Valve releases beta version of renewed CS:GO map Dust 2

Valve has made a new version of the Dust 2 map available for players to test. The map, which has been very popular since its release with patch 1.1 of Half-Life’s original Counter-Strike mod, has been given a major graphical polish.

Valve has left the map virtually unchanged in structure and layout. The resolution of the textures in the new map is four times higher and the models of the terrorists have been adjusted so that they look a bit rougher and more menacing. Furthermore, Valve has refined the movement through the map, including by improving the possibilities for taking cover.

Furthermore, both bomb locations have been modified in terms of buildings: one location should now represent a historic fortress that is being restored, while the other location is home to a hotel and a bazaar. The former two pizza joints have been replaced by two dental practices, and many satellite dishes can now be seen on the roofs.

The map was removed from Counter-Strike: Global Offensive in February for competitive matches; the map was still playable for non-competitive matches. Dust 2 is the successor to the map Dust, and like its predecessor, it is set in a North African Arab village, where counter-terrorist units have the task of dismantling bombs that the terrorists can place in two places.

Left: old bomb site B.