Tom Newman

As we start a new era with Counter-Strike 2, we remember the golden years of CS:GO and it's heroes. The past 10 years have taken us from bedrooms to sold out arenas. But how did this all come to be? A journey that began all the way back in 2012 with the release of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.

Sébastien Debs, a retired French professional Dota 2 player, returns from retirement to step in for an ESL One Stockholm Major. Having Ceb back on the team gave the younger players the confidence to come out swinging, as he encouraged and pushed them to play like never before. OG started picking up momentum in the Group Stage, finishing second overall and heading into the Main Event with unparalleled energy. Eventually winning the entire tournament and lifting the trophy high, the influence of Ceb the legendary player, and the flexibility and hard work of the new squad produced a result that shocked everyone.

As CS:GO approached its final years, it cemented its legacy as more than a game—it became a global phenomenon. Legendary teams reigned supreme, while unforgettable underdog stories inspired millions. Sold-out arenas and clutch moments defined an era of unrelenting competition. Fans celebrated a decade of passion, unity, and memories. But how did those final years unfold?