How much did CS:GO cost before going free-to-play?

ByJames Dorn Last Update on

Originally launched in August 2012, CS:GO retailed for $14.99 across PC and consoles prior to Valve making the game free in December 2018. Let‘s analyze the history leading up to this transition and its complex impacts.

Tracing CS:GO‘s Pricing History

CS:GO first went on sale on August 21, 2012 for $14.99. Below is a quick visual history of its pricing on Steam over time:

August 21, 2012$14.99 at launch
November 26, 2013Price reduced to $7.49
June 11, 2016Launch of $12.99 operation "Wildfire"
May 28, 2017Operation ends – base price remains $14.99
December 6, 2018CS:GO goes free-to-play

Flashing out to a wider view, CS:GO has sold over 75 million copies in total since launch according to SteamDB and other data sites. So while the price point saw tweaks here and there, the game sustained strong paid sales momentum prior to adopting its current free-to-play model.

Evaluating the 2018 Shift to Free-to-Play

On December 6, 2018, Valve made CS:GO entirely free to download and play on Steam. This accompanied the release of the game‘s battle royale mode "Danger Zone."

Industry analysts see the shift as a strategy to spur participation in Danger Zone based on its timing. As a longstanding Valve title, CS:GO didn‘t necessarily need an influx of new players. Leading esports personality Duncan "Thorin" Shields posited Valve sought to propel its new battle royale offering.

In my view, this transition still benefits the wider CS:GO ecosystem regardless of underlying motivations. Easier access allows more players to discover and potentially stick with Counter-Strike – feeding participation at all levels from casual newcomers to aspiring esports pros.

Monetizing CS:GO Post Free-to-Play

Despite dropping an upfront asking price, CS:GO offers plenty of opportunities to spend money from in-game skins to Prime account upgrades. Key monetization methods include:

  • Prime Status – Provides matched lobbies and drops for $14.99
  • Weapon Cases – Generate rare virtual cosmetic skins, fueling a trading scene
  • Operations – Limited-time DLC releases offering exclusive maps and rewards

Analyzing Steam data, this a la carte approach works. Total CS:GO revenue exceeded $400 million in 2020, over 6 years after going free-to-play. In particular, key skin releases continue driving record player investment in fresh cosmetic loot.

So while no longer charging to play, CS:GO finds ample ways to monetize enthusiasm. By keeping the core game freely open rather than carving it up, Valve builds ongoing value and trust within the player base.

James K. Dorn, a passionate gamer deeply immersed in the world of video gaming. My journey in gaming is not just about playing; it's about exploring every facet of the games I love. I am particularly fascinated by the intricate worlds of role-playing games like "The Witcher" series and "Elder Scrolls: Skyrim," where every decision shapes the story.

As a strategy game enthusiast, I spend hours devising tactics in games like "Civilization VI" and "StarCraft II," always eager to share my strategies with fellow gamers. I'm also an ardent follower of the ever-evolving landscape of indie games, finding gems like "Hollow Knight" and "Celeste" that offer unique, compelling experiences.

My content isn't just reviews; it's about deep dives into game mechanics, storytelling, and the art of game design. I love dissecting the narratives of games like "The Last of Us" and discussing the innovative gameplay of titles like "Death Stranding."

Being at the forefront of gaming news, I eagerly anticipate and share insights on upcoming releases like the next big open-world adventure or the latest in the "Final Fantasy" series. My goal is to build a community where we not only play games but also appreciate the artistry and effort behind them. Join me in this gaming journey, where every session is an adventure, and every game is a story waiting to be told.

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