Steam Store: Open Steam and navigate to the store section.
- Search for Counter-Strike 2: In the search bar, type “Counter-Strike 2”. It should appear as the top result. If it doesn’t, here is the official link to Counter-Strike 2 on Steam.
- Download the Game: On the game page, scroll down to find the download button. Click “Download Now” or “Install”.
- Follow the Prompts: The installation process is straightforward. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the download and installation.

3. Finding and Launching CS2

Once the game has been installed, it will appear in your games library:

- Launch the Game: Simply click on “Play” to launch Counter-Strike 2 and start gaming.
Conclusion

Downloading and installing Counter-Strike 2 is a straightforward process, especially for existing CSGO users. With CS2 now live, all you need to do is follow the steps above to enjoy the latest version of this classic game. Happy gaming!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How large is the Counter-Strike 2 update for existing CSGO users?
The update size is approximately 6GB.
2. Is Counter-Strike 2 free to download?
Yes, CS2 is free to download and play on Steam.
3. What happens to CSGO after I update to CS2?
CSGO will be automatically replaced by CS2 in your Steam library.
4. How do I troubleshoot installation issues?
Ensure that your Steam client is up-to-date and that you have enough storage space for the 6GB installation. If issues persist, try restarting Steam or your system.
5. Can I revert back to CSGO after installing CS2?
No, CS2 has fully replaced CSGO, and there is no official way to revert back.