All CS2 Maps: The Active Duty Map Pool in 2026

William Westerlund / January 23, 2026 / 15 min read

Counter-Strike 2 has a growing pool of maps that shape every match, whether you’re grinding Premier, hopping into Deathmatch, or just learning the ropes.

Knowing each layout, callout, and bombsite isn’t just helpful. It’s the difference between clutching and crumbling.

Below, you will find a complete list of competitive, casual, deathmatch, and wingman maps that you can play in Counter-Strike­ 2 at the moment.

All CS2 Competitive Maps

Note: Current Active Duty (Premier) maps (Jan 2026): Anubis, Ancient, Dust 2, Inferno, Mirage, Nuke, Overpass.

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

The latest change to the Active Duty (Premier) map pool happened in the Jan 22, 2026 update (Premier Season Four). Valve added Anubis back to Active Duty and removed Train from Active Duty. Source: Counter-Strike 2 release notes.

💡
Pro Tip: Anubis is back in Active Duty (Premier) as of Jan 22, 2026. Train is the one that got removed from Active Duty, but you can still find it in other modes when it’s available in rotation.

In July 2025, Overpass replaced Anubis in Active Duty. In Jan 2026, Anubis returned and replaced Train to kick off Premier Season Four.

The Active Duty map pool 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.

💡Why do pool changes matter?

Valve rotates maps so pros keep adapting and new players stay engaged. Learning each map’s callouts prevents last-second panic and boosts win-rate far more than stretched resolution ever could, although using 4:3 stretched still makes enemy heads visibly wider, helping flick shots on tight angles.

1. Anubis

CS2 Maps Anubis
🗺️
Map Insight: Recently reintroduced into the Active Duty Map Pool, Anubis rewards teams that master mid control and smart use of the canals and water routes. Precise utility and well-timed rotations are key to breaking open both bombsites.

Valve brought Anubis back to the competitive spotlight in January 2026, replacing Train. This map has lots of important callouts.

CS2 Anubis Map Callouts

A Site
A Site Temple Heaven Pillar A Main A Ramp CT Spawn
B Site
B Site Back Site Boat Canal B Main B Stairs CT Water
Rotations & Control
Mid Mid Doors Connector Bridge Palace T Spawn CT Spawn
Tradeit.gg Logo

What changed on Anubis in Jan 2026 (quick list):

  • The bridge drop was moved closer to Mid Doors
  • Mid Doors were flipped (orientation reversed)
  • A new gap/hole was added between E-box and the back of B
  • A site crates were moved up onto the walkway steps
  • Extra scaffolding was added around the A site pillar
    These tweaks slightly change timings, peeks, and how fast teams can rotate between Mid and the sites

2. Dust 2

dust 2 CS2 map
🗺️
Map Insight: With simple and direct choke points—Long, Catwalk, and Mid-to-B—this map is ideal for sharpening your raw aim and learning rotations.

Dust 2 is back in the pro spotlight. Valve reinstated it in place of Overpass in January 2025. Its clean sightlines and simple layout make it a go-to for both new players and seasoned veterans.

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.

CS2 Map Callouts Overview

Bombsite A
Bombsite A: Primary plant site with cover at Default Box & Triple Stack.
Long A: Long path from T Spawn to A site, crucial for A executes.
Catwalk: Elevated route to A, often used for fast split plays.
Bombsite B
Bombsite B: Elevated plant area with a platform and a hiding spot at Back Site.
Mid & Map Control
Mid: Central connector between A and B, key for map dominance.
Tradeit.gg Logo

Related: Learn CS2 Maps Callouts in full detail

3. Mirage

Mirage CS2 map
🗺️
Map Insight: Still the most-played map in CS2. Mid control often determines the round—master your window smoke for fast and effective mid fights.

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.

CS2 Mirage Map Callouts

A Site
Default: Standard bomb plant spot on A site.
Triple Stack: Three stacked boxes offering cover on A.
Ninja: Hidden spot near triple stack, ideal for sneaky plays.
A Ramp: Sloped path from T-side leading up to A site.
Tetris: Stack of boxes at the top of A Ramp used for peeking or jumping up.
CT Spawn: Counter-Terrorist spawn near A, often used for rotations or holding site.
B Site
Bench: Provides elevation and cover on the B site.
Van: Vehicle near B that acts as a strong hiding or cover spot.
Back Site: Deep end of the B bombsite, where defenders often hold angles.
Mid & Map Control
Mid: Central area controlling routes to both A and B.
Tradeit.gg Logo

4. Nuke

Nuke CS2 map
🗺️
Map Insight: This map plays on vertical layers—understanding outside smokes and quick mini wraps is essential for executing clean site takes.

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.

It demands solid positioning and tight coordination, especially on upper levels.

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

CS2 Nuke Map Callouts

A Site
A Site: Elevated platform where the bomb is planted; high ground control is key.
Heaven: Elevated area above A, great for watching site or retakes.
B Site Access
Ramp: Sloped corridor leading down to B; used for aggressive entries or rotations.
Outside: Open area outside the main building, often used for flanks or secret access to B.
Tradeit.gg Logo

5. Ancient

Ancient CS2 map
🗺️
Map Insight: With its lush jungle aesthetic, this map demands early mid control—lose it, and you risk getting boxed in and out-rotated.

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.

Ancient remains one of the more CT-sided maps, though updates have tried to even the playing field.

CS2 Ancient Map Callouts

A Site
Default: Standard bomb plant location on A.
Temple: Stone structure near A offering cover and flank potential.
B Site
Default: Common plant spot on B site.
Cave: T-side path into B, often used for lurking or fast entries.
Mid & Rotations
Mid: Central map area, crucial for splitting A or B.
Tunnels: Connective paths between sites and mid for fast rotations.
Pillars: Vertical stone columns used as cover on both bombsites.
Tradeit.gg Logo

6. Inferno

Inferno cs2
🗺️
Map Insight: Banana grenades can decide rounds—early utility usage is key. On retakes or defenses, library and pit remain some of the strongest clutch positions.

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.

CS2 Inferno Map Callouts

A Site
A Site: Main plant area with key spots like Default and Pit.
Balcony: Ledge above A site; common for holding or quick peeks.
B Site Access
Banana: Curved path to B; essential for taking or denying B control.
Mid & Map Control
Mid: Central lane connecting A and B, important for rotations and control.
Tradeit.gg Logo

7. Overpass

🗺️
Map Insight: Overpass is a Counter-Strike 2 map set in urban Berlin, featuring a mix of open areas and tight chokepoints. It includes key zones like a graffiti-covered B site under a highway and a well-defended A site near a park and government buildings. Verticality and map control are crucial for victory.

Overpass is part of the Active Duty (Premier) pool as of Jan 2026. It’s a tactical map with lots of layered control: long A fights, connector pressure, and constant B contact around Monster/Short. Good teams win Overpass by taking space early and denying information with smart utility.

CS2 Overpass Map Callouts

A Site
Default: The standard bomb plant spot on A site.
Water: Area near the water feature; often used for cover or bait plays.
B Site
Default: Common bomb plant location for B pushes.
Back Site: Area behind the bombsite; often held by defenders.
Mid & Rotations
Mid: Central pathway; vital for rotations and site splits.
Catwalk: Elevated route connecting A and B; offers fast transitions.
Tunnels: Hidden paths ideal for flanks or sneaky rotations.

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 and Deathmatch Maps in CS2

These are the casual and deathmatch maps that you can play in CS2 after the January 22 update from 2026:

Map Name Theme A Site B Site
Mirage Middle Eastern city Courtyard with triple stack Apartments, bench & van
Inferno Italian town Balcony, pit & graveyard Banana, coffins & back site
Nuke Nuclear power plant Heaven, rafters & hut Ramp, vents & control room
Overpass Urban park & canal Playground & truck Water, graffiti & monster
Ancient Jungle ruins Temple, default & donut Cave, lane & default
Vertigo Skyscraper construction A ramp & default plant B stairs, pillar & site
Anubis Ancient Egyptian ruins Temple, pillar & default Canal, back site & boat
Dust II Desert urban battlefield A long, catwalk & goose Tunnels, platform & car
Train Industrial rail yard A main, bomb train & E-box Upper B, back site & spools
Warden Medieval fortress prison Upper yard & tower access Lower courtyard & gate
Stronghold Mountain fortress complex Ramparts & inner keep Lower halls & storage
Alpine Snowy alpine village Chalet & overlook Market square & barns
Office Corporate office building Hostage rescue map (no bombsites)
Italy Italian coastal village Hostage rescue map (no bombsites)

Jan 2026 map rotation note: Valve removed the community maps Golden, Palacio, Agency, and Rooftop from all game modes. At the same time, Warden, Stronghold, and Alpine were added to Competitive, Casual, and Deathmatch, and Sanctum + Poseidon were added to Wingman.

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.

Below are the current Wingman community maps in rotation (Jan 2026):

Map Name Theme A Site B Site
Poseidon Ancient seaside ruins Courtyard ruins & pillars Not included
Sanctum Mystical temple complex Inner shrine & cover blocks Not included
Overpass Urban park & canal Truck corner Not included
Vertigo High-rise construction site Top floor platform Not included
Nuke Nuclear power facility Rafters & silo area Not included
Inferno Italian town Pit & balcony Not included

Arms Race Maps in CS2

CS2 pool day map

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

Map Name Theme A Site B Site
Baggage Baggage claim warehouse Not applicable Not applicable
Shoots (Day) Jungle cliffs – daytime Not applicable Not applicable
Shoots (Night) Jungle cliffs – nighttime Not applicable Not applicable
Pool Day Indoor pool Not applicable Not applicable

Leaked Maps in CS2

Leaks come and go, and most of them never ship in an official rotation. If Valve is actually bringing a map to CS2, it usually shows up in official patch notes or as a Workshop/community rotation first.

Best way to track real changes: follow the official CS2 update notes and watch for new maps added to Competitive/Casual/Deathmatch/Wingman rotations.

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.

Fast-track map learning (2026 tools)

  • Offline grenades: Load sv_cheats 1; noclip and practise one-way.
  • Yprac + Refrag: Both now have CS2 drills for smokes and retakes.
  • Aimlab map packs: Free routines for Dust 2, Mirage, and Nuke.
  • Watch pro VODs: focus on Premier Season Four maps – especially Anubis, since it returned with layout tweaks and teams are still adapting their defaults and mid timings

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many maps does CS2 have?

CS2 currently has around 15–16 official maps across different game modes, with more expected in future updates.

What maps to play in CS2?

Popular maps include Mirage, Inferno, and Dust II. Choose maps based on your playstyle and learn their layout to improve performance.

What are the current competitive maps in CS2?

The CS2 competitive map pool includes Mirage, Inferno, Nuke, Dust 2, Vertigo, Ancient, and Anubis.

What maps are played in a CS2 Major?

CS2 Majors use the Active Duty Map Pool: Mirage, Vertigo, Nuke, Ancient, Anubis, Inferno, and Dust 2.

What is the best map on CS2?

Mirage is one of the most balanced and widely loved maps, often considered the best for both casual and competitive play.

How can I improve my map knowledge?

Watch pro games, use interactive maps, explore maps offline, and practice with callouts and utility throws.

What are the newest maps released in Counter-Strike 2?

The newest maps added to official rotations in Jan 2026 were the community maps Warden, Stronghold, and Alpine (Competitive/Casual/Deathmatch) and Sanctum + Poseidon (Wingman).

How to Learn CS2 Maps Faster in 2026

Use training servers, offline practice, and tools like Yprac or Aimlab. Watch ESL or Blast Premier games to learn rotations and callouts.

author avatar
William Westerlund
William brings 7 years of experience writing for multiple gaming blogs. He has more than 10,000 hours played in CS:GO (CS2) and have played around in other games such as TF2 and Rust. Through his experience playing the game at a high level and dealing with skins for many years, he provides first-hand insight into the topics covered on the Tradeit.gg blog.

Ready to Start Trading?

Get instant access to the #1 trading platform with a sweet bonus.

$5

First-Trade Bonus

Start Trading Now
View all CS2 maps in the Active Duty map pool and more. The competitive map pool keeps changing and we update it frequently.
Up To 50% Off All Skins
Table of Contents
You may also like