CS 1.6 or CS2: which to play

Counter-Strike 2 is Valve's new game, CS 1.6 is the 2003 original. Both are Counter-Strike, but they play differently.

Requirements

CS 1.6 runs on almost any computer, including old laptops with integrated graphics, and takes under 1 GB. CS2 needs a modern PC and tens of GB of disk space.

Gameplay

In 1.6 movement is faster and shooting more direct: reflexes and recoil control matter most. CS2 has modern graphics, dynamic smoke and a different economy.

Servers and modes

CS 1.6 lives on community servers: besides classic you find Zombie, Deathrun, Surf, Jailbreak, Furien, CSDM and many more, each with its own admins and rules. CS2 is played mostly through official matchmaking.

Price

CS2 is free on Steam, with paid skins and passes. The 1.6 builds on this site download for free and have nothing to buy in game.

Which one to pick

If you have a weak PC, like classic gameplay or want community modes, go with CS 1.6. If you want new graphics and official competitive matches, CS2. Many people play both.