Can you play Counter-Strike 2 on Steam Deck?

Can you play Counter-Strike 2 on Steam Deck?

Take a look at our explanation of whether you can play Counter-Strike 2 on the Steam Deck, to see if you can take the CS experience on the go.

22nd Dec 2023 12:41

Images via Valve

This is part of the ‘Counter-Strike’ directory

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Steam Deck users and Counter-Strike 2 fans will want to know if the game can be played on Valve's handheld machine and be taken on the go.

Counter-Strike 2 is the latest version of the legendary tactical FPS series, and while it's still a PC game through and through, the advent of the Steam Deck gives players a chance to explore CS in a slightly different way. But, is Counter-Strike 2 playable on the Steam Deck currently? Read on to find out.

Can you play Counter-Strike 2 on Steam Deck?

Counter-Strike 2 gameplay

Counter-Strike 2 can be played on the Steam Deck, with it earning a compatibility rating of 'Playable' according to Valve and the game's Steam page. 

A 'Playable' rating means the game is fully functional, but a few aspects may require extra effort to make it work well. The exact thing stopping Counter-Strike 2 from being fully verified is the fact that "some in-game text is small and may be difficult to read".

Everything else, such as controller configuration, user interface, and graphical configuration all work well with the Deck.

Should you play Counter-Strike 2 on Steam Deck?

It's worth noting though, that Counter-Strike 2 isn't the best game for a Steam Deck. The tactical gameplay and the mechanics of shooting and movement are heavily designed with a keyboard and mouse in mind.

This means using a controller is outright detrimental if you play against others. With that said, you can still enjoy the game on the Deck, and CS has plenty of community modes that you can have just as much fun with using a controller. 

Tarran Stockton

About The Author

Tarran Stockton

Tarran is a Senior Guides Writer at GGRecon. He previously wrote reviews for his college newspaper before studying Media and Communication at university. His favourite genres include role-playing games, strategy games, and boomer shooters - along with anything indie. You can also find him in the pit at local hardcore shows.

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