counter-strike-2

Run a game with one map

$ [path/to]/cs2 -dedicated +map [de_dust2]

$ [path/to]/cs2 -dedicated +map [de_dust2] -maxplayers [64]

$ [path/to]/cs2 -dedicated +map [de_dust2] -ip [1.2.3.4] -port [27015]

$ quit

counter-strike-2 [options]

-novid
    Skip intro videos on startup

-console
    Enable developer console (~ key)

-fullscreen
    Launch in fullscreen mode

-windowed
    Launch in windowed mode

-noborder
    Remove window borders (with -windowed)

-w WIDTH -h HEIGHT
    Set resolution, e.g., -w 1920 -h 1080

-freq HZ
    Set refresh rate, e.g., -freq 144

-nojoy
    Disable joystick support

+map MAPNAME
    Load specific map, e.g., +map de_dust2

-language LANG
    Set language, e.g., -language english

-threads NUM
    Set CPU threads for rendering

The counter-strike-2 command launches Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), Valve's popular multiplayer first-person shooter on Linux. CS2 is the successor to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), featuring updated Source 2 engine graphics, improved maps, sub-tick server technology, and competitive gameplay modes like Premier and Competitive.

Installed via the Steam client, the command is typically a symlink or launcher in the SteamApps directory (e.g., ~/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Counter-Strike Global Offensive). It requires ownership of the game on Steam and an active internet connection for multiplayer. On Linux, CS2 runs natively, supporting distributions like Ubuntu, Fedora, and Arch via Steam's runtime environment.

Players engage in bomb defusal, hostage rescue, or deathmatch modes across a free-to-play model with optional cosmetic purchases. Launching supports console commands, custom configs, and workshop maps. Performance optimization often involves launch options for resolution, FPS limits, and disabling features like VSync.

Requires Steam login and game ownership. Native Linux binary; no Proton needed. High GPU/CPU demands for competitive play. Multiplayer mandates VAC-enabled account. May conflict with overlays like Discord or NVIDIA ShadowPlay.

Acquire via Steam > Library > Counter-Strike 2. Verify files if launch fails.

Edit ~/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Counter-Strike Global Offensive/game/csgo/cfg/config.cfg for binds/FPS settings.

Access maps/skins via Steam Workshop in-game; launch with -communityworkshop if needed.

Developed by Valve and Hidden Path Entertainment, CS2 released September 27, 2023, replacing CS:GO (2012). Built on Source 2 engine from Dota 2/Portal 2. Linux support since CS 1.6 (2000); CS2 maintains native binaries for Steam Deck and desktops.

steam(1), proton(1)