Valve’s recent decision to switch from a 15-round format to a 12-round format in Counter-Strike 2 has sparked a heated debate within the game’s competitive community. This change, known as MR12 (max rounds), will result in shorter matches and more frequent gameplay, impacting competitive Counter-Strike at all levels.
CS2 has undergone various changes, but the reduction in round duration is perhaps the most significant. Valve explains that over the past decade, they have made updates to the economy and weapon balance to minimize uncontested rounds in CS matches. As a result, exciting competitive matches can now be resolved with fewer rounds. Shorter matches mean players can play more frequently, leading to the decision to limit regulation time to a maximum of 24 rounds (with a six-round overtime in case of a tie) for Premier, Competitive, and the Majors.
This change has had seismic implications, especially for the professional scene, which is already anticipating other upcoming changes such as smokes, audio, and tick rate adjustments. The community’s response has been divided, with some embracing the refreshing change while others express concerns about its long-term effects.
Jacob “Pimp” Winneche, a longtime player and analyst, welcomes the switch to MR12, describing it as a “fresh breath of air.” Other casters also see potential benefits, as it could make the game more accessible to new or returning fans and reduce the length of match days and practice hours.
However, the majority of players are not enthusiastic about the changes. One major concern is the increased importance of pistol rounds. Given the current in-game economy, winning the pistol round often determines the outcome of the following rounds before a full buy. With fewer rounds in a half, the impact of winning a pistol round is amplified.
It is important to note that sentiments may change as players adapt to the new competitive format. CS2 is scheduled for a full launch “this summer.”
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Source: DOTESPORTS
