Best Counter-Strike 2 Maps – Insider Gaming

The Counter-Strike 2 maps are a big reason why the tactical shooter has retained its spot as the most popular multiplayer game on Steam for years. Valve has meticulously rotated maps in and out of the active duty pool for over a decade, keeping the gameplay grind fresh and giving maps time time to be remade.

But which CS2 maps are the best?

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Best CS2 maps

Mirage

Mirage is the pillar of consistency in the Counter-Strike map pool. It is the only map that has not received a major rework since it was first added in 2013, and it’s the only map that has been featured in the pool at every single Major. It’s a balanced map that provides several different approaches to both the T-side and CT-side players, with plenty of opportunities for AWP play and coordinated smoke executes. 

Ancient

Ancient is only a few years old, and doesn’t have the same longevity as some of Counter-Strike’s most iconic maps, but it’s one of the best additions to the map pool in years. It’s one of the most fun maps to watch and play, given the breakneck pace that both the CT-side and T-side teams need to play at to control areas like Mid and the B Ramp.

Train

Train’s unique map design has had players chomping at the bit for it to eventually return to CS2 in November 2024. Not only did it arrive with a fresh coat of paint, but with a number of gameplay improvements, including cleaned up areas around the bombsites that allow for much easier calling and wider angles. The core gameplay ideas are still there, but the changes allow new ideas to be used as well. Welcome back, Train.

Overpass

Overpass was the first Counter-Strike map designed by Valve for competitive play in mind, and it shows. This map gives a little bit of everything: areas that reward patience or fast-paced play, and sites that can be held or retook with clear communication. Alongside Train, Overpass is a map that Counter-Strike fans and pros cannot wait to see return to the active duty map pool.

Is your favorite map not listed here? Tell us why you feel it should be included below or in the Insider Gaming forum.

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