Valve has revealed details on a Counter-Strike 2 pre-release update that features adjustments to the title’s defusal mechanics.
The update, currently in beta, also features changes to the game’s engine code and its user interface.
The version 1.41.3-rc1 update went live in the CS2 beta depot on October 14th, 2025. As a pre-release update, Valve is able to continue adjusting various elements of the title before it is released in a public build.
Valve’s pre-release update is the first wave of changes since October 2nd, when the developer added two new maps to its Competitive mode.
The most notable addition within the update is a change to defusing mechanics. While a player is defusing, the weapon viewmodel will lower and prevent the defuser from scoping while the action is taking place.
Additionally, Valve had added a 150ms delay to firing the weapon after a player has stopped defusing, which could impact clutch situations during competitive play.
Alongside defuse changes, the update has updated the title’s engine code to the latest version of Source 2 and improved the core utilisation of various effect processing in a bid to reduce CPU usage when a player is firing a weapon.
Will The Update Impact CS2 Esports?
If Valve applies the changes from the pre-release update, the defusal changes could significantly impact how the world’s best players approach a post-plant scenario.
The current build of CS2 allows players to fire instantly after tapping the bomb to fake a defuse, meaning the potential addition of a 150ms delay could prevent defenders from attempting to use a fake to draw out any remaining attackers.
Since the release of the update, the community has criticised the defuse delay. “Performance fixes are actually sorely needed,” said one fan. “No AWP scope and firing delay after letting go of defuse is just lowering the skill ceiling, though. Please reconsider.”
Considering the update is still in its pre-release phase, there is a chance Valve could make further adjustments before releasing it at a later date.
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