Counter-Strike: Source

Counter-Strike: Source is a sequel to the award-winning tactical first-person multiplayer game Counter-Strike that moved this celebrated title into a new generation using the brand new game engine called Source.

Released to the public in 2004 by Valve and Turtle Rock studios, CSS for PC immediately managed to attract a strong online following that praised its intense gameplay, skill-based mechanics, visual improvements, and addictive multiplayer modes.

After years on the market, the official support for Counter-Strike: Source CSS was stopped in favor of the newly released title Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. However, Counter-Strike: Source still remains fully accessible today, with players from all around the world still enjoying its addictive gameplay, map designs, and online modes.

Main Features

Same as with every other mainline game in the franchise, Counter-Strike: Source gameplay is focused on two teams (Terrorists and the Counter-Terrorists) who fight against each other on maps located in various settings all around the world.

The objective for each multiplayer map depends on the chosen gameplay mode, with the vast majority of the players electing to test their movement, aiming, cooperation, and tactical skills in Bomb Defusal mode where the Terrorist team must set and explode a bomb in predefined bomb sites, and Counter-Terrorist team fighting to stop them.

The rounds end when the bomb explores, it is defused, or all members of each team are defeated. Performing kills on opposing players awards users with in-game cash, which can be used for the purchase of new offensive, defensive and support gear at the start of each round. Players also have the ability to pick up the weapons of defeated enemies and fallen comrades.

One of the game's strongest features is its mechanics, which are heavily based on player skill and teamwork. Unlike other first-person shooters that rely on run-and-gun gameplay, Counter-Strike: Source requires players to move tactically, use cover, and coordinate with their teammates to succeed. Even though the game features dozens of weapons and support items, there is no combination of gear that is overpowered compared to others.

It is important to note that this is a multiplayer-only game, with only a few offline modes of play being offered to the users (mainly fighting in multiplayer maps versus AI-controlled bots). The game features no single-player campaign.

PROS

• Competitive Gameplay
• Wide Player Base
• Team-based Tactical Combat
• Variety of Maps and Weapons
• Modding Support

CONS

• Outdated Graphics
• High Learning Curve
• Toxic Player Community
• Limited Single-Player Experience
• Possible Game Balance Issues

Recommended System Requirements

• OS: Windows  7 (32/64-bit) / Vista / XP
• CPU: Pentium 4 processor (3.0GHz, or better)
• RAM: 1GB RAM
• GPU: DirectX® 9 level Graphics Card

Overall

Counter-Strike: Source is a timeless classic that has earned its place in gaming history as a worthy successor of the original Counter-Strike title, and an important stepping stone that helped Valve to craft its current hit title Counter-Strike: Global Offensive which is still extremely popular today. Despite being released nearly two decades ago, Counter-Strike: Source still holds up today and is played by a large group of fans from all around the world.