How to Play a Private Match in CS2?

Private matches in Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) are perfect for setting up games with friends or your community, whether you want to practice, play for fun, or test out strategies. CS2 now features an easy way to organize private matchmaking pools using shareable codes. With the private matchmaking pool, you can invite others to join using a unique code or create your own game sessions.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to set up a private match in CS2 using the private matchmaking pool system.

Step 1: Access the Private Matchmaking Pool

1. Open CS2 and navigate to the main menu.
2. Click on Play and go to the Private Matchmaking tab, as shown in the screenshot below:

In the Private Matchmaking tab, you will have several options for setting up your private game:

• Create a Private Matchmaking Pool: Create a unique code to share with friends so they can join your custom match.
• Join your Steam Group’s Pool: Play with members of your Steam Group by creating a matchmaking pool associated with your group.
• Manually Enter a Code: If a friend has shared a matchmaking pool code with you, you can enter it here to join.

Step 2: Create a Private Matchmaking Code

1. Select Create a Private Matchmaking Pool. This will generate a unique code that you can share with others.
2. The code will appear in the middle of the screen (e.g., S9QTV-4B6Q-SS367-NSLA). Copy this code to invite friends.

You can share this code with as many players as you want. There’s no limit to the number of people who can join, making it perfect for casual games or custom tournaments.

Step 3: Invite Friends to Your Private Match

1. Share the matchmaking pool code with your friends via Steam chat, Discord, or any other messaging platform.
2. Once your friends have the code, they can enter it under Manually Enter a Code in their Private Matchmaking menu to join your match.

Step 4: Join or Start the Match

1. After all players have joined, click the Go button at the bottom right corner of the screen to start the match.
2. The game will launch into a custom server where only those in your matchmaking pool can join.

Summary

Setting up a private match in CS2 is simple, thanks to the Private Matchmaking Pool system. With the ability to create and share matchmaking codes, you can easily organize games with friends or larger groups, whether for practice, fun, or competition. Enjoy the flexibility of private games in CS2!