Blog
The Strikeistan blog
Guides, explainers and analysis about Counter-Strike 2, written by the Strikeistan team.
Guides · How to Defuse Safely in CS2: A Defuser's ChecklistGetting to the bomb is only half the job. Here is how to start, protect and finish a defuse in CS2 without throwing the round.
Guides · CS2 1v1: How to Win the Duel When It Is Just You and ThemOne player left on each side. Here is how to think through a CS2 1v1, take the duel on your terms and practise it properly.
Guides · How CS2 Matchmaking Cooldowns WorkWhat causes matchmaking cooldowns in Counter-Strike 2, how repeat offences make them longer, and how to avoid them in the first place.
Guides · How Trust Factor Works in CS2A clear look at Trust Factor in Counter-Strike 2: what Valve has said, what remains speculation, and the habits that keep your account in good standing.
Guides · How to Use Voice Chat Properly in CS2Get your microphone working in Counter-Strike 2, bind push to talk, and learn short, useful callouts that make teammates better.
Guides · CS2 Beginner Guide: 25 Tips for New PlayersTwenty-five short, practical CS2 beginner tips, grouped by setup, shooting, map play, money and teamwork, so you know exactly what to work on first.
Guides · How to Change Language in CS2Switch Counter-Strike 2's menus and text to another language through Steam, change the Steam client language separately, and fix common problems.
Guides · How to Use CS2 Map Voting in PremierPremier no longer uses a ban-only veto. Here is how the new map picks and random draw work, and how the old pick/ban system used to run.
Guides · How to Change Your Name in CS2Your CS2 name comes from your Steam profile. Here is how to edit it, why it might not update straight away and how weapon Name Tags differ.
Guides · How CS2 Weekly Drops WorkThe CS2 weekly drop rewards your first rank-up each week. Here is how to trigger it, how the choice works, when it resets, and what drops are really worth.
Guides · How to Mute and Block Players in CS2Silence toxic teammates or noisy enemies in Counter-Strike 2 with the scoreboard, settings menu, console commands or a Steam block.
Guides · How CS2 Medals and Service Medals WorkThe CS2 service medal rewards steady play across a year. Here is how XP, rank 40 and upgrades work, and how it compares with other medals.