CS:GO/CS2 Basics Guide

CS offers a number of game modes available for each type of player.

Casual

The casual mode is the easiest way to get a feel for the game without any pressure whatsoever. It utilizes a 10vs10 format and still has the same bomb defusal objective type gameplay.

Competitive

Competitive mode features the signature 5vs5 bomb defusal scenario that fans of the game have grown to love throughout the two decades of its existence. This is the exact same type of match played in the professional scene, and is where you can grind your way through the many ranks from Silver all the way to Global Elite.

Premier

Following the same gameplay mechanics as Competitive but with a different ranking system, Premier is the primary ranked leaderboard for CS2 and it utilizes number-based ratings over skill groups. Though the gameplay is different once on the server, Premier comes with a pick and ban format prior to the game for map selection. In Premier mode, matches also go into overtime.

Deathmatch

A free-for-all arena for honing your shooting skills and learning maps. Typically, Deathmatch is where many players warm up before starting a ranked session to gauge their aim for the day or even get used to having to deal with multiple opponents at once.

Arms Race

A fast-paced mode where players progress through a weapon cycle with each kill. Can be related to the Call of Duty franchise’s “Gun Game” mode.

Wingman

Like Competitive, but on a smaller scale. 2vs2 only and only ¼ of the map can be played, including one of the two bomb sites.

In most modes, the game is played between two teams: Terrorists T and Counter-Terrorists CT. The primary objectives are:

Bomb Planting/Defusal: Terrorists must plant the bomb at a designated site, and Counter-Terrorists must prevent this or defuse the bomb if it is planted. This is the default and most popular objective type.

Hostage Rescue: Counter-Terrorists must rescue hostages held by Terrorists.

Elimination: Either team can win by eliminating all members of the opposing team.

Roles within a team are typically informal but often include:

Entry Fragger: The first player to enter a bomb site, aiming to get the initial kill. Their primary job is to create space and usually those with the best aim on the team are designated as the Entry Fragger.

Support: Assists the team by using utility (flashbangs, smokes) to create opportunities. They have the most utility-based role and are generally the ones doing the dirty work.

AWPer: The player specializing in using the AWP to hold long angles. While many modern AWPers tend to stay back and play passive while utilizing certain angles, there are some that excel in the “battle AWPer” role such as Kenny “kennyS” Schrub who is usually the first one inside an area despite wielding the AWP.

Lurker: Plays towards the opposite side of the map from where their team is. Their job is to catch opponents off guard and get a pick to force rotations, or simply wrap behind the enemy squad while their four other teammates group together in one bomb site.

In-Game Leader (IGL): Makes strategic decisions and calls plays for the team.

It’s worth noting that simply playing online matchmaking will not guarantee these rolls will be filled by your five-stack, however when practicing with a group it’s best to try and have one player in for each role.

It’s worth noting that the keymaps for these aspects of the game are bound to where they are by default, and can be changed to your preference at any time.

Movement: Use ‘WASD’ keys to move and spacebar to jump. Crouching with the Control key can make you more accurate and harder to hit.

Shooting: Left mouse button to shoot, right mouse button to aim down sights (for scoped weapons). Standing still or crouching improves accuracy.

Economy Management: Money is earned through kills, completing objectives, and winning rounds. Spend wisely on weapons, armor, and utility.

Weapons: Know the differences between pistols, rifles, SMGs, and shotguns. The AK-47 and M4A4/M4A1-S are staple rifles for Ts and CTs, respectively.

• Pistols: Reliable at close range, essential for the early rounds.
• SMGs (Submachine Guns): High fire rate for close-quarters combat.
• Rifles: The backbone of most loadouts, offering versatility for mid-range and long-range fights.
• Shotguns: Devastating at close quarters but have limited effective range.
• Sniper Rifles: Powerful for long-range engagements but require pinpoint accuracy.

Grenades: Smoke grenades block vision, flashbangs temporarily blind enemies, HE grenades deal damage, and molotov/incendiary grenades create area denial.

Practice Regularly: Consistent practice improves aim, reflexes, and game sense. Use Deathmatch and Aim Maps to hone your shooting skills.

Learn Recoil Patterns: Each weapon has a unique recoil pattern. Learning these patterns allows you to control spray and improve accuracy.

Watch Pro Matches: Observing professional players can teach advanced strategies, positioning, and utility usage.

Play with Friends: Playing with a coordinated team improves communication and overall enjoyment of the game.

Use Headphones: Good audio can help you detect enemy movements and actions, giving you a significant advantage.

Stay Calm and Have Fun: At the end of the day, it’s just a game.

Overextending: Pushing too far without support can lead to easy kills for the enemy.

Poor Economy Management: Mismanaging money can cripple your team’s ability to buy weapons and utility in crucial rounds.

Ignoring Team Communication: Not communicating or listening to your team can result in missed opportunities and poor coordination.

Predictable Play: Repeating the same strategy or positioning makes it easier for opponents to counter you.

Neglecting Utility: Underestimating the importance of grenades can hinder your team’s ability to execute strategies or defend bomb sites.