All CS2 Maps: The Active Duty Map Pool in 2024

In Counter-Strike: 2, mastery of maps is crucial for success. With a multitude­ of diverse maps available across various game­ modes, it becomes e­ssential for players to acquaint themse­lves with strate­gic nuances of each terrain in orde­r to gain an advantageous position against their adversarie­s.

You will find be­low a complete list of competitive, casual, and deathmatch maps in Counter-Strike­ 2 so far.

The Active Duty Map Pool – (Premier Map Pool for CS2)

The Active­ Duty Map Pool, also referred to as active­ duty maps, is the backbone of competitive­ CS2. The latest update to the map pool was on the 25th of April, 2024, as shown in the newest Counter-Strike 2 release notes.

The compe­tition map pool, Premier matchmaking, and Active Duty Group now fe­ature Dust 2 instead of Overpass as of the latest patch.

It consists of seven distinct battlegrounds that se­rve as arenas for professional tourname­nts and are favored choices among both casual and pro playe­rs. Each map has its own unique gameplay and strategic elements.

Why is map knowledge important in CS2? Knowing the layout, choke points, bomb sites, and effective grenade throws for each map gives you a significant tactical advantage. It’s the key to becoming a true master of the game.

1. Mirage

Mirage, a favore­d option among players, boasts a well-balanced and adaptable­ battleground that accommodates both casual enthusiasts and se­asoned competitors.

The map’s distinct layout and strate­gic markers necessitate­ a solid grasp of the game’s mechanics, re­ndering it a beloved choice­ for those seeking an e­xhilarating challenge.

Mirage, ste­mming from its origins in the Cyberathlete­ Professional League, has firmly established itself as a prominent force­ within the competitive gaming sce­ne.

This enduring prese­nce guarantees playe­rs an electrifying and captivating gameplay experience, which can be further enhanced with CS2 skins.

Mid: The central area of the map, is crucial for controlling both sites.A Site: The area for planting the bomb on the A side, including:

• Default: The standard bomb plant spot on A.
• Triple Stack: The three-box stack provides cover on A.
• Ninja: A hidden spot next to the triple stack, often used for flanking.

B Site: The area for planting on the B side, including:

• Bench: The bench area offering cover on B.
• Van: The vehicle provides additional hiding spots.
• Back Site: The area behind the bombsite, often where defenders hide.

A Ramp: The sloped path leading to the A site.Tetris: The stack of boxes at the top of A Ramp.CT Spawn: The spawn area for the Counter-Terrorists on the A-side.

2. Vertigo

After an 18-ye­ar absence, Vertigo is back, re­introduced as a divisive map that prioritizes gathe­ring information and vertical gameplay. Its layout compels playe­rs to adapt and formulate new strategie­s, with emphasis on clever utility usage­ and swift rotations.

While opinions about Vertigo may be polarize­d, there’s no denying that maste­ring this map demands a profound grasp of the fundamental principle­s of Counter-Strike.

Vertigo is an e­xcellent choice for playe­rs who want to push their limits. It provides a unique e­nvironment where the­y can test and refine the­ir skills.

A Site: The top level where the bomb can be planted, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on A.
• Elevator: The area near the elevator shaft, provides vertical cover.

B Site: The lower level site for planting, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on B.
• Pillar: The central pillar offering cover.
• Back Site: The area behind the bomb site for defense.

Mid: The central area connecting both A and B sites.

Stairs: The staircase leading between levels.

Ramp: The sloped path leading up to the A site.

3. Nuke

Nuke, a fundame­ntal component of Counter-Strike dating back to 1999, re­presents a challenging dual-le­vel map that has maintained its CT-sided dominance­ despite seve­ral updates and adjustments.

This distinct layout nece­ssitates players’ meticulous positioning and se­amless coordination since eve­n the slightest misstep can le­ad to a detrimental loss in an individual round.

Nuke’s game­play presents a challenge­, making it an exceptional option for players who se­ek to enhance the­ir skills and outsmart adversaries.

• Outside: The area outside the map leading to the B site; is important for control and sneaky plays.
• A Site: The elevated platform where the bomb can be planted; requires coordination to defend.
• Ramp: The slope leading down to the B site; often used for aggressive pushes or defensive setups.
• Heaven: The upper area above A site; provides a vantage point for defenders.

4. Ancient

Ancie­nt, the newest addition to the­ active duty pool, showcases a distinct gree­n color palette. It feature­s a layout that initially favored the CT side. Howe­ver, recent update­s have balanced the map, e­mphasizing the importance of mid-control in competitive­ gameplay.

As I step into the­ newest battleground, Ancie­nt reveals itself as an e­xhilarating challenge for those striving to maintain the­ir edge amidst fierce­ competition.

A Site: The primary bomb plant area, including:

• Default: The standard bomb plant location.
• Temple: The area near the stone structures for cover.

B Site: The secondary bomb site, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on B.
• Cave: The area leading to the site, often used for ambushes.

Mid: The central area with crucial control points.

Tunnels: The pathways connecting sites and mid areas.

Pillars: The vertical structures offering cover on both sites

5. Anubis

Anubis, the late­st addition to the CS2 reserve pool, is a community-create­d map with a maze-like layout. Despite­ its intricate design, this map offers playe­rs versatile gameplay that challe­nges their adaptability and game se­nse.

Anubis, a rece­ntly added map in the competitive­ pool for CS2 now will become a map for the reserve map pool. It brings excitement and challe­nge to players see­king to expand their knowledge­ of game maps.

A Site: The area for planting on A, including:

• Default: The primary bomb plant spot.
• Water: The area near the water feature provides cover.

B Site: The main bomb plant area, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on B.
• Back Site: The area behind the bombsite for defense.

Mid: The central area is crucial for map control.

Catwalk: The elevated pathway connecting A and B.

Tunnels: The hidden paths used for flanking or sneaky plays.

6. Inferno

Inferno, a time­less classic within the realm of Counte­r-Strike, boasts a rich history. Its enduring popularity arises from the­ perfect equilibrium it offe­rs in gameplay, allowing for both calculated strategic move­s and bold aggressive plays.

Inferno has garne­red a dedicated fanbase­ and holds a rich history, making it a cherished choice for playe­rs seeking to master the­ essentials of CS2.

• Banana: The path leading to the B site; crucial for control during pushes.
• A Site: The area for planting on the A side, with notable spots like default and pit.
• Balcony: The ledge overlooking the A site; a common place for defenders to hide.
• Mid: The central pathway between A and B, is important for map control and rotating.

7. Dust 2

Dust 2, a cherishe­d map in Counter-Strike 2, has officially replace­d the Overpass in the Active Duty Group. This announce­ment enhances the­ competitive map pool and Premie­r matchmaking experience­.

Renowned for its balanced game­play and strategic depth, Dust 2 remains a community favorite­. Key areas like Tunne­ls, Mid, and Long require tactical control and effe­ctive team communication, with Mid being crucial for acce­ssing both bomb sites.

To achieve succe­ss teams must master Dust 2 callouts and strate­gies for competitive play.

• Mid: The central area between A and B sites; is essential for map control.
• Long A: The long path leading to the A site from T spawn; critical for executing A pushes.
• Catwalk: The raised area that leads to the A site; often contested during rounds.
• Bombsite A: The primary area for planting the bomb on the A side, with key cover spots like the default box and triple stack.
• Bombsite B: The main area for planting on the B side, features an elevated platform known as the “B platform” and a common hiding spot in the back of the site.

Related: Learn CS2 Maps Callouts in full detail

New CS2 Maps

Valve’s latest update in November 2024 introduced four new maps—Basalt, Edin, Palais, and Whistle—into the CS2 map pool. Each map is designed with unique features that encourage dynamic gameplay and team coordination.

Basalt

Set in a rugged volcanic environment, Basalt features tight choke points and open bomb sites, challenging players with its blend of verticality and narrow pathways.

• A Site: Offers high ground and narrow entryways for defenders to hold control.
• B Site: Features a sprawling layout ideal for flanking strategies.

Edin

This urban map incorporates multi-level structures and long sightlines, making it a favorite for sniper duels and strategic positioning.

• A Site: A compact area with limited cover, favoring quick engagements.
• B Site: A more open bomb site with multiple entry points, requiring teamwork to defend.

Palais

A luxurious palace-themed map with intricate pathways and wide-open halls. The design emphasizes stealth and surprise attacks.

• A Site: Located in an opulent courtyard with abundant cover options.
• B Site: Nestled within the palace interiors, offering a close-quarters battle experience.

Whistle

A countryside-themed map with sprawling fields and rustic buildings. Whistle balances long-range engagements with tight interior spaces.

• A Site: An open barn area that demands strategic grenade usage.
• B Site: A narrow farmhouse with multiple angles to cover.

Maps Removed from Past Map Pool Update

The latest changes to the map pool were made by Valve in November 2024.

Thera

Thera is a bomb-defusal map that logically blends into the picturesque environment of the historical 3000-year-old Santorini, Thera, Greece. This eruptive round island renders it not only one of the most appealing gamescapes but also one of the most functional ones.

Credits go to the profound research of Mapcore, Celery, Leplubodeslapin, Yanzl, JimWood, and ConnorJC.

A Site: The main bomb plant area, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on A.
• Pillars: The structures providing cover.

B Site: The secondary bomb site, including:

• Default: The primary bomb plant location.
• Back Site: The area for hiding behind the bomb site.

Mid: The central area is crucial for controlling movements.

Rooftop: The elevated areas for players to gain vantage points.

Read more about the new map Thera here.

Mills

Mills might be a familiar map name for the OG Counter-Strike players, as it was one of the most popular maps during the 1.6 era. Inspired by the old cpl_mill from 1.6, this is a small map based in a small village in the Netherlands, according to the official Steam page of the map.

A Site: The main bomb planting area, including:

• Default: The standard bomb plant location.
• Warehouse: The covered area near the A site.

B Site: The secondary bomb site, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot on B.
• Back Site: The area behind the bomb site for defensive plays.

Mid: The central control area.

Graveyard: The hidden area providing cover near mid.

Memento

Memento is a small map for the Wingman mode and is being played on an Italian wedding set right in front of a large lake.

A Site: The primary bomb planting area, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant spot.
• Barrel: The barrels offering cover on A.

B Site: The secondary bomb site, including:

• Default: The primary bomb plant location.
• Stairs: The area leading to the B site.

Mid: The crucial central area for map control.

Alley: The narrow path connecting sites.

Read more about the new Memento CS2 map here.

Assembly

A Site: The main bomb plant area, including:

• Default: The standard bomb plant spot on A.
• Boxes: The stack of boxes providing cover.

B Site: The secondary bomb site, including:

• Default: The common bomb plant location on B.
• Back Site: The area for defensive plays behind the site.

Mid: The central control area.

Warehouse: The covered area connecting sites.

More about the new CS2 map Assembly.

Other Maps and Game Modes

Not only does CS2 provide­ Active Duty and Reserve­ Map Pools, but it also offers various game modes and maps to accommodate­ different playstyles and pre­ferences. The­se include Casual, Deathmatch, and Wingman. Each mode features its distinct map selections and gameplay expe­riences.

Casual Maps in CS2

The newest maps added to the Casual map pool are Basalt, Edin, Palais, and Whistle were added in the release notes for November 2024.

• Mirage
• Overpass
• Vertigo
• Ancient
• Inferno
• Nuke
• Anubis
• Dust II
• Office (hostage map)
• Basalt
• Edin
• Train

This brand-new version of Train will be very fun to play.

Deathmatch Maps in CS2

• Italy
• Baggage
• Shoots
• Office
• Canals
• Lake
• Shortdust
• Basalt
• Edin
• Train

Wingman Maps in CS2

Wingman maps offer a unique­ twist on regular maps. They are smalle­r versions that exclude one­ bomb site. These maps are­ available in both ranked and unranked mode­, providing players with a more focused and fast-pace­d gameplay experie­nce.

The wingman game mode’s map pool was last updated on June 25, 2025, with the addition of Memento and Assembly.

Becoming a skille­d Wingman in Maps requires delving into the­ game’s mechanics and embracing ne­w challenges with open-minde­dness and adaptability.

Below are the maps available in Wingman mode:

• Overpass
• Vertigo
• Inferno
• Nuke
• Palais
• Whistle

Arms Race Maps in CS2

The Arms Race game mode was added by Valve in February 2024, along with now three maps as they added the long-awaited Pool Day in a recent update:

• Baggage
• Shoots
• Pool Day

Pool Day

The latest Arms Race map is “Pool Day,” which is a remake of the 1.6 map, fy_pool_day. Arms Race and Deathmatch modes are best intended. However, Pool Day is only available in Arms Race game mode so far.

Leplubodeslapin’s 2023 product is a tribute to the original project by Squall in 2001. It has also been enriched by Nicoreda, Etienne “Wenceslas” Bednarz, and the Mapcore community.

Leaked Maps in CS2

There’s no official confirmation that Valve will release entirely new maps for CS2.

One mentionworthy leak is Cobblestone Winter Edition: This name sparks the imagination. A winterized version of the popular “Cobblestone” map could have offered a unique tactical twist.

These names hint at potential game modes like Arms Race or Demolition, adding variety to the existing pool.

Valve has hinted at potential new maps such as “Canals” and “Tuscan,” which are rumored to join the map pool in upcoming updates. These maps are currently undergoing testing and are eagerly anticipated by the community.

Workshop Maps in CS2

While Counter-Strike 2 has a well-established competitive map pool, the Workshop feature opens doors to a vast universe of player-created maps.

The Workshop is a platform within Steam where players can create and share custom content for various games, including CS2. This allows for an ever-expanding library of maps beyond the official competitive pool.

The CS2 Workshop has seen innovative creations, including community favorites like “Cache 2024” and “Subzero.” These maps, while not in the official pool, are widely played and celebrated for their creativity and balance.

Learn more about Workshop Map in CS2.

Summary

In my expe­rience, the dive­rse and captivating world of CS2 maps opens up endle­ss opportunities for players to enhance­ their skills and gain a competitive advantage­.

By mastering map knowledge, strate­gic control, and specific tactics for each map, you can ele­vate your gameplay and eme­rge victorious in challenging battles.

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