CS2 Premier Season Four Begins: Anubis Returns, Arsenal Updates, and New Collections

Premier Season Four has officially arrived in Counter-Strike 2, delivering not just a routine seasonal reset, but a comprehensive update that touches nearly every aspect of the game. From map pool changes and weapon balance tweaks to new skin collections and community content, this season marks another significant step forward for CS2.

The centerpiece of the update is the return of Anubis to the active map pool. After a short absence, the map comes back with unexpected structural changes, already sparking discussion among players about new tactics and strategic possibilities. Alongside map updates, Valve has also refreshed the arsenal: SMGs received small but meaningful buffs, and a limited-edition AK-47 | Aphrodite skin has entered the game, quickly positioning itself as a future collector’s item.

Everything That Changed: From Anubis to Aphrodite 🔄

With the launch of Premier Season Four, Anubis officially replaces Train in the active map pool. However, this isn’t a simple reintroduction—the map has undergone multiple adjustments designed to reshape gameplay flow and decision-making:

• Bridge drop position adjusted, altering rotation timing
• Mid doors orientation reversed, impacting early-round control
• New passage added between the connector and the back of B site
• A-site terrain updated, opening space for more creative executes and retakes

These changes collectively create fresh opportunities for both individual plays and coordinated team strategies.

Weapon Balance and Gameplay Improvements 🔫

The update also brings arsenal adjustments, particularly aimed at SMGs:

• MP7 and MP5-SD now deal slightly increased damage
• Reduced damage falloff over distance
• $100 price reduction for MP7, MP5-SD, and PP-Bizon

These changes make support buys more efficient, even in mid-round or low-economy situations, offering teams greater flexibility.

Valve also focused on audio and visual quality:

• Improved weapon model detailing for the AK-47, AWP, and Desert Eagle
• Enhanced sound system, with knife sounds now differing based on attack type and direction
• Ambient sound behavior fixed, preventing audio resets when moving between map zones

Community Maps and Rotation Updates 🗺️

New community-created maps have been added to CS2’s rotation:

• Stronghold, Alpine, and Warren are now available in classic modes
• Sanctum and Poseidon join the Wingman map pool

As part of the usual rotation, several older maps have been removed, including Golden, Palacio, Agency, and Rooftop.

New Drops, Collections, and a Limited AK Skin 🎨

Weekly drops have also been refreshed with two brand-new collections:

• Harlequin Collection
• Achroma Collection

In addition, players can obtain the limited-edition AK-47 | Aphrodite through the Armory Pass, a skin that is already being viewed as a long-term collectible.

A Step Toward a Mature Esports Platform 🚀

Premier Season Four is more than a standard seasonal update. It reinforces Valve’s commitment to active development, showing clear attention to player feedback, map quality, balance, audio, and visual polish. By maintaining a consistent seasonal rhythm and continuing to support community creators, CS2 is steadily evolving into a fully mature esports platform, well-positioned for major tournaments heading into 2026.