How to End the Warmup in CS2? A Simple Guide

In Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), the warmup phase helps players get ready for a match. During this time, players can practice shooting, learn the map, and talk with teammates about plans.

Sometimes, players may want to skip or shorten the warmup. For example, in private games with friends, they might choose to start the match right away. When practicing certain strategies or testing game features, waiting through the warmup might not be needed. By reducing or removing the warmup, players can save time and focus more on playing the game.

Knowing how to control the warmup phase lets players adjust their CS2 experience to fit their needs and preferences.

What Is CS2 Warmup?

In Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), the warmup phase helps players prepare for a match. During this time, they can practice aiming, explore the map, and discuss strategies with teammates.

Changing or skipping the warmup phase can improve the gaming experience in several situations:

1. Hosting Private Matches with Friends

When playing in a private match with familiar players, the default warmup may not be needed. Skipping or shortening this phase allows everyone to start playing right away, making the session more enjoyable and efficient.

2. Practicing Without Unnecessary Delays

During training sessions focused on specific skills or tactics, waiting for a long warmup can waste valuable time. Reducing or removing this phase helps players spend more time improving their abilities.

3. Testing Strategies or Exploring Maps Faster

Teams that want to develop new strategies or learn the map layout do not always need a warmup. Adjusting the settings allows immediate access to the map, making it easier to explore and plan tactics without interruptions.

Enabling the Developer Console

Follow these steps to turn on the developer console in CS2:

1. Open the Settings Menu

• Start CS2.
• Click the gear icon in the top-left corner of the main menu to access the settings.

2. Go to the “Game” Tab

• In the settings menu, select the “Game” tab.

3. Enable the Developer Console

• Find the option “Enable Developer Console (~)”.
• Set it to “Yes” to turn on the console.

By default, press the tilde (~) key to open the console. This key is usually below the Esc key on most keyboards.

If the tilde (~) key does not open the console or if you want to use a different key, follow these steps to change it:

4. Change the Console Key Binding

• Open the “Keyboard/Mouse” tab in the settings menu.
• Scroll down to the “UI Keys” section.
• Find “Toggle Console”.
• Click on “Toggle Console”, then press the key you want to use.

This lets you choose a key that is easy for you to use during gameplay.

How to End the Warmup?

In CS2, you can control the warmup phase using console commands. Follow these steps to adjust or end the warmup based on your needs.

1. End the Warmup Immediately

To stop the warmup right away, use the mp_warmup_end command:

• Open the Developer Console: Press the ~ key (or the key you assigned for the console).
• Enter the Command: Type mp_warmup_end and press Enter.

The match will start immediately after running this command.

2. Set a Custom Warmup Duration

To change how long the warmup lasts, use the mp_warmuptime command:

• Open the Developer Console: Press the ~ key.
• Enter the Command: Type mp_warmuptime [seconds] and press Enter.
• Replace [seconds] with the number of seconds you want.

For example, to set a 10-second warmup, type: mp_warmuptime 10 

This command adjusts the warmup length to the time you choose.

3. End Warmup When Enough Players Join

To end the warmup automatically once a certain number of players have joined, use mp_endwarmup_player_count:

• Open the Developer Console: Press the ~ key.
• Enter the Command: Type mp_endwarmup_player_count [number] and press Enter.
• Replace [number] with the required player count.

For example, to end the warmup when five players are connected, type: mp_endwarmup_player_count 5 

The warmup will finish automatically once the set number of players have joined.

Mastering CS2: Customizing Your Warmup Experience

In Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), the warmup phase is designed to prepare players before a match by allowing them to practice aiming, familiarize themselves with the map, and communicate with teammates. However, in certain scenarios such as private matches, practice sessions, or strategy testing, adjusting or ending the warmup can enhance the gaming experience.

To manage the warmup phase, players can enable the developer console and use specific commands. By using these commands, players can adjust the warmup phase to fit their needs and start playing without unnecessary delays.