How to Play CS2

Install Counter-Strike 2, enable the console and join your first match.

Steps

Minutes

Free to play

Counter-Strike 2 is free on Steam. If you already play CS2, you are set.

One-click connect

Connect to game opens CS2 through Steam and joins your match. The console command is the backup.

Trusted lobbies

Every player passes our reputation check, with human moderation behind it.

Install Counter-Strike 2

CSGOPremier CS2 matches run on the regular Counter-Strike 2 from Steam. Install it from the store page and keep it updated; Steam updates CS2 automatically.

Open the Counter-Strike 2 Steam page and log in to Steam if prompted.

Click "Play Game" or "Install". Steam downloads and installs CS2 in your library.

Enable the Developer Console

Matches have a Connect to game button that opens CS2 and joins the server. Enable the console once as a backup: if the button doesn't open the game, you paste the match's connect command there instead.

Open Counter-Strike 2 and go to Settings.

Open the Game tab.

Set Enable Developer Console (~) to Yes.

If the button doesn't work, paste the match's command

connect 192.168.1.1:27015

More help with the console and connecting: connection guide →

Create Your Account

Sign up for a CSGOPremier account to queue CS2 matches, climb the weekly cash ladder, join cups and play with friends. One account works on both the CS:GO and CS2 sites.

New Steam links require a Public Steam profile, Public Game details with playtime visible, and at least 300 hours played in CS2.

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