CS:GO map-based factions were a way that Counter-Strike used to add personality to each map, giving it a different flavor. Back in the CS:GO days, every map had a set of default Agents on both CT and T sides, which were themed to the map you were playing on.
It was great, and really elevated every CS:GO map to another level. But in CS2, they were removed, instead replaced by default Agents that are the same across every map. Less great. But will CS:GO map-based factions make a return to CS2 in the future? Let’s investigate.
Why were CS:GO map-based factions removed in CS2?
Given Valve’s focus on skins in recent years, it’s hard not to be cynical about the removal of CS:GO map-based factions in CS2. This feature used to give players unique skins for free on each map, whereas now, they’re stuck with the default option unless they fork out some cash for a shiny new CS2 Agent. And if you buy that Agent from the Steam Community Market, that’s more money in Valve’s pocket. In recent times, the lack of new Agents has led to their price going through the roof, which again, means Valve makes even more money.
But Valve is typically tight-lipped about everything, so it hasn’t officially commented on why CS:GO map-based factions were removed. We can’t say for sure, so that leaves us only with speculation. It is ultimately a feature that many players are asking for, so Valve has no reason not to add it back in at some point in the future.
Will CS:GO map-based factions come back in CS2?
Unfortunately, there’s no way to tell whether Valve is looking to bring CS:GO map-based factions back in CS2. There’s certainly no indication hinting towards that, and it hasn’t appeared in any CS2 leaks. It’s worth remembering that there’s a ton of CS:GO content that isn’t in CS2, such as Danger Zone, Retakes, and maps like Cache and Cobblestone. In this regard, map-based factions are not all that special.
But we’re over two years into CS2’s lifespan at this point, and much of Valve’s approach towards the game seems to focus on extracting every dollar possible out of skins. Again, cynical, but more true than most would care to admit. If CS:GO map-based factions were going to return at any point, you have to feel as though it would have already happened.
My guess is “no,” CS:GO map-based factions will not return in CS2, although I’d love to be proven wrong. Don’t hold your breath, though.
