14 DAY TRIAL // A brand new patch for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive is now available for download on the PC platform, and it brings big changes to the popular multiplayer shooter, including enhancements to Overwatch, its crowd-sourced cheating detection system, which is no longer in beta.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive may have started out life as a not-so-impressive attempt to recapture the loyal fanbase that made Valve's property so popular, but it slowly became the second most played title on Steam.
The final version of Overwatch brings lots of improvements
Now, after having brought forth Operation Bloodhound and an array of other enhancements to the game, Valve has just released a fresh patch that delivers the final version of its Overwatch program.
In case you're not familiar with CS:GO, cheaters are detected by Valve's Anti-Cheat system but also by members of the community who are experienced enough and can view replays of suspicious behavior and then pass a verdict on whether or not the player cheated.
While the system worked due to members of the community, it had quite a few problems, which was why it was still in beta after a lengthy period of time.
With the latest update, according to the official website, a suite of improvements are present in Overwatch for CS:GO players, starting with the most impressive: those that can pass verdicts will gain experience and different rewards for their efforts. They'll also be notified if their verdicts have led to the ban of a player that cheated in CS:GO.
Overwatch replays will also be available at 32-tick refresh rate, meaning that observers will be able to notice more of what's happening and not pass a verdict without seeing most of what was going on during that specific match.
The update also brings new ranks and much more
Besides the Overwatch improvements, the new CS:GO update also has new ranks that are earned through XP and actions, not to mention the opportunity to "Prestige" and reset the rank, thereby earning another medal.
The new ranks also bring a restriction to Competitive Matchmaking. Players will have to reach Private Rank 3 until they are able to enter competitive mode. Valve mentions that it might raise or lower this requirement in the future, after it sees what an impact it has on the community.
The new patch is already available for download on PC via the Steam service. Check out the full changelog below.