Det beste fra CS2 i 2024

This year has been quite successful for the esports scene, bringing many memorable moments. The complete transition to CS2, which turned one year old this year, is undoubtedly a significant event of the year. However, let's delve into all the details, as there were plenty to discuss.

Best CS2 Tournaments In 2024

“B1ad3” credit: HLTV

Spirit achieved their most successful year yet, securing their first-ever Major title at the Perfect World Shanghai Major alongside victories at IEM Katowice and BLAST Premier Spring Final. Their 17-year-old prodigy, donk, not only dominated the competitions, earning the title of the youngest MVP of a Major but also established himself as the best player of the year.

Gaming events of the year, winners, and their prizes:

• IEM Katowice 2024: Spirit, $1,000,000
• PGL Major Copenhagen 2024: NAVI, $1,250,000
• IEM Chengdu 2024: FaZe, $250,000
• ESL Pro League Season 19: MOUZ, $750,000
• IEM Dallas 2024: G2, $250,000
• YaLLa Compass 2024: The MongolZ, $400,000
• BLAST Premier: Spring Final 2024: Spirit, $425,000
• Esports World Cup 2024: NAVI, $1,000,000
• IEM Cologne 2024: Vitality, $1,000,000
• ESL Pro League Season 20: NAVI, $250,000
• BLAST Premier: Fall Final 2024: G2, $425,000
• IEM Rio 2024: NAVI, $250,000
• BLAST Premier: World Final 2024: G2, $1,000,000
• Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024: Spirit, $1,250,000

Best CS2 Team In 2024

“mzinho” credit: HLTV

2024 was a year of extraordinary performances in CS2, but one team consistently rose above the competition: Natus Vincere (NAVI). With a blend of tactical brilliance, star-studded rosters, and sheer determination, NAVI cemented themselves as the best team of the year. Their remarkable achievements included victories at PGL Major Copenhagen, Esports World Cup, and ESL Pro League Season 20, amassing a total prize pool of over $2.5 million.

A pivotal factor in NAVI's success was its ability to adapt and thrive under pressure. Their performance at the PGL Major Copenhagen was nothing short of phenomenal, securing a dominant victory against the world’s top teams. This marked NAVI’s return to the Major winner's podium, showcasing their resilience and tactical superiority. Additionally, their triumph at the Esports World Cup further solidified their position as a powerhouse, combining consistent teamwork with individual brilliance.

Team Spirit: A Historic Year

“chopper, sh1ro, zont1x, donk” credit: HLTV

2024 was a groundbreaking year for Team Spirit, marking their most successful season to date. The team claimed their first-ever Perfect World Shanghai Major title, cementing their place among the elite teams in CS2. Along with victories at IEM Katowice and BLAST Premier Spring Final, Team Spirit proved their dominance in the competitive scene. Their standout player, donk, played a crucial role in their success, with incredible individual performances, including setting a record for the most AK-47 kills in a match. Spirit’s combination of skilled players, strategic gameplay, and remarkable growth throughout the year earned them recognition as one of the top teams of 2024.

G2 Esports: A Strong Contender

“‘TaZ, huNter-, nexa, NiKo, m0NESY, HooXi” credit: HLTV

G2 Esports had a stellar 2024, with their impressive performances securing them top spots at major events. The team won the BLAST Premier: Fall Final 2024 and BLAST Premier: World Final 2024, with their ability to dominate under pressure standing out. Known for their aggressive playstyle and versatility, G2’s players, especially NiKo and m0NESY, showcased remarkable skill and teamwork throughout the year. Despite stiff competition, G2's ability to perform in high-stakes matches made them a consistent contender for the title of best team. Their strategic depth and sharp individual talent allowed them to stay at the forefront of the CS2 scene.

Vitality: Consistency in High-Level Play

“apEX, ZywOo, Spinx, flameZ, mezii” credit: HLTV

Vitality continued to be a dominant force in CS2 in 2024, securing victories at high-profile events like IEM Cologne. Their consistency in reaching the latter stages of major tournaments was unmatched, with standout performances from ZywOo and apEX. Despite the stiff competition, Vitality's tactical depth and experienced roster allowed them to remain at the top of the CS2 rankings. Their ability to perform under pressure, combined with their innovative strategies, made them a force to be reckoned with in 2024.

Best CS2 Player In 2024

“r1nkle” credit: HLTV

The year 2024 brought out the best in CS2 players, with multiple stars shining brightly in their respective roles. Among the standout performers was r1nkle, whose precision with the AWP redefined what it means to dominate with the sniper rifle. At BLAST Premier: Fall Groups, r1nkle achieved an incredible 24 AWP kills on Ancient against FaZe, setting a high benchmark for sharpshooters. His ability to turn the tide of matches with calculated shots made him a key player to watch throughout the year.

“stavn” credit: HLTV

Another noteworthy performer was stavn, who demonstrated an extraordinary ability to deal damage in every round. At IEM Rio, he set a record by delivering 616 damage per round against BetBoom on Nuke, a feat that showcased his unparalleled efficiency and consistency. Stavn’s gameplay proved pivotal in clutch situations, earning him recognition as one of the most impactful players of the year.

“donk” credit: HLTV

In 2024, CS2 witnessed remarkable individual performances, but none stood out quite like Donk's. The 17-year-old prodigy from Team Spirit set the bar for excellence, delivering unparalleled performances throughout the year. In the ESL Pro League Season 20, Donk showcased his lethal precision with the AK-47, achieving 32 kills on Nuke against Wildcard and 29 on Anubis in a tense match against MIBR. These feats highlight his ability to control games single-handedly, proving that even with an average of 6.6 AK-47 kills per map, he consistently exceeded expectations, making him a standout figure in the competitive CS2 scene.

Best CS2 Update In 2024

In 2024, Valve continued to keep Counter-Strike 2 fresh and exciting with a series of impactful updates that reshaped the competitive landscape. One of the most controversial changes was the removal of Overpass from the competitive map pool, which was replaced by the beloved Dust2. This decision took many by surprise, especially after Overpass had just undergone a significant rework. The removal sparked debates within the community, but it also reignited the excitement surrounding Dust2, a classic map with timeless appeal.

In a more positive twist, Train made a triumphant return to the competitive scene. The map received a comprehensive overhaul, with new pathways and reimagined angles that breathed new life into its gameplay. The updates not only improved the flow of the map but also introduced fresh strategies and opportunities for players to explore, making it a welcomed addition to the pool of competitive maps.

Inferno also saw significant changes, as Valve responded to community feedback about visual clutter and narrow, claustrophobic areas. The adjustments made the map feel more open and accessible, improving the overall gameplay experience.

Along with these visual improvements, the update included gameplay mechanics that had a direct impact on strategies. For example, the CT economy was adjusted, reducing the cost of the M4A4 and incendiary grenades, making it easier for the defending side to stay competitive. Meanwhile, Terrorists saw reduced rewards for planting bombs that were defused by the CTs, encouraging more aggressive play and a faster-paced game.

Best CS2 Change In 2024

“mzinho, 910, Senzu, maaRaa, bLitz, Techno” credit: HLTV

The year 2024 in CS2 saw remarkable changes that reshaped the landscape of the competitive scene. One of the most significant shifts came from the underdog teams, particularly The MongolZ, who became a symbol of hope for the Asian Counter-Strike community. Their victories at the Thunderpick World Championship and YaLLa Compass 2024 demonstrated the potential for non-European teams to rise to prominence. The MongolZ’s success not only highlighted the growing strength of the Asian scene but also emphasized the increasing global diversity within CS2, offering a fresh perspective and inspiring other regions to aim for the top.

“s1mple” credit:HLTV

The year also witnessed s1mple’s unexpected loan transfer from NAVI to Falcons, creating one of the most star-studded lineups in CS2 history. However, despite the roster's potential, Falcons struggled to live up to expectations, with disappointing finishes, including a 9-16th place at BLAST Premier: Spring Showdown 2024 and a lackluster performance in the European RMR A for the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024. This highlighted the challenges of building synergy within a new superteam, even with legendary players on the roster. On a more somber note, the tragic passing of cynic at just 23 years old left the community mourning, and his untimely death sparked vital conversations about mental health in esports, underscoring the emotional and mental toll of professional gaming.

“zeRRoFIX, s-chilla”credit: HLTV

In addition to regional successes, 2024 also brought heartwarming stories of perseverance, notably from Passion UA, an all-Ukrainian team. Their qualification for the Perfect World Shanghai Major was a monumental achievement, as they managed to outplay powerhouse teams like Virtus.pro and Spirit. While they didn't advance far in the tournament, their success in reaching the Major was a testament to the rising talent in Ukraine and a proud moment for the esports community. Their journey reflected the importance of hard work, resilience, and regional pride in a competitive scene that is becoming increasingly globalized.

What to expect from CS2 In 2025?

“pashaBiceps” credit: HLTV

Looking ahead to 2025, Counter-Strike 2 is poised to continue its evolution as a top-tier esports title, driven by ongoing updates and an expanding global player base. With 2024 showcasing the rise of underdog teams and notable roster shifts, such as NiKo and s1mple joining new organizations, the competitive landscape is set for even more surprises. Valve's commitment to map rotations, such as the return of Train and the removal of Overpass, suggests a further refinement of the game's strategic depth. The emphasis on balancing economy mechanics and enhancing gameplay flow is likely to continue, pushing both veteran and emerging teams to adapt. As the game grows in both popularity and complexity, 2025 could see new talent break into the spotlight, possibly shifting the power dynamics between the dominant teams like NAVI, G2, and Spirit. Additionally, the growing awareness around mental health in esports may inspire further positive changes in the community, leading to a more supportive and sustainable competitive environment. Overall, CS2 is expected to remain a cornerstone of competitive gaming, with new records, thrilling tournaments, and an ever-evolving meta.