As players flock to Counter-Strike Source, a new CS2 update aims to save surfing

Counter-Strike 2 surf content is the perfect workday accompaniment, providing my brain with just enough stimulation without demanding my attention. There's something hypnotic about it, the way you smoothly glide from section to section. That is, until you snag on an odd corner or some invisible speed bump, bringing you to an abrupt halt or sending you flying off a ramp to your demise. Surf enjoyers have had to deal with buggy physics since CS2 launched, but now Valve's doing something about it.

Surfing has been an integral part of Counter-Strike, ever since Charles 'Mariowned' Joyce brought The Gap to the fore over 20 years ago. The speedrun-friendly mode has since been utilized as a source of both relaxation and competition, offering an alternative way to play one of the best FPS games; a more than welcomed reprieve from the trials and tribulations of ranked play.

Counter-Strike 2's Source 2 engine certainly has a different feel to it than its predecessors, for better or worse. But the biggest issue facing surfers trying to air strafe their way to victory has historically laid beneath its surface (both figuratively and literally). Inconsistencies in ramp physics and 'invisible walls' often lead to killed momentum and failed runs, resulting in frustrated players. Some blame CS2's subtick-based servers, though it's never been confirmed why exactly this happens.

Now, Valve has taken action. In the July 28 patch, the developer-publisher says that it has "fixed several cases where a player would get stuck on map geometry while surfing (i.e., on surf maps)." It should be highlighted that "several cases" and not 'all cases' is stated, and I'm still expecting the odd bump here and there. But, hopefully, this is a significant enough change to remedy the majority of foibles, giving us that silky smooth surfing experience we all know and love from CS Source - the same CS Source that's currently doing big numbers on Steam.

As an extra sonic sprinkle on top, Valve has added "new speed-sensitive sounds" to surf maps, providing more *chef's kiss* immersion. It's taken a long old time, but surf gang are finally back on the up and up.

If you're after more challenging experiences, check out our list of the best multiplayer games that'll get you sweating. Otherwise, peep more of the best free PC games you can jump into right now.

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