If you’re a fan of first-person shooters, you know that playing 1v1 in CS2 is one of the best ways to improve your skills and challenge your friends. With the latest updates in Counter-Strike (CS2), setting up a 1v1 match has become easier for players.
Here’s our video explaining how to 1v1 in CS2.
In this article, we’ll explain how players can set up a 1v1 in CS2.
2 ways to play 1v1 in CS2
Here we've covered:
Creating a 1v1 lobby in CS2
Previously, setting up a 1v1 match in CS2 required manually loading a map using the developer console. However, a recent update has simplified the process significantly.
Follow these steps to create a private match and play 1v1 in CS2:
Step 1: Launch CS2, navigate to the main menu, and invite your friends through Steam to create a lobby.
Step 3: Click Play, then select the Practice tab. Choose any game mode (Deathmatch, Casual, or Custom). Pick a map from the list (e.g., CS_Italy or CS_Office).
Step 4: Decide whether to keep your party open or closed (this affects who can join). Just turn the toggle on or off beside the Open Party option on the left panel.
Once the match loads, all your invited friends will automatically join the server.
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Playing on Workshop Maps
CS2 also allows you to play 1v1 matches on custom Workshop Maps designed explicitly for better 1v1 experiences.
Here’s how you to play 1v1 in CS2 Workshop maps:
Step 1: Ensure your friends are in the lobby. Click Play, then navigate to Workshop Maps. Select a 1v1-focused map from your collection (e.g., Aim Training, 1v1 Remastered).
Step 2: Choose a game mode (Casual, Competitive, Deathmatch, or Custom) and start the match.
Step 3: Once the map loads, open the console and type bot_kick to remove bots.
Workshop maps often have better layouts for 1v1 battles, featuring symmetrical designs and clear sightlines.
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Removing bots from your match
When your match starts, you may notice AI-controlled bots in the game. To remove them and ensure a fair 1v1 experience, follow these steps:
Open the developer console by pressing the tilde (~) key. Type the command: bot_kick and press Enter.
All bots will be removed from the match, leaving only you and your friend(s) in the game. If you accidentally remove all players, you can always re-invite them through the Steam lobby.
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Enabling the developer console (if needed)
If you can’t open the console, you need to enable it in settings. Click on the Settings option at the top left of the screen, head to the Game tab, and ensure that Enable Developer Console is set to Yes.
Using the console unlocks various valuable commands, including bot removal, map changes, and match customisations.
Setting up a 1v1 match in Counter Strike 2 is now quick and easy. This allows you to play with a friend and practice your duelling skills, which are helpful for ranked play. Additionally, you can familiarise yourself with the map, including its nooks and corners, weapon restrictions, and rules.
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