Cache is one of the most iconic maps in the history of Counter-Strike. She has been a fan favorite for years and remains the only map created by the community that entered the Active Duty Map Pool in CS:GO. Now, after long wait years, Cache was released for the Counter-Strike 2 with a visual update, returning it to the spotlight.

Origins – Cache in Counter-Strike: Source

Cache was first created in 2011 by Salvatore “Volcano” Garozzo as a custom map for Counter-Strike: Source. The map had a unique Eastern European industrial environment, with narrow corners and a dynamic gameplay. However, initially it was focused on the side of terrorists, giving them an advantage in most matches. Despite this, it has gained popularity on user servers and in small tournaments.

FMPONE Affiliation – Cache in CS:GO

With the release of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive in 2012, many old maps were redesigned and balanced for the new game. However, Cache was not included. Instead, Sean “FMPONE” Snelling, a famous card creator, decided to recycle it for CS:GO.

FMPONE has made several key changes to improve the balance of the card:

• The narrower points of narrow passages to give the CT more chances for protection.
• Adjusted angles to create more honest duels.
• Improved shelter for a more tactical game.

Its version of Cache was added to Operation Bravo in 2013, a collection of maps created by the community and selected by Valve.

Cache becomes the official competitive map

Due to its huge popularity, Cache was officially added to the competitive matchmaking in 2014 with Operation Breakout. It was a historic moment as Cache became the first and only map created by the community that entered the Active Duty Map Pool.

From 2014 to 2019, Cache was played at every major CS:GO tournament. It has become one of the most balanced maps, allowing both tactical strategies and incredible clutches. Some of the most memorable moments in the history of CS occurred on this map.

Cache is deleted and recycled

On March 28, 2019, Valve removed Cache from Active Duty Pool, replacing it with Vertigo. The fans were disappointed, but FMPONE used it as an opportunity to update the map.

At ESL One New York 2019, FMPONE introduced a new version of Cache. The map received:

• Updated visuals for better clarity.
• New lighting and textures.
• Small changes in the layout for the balance of the gameplay.

Despite these improvements, Valve never added it back to Active Duty Pool.

Cache returns to Counter-Strike 2

On March 3, 2025, FMPONE officially released Cache for Counter-Strike 2 at Steam Workshop. This version includes:

• Completely new visuals created for Source 2.
• More natural light for better visibility of players.
• Small changes in planning, such as:
• Removal of the stairs in “Z” from the 2019 version.
• New possibility of a self-build on boxes at the back of the Checkers.

FMPONE described Cache as “honest and balanced,” stating that major changes could harm the gameplay rather than improve it.

Will Cache return to a professional game?

Since the release of 2025, many professional players and fans have been urging Cache back to Active Duty Pool. Valve has not yet confirmed any plans.

Valve owns most competitive cards, but Cache remains unique – it is still owned by FMPONE. This makes it the longest-running card in CS history, and Valve never bought it in full, unlike the Anubis, which they purchased before adding to the pool in 2022.

FMPONE has hinted that the community’s response could affect Valve’s decision.

Legendary moments at Cache

Cache has become an arena for some of the most memorable moments in the history of Counter-Strike. Over the years, the players have shown incredible games that are still being discussed. Here are three of the most iconic moments that demonstrate skills, strategy, and incredible mechanics that have made Cache a fan favorite.

Crazy AWP nosopan s1mple vs fnicate on ESL Cologne 2016

One of the most legendary moments in the history of CS:GO occurred on Cache, when Alexander ” s1mples1mple” Kostyleov performed a mad double nonocope against fnaticfnatic. Jumping with Heaven on the B site, s1mple destroyed two opponents, not even using the sight. The game was so incredible that Valve added graffiti to a map showing how the AWP sight falls in the air.

Clutch 1v5 with Tec-9 from Hiko vs Sponsorless

The Clutch King Spencer ” Hiko ” Martin has demonstrated one of the best 1v5 cloths ever seen on Cache. Armed only the Tec-9, he outplayed his opponents and destroyed them one by one, showing incredible self-control and game flair. This moment perfectly demonstrated why he was one of the most terrifying clutch players of his time.

“VAC” AWP 3K from Nifty against TYLOO

Noah ” Nifty “ Francis has given an incredible series against TYLOO. His three quick AWP murders looked so perfect in time that fans jokingly called it the “VAC moment.” It was one of the purest triple murders in the history of Cache and demonstrated its mechanical precision under pressure.

Conclusion

Cache is one of the most favorite maps in the history of Counter-Strike. From her humble beginnings in CS: Source to her return to CS2, she remains a fan favorite.

Her unique status as a map created by the community makes it special, and now, with its official release in CS2, fans hope to see her again in professional tournaments. Whether Valve decides to return it to Active Duty Pool or not, the Cache legacy will live on.