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Mastering the Art of Surfing in CS:GO: A Guide to Surf Maps, Servers, and Hosting

2024-08-15

Surfing in Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS) is a popular and unique gameplay mode that challenges players to glide along angled surfaces, navigating complex maps with speed and precision. This article will delve into everything you need to know about surf maps in CS, from finding the best surf servers to understanding surf hosting and what to expect from the upcoming CS2. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or a newcomer, this guide will help you get the most out of your surf experience.

What is Surfing in CS?

Surfing is a custom game mode in CSwhere players slide along slanted ramps, using momentum and skill to traverse intricate courses. Unlike traditional CSgameplay, surfing is all about control and timing rather than shooting and strategy. It’s a fun and challenging way to test your movement skills within the game.

The Basics of Surfing

  • Movement: Players use a combination of strafe (A and D keys) and mouse movements to stay on the ramp and build speed.
  • Objectives: Most surf maps have goals such as reaching the end of the course, collecting points, or completing time trials.
  • Difficulty: Surf maps range from beginner-friendly courses to expert-level challenges that require precise control and timing.

Exploring Surf Maps in CS

Surf maps in CSare specially designed levels that cater to the surfing gameplay style. These maps feature a variety of ramps, obstacles, and paths that players must navigate.

Popular Surf Maps in CS

  1. surf_utopia: A beginner-friendly map known for its smooth ramps and straightforward design. It’s a great starting point for players new to surfing.
  2. surf_mesa: A more advanced map with multiple paths and complex turns, offering a challenge for more experienced surfers.
  3. surf_beginners: As the name suggests, this map is designed for newcomers, with easy-to-navigate ramps and forgiving mechanics.
  4. surf_ski_2: A classic map in the surfing community, featuring a mix of easy and challenging sections, making it a favorite for surfers of all skill levels.

How to Find Surf Maps

Surf maps can be found in the Steam Workshop, where players and creators upload their custom levels. To find and download surf maps:

  1. Visit the Steam Workshop: Search for “surf maps” in the CSsection of the Steam Workshop.
  2. Subscribe to Maps: Click “Subscribe” on the maps you want to play. They will automatically download and be available in your game.
  3. Start a Local Server: You can play these maps on a local server by selecting them from your CSmap list.

Finding the Best Surf Servers in CS

To fully enjoy surfing, joining a surf server in CSis the way to go. Surf servers are dedicated servers that host surf maps and often include leaderboards, time trials, and a community of players.

Types of Surf Servers

  1. Beginner Surf Servers: These servers host easier maps designed for newcomers to learn the basics of surfing.
  2. Advanced Surf Servers: For experienced surfers, these servers offer challenging maps with complex paths and tight turns.
  3. Time Trial Servers: Focused on speedrunning, these servers allow players to compete for the fastest times on various maps.
  4. CSSurf Servers with Ranks: These servers often include ranking systems, where players can earn points or ranks based on their performance.

How to Join a Surf Server in CS

  1. Open CS: Launch the game and go to the “Community Server Browser.”
  2. Search for Surf Servers: Use keywords like “surf” or specific map names to find surf servers.
  3. Join a Server: Click on a server to join. Make sure to check the server’s map rotation and player count to find the best fit for you.

Surf Hosting: Setting Up Your Own Surf Server

If you’re interested in creating a custom surfing experience or hosting a surf server for your friends, surf hosting is the way to go. Hosting your own server gives you complete control over the maps, rules, and mods used.

Steps to Host a Surf Server

  1. Choose a Hosting Provider: For the best performance, use a dedicated server hosting provider like HostHorde, GameServers, or NFO Servers. These companies offer easy setup for CSservers.
  2. Install the Surf Plugin: Use plugins like “KZTimer” or “SurfTimer” to add surf mechanics to your server. These plugins also offer features like leaderboards and time trials.
  3. Upload Surf Maps: Download your desired surf maps from the Steam Workshop and upload them to your server.
  4. Configure Server Settings: Set up server rules, adjust the gravity (commonly set to 800 for surf servers), and configure any mods or additional plugins.
  5. Invite Players: Share your server’s IP address with friends or the community to start surfing together.

Benefits of Surf Hosting

  • Customization: You can tailor the server to your preferences, from map selection to game settings.
  • Community Building: Hosting a server allows you to create a community of like-minded surfers.
  • Control: You have full control over the server, including who can join and what mods are installed.

Surf Servers in CS2

With the upcoming release of CS2 (Counter-Strike 2), the community is excited about the potential for surf servers in CS2. While details are still emerging, it’s expected that surf mechanics will be supported in CS2, continuing the legacy of surf gameplay in the new engine.

What to Expect in CS2 Surf Servers

  • Enhanced Graphics and Physics: CS2’s updated engine could bring improved visuals and more refined surf mechanics.
  • New Maps: Expect the community to create new surf maps that take advantage of CS2’s features.
  • Backward Compatibility: Many current surf maps may be updated or ported to CS2, allowing players to enjoy their favorites with new improvements.

Conclusion

Surfing in CSis a fun and challenging way to experience the game differently. Whether you’re a seasoned surfer or just starting, there are plenty of surf maps in CSand surf servers to explore. Hosting your own surf server or joining an established community can greatly enhance your surfing experience, providing endless hours of entertainment. As the community prepares for the arrival of CS2, surfing is set to continue as a beloved mode, with exciting new developments on the horizon. Grab your board, hit the ramps, and start surfing today!

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