Thera new CS2 Map Update

# Thera

With the transition to the Source 2 engine, FMPONE has resumed creating Counter-Strike maps. Known for his work on Cache, Season, and Sub-Zero in CS:GO, his first project for Counter-Strike 2 is a revamp of his 2015 map Santorini, now called Thera.

## White and Blue? Absolutely!

Santorini was already notable for its visual style, featuring a distinctive blend of white and blue. This has been retained in Thera, now enhanced with touches of pink and red, making the map vibrantly colorful. The real-life Greek island's cityscape is mirrored in the game with custom textures mixed with official assets, creating a unique and compelling look. The saturation of the colors is quite intense, making the custom textures stand out, although they are very sharp and more realistic compared to the standard assets.

The new map retains the idyllic feel of a coastal town, with colorful flowers, hanging carpets, and slowly rotating windmill blades, creating an engaging and visually rich environment. The architecture, including octagonal turrets and blue dome roofs, accurately reflects the real-life Greek archipelago, providing good orientation points in the game.

## More Than a Santorini Remake

Thera is more than just a visual update. The layout has been significantly changed, with only parts of the starting points, Bombsite A, and the middle remaining from the original. The rest of the map features entirely new designs. The three-lane principle remains, but FMPONE has experimented with the map's structure. For instance, the area in front of A is completely new, providing attackers with two routes to approach the bombsite without encountering a potential sniper in the middle.

However, some routes have their challenges. The "A-Long" path deliberately slows attackers to balance timings, featuring a winding underground passage requiring multiple directional changes and splitting into two entry points at the bombsite, adding complexity.

The middle is crucial for defenders, with a classic sniper window dominating the area. Initially, attackers needed to show themselves or use a smoke grenade to advance towards Bombsite B, but FMPONE has added a new path leading to "B-Long" without risk. The primary B route is well-designed, passing through a windmill.

## Unique Bombsites

Bombsite B, located under a bridge, is compact and easily blocked with a smoke grenade. Defenders can choose to position offensively or cover from outside, with attackers having the option to throw grenades through a windmill window.

Bombsite A has remained relatively open with multiple access points, making it challenging for defenders to hold. With three main routes and up to six entry points, it offers varied gameplay but can overwhelm defenders.

## Conclusion

Thera combines stunning visuals with a moderately experimental layout, making it a fresh addition to Counter-Strike 2. Despite some imperfections, it retains the charm of Santorini and offers engaging gameplay. With the CS2 update on June 26, 2024, Thera has been added to competitive and other modes, ensuring it will be one of the first maps players experience in the new game.

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