The Pick’Em feature in Counter-Strike 2 lets fans predict tournament results and earn rewards for accuracy. It started in the CS:GO era but was redesigned for CS2. The goal is simple: follow Majors, make predictions, and compete for exclusive prizes.
As the system improved, more guides and explanations appeared to help players understand how CS2 pickems work. These resources also help fans make predictions with greater confidence.
Why the System Was Updated
When CS2 launched, Valve changed the structure of Major tournaments, which required an update to Pick’Em. During the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024, Valve added a new Major Hub and redesigned the Pick’Em interface.
According to HLTV, players with Prime Status can now make predictions for free. However, to complete challenges and earn rewards, they still need to activate a Viewer Pass before each stage starts.
This change made Pick’Em more open to casual fans while keeping special rewards for pass owners.
Key Changes in the New Pick’Em System
- Free predictions for Prime players. You can now submit picks without a Viewer Pass.
- Rewards linked to the Viewer Pass. You need to activate the pass to earn coin upgrades and souvenirs.
- Updated coin system. Correct predictions upgrade your Major Coin from Bronze → Silver → Gold → Diamond.
Why These Changes Matter
These updates make Pick’Em easier to join while rewarding accuracy and early participation. They also improve the flow of Major tournaments and connect with other event features like sticker capsules and souvenir packages.
The result is a system that welcomes new players but still rewards commitment and precision.
How to Play the CS2 Pick’Em System Step-by-Step
Step 1: Get and Activate the Viewer Pass
To join the official Pick’Em system, buy the Viewer Pass for the current Major. For example, during the PGL Copenhagen Major 2024, players could choose between a regular or bonus pass. After buying it, activate the pass in your Steam inventory. This links your account to the event and makes your predictions count toward rewards.
Step 2: Open the Prediction Menu
Once your pass is active, go to the Pick’Em section in the game or the tournament hub. You’ll see the event bracket or stage layout. Here you can make your picks — which teams will advance, go 3-0 (undefeated), or 0-3 (eliminated early).
Step 3: Make Predictions for Each Stage
The Major has several stages, such as Opening (Challengers), Legends (Elimination), and Playoffs (Champions). For each one:
- Submit your full predictions before matches begin.
- In the Opening Stage, you might choose two 3-0 teams, two 0-3 teams, and six teams to advance.
- Later rounds focus on quarterfinals, semifinals, and the grand final.
Step 4: Earn Points and Upgrade Your Coin
Every correct prediction earns points. These points upgrade your Event Coin through levels: Bronze → Silver → Gold → Diamond. At past Majors, players reached Silver after three correct challenges, Gold after six, and Diamond after nine.
Step 5: Claim Your Rewards
When the Major ends, your points are finalized. If you’ve reached the required milestones, you can redeem prizes like:
- Souvenir tokens
- Weapon skin packages
- Team stickers
- Autograph capsules
Quick Checklist
✔ Buy and activate your Viewer Pass
✔ Submit full picks before each stage starts
✔ Watch deadlines and match schedules
✔ Track your points and coin upgrades
✔ Redeem rewards after the event finishes
Tips, Strategy, and Why the CS2 Pick’Em System Is Worth Playing
Tips for Better Pick’Em Predictions
Even though Pick’Em includes an element of luck, using smart strategies can boost your accuracy and help you reach higher coin levels.
1. Research Recent Team Performance
Study how teams have played in recent events. Check their roster changes, map strengths, and consistency in best-of-one or best-of-three matches. Knowing a team’s habits can turn a guess into an informed choice.
2. Balance Safe and Risky Picks
A strong favorite is a smart “advance” pick but not always the best for “3-0,” since even top teams can lose a map early. A mid-tier team on a hot streak might be the better 3-0 option. Blending reliable and risky picks usually gives the best results.
3. Understand Each Stage
Every stage has a different format. Early ones use the Swiss system with 3-0 and 0-3 slots, while later stages rely on brackets. Adjust your strategy to fit each stage instead of using the same logic throughout.
4. Watch the Deadlines
If you miss the deadline, your picks won’t count. Always confirm your predictions before the stage starts—once the first match begins, changes are locked.
Why the Pick’Em System Is Worth Playing
1. More Excitement While Watching
Making predictions turns viewers into analysts. You’ll pay closer attention to matchups, tactics, and key plays. Every round becomes meaningful when your predictions depend on it.
2. Stronger Community Connection
Pick’Em encourages fans to share brackets, debate picks, and compete with friends. It adds a social layer that makes every Major feel like a shared event.
3. Meaningful Rewards
Completing challenges upgrades your Event Coin and earns stickers, autograph capsules, and souvenir tokens. Many of these items grow in value, adding a sense of progress and reward.
4. A Strategic Challenge
Pick’Em combines game knowledge, prediction, and analysis. Each stage feels like solving a puzzle where logic matters more than luck.
Final Thoughts
The CS2 Pick’Em system is more refined and accessible than before. Free entry for Prime players, clear structure, and tier-based coins make it rewarding for everyone. Whether you watch casually or study every detail, Pick’Em adds strategy, competition, and fun to every Major.