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Not only is Counter-Strike 2 confirmed, but it’s also going gold, launching its first closed beta. Starting on March 22, 2023, a select number of gamers are invited to test the new update on Valve’s secure servers.
They are allowed to play Deathmatch and Unranked Competitive matches on Dust2, with more features to come later. Although the CS:GO 2 testers are handpicked, this guide explains the criteria and how others can access the limited test.
How to Access CS:GO 2 Limited Test
To access the limited test in Counter-Strike 2, launch CS:GO on Steam and see if there’s a beta invitation in the Main Menu. If a popup window offers beta enrollment, click “ENROLL,” download CS:GO 2 data, relaunch Steam, and select Limited Test in the Main Menu.
As of this writing, there’s no way to register for the limited beta, and Valve chooses the testers based on partially undisclosed standards. But since the company has promised to expand access, they might introduce a registration system soon. (Watch for scams offering access keys because the CS:GO 2 test has no such thing.)
Who Is Eligible for Counter-Strike Global Offensive 2 Test
According to Valve, the primary standards for picking limited testers are playtime on official CS:GO servers, VAC status on Steam, and trust factor. Basically, accounts who’ve played the game on non-community official servers with no bans or VAC violations are likelier to enroll in Counter-Strike 2’s beta.
To see if an account matches the Valve criteria, check Counter-Strike playtime on Steam and ensure there are no VAC bans on the account. (Head to the Steam Settings, click Account, and then VAC Status.) Beginner players and those with bad Steam standing are not likely to get invited for CS:GO 2 limited test. In fact, previous bans will carry over to the new update, meaning banned accounts won’t access the alpha release either.
What’s Included in the Counter-Strike 2 Test
Counter-Strike 2 limited test allows for Deathmatches and Unranked Competitive matches in Dust2. Testers can also access their CS:GO inventory items—though they won’t be able to modify them. XPs are available in the beta, too, and will be carried over to the official launch.
Moreover, community map makers who join the limited test have access to Source 2 Item Workshop and can try their hand at some new features.
Things to Know About CS:GO 2 Limited Test
Unlike Capcom, which directly sent out Street Fighter 6 closed beta codes, Valve has been more secretive about the limited test process. And many fans are left with unanswered questions. So, here are more details to help clarify the news:
- Counter-Strike 2 limited test is available only on Steam and for Windows devices.
- Players cannot play the closed beta on community servers.
- Competitive cooldown of CS:GO carries over to the closed beta.
- The only way to modify CS:GO 2’s inventory is by doing so in the original game. (The changes carry over.)
- The limited test’s closure date is not clear. But it seems Valve will not stop it until the game’s launch.
- More free content is on the way for testers: New maps, modifications, etc.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive 2 will be released for PC in the summer of 2023.
Source: Steam