Counter-Strikehas 25 years of history behind it. At this point, it’s one of the longest-running FPS series that remains relevant today. Some maps that still feature in the game have been involved from the very start.
Choosing the 10 bestCounter-Strikemaps of all time is a difficult job, considering the series’ long history. But someone’s got to do it, so let’s try, shall we?
10. Office
There’s something nostalgic aboutOffice, and it’s not thatCounter-Strikefans were allreallyinto playing the Hostage Rescue game mode back in 2004.
Instead, you’re more likely to recognizeCounter-Strike: Source‘s Office fromGarry’s Mod, where it was repurposed for modes like Prop Hunt. Is it the best map for classicCounter-Strikegameplay? No. But it makes it onto this list for its iconic status alone.
9. Overpass
WhileOverpasswas first introduced inCounter-Strike: Global Offensive, it received a significant facelift withCS2‘s release, giving it a new lease of life. Despite its removal from theActive Duty map pool, the latest version of Overpass is the best so far.
The map is an AWPer’s paradise, with various long lanes to find impact. Overpass suits tactical players, with plenty of ways to execute utility into either bombsite. Sure, you can sometimes aim-duel your way to victory, but those with solid tactics will usually win on Overpass.
8. Anubis
Anubiswas first designed by community members Roald, jakuza, and jd40, before Valve purchased it forCS:GO. It required no fundamental changes during the move toCounter-Strike 2, such is the strength of its level design. After a shiny lighting overhaul, Anubis was good to go.
Although Anubis is one of the newest official maps to be added, it’s not too early to call it one of the bestCounter-Strikemaps ever. There’s much to consider in each area on the CT side, while T-side players have plenty of options for intricate mid-round decisions.
7. Cobblestone
Cobblestone(or de_cbble, as it was known) had its best days inCounter-Strike 1.6. This map’s castle theme features a unique amount of verticality, resulting in unique gunfights you’d rarely be given on any otherCounter-Strikemap. Its rocky aesthetic was a fun escape from the typically sandyCSmaps, too.
Newer versions of Cobblestone have undergone too many rough changes, contributing to a worse map overall. Still, we’ll always have the original.
6. Cache
Cacheis mapmaker FMPONE’s masterpiece. It essentially perfectsCounter-Strike‘s three-lane map formula, with a distinct Soviet style that sets it apart from the other maps. The best version of Cache arrived inCounter-Strike: Global Offensive, and we can only hope it returns inCS2.
Interestingly, Cache doesn’t require as much tactical nous as other maps to get the win. Pure aimgods can succeed here, which might be why it’s so popular with fans.
5. Train
Okay, I may have called Overpass an AWPer’s paradise earlier, but I lied.Traintakes that title comfortably. Pick a lane on either side, hold it with an AWP, and win. Simple! Train has such a unique layout among the best Counter-Strike maps that it would be impossible to leave it out of any list like this.
Ever sinceCounter-Strike 1.6, Train has been a series staple. Slight improvements led to its best version inCS:GO, and I can’t wait to see how it plays in its eventualCounter-Strike 2release.
4. Nuke
If you like verticality in yourCounter-Strikemaps, you must loveNuke. There are three levels to worry about, all of which can be a threat at any given time. The bombsites are essentially on top of each other, ensuring Nuke plays differently from any otherCSmap.
The map was much larger in itsCS 1.6version and has slowly been streamlined over the years, such as the closing of the second vent or removing the railings around the building outside. These have been for the map’s good, with the CS2 iteration being the best to date.
3. Inferno
Infernois a controversial pick for some. The map’s meta is very much figured out at high-level play nowadays, but back inCounter-Strike: Source, this wasn’t always the case. Inferno’s layout allows communicative teams to approach each round in several ways, making it one of the most fun maps to play with friends.
Maybe it’s nostalgia speaking, but theCS:Sversion clears theCS:GOandCS:GOreworks. Specifically, A-site and Banana feel much better when playing old iterations of Inferno.
2. Mirage
Miragehas something for everyone. Want to take every aim duel and win matches via pure skill? Go for it. Want to perform meticulously planned team tactics with complex utility usage? Mirage will let you. No matter what type of player you are, Mirage complements your style, which is why it has been the most popularCounter-Strikemap ever since its official release in 2013.
While theCS2version is shiny and pretty, we think theCS:GOversion edges it out for a place on this list. The more washed-out colors in theCS:GOoriginal add more to the atmosphere.
1. Dust2
Dust2andCounter-Strikeare synonymous. There isn’t one without the other. It’s one of the most iconic FPS multiplayer maps ever, peaking with theCS 1.6original. Despite numerous versions over the years, Dust2 has never undergone any significant changes to its layout. Why change perfection?
The map remains inCounter-Strike 2‘s Active Duty map pool. While it may be rotated occasionally to give it some time out, it’ll likely always be the bestCounter-Strikemap ever made. It’d take some beating.
