Cache Added to FACEIT Matchmaking

FACEIT has officially announced that Cache will be added to matchmaking in Counter-Strike 2, starting with Season 8 on April 22. The return of one of the most iconic maps marks a notable moment for the competitive community, especially after its long absence from the active pool.

The decision to reintroduce Cache was driven directly by player feedback. A total of 148,840 users participated in the vote, ultimately securing the map’s return.

This level of engagement highlights just how popular Cache remains, even years after being removed from the competitive rotation.

I think this is one of the clearest examples of community influence shaping the competitive experience, especially for a map with such a strong legacy.

Cache will be included in FACEIT’s extended map pool, which comes with several key rules and features:

• Matches played on Cache will affect Elo rating
• The map can be disabled without requiring a Premium subscription
• Players must download the map via Steam before queuing

For Premium users:

• Cache will not count toward the minimum of five active maps, giving players more flexibility in their selection

This setup allows players to access Cache without disrupting their existing map preferences.

The return of Cache represents more than just an additional map—it reflects ongoing demand for classic competitive environments within Counter-Strike 2. By placing it in the extended pool, FACEIT ensures accessibility while maintaining balance in matchmaking.

I see this as a smart compromise, since it reintroduces a fan-favorite map without forcing it into the core rotation.

With Season 8 launching on April 22, players will soon be able to queue for Cache once again. Its performance and popularity in the extended pool could influence future decisions about its long-term place in competitive play.