For the past few days, Counter-Strike 2 developers have been teasing the community with hints about the upcoming release of Train. Today, Valve released a major update, finally unveiling this classic map. CS.MONEY Blog will walk you through the new Train and other key changes of 14 Nov 2024 Update.
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Train Map Comes Back to CS2
The highlight of the patch is the new Train. This iconic map returns with an interesting new feature: it’s raining on the station, affecting not only the wet asphalt but also the look of skins and agents. The wet skins look fantastic! However, this brings up questions about FPS impact, though exact data on this will likely be available very soon.
The map itself has undergone several changes, the most noticeable being the alteration of the up-down area. Previously featuring a vertical ladder, this has now been replaced by a gentler slope. Other adjustments include the repositioning of trains, which will require players to adapt. Additionally, Valve introduced an interesting touch: each train car on the radar is colour-coded, as are certain pathways, providing casual players with helpful location markers.
Valve also added a basic grenade-throwing guide for Train. The improved camera shows the smoke’s landing spot even during jump-throws, which could be a big help for beginners. All of this is available in training mode.
One quirky fact: on Train, the distance between Ivy and the T-spawn is so large that the AK-47 incurs a damage penalty due to range, meaning a headshot won’t kill an opponent.
Redesigned Overpass
Another well-known competitive map, Overpass, received a fresh look. The map is now lighter overall, with many dark areas brightened up. The biggest change, though, is that no water is on the path to the B site.
Previously, the water caused numerous bugs, so it’s likely developers decided to overhaul the mechanics to avoid recurring issues. Unfortunately for map creators, Valve has removed some assets from the game, so mapmakers will need to update their maps and find new solutions.
Four New Maps
In addition to the familiar Train and Overpass, changes have also been made to community maps. Four maps from a previous update (Thera, Mills, Memento, and Assembly) have left the rotation, replaced by four new locations:
Basalt stands out for its natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Set in Iceland, it features mountains, seas, and small houses — it would be almost a shame to disturb this peaceful setting with gunfights. Edin is equally atmospheric. Set in an old Scottish town, the map’s authors have nailed the feel of the location. Both Basalt and Edin are 5v5 maps. Palais lets players see Paris (and die). A dynamic Wingman mode map, where players dash across rooftops. A hidden quest and several Easter eggs add to its charm — although you’re likely to complete the quest only during warmup. Whistle is set in a British railway museum. The authors describe it as a love letter to the golden age of British travel and its railways. Like Palais, it’s a Wingman mode map.
Radar Background, Improved Animations, and Damage Prediction
Among other updates, an important feature has been added that many players will appreciate: Counter-Strike 2 settings now allow you to adjust the radar opacity. Valve has made it easy for players to customize based on their preferences.
Additionally, Valve has fine-tuned player animations; enemies will only raise their hands when fully blinded, which helps players more accurately gauge their opponent’s view of the map.
Finally, Valve introduced a “damage prediction” setting. This feature pre-plays hit animations on the player’s client before the server confirms them. Currently, damage prediction is enabled only for ragdoll animations; hit and headshot animations are disabled by default due to instability. It’s important to note that damage prediction won’t work if your ping is too high.
Today’s update is a big step toward making CS2 even more enjoyable. If these changes are well-received, more content, such as a new operation, could be on the horizon.
