Is Counter-Strike 2 free to play?

Josh Tyler
Counter-Strike 2

Counter-Strike 2 released but is the game free to play? Here’s everything we know about whether or not you can play CS2 without spending any money.

Valve released Counter-Strike 2 on September 27, the sequel to the beloved FPS title. It launched with tonnes of content for new and returning players to enjoy, which includes a handful of gameplay changes, overhauled maps, visual upgrades, and system improvements.

Since CS2 dropped it has dominated the Steam charts and the FPS title has held the top spot for the most-played game ever since.

If you’re new to the franchise, you might be wondering if the game’s available to play for free, after all, other popular FPS titles, including its rival Valorant and Apex Legends, follow the F2P model.

Furthermore, here’s everything you need to know about whether or not Counter-Strike 2 is free to play.

skin in counter-strike 2

Is Counter-Strike 2 free to play?

Yes, Counter-Strike 2 is free to play.

If you had the original CS:GO, Counter-Strike 2 is a free upgrade to the previous game. Any players who previously owned CS:GO automatically received the free Counter-Strike 2 upgrade when it launched. On top of the free upgrade, all of your weapon skins will transfer immediately over to CS2 as well!

If you’re a newcomer, however, who’s interested in getting into the game with Counter-Strike 2, don’t worry, the game is free to download and play on Steam.

It’s worth noting that while there is no upfront cost for those who want to pick up Counter-Strike 2 on release, in-game purchases are present within the game.

For more information about Counter-Strike 2, make sure to check out the links below:

What is sub-tick in Counter-Strike 2? | All smoke changes in Counter-Strike 2 | Can you play Counter-Strike 2 on Linux or macOS? | Can banned CS:GO players play Counter-Strike 2? | What will happen to my CSGO skins? | Will Counter-Strike 2 come to Steam Deck? | CS2 console commands | How to play Counter-Strike 2 | Counter-Strike 2 best settings | Can you play Counter-Strike 2 on console?

Sign up to Dexerto for free and receive:
Fewer Ads|Dark Mode|Deals in Gaming, TV and Movies, and Tech