During the BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024, held at the Forum Copenhagen, a notable trend emerged: Vertigo, one of the maps in the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) rotation, was conspicuously absent from the selection. Throughout the group stage and playoffs, spanning 13 series, not a single team opted to play on Vertigo. This avoidance highlights the map’s ongoing struggle to gain favor among top-tier teams.
Dust2, on the other hand, dominated the tournament. It was played nine times, making it the most popular map of the event. Every team in attendance played on Dust2 at least once, with G2 Esports featuring it in all five of their series. G2’s performance on Dust2 was impressive, losing only once to Natus Vincere (NAVI) in the final match of Group A, but they avenged this loss by defeating NAVI in the grand final.
The reluctance to pick Vertigo is not a new phenomenon. The map has consistently been one of the least favored in the professional circuit. During ESL Pro League Season 20, Vertigo was the least played map, a trend that continued into the BLAST Fall Showdown. Complexity, known for their preference for Vertigo, did not make it to the Fall Final, which might have contributed to the map’s absence.
Vertigo’s design, which features multiple vertical levels and a unique layout, presents a distinct set of challenges. These elements can lead to unpredictable gameplay, which might be why teams are hesitant to choose it in high-stakes matches. The map’s complexity requires precise coordination and strategy, and any misstep can be costly.
In contrast, Dust2’s straightforward layout and long-standing presence in the CS2 map pool make it a reliable choice for teams. Its familiarity allows for more predictable and controlled gameplay, which is crucial in a competitive setting. The map’s popularity at the BLAST Premier Fall Final underscores its enduring appeal and strategic importance.
The BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024 saw G2 Esports emerge victorious, claiming the trophy and a $200,000 prize. Their journey through the tournament was marked by strong performances, particularly on Dust2. The grand final against NAVI was a thrilling encounter, with G2 ultimately securing the win and solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the CS2 scene.
As the CS2 community looks ahead to future tournaments, the question remains whether Vertigo will ever gain the same level of acceptance as maps like Dust2. For now, its absence at the BLAST Premier Fall Final serves as a reminder of the map’s ongoing struggle to find its place in the competitive landscape.
