How to 1v1 in CS2 (CSGO)

Want to challenge your friends in isolated duels, test your skills in a 1v1, or give someone a lesson without risking your ELO or rank? You're in the right place! In this guide, we'll walk you through how to set up a 1v1 in CS2 (Counter-Strike 2) so you can dive straight into the action.

Why 1v1 in CS2?

Determine if you are better at Counter-Strike than your friends with a 1v1. With CS2's latest update, setting up a 1v1 match has become simpler than ever. No more relying on external servers or shady providers—now you can 1v1 directly through official workshop maps. Let's break down the steps to get you started.

Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up a 1v1 Match in CS2

1. Find the Right 1v1 Map

Start by heading to the official CS2 Steam Workshop. Here, you’ll find a variety of community-created 1v1 maps. Simply search for "1v1 map" and browse through the available options.

• Tip: Use the "Most Popular of All Time" filter to discover maps that others frequently use, or explore newer maps to find hidden gems.

2. Download the Map

Once you’ve found a map you like, click on the map’s Steam Workshop page and hit the “Subscribe” button. This will automatically download the map to your Steam library, making it available in-game.

3. Launch CS2

With the map downloaded, fire up CS2 as you normally would.

4. Invite Your Opponent

Invite the friend you want to 1v1 to your lobby. Make sure it’s just the two of you in the lobby—otherwise, you won’t be able to have a 1v1. Want to expand the competition? You can also do a 2v2 by inviting two additional friends!

5. Start the Game

Once everyone’s ready, go to the "Play" menu and select "Workshop Maps." From there, choose the 1v1 map you downloaded earlier. Click "GO," and the game will begin!

• Important Note: If your friend hasn’t yet downloaded the map, they’ll be prompted to do so before the match starts. Make sure they accept the download to avoid delays.

Fine-Tuning the Match

Once you’re in the game, follow these additional steps to ensure a smooth experience:

1. Ensure You're on Opposite Teams: Double-check that you and your opponent are on opposing teams. You can switch sides halfway through if needed to keep things balanced.
2. Kick Bots (if necessary): Some maps may automatically place bots in the game. To remove them, open the developer console (if enabled) and type bot_kick.
3. End the Warmup: End the warmup period and start the real match by typing mp_warmup_end in the console.

And that’s it! Now you're ready to duel it out and show off your skills. Time to see who the real CS2 champion is!