Cache is one of the most iconic Counter-Strike maps ever created — known for its clean layout, fast mid fights, and clutch-friendly A and B sites. Originally designed by FMPONE and Volcano, it became a competitive staple in CS:GO before being removed from the active pool.
With CS2’s Source 2 upgrade, Cache has been completely rebuilt with new lighting, assets, color tones, and environmental detail. Even though it’s not yet part of official matchmaking, you can play it today through the CS2 workshop.
Cache’s identity hasn’t changed:
- Tight, execution-based A site
- Aim-heavy mid duels
- B site retakes that require teamwork
- Strong tactical depth despite simple layout
Is Cache Available in CS2?
Yes — Cache exists in CS2, but only as a Workshop map at the moment.
Here’s how to play it:
- Go to Steam → Counter-Strike 2 Workshop
- Search for “Cache” / de_cache
- Subscribe to the map
- Open CS2 → Workshop Maps
- Launch Cache and play with bots or friends
If you want to practice nades, you can also follow setup methods similar to your general training setups described in your CS2 Practice Commands Guide.
When Is Cache Coming to CS2 Competitive?
This is still the big question. As of now:
- Cache is not in Competitive, Premier, or Active Duty
- There is no official release date yet
- Valve is likely waiting for the right moment to rotate it into the pool
- CS2’s focus on polished maps means Cache probably requires additional refinement before competitive release
Most players expect Cache to return during:
- A major map pool rotation
- A big seasonal update
- A major esports cycle refresh
For now, Workshop-only play is the best way to enjoy the map.
Cache Layout Overview
Cache is a simple-looking map with deep strategic potential. Here’s how it breaks down:
A Site
- A Main
- Squeaky
- Forklift
- Quad
- Default
- Balcony
- Truck
This site rewards fast executes and good post-plant positioning. If you’re practicing long-range aim here, consider checking out popular crosshair styles via How to Change Crosshair in CS2.
Middle
- Boost
- Sandbags
- White Box
- Z Connector
- Highway
Mid control is the most important part of Cache. Whoever owns mid can split either bombsite easily, similar to control concepts you see on maps like Mirage and Ancient.
B Site
- B Main
- Checkers
- Sunroom
- Toxic
- Heaven
- Tree Room
The site is tight and tactical. Good flashes and a Heaven smoke are essential for both executing and retaking.
CS2 Cache Callouts (Complete List)
Here’s a quick and clean breakdown:
T Side Callouts
- T Spawn
- A Main
- Squeaky
- Mid (Boost / Sandbags / White Box)
- Sunroom
- B Main
CT Side Callouts
- A Site (Forklift / Quad / Default / Truck)
- Highway
- Z Connector
- Mid
- Checkers
- Heaven
- B Site (Toxic / Default / Back Site)
If you enjoy callout guides, you’ll love these too:
Best Strategies for Cache in CS2
T-Side Strategy Tips
1. Take Mid Early
Mid is the heart of the map. Winning mid allows you to split A or B.
Useful tactic:
- Smoke Z
- Molly Sandbags
- Flash over Mid
- Boost a rifler early
2. A Exec
Simple and effective:
- Smoke Truck
- Smoke Highway
- Molly Forklift
- Flash A Main
- Open Squeaky for pressure
3. B Split
With mid control, send 2 players B Main and 3 from Mid → Vent → Checkers.
CT-Side Strategy Tips
1. Mid Denials
- Molly Boost
- Flash aggressively into Mid
- Double play Sandbags
2. A Site Defense
Play crossfires between:
- Forklift + Quad
- Balcony + A Main
3. B Site Holds
- Use early mollys in B Main
- Play from Heaven for safer repositioning
To improve aiming and retakes on tight angles, you might also want to check CS2 Mouse Acceleration Guide and What Is the Best Gun in CS2.
How to Play Cache With Friends
If you’re hosting a session:
- Download Cache from Workshop
- Launch Play → Workshop Maps
- Invite your friends
- You can also use a dedicated server setup similar to your CS2 Dedicated Server Guide if you want full control
Cache CS2 vs Cache CS:GO – What Changed?
| Feature | CS:GO Cache | CS2 Cache |
| Engine | Source 1 | Source 2 |
| Visuals | Green palette | More metallic/industrial |
| Lighting | Static | Dynamic & volumetric |
| Audio | Legacy | Updated propagation |
| Geometry | Classic | Subtle adjustments |
| Competitive Status | Active Duty (past) | Workshop-only |
Cache in CS2 feels fresher and more atmospheric thanks to Source 2 lighting — but gameplay remains faithful to the original.
Will Cache Replace Any Map in CS2?
While nothing is confirmed, the maps most commonly speculated for rotation are:
- Overpass
- Vertigo
Cache will likely enter during a major content update or esports season.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQs)
1. What are the most important callouts to learn on Cache in CS2?
The essential callouts every player should memorize are A Main, A Heaven, Quad, Mid, Vents, Checkers, B Main, B Heaven, and Toxic. These locations are used in almost every strat, so knowing them improves your communication instantly.
2. How do I take mid control effectively on Cache?
Use a Mid smoke, pair it with a Vents molly and Highway flash. After isolating common angles, push together and take space toward Connector or Vents depending on your plan.
3. What utility is best for executing A site on Cache?
The best A-site exec uses:
- A Main smoke
- Cross smoke
- Molotov for Quad
- Flashes over A Main
This isolates CT riflers and gives you a safe plant.
4. Is controlling B Heaven important on Cache?
Yes. B Heaven is one of the strongest power positions on the entire map. Taking control of Mid → Vents → Heaven can completely open up rotations and give your team a massive advantage.
5. How do CTs defend B site better on Cache?
Playing crossfires between Checkers and B Back site, using a well-timed B Main smoke, and maintaining Heaven control are the keys to a strong B-hold. Don’t fight B Main alone—delay, use utility, and wait for support.
Final Thoughts
Cache is still one of the most beloved tactical maps in Counter-Strike history. Even though it’s not yet in official matchmaking, you can enjoy the rebuilt CS2 version right now through the Workshop.
Until Valve brings it back to Ranked or Premier, your best approach is mastering callouts, practicing smokes, and refining your crosshair and aim settings. With maps like Ancient, Mirage, and Nuke dominating the pool, Cache will eventually return to shake up the meta — it’s only a matter of time.
