Counter-Strike: Viewing Guide for the ELEAGUE Major
- 1. Viewing Guide Prepared by: Luc Ryu
- 2. Guide Mandate The purpose of this guide is to familiarize new viewers to the game of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (“CSGO”), specifically in time for the playoff rounds of the ELEAGUE major which start on January 27, 2017. This guide will aim to introduce readers to the development of Counter-Strike as a franchise, as well as the evolution of the Counter-Strike competitive scene. This guide will then delve into the basic knowledge needed for the viewing experience, such as: - Key technical skills required from the players; - Objectives of the game, and an introduction to high-level strategy; and - Overview of the spectator’s heads-up-display. The guide will then conclude with a brief introduction to the remaining teams, such that readers can have a chance to find a team to cheer for. Please note, that this viewing guide is meant to be catered to first-time viewers that are new to the Counter-Strike franchise. As such, there are many advanced concepts about the gameplay that have been omitted. I have done my best to filter and select the information that I believe to be the most integral to first-time viewers, but differences in opinion are sure to exist. I hope you enjoy the presentation, learn something new about the Counter-Strike franchise and its competitive environment, and ultimately tune in to watch the playoffs of the ELEAGUE major. Should you have any questions or feedback, please do not hesitate in reaching out – always more than happy to have a chat about eSports. - Luc “rofldogs” Ryu
- 3. 1. Background of the Game
- 4. History of Counter-Strike The original game that spawned the Counter-Strike franchise actually began as a fan-modified version of an existing game, Half-Life. The developers behind the mod, and the intellectual property behind it, were purchased, and the first official game, Half-Life: Counter-Strike (colloquially known as Counter-Strike 1.6)*, was released in 2000. Since the original version, a trio of sequels have been created, with varying degrees of reception and commercial success. (2000) Counter-Strike 1.6 Metacritic: 88/100 GameSpot: 8.4/10 IGN: 8.9/10 *The “1.6” refers to the final version update given to the game by the developers. (2004) Metacritic: 65/100 GameSpot: 6.8/10 IGN: 7.0/10 Overall a poorly received game, the game suffered from multiple changes in developers. The competitive scene did not migrate from the original game. Condition Zero (2004) Metacritic: 88/100 GameSpot: 8.9/10 IGN: 8.7/10 Source featured a return to the familiar game modes, and a new 3D video game engine. Although adoption rates were high amongst players, the competitive scene never fully took off. Source (2012) Metacritic: 83/100 GameSpot: 8.5/10 IGN: 8.0/10 Despite relatively lower ratings, CSGO returned legacy players to a feel much more similar to the original CS1.6, and provided a much needed update after 8 years. Global Offensive
- 5. What is Counter-Strike Counter-Strike is an online multiplayer game, in the first-person shooter (“FPS”) category of video games. The quickest explanation of the game category lies within the name – refer to the screenshot of the game below: First-person perspective Shooting a weapon If this is your first time hearing about the FPS category, you may actually recognize these popular FPS titles, if: If you have young children prone to mood swings. If you were once a gamer but then had to deal with real life.
- 6. History of CS:GO Majors A Major is a tournament sponsored by game developer, Valve. Majors typically have higher prize pools compared to other tournaments, and also include special in-game features for casual players. MLG Columbus 03/29/16 – 04/03/16 - $1M total prize pool - 1.6M peak concurrent viewers - 45 million hours watched 1st 2nd Location: Nationwide Arena ESL One: Cologne 07/05/16 – 07/10/16 - $1M total prize pool - 14,000 in-person viewers - 31 million hours watched 1st 2nd Location: Lanxess Arena DH: Cluj – Napoca 10/28/15 – 11/01/15 - $250K total prize pool - 1.0M peak concurrent viewers - 31 million hours watched 1st 2nd Location: Sala Polivalenta - 250,000 500,000 750,000 1,000,000 1,250,000 1,500,000 1,750,000 Peak Concurrent Viewers Noinfoprovided
- 7. 2. Basics of Gameplay
- 8. Basic Controls to Gameplay Although there are many different types of FPS games, CSGO falls under a more “realistic” category. All weapons are based on real-life models, and the basic laws of physics apply*. There are three general components to CSGO gameplay, and a mastery of these three helps to identify a technically-skilled player: 1 Movement Control 2 Perspective Control 3 Weapon Control Movement is based around the “WASD” keys on the keyboard, where “W” and “S” move the character forward and backward, respectively, and where “A” and “D” strafe the character left, and right, respectively. Holding the “Shift” key will make the character walk, and holding the “CTRL” key will make them crouch. The perspective of the character is controlled with the mouse. The weapons are always aimed down the middle of the character’s perspective. This can be considered the equivalent to real-life “aiming”. Quick and accurate mouse movements equate to good aim in CSGO. Similarly to real-life, there is kick-back (“recoil”) on weapons. As such, prowess in aiming is not always enough, as recoil begins to affect the trajectory / accuracy of bullets after the third bullet for most guns. Players must compensate for the recoil by aiming in the opposite direction, or by shooting controlled bursts. A Game of Senses In addition to putting all three movement components together to out-maneuver and out- aim their opponents, players must also rely on their other senses. “Game-sense”, refers to the ability to analyze a situation given certain information. It is a by-product of years of practice. “Soundplay”, refers to the usage of aural cues for additional information. Sounds are omnidirectional, and can be used to locate enemies. Teammates must also communicate effectively to relay information and develop strategies real-time. *Relative to most other FPS games. The game isn’t scientifically in-depth enough to consider hardcore science like the Coriolis effect or anything.
- 9. Objectives of the Game CS:GO matches (“maps”) are played by two teams of five players. Maps are comprised of multiple rounds, where one team wins based on the completion of their objectives (see below). Teams take turns playing as either Counter-Terrorists (“CTs”) or Terrorists (“Ts”). Teams switch sides after 15 rounds, and the first team to win 16 rounds wins the map*. During the ELEAGUE playoff rounds, games will be in a best-of-three-maps format. The first team to win two maps will win the matchup. CT Win Conditions - Eliminate all of the Ts; - If the bomb is planted, defuse it; or - Have time expire. T Win Conditions - Eliminate all of the CTs; or - Plant the bomb, and have it detonate. * If the map is tied 15 – 15 by the end of the 30th round, the map goes into overtime where teams switch sides after 3 rounds, and the first team to win 4 rounds wins. If teams split the overtime 3 – 3, the map will go into double-overtime with the same setup. This will continue until one team wins 4 rounds. One of the win conditions is related to the status of the bomb. There are a number of details about the bomb that must be noted: - One Terrorist player randomly begins the round with the bomb; - The bomb can be dropped intentionally, or upon death, and can only be picked up / moved by Terrorists; - Bombs can only be planted on specific areas of the map (“bomb sites”); and - All maps have two bomb sites (“A” and “B”).
- 10. Map Layout x Objectives A simplified way of seeing CS:GO is as a game of Attack and Defense, where the Terrorists are attacking to gain entry into a bomb site, while the Counter-Terrorists are defending to protect against the bomb being planted. Apart from their objectives, there are other key differences between the CTs and Ts that will be discussed later in the guide. The graphic below shows a blueprint-view of de_dust2, one of the seven maps that can be played. The image on the left half has English callouts that label certain areas of the map. Callouts are integral to in-game communication between teammates. Teams must rely on a combination of individual skill, and team co-ordination in order to win rounds. Note the proximity of CT Spawn to the two bomb sites, A and B, compared to T Spawn. By being closer, CTs gain the advantage of being able to set-up first, – patient in the bomb site, or pushed up and ready to engage. The Ts, however, have a numbers advantage: the CTs are spread between the two bomb sites. Well coordinated attacks are imperative.
- 11. Economic Maintenance In order to attack and defend effectively, players must inevitably make upgrades to their weapons and purchase tools such as grenades. At the beginning of the game, all players start with a basic pistol, a knife, and $800. Players earn money in two main ways: passively, or actively (see below). Whenever a player dies, they will lose all of their equipment, respawn with the same basic pistol and knife, and have to re-buy whatever firearms and tools they need with the money that they have saved up. 1 Passive Income All players passively earn income at the end of a round. The amount earned depends on whether their team won or lost the round, and how they won or lost the round. 2 Active Income Players can earn income individually by completing certain objectives. The amount is agnostic to whether or not the round is won or lost. Condition Income per Player Win by bomb detonation / defusal $3,500 Win by elimination of enemies $3,250 Lose a round* $1,400 - $3,400 *”Loss bonuses” ramp up based on the number of consecutive rounds lost (max 5). Action Income to Player Plant / defuse the bomb $300 Eliminate an enemy $100 - $1,500 * The income earned for an elimination is dependent on the weapon used based on a risk / reward system (e.g. kills with a knife reward $1,500) Purchasing Decisions There are many factors that impact a team’s purchasing decision (the score, the opponents’ economies, etc.). The following represent the most common purchasing decisions: - “Eco-round” / “Save round”: Players limit their purchases with the intention of saving money for the next round (upgraded pistol, grenades) - “Anti-eco”: Players anticipate the opponents will run an eco-round, and purchase weapons that generate more income (SMGs, shotguns) - “Full-buy”: Players purchase everything they need (rifle, armor, grenades). Usually requires at least $5,000.
- 12. Weapons Overview (Guns) Guns are what drive the FPS genre, and CSGO is no exception. Although many guns are shared by the CTs and Ts, each have weapons that are unique to their team. The following are the most common guns: Secondary Weapons (Pistols) USP-S (Free) A basic pistol for the CTs. It features high accuracy with low recoil, but is hampered by a small magazine. Glock-18 (Free) The basic pistol for the Ts. It has a higher rate of fire than the USP-S, but suffers from low damage. Desert Eagle ($700) An iconic pistol. A headshot guarantees a one-hit-kill, but the high recoil makes it a difficult gun to use. CT ONLY T ONLY Primary Weapons (Rifles) M4A1 ($3,100) The staple CT assault rifle, the M4A1 offers accuracy, low-recoil, and respectable damage. Optional silencer. AK47 ($2,700) The T counterpart to the M4A1, the AK47 offers higher damage per bullet, but has greater recoil. AWP ($4,750) The sniper’s weapon of choice. This bolt-action sniper rifle deals fatal damage when it hits above the pelvic area. Very expensive. CT ONLY T ONLY
- 13. Weapons Overview (Other) Where guns are the key to eliminations, grenades and other tools are what are necessary to support the high-level strategies. The following are the most commonly used grenades and tools: Grenades HE Grenade ($300) The high-explosive grenade – a cheap way to soften up enemies moving in groups or to clear zones. Smoke Grenade ($300) Smoke grenades help to provide cover, but must be thrown accurately to fully cover sightlines. Flashbang ($200 x 2) Flashbangs temporarily white-out the vision of any player that sees it detonate, and deafen those in the area. Molotovs ($400 T; $600 CT) Molotovs spread fire when they detonante. They are highly effective in halting advances, or flushing out hiding spots. Other Tools Kevlar ($650) and Helmet ($350) Kevlar and helmets help to lessen damage received. They lose durability every shot that they take. Helmets can save players from one-hit- kill headshots from certain guns. Defusal Kit ($400) Defusal Kits are arguably the most important investment in the game. They reduce the time it takes for a CT to defuse a planted bomb from 10 seconds to 5 seconds. CT ONLY
- 15. Spectator HUD Overview The viewing experience takes place through the spectator heads-up display (“HUD”). The HUD helps keep track of different aspects of the game for third parties, in order to keep the viewing experience simple and easy to follow. The following pages will highlight the key components of the HUD.
- 16. Spectator HUD Overview Cont’d This top component provides the most basic information: - The time remaining in the round; - The number of rounds won for each team; and - The total value of equipment owned by each team. With the exception of the round timer, there is no other information in this section of the HUD that has to be kept track of during a round. At the beginning of each round, this summary will appear for each player, showing the following: - The amount of money each player has; - The amount of money each player spent this round; and - Each players’ score (kills / assists / deaths). Glancing at each player’s economic condition can help viewers anticipate what type of playstyle to expect (eco round, vs. full buy, etc.). Considerations at the beginning of a round:
- 17. Spectator HUD Overview Cont’d This component in the top-left is the mini-map. It provides a blueprint-like layout of the entire map, and the location of all 10 players. As the round develops, it is important to keep track of the position of the players relative to one another, as it can provide information on the strategies that are being set- up (e.g. set executes into a bomb site, flanks, etc.) These summaries of the player show the following: - The health of the players; - Their current equipment (guns, grenades, armor); and - The bomb, or defusal kits. Keeping track of grenades as the round progresses can help identify the efficacy of re-take scenarios for CTs. Considerations throughout the round: This information specifies the player that is being spectated, and their current health / armor. Note: The spectator will almost always have “X-ray vision” on, which shows outlines of all players through walls and objects. The players do not play with this on. It is only for the viewing experience.
- 18. 4. Introduction to the Teams
- 19. Natus Vincere (3 – 0) Group Play Scores W | 16 – 3 | vs. mousesports W | 16 – 6 | vs. EnVyUs @ de_cbble W | 16 – 3 | vs. SK Gaming @ de_dust2 Na ‘ Vi Group Play MVP Egor ‘flamie’ Vasilyev - HLTV Rating1: 1.70 - ADR2: 122.3 - K/D Ratio3: 2.20 Currently ranked 1st across all major stats. Built on the foundations of one of the most successful Counter-Strike lineups of all time, Natus Vincere lives up to the meaning of their name – “born to win.” Masters of the methodical approach, their star-filled roster can carry games single-handedly, making them one of the most exciting teams to watch. @ de_cbble BYE BYE 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 20. Virtus Pro (3 – 0) Group Play Scores W | 16 – 13 | vs. OpTic W | 16 – 14 | vs. G2 Esports @ de_nuke W | 16 – 10 | vs. Gambit @ de_train Virtus Pro Group Play MVP Janusz ‘Snax’ Pogorzelski - HLTV Rating1: 1.44 - ADR2: 89.6 - K/D Ratio3: 1.85 Ranked 1st in clutch situations (1 vs X) won The Polish powerhouse includes some of the most storied players in Counter-Strike’s rich history. A momentum-based team that has the potential to roll over anyone in their way has earned the fan-driven nickname “Virtus Plow.” Capable of beating anyone, this team is hungry to dominate the competition in the ELEAGUE Major. @ de_cbble BYE BYE 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 21. Group Play Scores Group Play MVP W | 16 – 7 | vs. Hellraisers W | 19 – 17 | vs. FaZe Clan @ de_mirage L | 3 – 16 | vs. Na’Vi @ de_dust2 W | 19 – 17 | vs. Astralis @ de_dust2 - HLTV Rating1: 1.70 - ADR2: 122.3 - K/D Ratio3: 2.20 Ranked 2nd in Kill – Death differential at +39. SK Gaming SK Gaming (3 – 1) Flying the flag for Brazilian Counter-Strike, SK Gaming has risen from obscurity to become one of the best teams in the world. These back-to-back major holders blend a tactical approach with explosive aim, and have grown to become one of the most complete competitors in the ELEAGUE Major. Marcelo ‘coldzera’ David@ de_mirage BYE 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 22. Group Play Scores Group Play MVP L | 10 – 16 | vs. G2 Esports W | 16 – 13 | vs. North @ de_cbble W | 16 – 11 | vs. mousesports @ de_dust2 W | 16 – 11 | vs. EnVyUs @ de_cbble - HLTV Rating1: 1.10 - ADR2: 78.4 - K/D Ratio3: 1.17 Ranked 4th in success in opening duels at 70.4%. Fnatic Fnatic (3 – 1) The kings of Counter-Strike, the Fnatic name is synonymous with achievement. After lower than expected performances recently, along with recent roster changes that shook the community, Fnatic looks to regain their place as the best team in the world. With the ELEAGUE Major as their only focus, this team is destined to prove their worth. Olof ‘olofmeister’ Kajbjer@ de_cache BYE 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 23. Group Play MVPGroup Play Scores W | 16 – 8 | vs. North W | 16 – 9 | vs. GODSENT @ de_overpass L | 10 – 16 | vs. Virtus Pro @ de_train W | 16 – 14 | vs. FaZe Clan @ de_overpass - HLTV Rating1: 1.42 - ADR2: 103.0 - K/D Ratio3: 1.54 Ranked 2nd in damage per round at 103.0. Gambit Gambit Gaming (3 – 1) A squad assembled from Russia and Kazakhstan sees a return for some of the game's oldest veterans. A pundit’s nightmare, the team's recent pick-up of ex- Na'Vi fame Zeus has revitalized their will to win. After two recent first-place finished at local tournaments, Gambit looks to replicate this successful run in the ELEAGUE Major. Dauren ‘AdreN’ Kystaubayev@ de_cbble BYE 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 24. Group Play MVPGroup Play Scores L | 6 – 16 | vs. GODSENT W | 16 – 12 | vs. OpTic @ de_train W | 16 – 5 | vs. G2 Esports @ de_train L | 17 – 19 | vs. SK Gaming @ de_dust2 - HLTV Rating1: 1.40 - ADR2: 93.5 - K/D Ratio3: 1.71 Ranked 1st in Kill – Death differential at +50. Astralis Astralis (3 – 2) One of the most consistent teams in the world, the Danish squad always performs well, but seems to falter often at the final hurdle. Fresh off their best performances yet, they return to the ELEAGUE Major looking to silence their critics and show they have the caliber to be champions. Nicolai ‘device’ Reedtz@ de_train W | 16 – 3 | vs. Team Liquid @ de_mirage 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 25. Group Play MVPGroup Play Scores W | 16 – 9 | vs. Flipsid3 L | 17 – 19 | vs. SK Gaming @ de_mirage W | 22 – 18 | vs. Team Liquid @ de_nuke L | 14 – 16 | vs. Gambit @ de_overpass - HLTV Rating1: 1.17 - ADR2: 78.4 - K/D Ratio3: 1.34 Ranked 1st among remaining players in AWP kills. FaZe Clan FaZe Clan (3 – 2) Originally assembled as a group of fan favorites, FaZe has evolved, looking to reward their loyal fan base with trophies in the cabinet. The team has always maintained a blend of players from all over Europe. but have recently added the veteran player and in- game leader Karrigan. Since he joined the team has been improving as he uses his tactical acumen to get the best out of his talented roster. Aleksi ‘allu’ Jalli@ de_nuke W | 16 – 11 | vs. EnVyUs @ de_nuke 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 26. Group Play MVPGroup Play Scores L | 8 – 16 | vs. Gambit L | 13 – 16 | vs. Fnatic @ de_cbble W | 19 – 15 | vs. Hellraisers @ de_mirage W | 16 – 9 | vs. G2 Esports @ de_overpass - HLTV Rating1: 1.16 - ADR2: 90.7 - K/D Ratio3: 1.15 Ranked 1st in headshots at 63. North North (3 – 2) The Danish team emerged from a period of turmoil to start climbing the ladder with results that made the Counter-Strike world pay close attention. On the heels of breakout tournament wins over the best teams in the world and recent creation of a new organization known as NORTH, the Danes aim to keep the momentum going to the ELEAGUE Major. Emil ‘Magisk’ Reif@ de_cbble W | 19 – 17 | vs. GODSENT @ de_overpass 1 http://www.hltv.org/?pageid=242&eventid=0 | 2 Average Damage per Round | 3 Kill / Death Ratio
- 27. 4. Conclusion / Final Remarks
- 28. Conclusion Thank you for reading my viewing guide for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Even if you don’t plan on tuning into the playoffs this weekend (January 27 – 29), I hope that, at the very least, you were able to learn something new about the Counter-Strike franchise, and its place in the eSports environment. For those of you who do plan on watching, I genuinely hope you enjoy what may be your first Counter-Strike viewing experience. With growing amounts of investment pouring into the industry, it may only be a matter of time before eSports spectacles, such as the ELEAGUE major, become a staple of modern entertainment. View the ELEAGUE major at: