CS2 Server is Running a Hidden Game Error Fix Guide (2026)

Ever since the beginning of Premier Season 4, players have been running into the CS2 Server is Running a Hidden Game error message. This bug leaves every player in the lobby unable to join the server in Premier, and makes it look as though you’re all about to catch a ban. Luckily, the CS2 Server is Running a Hidden Game error fix is super simple, and won’t take you long to solve at all. Especially compared to other CS2 error messages.

How to fix CS2 Server is Running a Hidden Game Error

When you encounter the Server is Running a Hidden Game error message, you’ll be transported back to the main menu. You’ll notice that you should have the option to reconnect to the game. Don’t bother, as it won’t work. You’ll be stuck in a reconnecting loop permanently, and the lobby will never disband itself.

All you need to do to fix the CS2 Server is Running a Hidden Game error is restart the game. Very simple. When you restart the game, your lobby will have completely disappeared, with no option to abandon the game or reconnect. You won’t be able to reconnect to the lobby you were in, unfortunately – this error message means the entire lobby is gone for good.

Importantly, though, you won’t be punished for this. It doesn’t automatically count as though you abandoned the match, so you don’t need to worry about being banned. After you’ve reset the game, you should be good to queue any of the CS2 maps and modes right away.