Scripting in Counter-Strike 2 | Full Guide
Introduction
Scripting has always been a core part of the Counter-Strike series—helping players optimize gameplay, refine controls, and even gain a competitive edge.
As an amateur scripter, though, I’ve run into Valve’s occasional restrictions on scripting freedom. In CS:GO, for instance, the powerful “wait” command was disabled. And in Counter-Strike 2, certain types of automated inputs—like movement and shooting—have also been limited.
Still, scripting in Counter-Strike 2 remains a valuable tool, especially for those who want to tailor the game to their own playstyle.
In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about scripting in CS2: what scripts are, the different types available, and how to create and run your own.
What Are Scripts in Counter-Strike?
In Counter-Strike, a script is a set of commands written in the game’s console language (based on Valve’s Source Engine scripting system) that automate or enhance player actions. These scripts are stored in .cfg files and executed either manually or automatically when the game loads.
Scripts can:
Combine multiple commands into one key.
Automate repetitive tasks.
Create quality-of-life shortcuts to the exists console command.
Modify settings dynamically.
Scripts are not cheats. They use the game’s built-in command system. However, some servers or tournaments might restrict certain scripts, so try always check the rules.
Basic Commands and Syntax for Scripting
In Counter-strike 2, scripting primarily uses four core Source engine commands: bind, alias, toggle, and incrementvar.
Bind
The bind command assigns a specific in-game action (like jumping, shooting, or crouching) to a keyboard or mouse button. This allows players to optimize controls for convenience, efficiency, and personal preference. With key binds, actions can be executed instantly without typing commands or navigating menus during gameplay.
Syntax:
bind “[key/button]” “[command(s) and value(s)]”
Example:
bind “v” “cl_radar_scale 0.25”
When you press the v key, the console executes cl_radar_scale 0.25, which changes the radar size on the screen.
Alias
The alias command lets you create a custom shortcut for a command or a sequence of commands. It’s useful for simplifying complex scripts, creating toggles, or managing advanced input behavior. It’s often used alongside bind to customize gameplay controls.
Syntax:
alias “[alias_name]” “[command(s)]”
Example:
alias “new_command” “cl_radar_scale 0.25; say The radar size has been changed”
When you type new_command in the console, it sets the radar scale and sends a message in chat.
To bind this alias to a key:
bind “v” “new_command”
Now, pressing v in-game will execute new_command, changing the radar size and displaying the chat message.
Toggle
The toggle command cycles through a list of values for a given setting. It’s ideal for switching between states (like on/off or different sensitivity levels) with a single key.
Syntax:
bind “[key/button]” “toggle [command] [value1] [value2] …”
Example:
bind “v” “toggle cl_radar_scale 0.25 0.5 0.75 1”
Each press of the v key will cycle the cl_radar_scale through the listed values, changing the radar size accordingly.
Incrementvar
The incrementvar command adjusts a command’s value gradually by a defined step, looping between a minimum and maximum. It’s useful for fine-tuning settings.
Syntax:
bind “[key/button]” “incrementvar [command] [min] [max] [step]”
Example:
bind “v” “incrementvar cl_radar_scale 0.4 1 0.2”
Each press of the v key increases cl_radar_scale by 0.2, cycling through 0.4 0.6, 0.8, and 1.
Types of Scripts
Let’s break down the most common types of scripts used in Counter-Strike 2.
Press & Release Scripts
These scripts run one command when a key is pressed “+” and another when the key is released “–“.
alias "+r_scale" "cl_radar_scale 1"
alias "-r_scale" "cl_radar_scale 0.5"
bind "v" "+r_scale"
When you press and hold the v key, the +r_scale alias executes cl_radar_scale 1, enlarging the radar. When you release the key, -r_scale runs, returning the cl_radar_scale to 0.5.
Cycle Scripts
Cycle scripts rotate through multiple values or settings with each key press.
alias "r02" "cl_radar_scale "0.2"; bind v r06"
alias "r06" "cl_radar_scale "0.6"; bind v r10"
alias "r10" "cl_radar_scale "1"; bind v r02"
bind "v" "r02"
Each time you press the v key, the radar scale changes to the next value in the cycle: 0.2 → 0.6 → 1 → 0.2, and so on.
Meta Scripts
Meta scripts are more advanced. They often combine multiple aliases and logic to create toggleable or conditional behavior, sometimes involving key rebinding or external tools.
alias "next" "r02"
alias "r02" "cl_radar_scale "0.2"; alias next r06"
alias "r06" "cl_radar_scale "0.6"; alias next r10"
alias "r10" "cl_radar_scale "1"; alias next r02"
alias "trigger" "trigger_on"
alias "trigger_on" "bind mouse2 next; echo Binded; alias trigger trigger_off"
alias "trigger_off" "bind mouse2 +attack2; echo Unbinded; alias trigger trigger_on"
bind "v" "trigger"
Here, the v key acts as a toggle trigger.
On first press, it binds mouse2 to cycle through radar scales (via the next alias).
On the next press, it restores mouse2 to its default function +attack2.
The echo commands provide feedback in the console (“Binded” or “Unbinded”) as a testing.
How to Run Your Scripts in Counter-Strike 2
Scripts can be written and executed manually via the in-game developer console, but this method isn’t always convenient. A better approach is to store your scripts in a configuration file (.cfg) which can be run manually—or automatically every time the game starts.
Let’s walk through the different ways you can create and load configuration files that include your scripts, keybindings, and other commands.
Create the .cfg file
- Locate your CS2 config folder:
..\steamapps\common\Counter-Strike Global Offensive\game\csgo\cfg\ - Create a new text file in that folder. You can name it using letters, numbers, dashes, or underscores.
Example: my123.txt - Change the file extension from .txt to .cfg
To show file extensions in Windows:
Open Control Panel → File Explorer Options → View tab, and uncheck “Hide extensions for known file types” box.
- Your final file might look like:
my123.cfg - Open the .cfg files using any text editor (like Notepad) and add your desired script(s).
- Once saved, the file can be executed using one of the methods below.
Method 1: Run via Console (Manual)
- Launch Counter-Strike 2
- Go to Settings > Game and set “Enable Developer Console” to “Yes“.
- Press the ~ key (default) to open the console
- Type the following:
exec my123 - Press Enter, then close the console (~ again) and test your script(s) in-game.
Method 2: Add to Launch Options (Auto)
- Open Steam, right-click on Counter-Strike 2, and choose Properties.
- Under the General tab, find Launch Options.
Add the following line:
+exec my123.cfg
This will execute your script(s) automatically every time the game launches.
Method 3: Use the autoexec.cfg File (Auto)
In the same cfg folder, create a new file named autoexec.cfg.
The autoexec.cfg file is a legacy feature that works in all Counter-Strike games. It automatically runs every time CS2 starts, so it’s perfect for loading custom scripts, binds, and settings.
You can either:
Paste your scripts directly into autoexec.cfg, or use it to load other .cfg files like this:
exec my123.cfg
You can even organize your scripts into subfolders and load them with paths:
exec scripts/my123.cfg
Note: CS2 does not include an autoexec.cfg file by default, you must create it yourself.
For advanced setup tips, see this detailed guide:
Optimizing COUNTER-STRIKE 2 Player Configuration Files
Useful Commands List
| Command | Description |
|---|---|
|
bind |
Bind a key to a command |
|
Unbind |
Remove a key bind |
|
alias |
Create a custom command |
|
toggle |
Toggle between values |
|
incrementvar |
Increment/decrement variables |
|
exec |
Run a .cfg file |
|
echo |
Print to console (debug/test) |
|
+ / – |
Starts an stop an action when a key is pressed and when a key is released. |
F.A.Q.
No, scripts using built-in console commands are not bannable in matchmaking. However, some competitive leagues or servers may restrict them.
Use echo statements to print info to the console:
echo “Script loaded!”
No. CS2 supports scripting out of the box through its built-in console and .cfg files. All you need is a text editor and access to your game’s cfg folder.
The toggle cycles between specific values you define. The incrementvar adds a step value between a min and max range. Both are useful for state changes.
There’s no strict limit.
Conclusion
Scripting in Counter-Strike 2 is a powerful way to personalize your gameplay, gain efficiency, and create useful shortcuts. Whether you’re a new player or a seasoned competitor, learning the scripting system gives you more control over your game. Just be sure to use scripts responsibly and always check server rules.
Good luck and happy fragging!
