Counter-Strike: Global Offensive has remained a favorite with esports fans since launching in 2012. In 2013, Valve staged the first-ever CSGO Major Championships, with that inaugural event spawning many tournaments like the BLAST Premier and Intel Extreme Masters remaining staples of the esports schedule to this day. Despite many calls for a follow-up to CSGO, the game is still pulling in respectable player numbers. In 2023, it was still attracting more than 1.35 million concurrent players on Steam online. However, it has to be said that CSGO is showing its age. While many fans await more news of the long-awaited Counter-Strike 2, other players have taken things into their own hands.
CSGO Custom Maps
In CSGO, players can choose between 25 maps, with Mirage and Inferno being the most popular. While this seems like a lot of variety, having to do battle on those same maps time and again can get a little boring. Thankfully, players with a bit of technical experience are free to create their own custom maps from scratch.
Before you begin getting to grips with the little details, you’ll need to decide on a game mode. Most amateur map builders choose Bomb Defusal for this, although you can also create maps for DeathMatch and Hostage Rescue scenarios. Once you’ve selected your mode, you can start customizing map layouts and tinkering with geometry.
To do this, you’ll need to make use of CSGO authoring tools like the Hammer Editor. This user-friendly tool lets you create elements like floors and ceilings, as well as place architectural details like doors. Putting together the geometry of your map is relatively simple, but this is only the tip of the iceberg. Next, you’ll need to start thinking about adding textures to your map. While it’s possible to create your own, this calls for a whole other level of technical proficiency. In a pinch, you can use ready-made textures. With geometry and textures taken care of, you can make your map more realistic by incorporating lighting effects. Finally, you’re ready to add props. Whether you’re adding random crates or abandoned vehicles, these elements will breathe life into your map and make it as authentic as possible.
How to Create a Great CSGO Map
You probably already have a pretty solid idea about how you want your map to look. However, it’s not always best to follow your heart. You should really be thinking logically when creating custom CSGO maps. Even if it looks fantastic, your custom map needs to be playable.
Focus on the layout first. This should be a fairly balanced affair, allowing both teams to start on a relatively equal footing. If you want to create a map that people will want to actually play, you also need to make it challenging. You can up the ante by making sure there are plenty of choke points and areas for cover.
Finally, make sure your map is distinct. It’s fine to be inspired by popular maps like Overpass and Dust II, but your design should be lightly influenced by these maps, rather than look like carbon copies.
Are you confident that you’ve created a killer custom map that CSGO fans will want to play? Valve’s Map Publish Tool makes it easy to share the fruits of your labor.
Need help determining where to place those flanking and choke points? It makes sense to watch professional teams in action. Look for the biggest challenges even the best CSGO players have a hard time overcoming. Wondering why so many first-time players love Inferno? Study hard and take notes if you’re serious about creating a spectacular map that will become a mainstay of the online community. Alternatively, for the latest CSGO and Dota 2 live score click here.
