Counter-Strike 2 Crashing on Startup? Here’s How to Fix It
If you’re trying to launch Counter-Strike 2 from Steam and it displays the Valve logo before instantly closing with no error message—just a crash dump—you’re not alone. Here are a few steps to troubleshoot and fix this issue so you can finally play the game.
1. Update Your Video Drivers
The most obvious first step is to update your video drivers. If you haven’t already, you may want to completely uninstall your current drivers using a third-party utility like DDU (Display Driver Uninstaller) before installing a fresh version.
2. Disable Your Antivirus
Even built-in Windows Defender can sometimes interfere with the game’s anti-cheat system. Try disabling your antivirus temporarily and see if that resolves the issue.
3. Ensure the Game is Running on the Correct GPU
If you’re on a laptop with dual graphics, make sure Counter-Strike 2 is launching on the discrete GPU. In modern versions of Windows 10 and 11, you can adjust this in Windows settings.
4. Avoid Compatibility Mode Settings
Some users suggest enabling or disabling fullscreen optimizations in the game’s executable properties, but this often doesn’t help. Additionally, ensure that none of the compatibility mode settings are checked—especially ‘Run as Administrator.’
5. Remove Old Configuration Files
Since Counter-Strike 2 is an update to Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, your installation may still contain outdated configuration files. To fix this:
Open the game’s configuration folder.
Delete any autoexec.cfg files.
Navigate to the config files folder and delete cs2_video.txt.
It may be best to remove all configuration files, as the game will regenerate fresh ones.
Alternatively, you can edit the cs2_video.txt file and ensure that the resolution settings match your monitor’s native resolution (e.g., 1920×1080 for Full HD).
6. Adjust Launch Options
Another fix involves modifying the game’s launch options:
Remove any existing launch options.
Add -w 1920 -h 1080 (adjust the resolution based on your monitor’s specs).
Optionally, add -allow_third_party_software if you suspect compatibility issues.
7. Disconnect Joysticks and Gamepads
Counter-Strike 2 has had issues with controllers and virtual joystick software. If you have any of the following connected, try disconnecting them:
USB-wired or wireless game controllers
Bluetooth controllers
Virtual joystick software (e.g., vJoy)
Additionally, some gaming keyboards, like the Anne Pro 2, feature built-in joystick emulation, which can cause conflicts.
8. Use the -nojoy Launch Option
If you suspect controller interference but can’t easily remove the drivers, add -nojoy to the game’s launch options. This disables joystick support specifically for Counter-Strike 2 while keeping it functional for other games.
After following these steps, your game should launch without crashing.