Train rumors swirl in CS2: Is it close to returning?

The CS2 Premier map pool hasn’t recieved a significant update since the game’s release in 2023, but fans suspect Valve may be bringing one of the most iconic maps back into the game with Train.

In May 2021, Valve shuffled the competitive map pool in Global Offensive by removing an all too familiar location Train in favor of Ancient. At that time, the fans loved the woodland setting, as it provided a fresh color break from CS2’s usual dusty, urban landscapes. However, four years later, fans are willing to give up any map to get Train back.

It seems Valve is listening to player feedback and Train may actually return sooner than later.

Is Train returning to CS2?

The CS2 account on X has dropped several hints that point to Train’s possible return.

When CS2 changed its official X page banner to a familiar asphalt on November 5, fans raced to draw conclusions. According to keen-eyed fans noted that the concrete resembles the floor in Train’s outdoor area, though it appears more detailed thanks to the Source 2 engine. Some think it might be from Cache, another map that’s under redevelopment, but the concrete more closely resembles Train’s floor. Either the official CS2 account is trolling the fanbase, which it often does, or Valve is serious about bringing Train back.

That’s not the only reason Train seems to be a more viable guess. CS2 posted November 7 release notes with the exact same caption it used when Train was added back to the map pool a decade ago in 2014.

As rumors about Train swirl in CS2, s1mple’s return to the game adds another layer of intrigue—discover more in s1mple returns to CS2 with Falcons, is it permanent?.

While some fans are already convinced that Train is returning from the banner, leakers have also discovered evidence that suggests it may be true after all. CS2 leaker Aquamissing found Train references in CS2 game files, fueling speculation about the map’s return.

CS2 had a big update recently, so it’s unlikely that Train will be released right away if speculations are true. However, it’s reasonable to expect Valve to add at least one new map in 2024. Whether that’s Train or Cache remains uncertain, but fans would be eager for either addition, given the current map pool’s lack of variety.

As Train speculation heats up, take a moment to refine your loadout by learning how to remove and reuse charms in CS2.