Update: Weapons and Spectating
2013.01.30 - 
Last week we made some big changes to weapons based on pro feedback. Those changes were just a first step in the evolution of weapon balance in CS:GO, and that process continues with today’s update.
We’ll continue to monitor player performance in the weeks to come, so head into a Deathmatch server and give the newest adjustments a shot.
This update also includes an easy new way to watch your friends in action.
To spectate your friends, just head over to the “Play With Friends” menu. If your friend is on an official matchmaking server, you’ll see a WATCH button next to the JOIN and INVITE buttons.
Spectating is a great way to learn some new tricks, or to root for your favorite players while they’re in a match!
Update: Weapon Changes, Deathmatch!
2013.01.23 -
Today’s update is a big one. After gathering feedback from pro players around the world, we’ve made significant changes to weapon balance with global changes to recoil that affect all weapons, as well as specific adjustments to rifles, pistols, and the P90. We’ve also made some changes to the messaging system, so check the notes for details.
To try the weapon changes out for yourself, we’ve also added a new game mode to matchmaking and offline play: Deathmatch.
You can join a Deathmatch on either the Classic maps or the Demolition and Arms Race maps. Practice your aim with individual weapons like the pros, spawn with a random weapon, or boost your score by taking advantage of bonus timers. There’s no wrong way to play.
Deathmatch mode is also a useful way to learn a new map. Find out where you’re exposed, and experiment with new angles and approaches.
Speaking of maps, today also marks the launch of a private beta for the Map Workshop. If you’re a map maker, mail csgo_sdk@list.valvesoftware.com with the subject “Map Workshop Beta” and your Steam ID in the content, with a link to maps shipped or in progress that would be suitable for the workshop.
Update: 1/9/2013
2013.01.09 -
Today’s update to CS:GO includes a new Server Report panel, which will allow you to provide feedback about specific servers (inappropriate content, poor performance, etc.).
You can find the Server Report panel in the pause menu.
In addition to fixes and gameplay tweaks driven by community feedback, there’s a lot more in store for CS:GO fans.
For you map-makers out there, get your custom maps together! We’re working on the Map Workshop, so stay tuned for more details soon.
Update: Naughty and Nice
2012.12.24 -
In today’s update, we’ve introduced a new commendation and reporting system. Now you can tell other players when they’ve been particularly naughty or nice. Full change notes are here.
To use the system: bring up the scoreboard, use the arrow keys to select a player, and press ENTER.
You can also mute a player’s voice and text by selecting them and clicking ‘Block Communication.’
COMMEND
Have you been playing with someone nice? A great teacher, a friendly teammate, or a strong leader? Let them know by commending them!
Commendations are anonymous, and you are limited to three every 24 hours. When you have been commended, you’ll see an icon on the main menu that will tell you why (and how many times) you were commended.
REPORT
Sometimes you’ll find an especially naughty player. In this case, you have two options: mute, and report.
Reports are also anonymous, but they are unlimited – you can report and mute as many players as you’d like. We store all of the reports that are submitted, but players will not be told when they have been reported.
GO! GO! GO!
Head into the game and give the new system a try. And if you’re feeling especially nice this season, give the gift of Counter-Strike to a friend during the ongoing Steam Holiday Sale!
CS:GO Pro Tip Series: nEiLZiNHo
2012.12.21 -
Just in time for the weekend, a new CS:GO Pro Tip! This week we hear from the in-game leader of FM! TOXiC, Neil “nEiLZiNHo” Finlay.
Neil breaks down his team’s approach to de_nuke from both sides of the map, and details an aggressive strat for CTs who want to stop a rush in its tracks.
Speaking of getting into the game, did you know that CS:GO is part of the Steam Holiday Sale? Right now you can get CS:GO for 25% off, or the entire Counter-Strike Complete package for 50% off!
