
Ok, so you're one of the best players in a video game (or you're about to be). Now what? How do you go from grinding ranked to actually competing on the big stage?
This article breaks down everything you need to start a pro career in a game like CS2 and how long it takes. The usual steps most players follow and what you should be aiming for, from finding a team to how to take care of yourself along the way.
Boris Bulj writes: At Hamburg’s Barclays Arena, eight of the top teams went head-to-head for the coveted trophy and a slice of the $2.6 million prize pool. The Grand Final at The International 2025, the crowd went wild as Team Falcons took the Aegis after a nail-biting showdown with Xtreme Gaming. Every fight had us on the edge of our seats—it’s a finale Dota 2 fans won’t forget anytime soon.

CS2 has brought new graphics, mechanics, and has become the new standard for esports competition. Learn about updates, pro strategies, and the future of Counter-Strike 2.