Counter-strike - How To Improve

Counter-Strike is a game that has been popular for over 10 years in various online gaming communities. Tens of thousands of dollars are awarded each year to the top online competitive teams in leagues such as CEVO, ESEA, and WCG. Improving at the competitive aspects of the game are a vital and necessary part of grabbing these large prize-pools that sponsors have so generously put up.

So how does one exactly improve at Counter-Strike? There are many different methods of improvement, most of which are practiced routinely by the world's top players.

Quick Tips for Improving

• Scrim often with your team - scrimmaging or "scriming" with your team is a huge part of improving. You need to be playing at least 3 - 5 pick-up games a day to keep your aim sharp and reflexes sharper.
• 1 hour of aim_map a day - besides playing pick-up-games with your team, you should also be practicing your individual aim. Aim maps are a great way to improve your individual reflexes without being bothered by other aspects of the game such as strategy. I recommend at the very minimum 1 hour a day of aim map if you're just beginning to play.
• Play with other teams and players - practicing with other teams and players outside of your own is a big part of player growth. You need to experience as many situations as you can playing the game, which will later help you in team games and matches. Switching it up and playing with a variety of teams and players can help this.
• Learn from professionals - booking lessons, playing in pick-up-games with well known players, and watching POV match replays are great resources for improving your game. Remember, there are a ton of players out there that have been playing for over 10 years... make use of their experiences and learn what you can from them.
• Play on LAN - play on LAN often! This will ensure that when you finally get to a big event, you will be comfortable playing in a LAN environment.
• Never quit - The reason Counter-Strike has had such longevity is because it's a game that cannot be easily mastered. You need to be set on improving your own game, and have the stamina to do so. Improving doesn't come easy, but in the end, all the hard work and dedication will eventually pay off.

Sticking to these tips will definitely help you improve your Counter-Strike game immensely. Remember, the competition is fierce, but don't be discouraged. In the end, the persistence and resilience of a player that truly wants to improve will always pay off.