There is no denying of the success that Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has had across the gaming and eSports industries. The title has been a huge hit and continues to remain so with many players and teams continuing to compete regularly in various tournaments around the world and virtually.
According to some estimates and figures to have been collected, the game regularly clocks between 800,000 and 900,000 players at any one time, thus highlighting its popularity and significance across these two industries.
However, there is a new instalment available, which could potentially change the entire scene and make the first CS:GO become a historic title that many may simply enjoy for nostalgic reasons in the future.
Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) is now available in limited release form, with a global rollout expected to land later this month (September 2023). Although it has been billed as a new version, it still features many of the classic staples that made CS:GO a success, but with some improvements, too.
How could CS2 change the gaming and esports scene?
Naturally, it is not always too difficult to assume that a new game of a smash-hit is likely to have a huge impact once it is fully rolled out. The vast majority of players who enjoy CS:GO will want to at least try out CS2 and see if it is any better than the version that they are already enjoying, while many may want to test themselves to see if they can still be as competitive.
The knock-on effect that is likely to be experienced through the movement of players to a new title is likely going to have an impact on the gambling industry, too. The game is a hugely popular betting option for punters who enjoy wagering on eSports markets. There have been many tournaments in the past that have provided various odds and betting opportunities that many have taken advantage of, as they look to enhance their viewing experiences of these. With the release of CS2, and the potential to use the 32Red Sport sign up offer, there is every likelihood that a greater number of people are going to consider wagering on this title, especially if it can attract as much of the player base that CS:GO boasts.
New features and maps could shake up the eSports scene
Although the game could be argued to be a slight modification of the original, there are still some new features to have been introduced to CS2 that could have an influential impact on the eSports and gaming industries.
The first of those that are noticeable include improved maps that will be slightly different from the ones that were featured in CS:GO. Despite being considered a slightly small update in some instances, there is every possibility that this could be revolutionary. Established CS:GO teams may find the changes to hot to handle, and may struggle to be as accomplished in CS2 when they start playing. This could then lead to new eSports teams taking over the niche and becoming new major players.
Faster tick rates have also been implemented into the second instalment of this franchise, with the game going from 64 to 128. In basic and simple terms, this means that the game is more responsive, which could lead to even more competitive play. Players who are faster on the button may be able to benefit, which could have an influential impact on the eSports and gaming landscape.
Lastly, like with many developments to established games, there are better graphics. The visuals of the game have been overhauled and players are now provided a greater immersive experience than before. This also rings true for those who watch, too. With CS:GO being released over a decade ago, it has been long overdue.
Verdict
Given the game’s success and combined with the developments and modifications to have been made, there is no denying that CS2 has a great chance of revolutionizing and altering the gaming and eSports landscape significantly. Players have been waiting to enjoy the same gameplay experiences in a modernized way, and should this instalment of the title provide what is promised, there is a lot to look forward to for enthusiasts of this game.
