Valve’s new CS:GO update introduces changes to four maps

Valve released another update for CS:GO, this time focusing on improving maps. The latest CS:GO update is out live since yesterday, September 8, and besides changes to four maps, introduced a number of fixes to the game. 

The developer decided to make a number of fixes and small changes to Anubis, Blagai, Cascade, and Ember. These changes are primarily intended to improve gameplay and make some spots much more accessible. As always, Valve has been also addressing interface and Steam input issues, including the improvement of mouse and keyboard support on Steam Deck.

Changes in the update

While the latest CS:GO update didn’t bring any big changes to the game, it is quite possible that the developers will push some major updates after the IEM Rio Major 2022.

Here’s the summary of map changes made with the recent update:

Anubis

Anubis, the only map available in matchmaking, has seen the most changes. The devs have focused on improving both bomb sites and both the T and CT sides, removing clips,  and fixing stones on A catwalk. Moreover, players can now silently drop down from A long.

Blagai and Cascade

Blagai and Cascade, the maps designed for Wingman mode, have seen some changes too. While Blagai only fixed a few things such as fixing pixelwalk on window frame, as well as other bugs, and increasing C4 explosion radius, Cascade received new visuals and a new ladder in the lower main area. Furthermore, the self-boost in the upper main area was removed.

Ember

The developers have once again tried to fix the Ember bug and improve the constantly breaking cannonball, among other smaller bug fixes. Crater has been renamed Water Tower, a new water tower has been added, and the use of doors on the map has been updated with a new sound. Moreover, cannons now have a particle effect when firing.

Tier-1 map pool overview

Counter-Strike has maps of all shapes and sizes, but only seven belong to the Tier 1 map pool. This active map pool is used for the highest level of competitive CS:GO and features Valve’s finest maps, namely Inferno, Mirage, Dust II, Overpass, Nuke, Vertigo, and Ancient.

Ancient is the latest map to join the pool and unfortunately, it’s quite a mess at the moment. It has some potential for competitive play, but since it’s new, the meta is yet to be defined. Meanwhile, Vertigo stands out from the crowd of a well-defined trio of Inferno, Mirage and Dust II. That doesn’t mean Vertigo isn’t fun, though. It might not be the most balanced map, but it has a lot of interesting and dynamic chokepoints, smoke spots, and boosts.

Header: Valve