Why Is the Current Counter-Strike Map Pool the Worst Map Pool in the History of the Game?

The latest update for Counter-Strike 2 has caused quite a stir within the community, as the beloved map Overpass has been replaced with the iconic CS map Dust II. Unfortunately, the players have not received this change. 

After being widely criticized as the most unfavorable map pool ever, despite initial hopes for the removal of Mirage, Inferno, or Vertigo and the addition of Train, it's worth examining the reasons behind people's discontent. 

PUG maps compared to tactical maps

One of the main reasons for the widespread discontent surrounding this alteration is the inclusion of an additional PUG map in the Active Duty map pool, particularly since it has taken the place of one of the more strategic maps.

If you're not familiar with the term 'PUG map,' let us provide you with an explanation: A PUG map is a map that offers a straightforward and accessible gameplay experience in PUGs or pick-up games. These are the games you'll usually participate in when you join Premier or FACEIT queues. These maps are more accommodating for players who prefer quick and aggressive gameplay. Additionally, the T spawns are designed in a way that allows for efficient rushes to bombsites at the beginning of rounds.

On the other hand, tactical maps are not at all suitable for playing in PUGs, but they are much more effective when playing in a five-stack or with an established team. The maps' design frequently encourages a more systematic approach, where players rely on default strategies to secure kills and strategically manipulate rotations to gain the upper hand during late-round bombsite attacks. 

In the previous map rotation, Nuke and Overpass stood out as the most strategic maps, while Mirage and Ancient were clearly the most suitable for fast-paced, individualistic playstyles. The remaining maps acted as a blend of the two. Aside from Vertigo, Vertigo is simply dreadful. 

By replacing Overpass with Dust II, a strategic map has been replaced with the renowned PUG map. This presents an issue because, fundamentally, CS is a tactical FPS, and including those non-PUG maps should serve as a fundamental aspect of the game. 

However, there are other concerns regarding the inclusion of Dust II.

Outdated maps

It's about time for a change in the map pool, as a lot of the maps in CS2 are now seen as repetitive and unexciting.

A significant number of individuals within the community have expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of freshness in Mirage, as it has undergone minimal alterations and has remained in the map rotation since its debut at the inaugural CS:GO Major, Dreamhack Winter 2013. We don't see this as a problem. Mirage stands as the pinnacle of PUG maps in the pool, boasting an impeccably crafted design that has remained untouched, save for the removal of the skybox. Often, individuals only appreciate the value of something once it is no longer available.

Inferno and vertigo are the main culprits in this problem. Inferno became monotonous towards the conclusion of Global Offensive and has been capitalizing on its status as the third map of the ELEAGUE Boston grand final ever since. The modifications to the map in CS2 worsened the problem, and the recent updates will have minimal impact on resolving it.

The map Vertigo is the least favorable addition to the Active Duty map pool. In spite of being included in the map pool prior to the StarLadder Berlin Major, Vertigo has only managed to deliver a noteworthy performance at the professional level on one occasion. This memorable match took place between FaZe and Spirit at the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024, a remarkable five years after its introduction. 

No, we do not consider the Astralis vs Liquid match at the Berlin Major. The veto there was legendary, not the map itself.              

Now, let's talk about Dust II, a map that became quite monotonous when it was removed from the map rotation following the IEM Rio Major 2022. Simply because it has now passed through two Major cycles doesn't imply that it will suddenly transform into a completely different map. The game will be stuck with the monotonous map, which will undoubtedly have a negative impact on the overall gaming experience. 

It raises another concern: Does Valve truly possess a firm grasp on their actions?

The spawn issue

Dust II is a subpar map due to its highly recognizable area, A Long. Securing control of this particular area is crucial for both the Terrorists and Counter-Terrorists. However, the unique spawn placements on the map pose a significant challenge for the T side to contest. 

It's pretty peculiar that Dust II still retains these unpredictable spawns, particularly considering that a recent update for CS2 made significant alterations to spawns in an apparent effort to reduce the randomness of spawns for both teams.

These modifications brought about significant tactical enhancements to some of the maps. Mirage and Overpass, in particular, underwent substantial gameplay transformations as a consequence. Suppose this decision was carefully considered and not just a haphazard attempt at altering gameplay. In that case, it begs the question of why Dust II has yet to undergo a similar transformation upon its return to the Active Duty map pool.

It is quite perplexing to see that the reintroduction of Dust II has brought about yet another problem, namely the existing imbalance in the economy within CS2.

The Economy needs to perform better

Dust II is widely known as a map where CT sides with two AWPs have proven to be incredibly dominant. With the significant green, defending both Mid and A Long becomes much more manageable, but acquiring two AWPs, along with all the necessary equipment, can be quite costly. 

The present economic situation, particularly with the influence of MR12, is highly challenging for the CT side. Using two AWPs in a single round is now a risky move, and the consequences of losing that round could completely shatter any chances of a solid CT side. 

Additionally, one must consider the strength of the T side during the second round of force buys. In the present economic climate, they have the opportunity to acquire a more significant number of rifles during their force compared to the CTs, who have just won a round. Considering the abundance of long, rifle-friendly angles on Dust II, it is challenging to overlook the fact that the current economy heavily favors the T side on Dust II more than any other map.

Starting a round and hoping for favorable spawns isn't precisely an enjoyable way to engage in the game, especially when you end up with unfavorable spawns and are compelled to hastily push into a site that, contrary to the 'Rush B' jokes, is genuinely challenging to infiltrate forcefully.

It becomes necessary to utilize Long spawns whenever possible, even if only one player has one. Consequently, the game transforms into an overwhelming barrage of flashbangs, frequently leading to an unfortunate numerical disadvantage—far from enjoyable.

Additionally, the utility expense for the CT side and the significance of early-round Incendiary Grenades on both A Long and B Tunnels are not being discussed here. 

If it still needs to be apparent, this indicates that the map will be unpleasant to play as a CT, which poses a significant issue. Counter-Strike truly shines when the game favors the Counter-Terrorists. The game becomes more intense and exciting when the T side requires numerous purchases, minimal saving, and strategic maneuvers to establish dominance over the CTs and secure control of the map. These situations often lead to the most thrilling moments and closely contested matches.

In today's economic climate, it is increasingly difficult to envision a scenario where Dust II does not lean heavily toward the Terrorist side. This shift is not favorable, especially considering the loss of Overpass, which is known for its favoritism towards Counter-Terrorists.

Ultimately, this alteration to the map pool is yet another example of Valve's potential disconnect from the Counter-Strike community. We understand that DOTA 2 holds a special place in their hearts as their ultimate favorite. Still, we kindly request Valve to take heed of the desires of their community and the insights shared by industry professionals regarding the game's balance.

Dust II is a timeless map, yet it's also a map that would have been more suitable to remain in the archives of history. Regrettably, it has transformed into that former partner you frequently encounter at the pub and consistently find yourself returning home with, hoping that things will somehow be distinct on this occasion.