How to install CS 1.6 step by step

Installing takes a few minutes and needs no account. Below are the steps for both options on the site: the .exe installer and the .zip archive.

1. Pick a version

If you are not sure, start with CS 1.6 Original. The differences are explained in Which CS 1.6 version to choose.

2. The .exe option (easiest)

Open the downloaded file, pick the folder and the game language, then press Install. The desktop shortcut is created for you.

If Windows shows the blue "Windows protected your PC" message (SmartScreen), click More info > Run anyway. It appears for new programs that do not have many downloads yet; it does not mean the file is broken.

3. The .zip option

Right-click the archive > Extract All and choose a short folder such as C:\Games\CS 1.6. Avoid Program Files, because Windows will not let the game save its settings there. Start the game from the folder, then make a desktop shortcut (right-click > Send to > Desktop).

4. Check the file (optional)

Every version page shows the SHA-256 code of the archive. In PowerShell type Get-FileHash followed by the file path. If both codes match, you have exactly the file from this site.

5. First start

In Options > Video pick your monitor resolution and OpenGL, and in Options > Multiplayer set your name. Then open Find Servers > Internet and join a server. If you get a black screen or no servers, see Common CS 1.6 problems.

6. Antivirus

Some antivirus programs quarantine game files for no real reason. If you get an error on start, restore the file from the antivirus and add the game folder to its exclusions. Download the game only from this site, so you know exactly what you install.