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How to Fix CS2 Not Launching
Image via Valve.
Category:
Video Games

How to Fix CS2 Not Launching

Image of Alex Berry
Alex Berry
|

Published: Sep 27, 2023 08:37 pm

If you’re trying to get into the premier tactical shooter Counter-Strike 2 but are being met with frustrating ‘unable to start game’ messages, I’ve got you covered! Having CS2 not launching so that you can plant some bombs or blast some terrorists is no fun, so let’s take a look at some ways to try to fix it and get back in the action!

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How to Fix CS2 Not Launching

Luckily, there are a few fixes that have worked for a lot of players. Try these steps in this order:

  • Restart Steam and check if there is a CS2 update queued up. With the changeover to CS2 from CS:GO, it’s vital all updates are in place.
  • If you’ve updated CS2 already, you should restart your PC before trying to play.
  • Check your graphics card drivers, as these little buggers can often be the cause of games not launching properly.
  • If you’re still having no luck, try right clicking on CS2 in your Steam client, go to Properties, Installed Files, and then Verify integrity of game files.
  • If you’ve verified the game files but still can’t launch, then you should try a fresh install. Uninstall the game and download a fresh copy. With CS:GO being transitioned to CS2, there are very likely to be issues in the files for some players.

These are the most important steps to try to help fix CS2 not launching. Chances are one of these steps will fix the problem for you and get you in the game. Be aware that there could be some high server traffic causing issues on Valve’s side as well. Keep an eye out for announcements on X. And if you’re looking for more about the game, be sure to check our full range of coverage.

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Counter-Strike 2
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Author
Image of Alex Berry
Alex Berry
Alex Berry has been a freelance contributor at The Escapist since January 2023. His coverage ranges from funny takes on the latest games to a whole bunch of guide content on such titles as Honkai: Star Rail, Genshin Impact, and various new games. Alex is a jack of all trades when it comes to games, playing almost every new title that shows promise. From RPGs to shooters, all the way through to sports games, he plays it all, although he does have a soft spot for turn-based RPGs having started out his gaming journey with a copy of Pokémon Red on the original Game Boy. Alex has a master's degree in Business and is fascinated by online game economies, often spending a lot of time finding ways to maximize wealth in these games (but he should really be doing that in real life instead).
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