Now that we’ve actually seen the long-awaited release of CS2, more and more players are starting to ask questions… many of which involve whether or not all of their favorite features from the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive game would make the cut. One of the most popular community modes that is asked about is surfing… and we’re happy to confirm that it is indeed not only alive, but thriving in CS2.
Although some of the game modes, such as Flying Scotsman and Danger Zone, were removed or haven’t yet been implemented, surfing has carried over, but not only that. It has also benefited from the new and improved graphics and physics engine of Source 2 – so it’s even better than ever.
In this in-depth and highly detailed guide, we’re not only going to look at exactly what surfing is but also how to play surf and give you step-by-step instructions on how you can access and improve your skills on surf servers in CS2.
What is Surfing in Counter-Strike 2?
So, first things first – what is it? Well, surfing in CS2 is basically a game mode that’s completely different to CS as you know it. Instead of just shooting and fighting your enemy, this is just about movement and control. You need to glide down angled surfaces (known as ramps) using lateral movement and speed to try to reach certain areas or complete various objectives – and it’s all about skill and control.
If you want to do well at this, you need to practise skills like precision, timing, and fluid movements. Testing out your skills at it not only gives you a bit of a fun break from the intensity of constantly shooting to kill in competitive matches, but it can also really help to improve your overall control of the game – making you even better when you get back to competitive play. Some maps, like Overpass, even have special ramps built into them, so if you do learn how to surf, it can give you a real edge when playing on it.
The Basics of Surfing in CS2
Surfing is all about momentum. In CS2, the Source 2 engine’s physics makes it even easier for you to slide smoothly along sloping surfaces without losing any of your speed, making it a bit like riding a wave in real life (hence the term surfing). However, getting good at it is all about understanding how to control your speed and movement.
Here’s how it works:
- Lateral Movement: Instead of moving forward, you’ll need to strafe left and right by using the “A” and “D” keys. To make it easier, you need to make sure your movement keys are in the same direction as the ramp (“A” if the ramp is on your left or “D” if it’s on your right).
- Mouse Control: At the same time, you need to steer your character by moving your mouse in the direction that you want to go. To stay in control on the ramps, you need to make sure you keep your mouse movements smooth.
- Avoid the Forward Key: A lot of beginners make the mistake of pressing “W” – the forward key. While it may feel natural to press it, it will actually end up slowing you down, and you’ll fall off the ramp. You just need to let gravity and strafing do all the work.
- Be Patient: Getting good at surfing can take time – especially if you’re new to it. However, if you keep on practising, it’s a great way to master movement in CS2.
Accessing Surf Servers in CS2
To start surfing, you’ll first need to join a community surf server – which are basically custom servers that CS2 players have built and are filled with ramps and obstacles… perfect for practising your surfing skills.
So, here’s how to join a surf server:
- Open CS2: Open up the game through your Steam account.
- Select Play: Click the ‘Play’ Button on the main menu.
- Open Up the Community Server Browser: Find the small globe symbol and click on it – which will minimize your game and open the community server browser.
- Look for Surf Servers: Type ‘surf’ in the search bar, then press Enter, and you’ll see a list of all the available surf servers.
- Choose Your Server: Look through the list and pick a server. Look at factors such as the ping so that you get the best performance, and check out how many players are already in the game. Although you can surf alone, it’s a lot more fun and competitive if there are other players joining you!
- Join the Server: Then, double-click on whatever server you want to join. You might need to download custom servers, maps and various other assets when you connect.
Once you’re connected, you can start practising those surfing skills!
How to Surf in CS2: Step-by-Step Guide
Surfing in CS2 can take some getting used to – but once you know what you’re doing, it’s a breeze! So here are some of the other aspects you need to know to get you surfing like a pro:
- Approach the Ramp: Start off by finding a ramp and walking towards it. As soon as you hit the slope, stop pressing the forward key and start strafing (A and D).
- Make Sure You Strafe Correctly: If the ramp is on your right, press down on “D” and move your mouse to the right. If the ramp is on your left, hold down “A” and move your mouse to the left – and you should start gliding smoothly down the ramp.
- Keep Up The Speed: You need to stay centered on the ramp to keep up your speed. If you move up too high on the ramp, you’ll start slowing down – and if you move too low, you might fall off.
- Turn and Jump: To turn, you need to move your mouse in the direction that you want to turn and hold down the opposite movement key. If you want to jump off the ramp, you can use the same technique – move the mouse in the direction you want to jump and hold down the opposite movement button.
- It’s All About Timing: Timing is everything. You’ll need to time your turns, jumps, and strafes to perfection if you want to maintain momentum, stay upright – and ultimately become a master surfer.
The Best Surf Maps
When getting to grips with surfing, it’s a good idea to try out the various different custom maps that were designed especially for surf mode. The good news is that there are lots available – for both beginners and the more experienced surfers – and here are some of the best.
SURF_SUMMER: Sponsored by Fnatic, this is considered moderately difficult and is perfect for all levels of players. It has a perfect balance of easy and tricky ramps to practise on.
SURF_GREATRIVER_2015: This is a classic map in the CS surfing community and is great for improving your skills. It has lots of different ramps – easy and difficult, giving you an all-around experience.
SURF_4FUN_2016: This map is perfect if you’re looking for new challenges. It has a variety of different levels, and because it’s so popular, it’s running practically all the time.
How to Become a Better Surfer
If you want to become a master surfer, then here are some of our top tips and strategies:
- Practice Makes Perfect: Repetition is key. The more you practise, the better you’ll get at being able to control your speed, time those jumps, and navigate the ramps.
- Watch the Pros: Look at some of the more experienced surfers – either in-game or on streaming platforms. You can learn new tips and techniques – and get better.
- Control Your Speed: Mastering surfing is all about being able to control your speed. Going too fast can mean you miss important jumps, but if you slow down too much, you can fall off the ramps – you need to maintain speed.
- Learn Strafing: Strafing is a massively important skill for surfing. It’s what helps you keep up that speed and control on ramps. It’s a good idea to practise your strafing out in open spaces before you start trying it on some of the more advanced ramps.
- Try Out Different Maps: Every map is different and comes with its own challenges. Try out the different maps to practise different skills and learn new strategies.
Surfing – Adding a Bit of Fun to CS2
Surfing really adds a fun element to your CS2 gaming. It might not necessarily involve shooting or fighting, but it’s a great way to sharpen those movement skills, relax, and try out custom maps with your friends. It’s a great way to take a break from the intensity of competition – or even warm up before you start a match.
So whether you’re a complete beginner, a more experienced surfer, or you just want to become a better surfer, there’s a whole world of CS2 waiting for you – so grab your CS surfboard, find a fun map, and ride that CS wave.
CS2 Surf Servers FAQs
What is surfing in Counter-Strike 2?
Surfing is a game mode where you need to slide along angled surfaces or ramps, using perfect movement controls to work your way around the map. The surf mode is all about movement, momentum, and skill.
How do I access surf servers in CS2?
To join a surf server in CS2 you need to open CS2, click on Play in the main menu and open up the Community Server Browser (the globe icon). Type Surf into the search bar, hit enter and choose from one of the various maps that come up. Then click on the server to join… and get surfing!
What happens if I press the ‘W’ key while surfing?
If you press the ‘W’ key while surfing, you’ll slow down and lose momentum. Surfing is all about lateral movement – using the ‘A’ and ‘D’ keys alongside perfect mouse control.
Can I surf on my own, or do I need other players?
You can definitely surf on your own – and lots of players prefer surfing alone as they get to practise their skills without any distractions. Although surfing with other players can add a competitive edge, it’s just as much fun doing it on your own.
What are the best beginner surf maps?
If you’re new to surfing, maps like SURF_BEGINNER, SURF_SUMMER, and SURF_UTOPIA_V3 are great to get started. They have easier ramps and are perfect for learning some of the basic surfing mechanics before moving up to some of the more difficult maps.
Will surfing in CS2 improve my overall gameplay?
Yes, surfing can really help to improve your movement skills – such as strafing, speed control, and overall accuracy. Getting to grips with surfing mechanics can also make you a lot more agile when playing competitively, so you can evade all the enemies trying to run you down.
Can I create my own surf maps in CS2?
Yes, you can create your own custom surf maps. In fact, lots of players in the CS2 community regularly design and upload new maps for everyone to enjoy. If you know a bit about mapping tools, it’s not too difficult to design your own surf ramps – and share them with the whole Counter-Strike community.