EA announced a battle royale mode was in development for Battlefield 6 a while ago, and now we know what it'll be called. RedSec releases tomorrow, alongside the game's first season update, and it will be completely free to play. More details will be revealed tomorrow, but we already know that RedSec will feature an insta-kill zone system, far less lenient than any other game.
ByteDance, the company behind TikTok, is reportedly creating its own Steam competitor targeted at global markets. Dubbed "GameTop," the new storefront is said to carry social features, AI-assisted creator tools, and the typical publishing/distribution that other stores like Epic Games also have. Recruitment has already begun in China.
When I was a kid, my mom used to call my Nintendo the “anti-social idiot box.” The widespread assumption back then was that video games, in any format, were a new and particularly efficient way to waste time and money while also becoming an obsessed shut-in.
Over the course of the subsequent decades, video games have grown into both a multi-billion-dollar industry and a much more socially acceptable hobby. While gaming does attract its share of anti-social obsessives, just like any other form of media, I’ve found it’s much more common for people to meet and bond over their mutual enjoyment of the hobby.
Whether it’s friends you meet through MMORPGs or fighting games, finding stories and characters that deeply resonate with you, or discussing your latest game in a shared space like Bluesky or a message board, video games often have a positive impact on the people who play them. That impact simply doesn’t get a fraction of the press of gaming’s various downsides.
That ability is the focus of a new paper from the University of Washington, “’I Would Not Be This Version of Myself Today’: Elaborating on the Effects of Eudaimonic Gaming Experiences.” The paper, by Nisha Devasia, Georgia Kenderova, Julie A. Kientz, Jin Ha Lee, and Michele Newman, was the focus of a presentation this month at the Annual Symposium on Computer-Human Interaction in Play (CHI-PLAY) in Pittsburgh.
For the paper, the authors surveyed 166 respondents about the “meaningful experiences” they’d had as a result of playing video games, such as rich storytelling, becoming interested in specific skill development, or the experience of watching a narrative shift based upon the player’s in-game actions.
According to the paper’s abstract, “While much of the research in digital games has emphasized hedonic experiences, such as flow, enjoyment, and positive affect, recent years have seen increased interest in eudaimonic gaming experiences, typically mixed-affect and associated with personal meaningfulness and growth.”
Of the 166 respondents, 78% reported that they’d had meaningful, life-changing experiences from their time playing video games, the researchers said in a UW News story about the paper.
“We highlighted three conclusions drawn from modeling the data,” Devasia told UW News. “The first is that playing games during stressful times was strongly correlated with positive outcomes for physical and mental health. For example, during COVID, people played games they felt strongly improved their mental health, such as Stardew Valley.”
Devasia also noted that other respondents had developed new interests, such as sports, due to video games they’d played, or gained insight into themselves or their identities from the journeys undertaken by video game protagonists.
“Playing as a character and seeing your choices change the course of events is pretty unique to games, compared with other narrative media like novels or movies,” Devasia said.
“As researchers, we develop games for learning, for instance, for teaching people about misinformation or AI, or promote digital civic engagement, because we want to foster meaningful experiences,” Lee added. “But a lot of the existing research just focuses on the short-term effects of games. This study really helps us understand what actually caused a game to make a difference in someone’s life.”
(Xbox Photo)
It sounds obvious at first glance if you’re someone who grew up around video games. It’s almost a given that there’s at least one game that made a serious mark on you somehow, especially if you live in a heavily nerd-coded space like the greater Seattle area.
Anecdotally, that strikes me as an underexplored part of the hobby. If anything, there’s a strange critical drive in the space to deliberately treat gaming as disposable pop culture, without any real meaning or lasting value. If you read any op-ed in the gaming press that discusses the cultural or political meaning of a video game, someone will inevitably show up in the comments to accuse the author of overthinking something that isn’t meant to matter. It’s “just a game.”
Even so, modern video games have just as much ability to resonate with their audience as any novel or film, and people who’ve grown up with them will take lessons away from that. It’s something we don’t discuss often enough in the field; we’ll talk at length about how video games are fun or socially acceptable now or a surprisingly big business, but their influence as culture is less discussed.
“People have a tendency to treat technology as a monolith, as if video games are either good or bad, but there’s so much more nuance,” Kientz told UW News. “The design matters. This study hopefully helps us untangle the positive elements. Certainly, there are bad elements — toxicity and addictiveness, for example. But we also see opportunities for growth and connection.”
Counter-Strike 2 received an update yesterday that prompted the worst market crash in the game's history. Cosmetics worth over $6 billion fell to almost $3 billion after Valve made it easier to acquire them. Less scarcity means lower barrier of entry, but it also means less desirability for traders who'd invested everything into the game.
Retro Games Ltd has lifted the curtain on the upcoming A1200 remake, and pre-orders will be open from November 10. Units will be launching from June 2026
Running Bazzite on your ROG Xbox Ally X can net you some pretty big performance improvements, with some games running up to 32% better on Linux, versus the Windows-based Xbox FSE. Bazzite also reportedly offers better wake-up times from sleep and more stable frame rates all around.
Xbox President Sarah Bond has just hinted at what the next-gen Xbox console might be, and it's looking a lot like a PC hybrid that may run Windows to support multiple storefronts. Sarah says a premium, high-end experience is in the works, which suggests a costly price tag often associated only with PCs.
Skins have always been part of the Counter-Strike DNA, and that’s the case for lots of online games. But in CS2, they’re more than just cosmetics that you can win/purchase and use forever. Here they’re tradable assets with real value. From $2 sticker-covered rifles to $2,000 factory-new knives, CS2 skins have created a digital economy of their own. Sometimes CS2 skins bring even more profit than Bitcoin or S&P500. And while some players just collect, others are turning skins into side hustles – or even full-time income.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the world of skin trading, how much you can make, and what path to take depending on your level of experience. And since crypto is becoming the go-to method for flexible, fast, and global trading, we’ll also show you how platforms like white.market are giving players better ways to buy and sell skins in a safe, P2P environment.
What Is Skin Trading in CS2?
At its core, skin trading in CS2 is the buying, selling, and exchanging of in-game cosmetic items – primarily weapon skins, knives, gloves, and stickers. But it’s not just about looks. These virtual items hold real monetary value, and many players treat them like digital assets. Some collect for the flex, others invest long-term, and many actively flip skins to make a profit.
Here’s how it works:
Skins can be obtained by opening cases, buying from other players, or trading through a marketplace.
Once you own a skin, you can list it for sale, hold it as an investment, or trade it for another item.
Marketplaces like white.market offer advanced tools – like price tracking, float filtering, and limit orders – so users can buy low and sell high.
Because the skin market is open 24/7 and largely unregulated, there’s a ton of freedom and flexibility. You can build your collection, flip skins for profit, or scale up to pro-level trading.
How Much Can I Earn from Skin Trading?
The amount you can earn from CS2 skin trading depends heavily on your experience, strategy, and starting budget – but yes, real money can be made, and people are doing it every day. Whether you’re flipping cheap skins or dealing in high-tier knives, skin trading can be a side hustle or even a serious source of income.
Let’s break it down by some real numbers and examples:
Flipping Budget Skins
Many beginner traders start by buying and reselling lower-tier skins like AK-47 | Redline, AWP | PAW, or M4A1-S | Basilisk. These cost anywhere from $1 to $10 and often have small but consistent price movements.
Once you have a bit more capital ($100–$500+), you can start flipping mid-range items like StatTrak™ rifles, gloves, or knives with visible wear.
Flip profit: $10–$50 per item
Successful trades per month: 10–20
Monthly earnings: ~$300–$1,000+
This is where many hobbyist traders begin to treat skin trading as a legitimate side income.
High-End Traders & Collectors
Some traders go deep into the market – buying rare knives (like Karambit | Doppler or Butterfly Knife | Fade), investing in souvenir skins, or even flipping old sticker crafts from CS:GO majors.
Here are a few notable real-world examples:
ZipelCS, a well-known trader, reportedly built a six-figure inventory by flipping rare knives and investing in undervalued skins over several years.
A user known as ohnePixel once bought a Katowice 2014 sticker capsule for around $30–$50 and later sold it for over $5,000.
In 2022, a Chinese collector purchased a Factory New AK-47 | Case Hardened with 4x Titan Holo (Kato 2014) stickers for over $150,000 – yes, for one gun skin.
While these extreme profits aren’t typical, they show how deep the skin economy can go. At the high level, skilled traders routinely make $2,000–$10,000/month, or more – depending on risk, capital, and knowledge of the market.
Quick Summary of Potential Earnings:
Trader Type
Monthly Profit Range
Strategy
Beginner
$50 – $300
Flip budget skins, small volume
Intermediate
$300 – $1,000+
Trade mid-tier items regularly
Advanced
$1,000 – $5,000+
Flip rare items, larger inventory
Collector/Investor
$5,000 – $10,000+
Long-term investment in rare skins
The key takeaway? With the right tools, patience, and understanding of the market, CS2 skins aren’t just pixels – they’re profit opportunities.
Levels of Skin Traders – Where Are You, and What Should You Do?
Not every trader starts with a $5000 knife collection. Most people begin small, test the waters, and slowly level up their skills. Here’s a breakdown of the four main types of CS2 traders, along with tips tailored for each stage. Whether you’re just discovering the market or flipping skins like a pro, there’s always a way to trade smarter.
Noob – “I have no idea how skin trading works”
If you’ve never traded a skin before, or only used the Steam Market once or twice, you’re a Noob – and that’s fine. Everyone starts here. At this stage, the goal is to understand how the market works and avoid common mistakes like:
Falling for fake trade bots or scam links
Buying overpriced skins on Steam
Sending your skin to an unverified platform
What to do:
Start watching YouTube tutorials and follow legit traders on social media
Learn about float values, wear levels, and pricing trends
Use trusted marketplaces like the white.market to explore the scene safely
Try flipping a few low-tier skins (under $10) to get a feel for how trades work
Beginner – “I’ve bought or sold a few skins, but I’m still learning”
You’ve done a trade or two. You understand how listings work and may have even tried your first flip. At this level, your goal should be to build consistency – learning which skins are worth trading, tracking price changes, and managing a basic budget.
What to do:
Start using price history tools and float filters when browsing skins
Flip safe, in-demand skins like AWP | Asiimov, AK-47 | Vulcan, or M4A1-S | Decimator
Watch the market daily for discounts or underpriced listings
Stick to one or two knife types or categories you know well
This is the perfect stage to try out limit orders, a key feature that lets you set the price you’re willing to pay and wait for the deal to come to you.
Experienced – “I flip skins regularly and earn money from it”
At this point, you’ve likely developed a strategy. You know which items sell fast, and how to time your purchases, and you probably track market trends around events like cases, tournaments, and updates. You might even have a spreadsheet or Discord group for deals.
What to do:
Diversify your inventory: knives, gloves, and high-tier rifles
Use white.market’s 0% buyer fee and 0% withdrawal/deposit fee (via WhiteBIT Codes) to maximize profit
Take advantage of trending events–like sticker releases or limited drops–to buy in early
Consider re-investing profits into rare items with long-term value (e.g., high-float knives or old tournament stickers)
Pro – “I know the skin economy inside-out”
You’ve got capital, connections, and collections. You might trade with other pros, do wholesale deals, or even run your community shop. At this level, it’s all about efficiency, scalability, and knowing where to get the best terms.
What to do:
Use white.market P2P CS2 Marketplace for professional-level tools, personalized offers, and wholesale deals
Optimize your skin listings with float filtering, smart pricing, and shop branding
Stay plugged into private groups and discords where rare skins and collectibles are traded
Watch updates across other platforms.
Focus on ROI, not just flash–it’s not about having the most expensive skin, it’s about knowing when to flip it.
Conclusion: Start Simple, Grow Smart
Getting into CS2 skin trading is easier than ever. There are tens of marketplaces and thousands of traders. Today it is much safer than it used to be, and the market is much bigger (meaning more opportunities for you).
But here’s the real truth: anyone can start, but getting good takes time, research, and consistency. The players making real money from skins aren’t just lucky – they study the market, learn from every trade, and keep improving over time.
No matter where you’re starting – Noob, Beginner, or Experienced – you’ve got a path forward. Stick with it, stay smart, and trade on platforms designed for real CS2 players like you.
The transition to Counter-Strike 2 has brought about significant changes in the professional scene, but Team Vitality has emerged as one of the most formidable forces in the new era. The French organization, now featuring a multinational roster, continues to set new standards for excellence in competitive play.
The vitality CS2 roster is a testament to the organization’s commitment to assembling world-class talent. Led by the legendary in-game leader Dan “apEX” Madesclaire, and featuring superstar Mathieu “ZywOo” Herbaut, widely considered one of the most gifted players in Counter-Strike history, the team has demonstrated remarkable adaptability during the transition period. The addition of Israeli prodigy Shahar “flameZ” Shushan has injected fresh energy into their gameplay.
The team’s evolution under the guidance of coach Danny “zonic” Sørensen has been nothing short of remarkable. The Danish mastermind has successfully integrated different playstyles and cultural approaches to create a cohesive unit that can adapt to any opposition. This versatility has become one of Vitality’s greatest strengths in the new game.
Vitality’s approach to CS2 has been methodical and innovative. The organization invested heavily in understanding the new game mechanics, particularly the sub-tick system and revised movement parameters. Their practice regime, focusing on individual skill development and team coordination, has yielded impressive results in tournament play.
The synergy between team members has reached new heights in CS2. The partnership between ZywOo and William “Magisk” Møller has become particularly potent, with both players showing exceptional ability to create space for each other and capitalize on opportunities. The addition of Lotan “Spinx” Giladi has provided the team with additional firepower and tactical flexibility.
The organization’s infrastructure has played a crucial role in its successful adaptation to CS2. Vitality’s training facility in Paris provides state-of-the-art equipment and support staff, including dedicated analysts, sports psychologists, and performance coaches. This comprehensive approach to player development has helped maintain their competitive edge during the transition period.
Tournament performances since the switch to CS2 have showcased Vitality’s dominance. Their tactical depth and individual skill have translated seamlessly into the new game, resulting in several notable tournament victories. The team’s ability to perform consistently at the highest level has solidified their position among the elite.
What sets Vitality apart in CS2 is its innovative approach to the game’s new features. They have developed unique strategies around enhanced smoke mechanics and revised economy systems. Their utility usage has become particularly sophisticated, often creating unprecedented opportunities for map control and execution.
The team’s communication and decision-making have evolved to match the faster pace of CS2. Under apEX’s leadership, Vitality has developed a dynamic calling system that allows for quick adaptations mid-round. This flexibility has proven crucial in high-pressure situations against top opponents.
Looking ahead, Vitality’s future in CS2 appears bright. The organization’s commitment to maintaining a balanced roster of experienced veterans and young talent ensures long-term sustainability. Their continued investment in support staff and training facilities demonstrates a dedication to remaining at the forefront of professional Counter-Strike.
The impact of Vitality extends beyond competitive play. Their players, especially ZywOo, have become role models for aspiring professionals worldwide. The organization’s content creation and community engagement have helped build a strong fanbase that transcends national boundaries.
In conclusion, Vitality’s journey in CS2 represents a masterclass in organizational excellence and competitive adaptation. Their ability to maintain high performance while evolving their gameplay speaks to the depth of talent and professionalism within the organization. As CS2 continues to develop, Vitality’s position as a leading force in professional Counter-Strike seems secure, built on a foundation of strategic insight, individual brilliance, and unwavering dedication to improvement.
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