Introduction
Around a year ago, we saw the unofficial release of Cache in CS2. Back then, we already speculated that Valve would want to buy the rights to the map before they would consider it for the official Active Duty map pool, and that happened back in May of 2025. Now, a year later, it’s been reworked and is officially in the game. As such, we can now fully expect it to be part of the Premier Map Pool soon.
How to play Cache in CS2
The previous version that we reported on was a community map, made by Cache’s original creator, FMPONE. This newest version is created by Valve, however, so you can quite simply play it by launching your game. At the time of writing, Cache is only available in Casual, Competitive, Deathmatch, and Retakes, but it’s almost guaranteed that it will make it to Active Duty at some point in time, so it’s a good idea to get some competitive matches under your belt so you’re ready when it comes to Premier.
Source: Valve
Will we see Cache in Premier Mode?
Valve has gone through a lot of trouble for Cache. They purchased the rights from its original creator, and then spent a year completely remaking the map. That, combined with the fact that Cache was one of the most popular maps over the course of CS:GO’s run makes it pretty much guaranteed that we will see it enter the Active Duty map pool at some point in time.
Since the release of CS2, Valve usually releases new/remade maps in Competitive first, which gives the community a chance to test the map. This is also a good way to iron out any last bugs and make balance changes if needed. Then, the map enters the Active Duty pool. As such, we expect Cache to make it to Active Duty in the new season, which starts after the Cologne Major (June 21st). Do note that this is just a guess, however.
Some photos of Cache in CS2
As you can see, Valve redesigned the entire map. It looks completely different from what we saw when FMPONE first released his version last year. We think Valve has done a stellar job. The map looks amazing, and the desolate atmosphere can be felt in every little section of the map. And, most importantly, visibility is great. If you can’t make it to your PC to try it out for yourself just yet, feel free to check out these images.
Former semi-pro gamer turned writer, product reviewer, and community manager.