All CS2 Ranks: Competitive System Explained in 2024

Big changes have come to CS2. The game has been given a fresh coat of paint, bringing it up to modern standards. So how have CS2 ranks changed throughout this transition?

We’re taking a look at all of the ranks in CS2, to see how they stack up against the previous system used in CS:GO. All CS2 ranks will be covered, from Premier, to FACEIT, to plain old Competitive. If you’re someone who needs all CS2 ranks explained, we’ve got you covered right here.

What Are CS2 Ranks?

Much like CS:GO ranks, ranks in CS2 are a way for the game to match you against other players of your skill level. It’s no fun getting stomped, nor is it really fun destroying players with a fraction of the experience on the server. That’s why it’s important that ranks in CS2 are assigned as close as possible, to ensure the game is as evenly-matched as possible. Outliers happen, where some players underperform, but generally, the balance needs to be right, and it starts with correctly assigning all CS2 ranks.

The new game has seen a few adjustments to CS2 ranks compared to CS:GO, and it’ll take some getting used to. In fact, there’s even one entirely new CS2 ranking system, which works alongside one of the others, but we’ll get to that.

CS2 ranks guide

Grey – Silver I to Silver Elite Master

There’s no shame in being a grey or silver ranked player – everyone has to start somewhere. If you’re this rank, there’s a good chance your aim is bad, you don’t know how to use utility properly, and you don’t necessarily know the best angles on every map.

It’s all good! The important thing is that you want to get better at CS, which can only really be done by playing more of the game. At this rank, there will be players who flame you for your CS2 rank. Ignore the noise, and keep improving.

If you’re really struggling, there are CS aim trainers out there you can use to really hone your skills. Become a crack shot on the server, and you’ll be out of Silver in no time.

Light blue – Gold Nova I to Gold nova master

At this point, you’ve probably logged some time in CS2. It’s here that you’ll need to be finessing skills other than just your ability to aim accurately in order to make your way through the ranks in CS2. For instance, you’ll need to acquire some game sense and get to grips with the CS2 maps a little better.

Blue – Master Guardian I-Distinguished Master Guardian

Now you’re starting to move up the ranks! Once again, the best thing you can do here is to just play more. Every so often, you’ll come across a smurf who teaches you a lesson or two. Don’t get angry – get better! These games against much better players can be used as a learning opportunity to improve, giving you the best chance of rising through the CS2 ranking system.

Remember, at these CS2 ranks, you’re alongside most of the player base. Make it out of MGE, and congratulations – you’re officially above average.

CS2 Ranks Per Map

One of the biggest innovations with the CS2 ranking system is that ranks in the standard Competitive mode are now assigned per map. Back in CS:GO, you might’ve heard the term Vertiglobals (players only good on Vertigo), and the ranks in CS2 have made it a reality!

For each map, you’ll begin the game without any kind of CS2 rank. You then have to win 10 matches on each, before being assigned your new rank. With 8 maps currently in the game, you have to play a lot before you finally get your CS2 ranks!

The CS2 new ranking system uses the same ranks found back in CS:GO, with 18 to achieve in total, as listed above.

Of course, all CS2 news pros sit at Level 10 on FACEIT, with many having ELO way beyond 2,000. This is certainly the option for hardcore players of the game. If you’re brand-new to CS2 and try to jump into FACEIT, it might not go too well. However, if you’re dedicated to learning and rising through the CS2 ranking system, FACEIT might be the way to go.