For gamers who want to go back and take a nostalgia trip through the history of CS, 1.6 is usually the first port of call. Since you can download it directly from Steam, it’s the easiest way to experience classic Counter-Strike. It’s not like the popularity of CS 1.6 is a total mystery, in this regard. However, did you know you can still go back and play Counter-Strike 1.5?
What is Counter-Strike 1.5?
CS 1.5 is an earlier version of the original Counter-Strike with a few key changes. There was no FAMAS or Galil, and you could fast-switch with the AWP without a scope delay. There were also earlier versions of de_aztec and de_inferno. Overall, most agree that the Counter-Strike 1.6 update was an upgrade in general, but that doesn’t stop some players from preferring the earlier version.
Play CS 1.5 in 2025
So, can you actually play Counter-Strike 1.5 in 2025? The answer is (technically) yes. You’ll need to download an old version of the game, which you can do from here. Install as you would any other program, and you’re essentially good to go!
There is one problem with this – the game is absolutely dead. As mentioned, most people just go ahead and play CS 1.6 for their hit of classic Counter-Strike. This makes finding a game very, very difficult. The good news is that you’re not totally out of options. We’ve got an invite to the CS-Legacy Discord here, where you can join a community of fans dedicated to playing older versions of Counter-Strike. For playing Counter-Strike 1.5 in 2025, this is going to be your best bet by far.