How to Play 1v1 in CS2

In Counter-Strike’s 1v1 game mode, it all comes down to being two people against each other. It’s a steep test of your skill where external factors are limited, and you have no allies. 

If you’re here, you want to know how to play 1v1 in CS2. The setup may be daunting for some, but have no fear—the Blix team has created this guide so you can play 1v1 effortlessly.

Highlights

• Step-by-step guide on how to start playing in 1v1 mode
• Useful console commands for 1v1 mode

The game has undergone an update:

We also wrote in detail in our Counter-Strike 2 November 7 Update article.

Setting Up a 1v1 Server in CS2

• To start playing 1v1, you will need a developer console. If it is disabled, enable it in the game settings. You should see “Yes” next to the Enable Developer Console option. 

• Open the game developer console by pressing the ~ key to the left of the “1” key.
• Select a map using the map map_name command. For example, you can type “map de_dust2“. Then press Enter. This will start your server when the selected map is loaded. 
• Then, remove bots from your server using the bot_kick command.
• Now, type the status command and find your IP address. Send it to your friend. He will be able to connect using the connect [IP_address] command.

Useful CS2 1v1 Commands

Basic Commands for 1v1 Setup

You can customize the round and freeze times to make your server more efficient for 1v1 matches. 

You also have the option to use the mp_freezetime command to set the duration of the freeze time at the start of each round. Setting the value to 2 seconds allows you to get through rounds faster and maximize gameplay.

• mp_startmoney 1500 – command sets the amount of cash with which players start the game at the beginning of each half.
• mp_buytime 0.20 – increases or decreases the time to purchase weapons.
• mp_roundtime – changes the duration of each round.
• mp_warmup_end 1 – command to end the warm-up immediately.

To avoid bots in your lobby, write these simple commands in the console:

• mp_autoteambalance 0 – prevents bots from completing teams equally or joining your opponent’s team if you are alone on the server and only setting it up.
• mp_limitteams 1 – limits the number of players to 1, so bots can’t enter the game.
• bot_kick – command removes all bots.

We have a friend article with console commands that you may also find useful, check out the article “What are the most important CS2 Console Commands?”.

Advanced Commands

There are a few other exciting commands besides the abovementioned essential console commands. For example, the sv_infinite_ammo 2 command enables infinite ammo, so your magazines will always be full.

The mp_buy_anywhere 1 command will allow you to buy new weapons and equipment anywhere on the map.

You can also use the command give weapon_[weapon] to obtain any gun you want. This is just a helpful command: mp_restartgame 1. This will restart the game after all the necessary customizations have been made to implement all the changes.

Finally, you can use commands such as mp_ct_default_secondary weapon_deagle and mp_t_default_secondary weapon_deagle to restrict weapons to pistols or replace “deagle” with another weapon for when you want to practice a particular weapon.

Using Workshop Maps in a 1v1 Game

The Workshop maps in CS2 were explicitly designed for 1v1 duels, so they have more advantages than standard maps. For example, Workshop maps are smaller, creating a more dynamic and eventful environment for players.

Accessing CS2 Workshop is easy – use your browser or the Steam client. Once you find a map that catches your eye, you just need to click on it and click the subscribe button again to start the download process.

Here are some popular maps for 1v1 duels:

• Aim Map
• 1v1 – Remastered
• Aim Redline Carton
• Aim_Nevermore
• Aim_Pillars

Speaking of Workshop Maps, we have an article on Best CS2 Workshop Maps.

Search for 1v1 Community Servers

To find and join 1v1 community servers, follow these simple steps:

1. Open CS2 and go to the play menu.

2. Find the “Community Servers” tab.

3. Apply filters to display only “1v1” or “duel”.

You can also go to xplay.gg servers, and you can find already configured servers in 1v1 game mode. You can find them on the “Play” tab. 

Arena and Duels modes are designed for 1v1 games. Arena mode is best suited for training, while in Duels, you will be tested in fast-paced battles based on actual game situations. 

To connect to the server, you must log in to the platform via Steam, select the mode, choose a map, and connect.

Improving 1v1 Skills

One-on-one matches offer the perfect environment to experiment with new strategies and tactics while honing your gaming skills. By practicing regularly in these individual duels, you’ll become better prepared for intense team matches.

Participating in 1-on-1 matches in CS2 provides valuable opportunities to improve your aiming and shooting. You can also use our guide to help you with How to Get Better Aim in CS2: Spray Patterns.

Another benefit of playing in 1v1 matches is that it helps build your confidence in gameplay. As you continue to practice and improve your skills, you will better understand your strengths and weaknesses.