How to Play CS:GO in 2025? The Only Method That Works

Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) has completely replaced CS:GO, but many players still want to return to the original version of the game. But is it possible to do this in 2025? Yes, but with some restrictions.

In this guide, we will consider how you can run CS:GO after the transition to CS2, available methods and points to pay attention to.

Why CS:GO is no longer available

September 2023 was a big milestone for Counter-Strike fans. Valve released CS2 and removed CS:GO completely. This means the following:

• CS:GO is no longer available for download on Steam.
• All official matchmaking is now done in CS2. Even players who want to stay on the old version must now play CS2.
• The interface, mechanics and graphics have changed drastically. Not everyone liked these changes.

However, there are some ways to play CS:GO in 2025.

How to play CS:GO in 2025?

Valve doesn't support two separate clients at the same time, but it is possible to restore CS:GO using Steam's console commands.

1. Launch CS:GO Using the Old Version via Steam

If you previously had CS:GO installed on your computer, you can get it back by following these steps:

1. Open Steam and go to the library.
2. Right-click on CS2 and select Properties.
3. Go to the Betas tab and enter this command:

download_depot 730 731073

1. This will download the last version of CS:GO before the release of CS2.
2. After the download is complete, the game will be available in the SteamApps → content folder.

However, this method will only work if the servers support older versions.

2. Using CS:GO Archives

Another option is to find archives with old versions of CS:GO. Some platforms on the Internet store old game files, but this method has some risks:

• Valve does not officially support older servers, so some features may not work.
• Downloading files from unknown sources is dangerous. They may contain malware.

If you are going to try this method, use only trusted sources and do not enter your Steam login credentials into third-party clients.

So, What About Skins? Does the Market Still Work?

CS:GO has been more than just a game for years. Skin trading has created a huge economy. But with the release of CS2, players are starting to worry about what the value of old skins will be.

Here's what you need to know:

• All CS:GO skins have been ported to CS2. If you play the old version, the new skins may not display properly.
• Some classic skin models have been changed. Especially knives and gloves have slight design differences.
• Steam Market is still active. Skin prices and market trends continue to change. Platforms like CSMarketCap allow you to track CS2 skin prices in real-time, so players can make trades based on current data.

Is it worth playing CS:GO in 2025?

The changes brought by CS2 did not please every player. Many people want to return to CS:GO because:

• The promised improved tickrate is not yet fully stable.
• VACnet (anti-cheat system) still fails to detect many cheaters, which hurts honest players.
• Some players prefer and even long for the classic gameplay and shooting mechanics of CS:GO.

Running CS:GO after the release of CS2 is possible, but not easy. If the game was previously in your library, it's safest to restore it via Steam. Otherwise, you need to be careful and cautious to find old versions.