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5 things Valorant does better than CS2
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Hamza Rashid
Gamer
29 Apr 2025
Posted On
The Counter-Strike games have earned their spot in the hall of fame of games, and for good reason. The series has withstood the test of time and has even managed to evolve to the current age with its newest game, Counter-Strike 2. In contrast, Riot Games’ Valorant [1] is fairly new to the scene.
While both games have much to offer to their distinct fanbases, it can’t be argued that both games have things they do better than the other. For example, Valorant is better in the selection of agents, variety in maps, finesse of skins, expansion of in-game lore, and overall support from the developer.
So, we thought, why not dive deep into some things Valorant does better than Counter-Strike 2 to ensure those who want to migrate games know how.
Selection of agents
Counter-Strike 2 doesn’t dive deep into its playable character, which does have its own distinct charm. However, it can’t be argued that some players would rather have some proper backstories and voices for the characters they choose. Valorant, unlike Counter-Strike 2, is a hero shooter, which means every character feels unique and distinct.
Some players like playing as the cool but awkward Iso, while others like being the confident Neon. Knowing how the character you’re controlling thinks and acts can take immersion to the next level.
On the other hand, every character in Counter-Strike 2 is the same. While they’re either part of the terrorist or counter terrorist team, that’s all we know. There’s no difference between any character that sets the many characters in a certain match apart from each other.
Variety in maps
Valorant offers greater map variety than CS2 due to its diverse objectives and mechanics built into each location. Maps in Valorant are more than just layouts because they include unique elements like teleporters on Bind, vertical ziplines on Split, and rotating doors on Lotus. These features require players to adapt their strategies depending on the map, resulting in dynamic gameplay that shifts with each match.
In contrast, CS2 maps mostly stick to a traditional bomb-defusal format with minimal environmental interaction beyond doors and smokes. Every map has the same core concept, which is you go in, you look for certain angles and points in the map where the enemy can’t see you, and you take the enemy out. Alternatively, you look for one of the multiple bomb sites to plant the bomb while the enemy’s doing what we just mentioned.
Another point of differentiation is Valorant’s consistent addition of new maps and rotations. Riot Games regularly introduces new battlegrounds while maintaining an active map pool that encourages adaptation and experimentation. Each new map comes with fresh gameplay mechanics or themes, offering something new for players to explore. Meanwhile, CS2 has retained a core group of classic maps, like Dust2 and Mirage, for years with only visual or minor layout changes, which can lead to a more repetitive experience.
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Finesse of skins
Skins play a huge role in both Valorant and Counter-Strike 2, especially considering that both free-to-play game developers utilize in-game transactions to ensure they have a steady stream of income. While skins in CS2 are definitely more expensive, that doesn’t mean it has better skins.
Valorant skins are generally considered better than CS2’s due to their higher level of visual customization, modern effects, and active development. Riot Games designs Valorant skins with distinct themes that go beyond just weapon appearance. They often include custom animations, inspect effects, unique sounds, finisher animations, and even evolving visuals as you level them up.
Another strength of Valorant skins lies in the consistent release of new, original collections. Riot frequently drops bundles with a strong thematic direction. These themes range from cyberpunk to fantasy and even anime, which ensures every player has at least one skin line they’re very likely to love. In contrast, CS2’s skins are relatively grounded, which is good for realism, but that means the developer can’t add things like unique skin finishers and other animations to ensure they’re distinct.
Expansion of in-game lore
Valorant’s in-game lore is more expansive and integrated than CS2’s, offering a richer backdrop that enhances the gameplay experience. Each agent in Valorant comes with a distinct backstory, personality, and origin tied to a larger narrative. Additionally, every agent either already knows each other or is indirectly related, which ensures players can get more invested in all the in-game dialogues the agents say.
Elements like Kingdom Corporation logos, hidden dossiers, and evolving scenery all help reinforce the world and its unfolding story. There are also some cool easter eggs that suggest they’re more important than they seem. Through these easter eggs, Riot also sometimes gives hints for what’s to come in future updates, encouraging players to look closer into everything. Then there are all the cinematic trailers that come with every seasonal update and the music videos that add even more to the lore.
In contrast, CS2’s lore is minimal and mostly confined to vague faction names and basic mission briefings. There’s no character development, overarching plot, or in-game storytelling that ties the maps or gameplay together. While some weapon skins or operations may hint at narrative ideas, they are rarely followed up on or expanded meaningfully.
Support from the developer
The Counter-Strike series has been around for a while, that’s for sure, but Counter-Strike 2 doesn’t really expand on the tried and tested formula of the series. It makes sense, since there isn’t much to add to CS2’s gameplay loop, but it means players don’t have many new maps, skins, and characters to look forward to.
In contrast, Valorant has steady support from Riot Games. The game gets multiple patches and updates that keep the game fresh, either adding new content like skins, maps, and agents, or tweaking what’s already there to make the experience more competitive and fun for every player involved.
FAQs
How do Valorant and CS2 differ in gameplay style?
While both Valorant and Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) are tactical shooters, Valorant mixes traditional gunplay with unique agent abilities, adding layers of strategy based on character selection. CS2 focuses purely on mechanical skill, map control, and utility usage like smokes and flashes. Valorant feels more modern and ability-driven, while CS2 retains a purist, aim-focused experience built on its legacy.
Which game is better for new players: Valorant or CS2?
Valorant is often seen as more beginner-friendly due to its clearer visual design, structured tutorials, and character abilities that can level the playing field. CS2 has a steeper learning curve, especially with recoil control and economy management. However, players who enjoy raw aim duels and deep mechanical mastery may find CS2 more rewarding over time.
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