Counter-Strike 2 features a variety of game modes, including the most prominent Premier and Competitive modes. Competitive mode is well-known to most CS:GO players, but not everyone has experienced the Premier mode yet—let's find out what it is together.
How is Counter-Strike 2 Premier different from Competitive mode?
For a better understanding, we've prepared the following comparison table between Counter-Strike 2 Premier and Competitive mode:
| Feature | Premier Mode | Competitive Mode |
| Map Selection | Active Duty pick/ban system | Players can choose the map they want to queue for |
| Match Length | MR12 - Each half will have a maximum of 12 rounds, and a team must win 13 rounds in total to secure the victory. | MR12 - Each half will have a maximum of 12 rounds, and a team must win 13 rounds in total to secure the victory. |
| Overtime | In case there is a 12-12 draw, a six-round overtime will be played. | This mode does not have overtime, so the match can end in a draw. |
| Ranks | Uses the CS rating instead of the existing rank system. | Uses the classic CSGO ranks. |
| Leaderboard | Includes a global leaderboard | There's no leaderboard for this mode |
| Console damage reports | Disabled | Enabled |
| ELO Points Visibility | Players can track their ELO points in this mode. | Players cannot track their ELO points in this mode. |
| Weekly Care Package drop | Available | Available |
Related: CS2 Launch Options & Config Commands
Overall, Counter-Strike 2 Premier mode is specifically made for serious players who want to show off their skills and rise up the leaderboards. On the other hand, CS2 Competitive mode is suitable for players who want to play ranked matches and pick their favorite maps to queue right into them.
For more on Counter-Strike 2, check out All Changes in Counter-Strike 2 – Tick Rate, New Maps, & Smoke Grenades on Pro Game Guides.