Game developer Valve has officially announced the upcoming release of Counter-Strike 2, set to launch in the summer of 2023 as a free improvement to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.

The key highlight of this new version is its development on the Source 2 engine. Valve took the initiative to rebuild old maps from scratch, utilizing the capabilities of the new engine while preserving their core structure and features.

Players can expect enhanced graphics and optimized server-side performance, promising an overall improved gameplay experience.

Notably, Counter-Strike 2 introduces upgraded smoke effects, with dynamic volumetric particles for smoke grenades. These particles now interact with the environment, responding to light, gunfire, and explosions. The smoke will disperse upon impact from bullets and grenades, and it will realistically penetrate open windows and doors. All smoke particles are intricately integrated with a unified lighting system, ensuring more authentic visual effects.

Valve has boldly referred to this new release as “the biggest technical leap in the history of the series.” With the last version, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, launched in 2012, the gaming community eagerly awaits this significant advancement, set to revolutionize the iconic franchise.