Counter-Strike 1.6 remains one of Valve’s most iconic games, despite its release in 2003. Over the years, it has evolved into Counter-Strike: Source, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and now Counter-Strike 2. However, the original version still holds a special place in the hearts of players worldwide.
A team of independent developers, Midnight Madness, has recognized this nostalgia and has officially announced a full remake of Counter-Strike 1.6.
The Arrival of Counter-Strike: Legacy
Midnight Madness recently unveiled CS: Legacy, a free remake of Counter-Strike 1.6, set to launch in Early Access in 2025. The announcement was made through a YouTube trailer, generating excitement among long-time fans of the series.
The developers are building CS: Legacy using the 2013 Source Engine Development Kit, incorporating custom modifications and their own original code to modernize the experience.
What We Know About CS: Legacy
The developers have shared several key details through their official Patreon, which already boasts over 382 members supporting the project.
A Complete Remake, Not a Mod
Unlike many fan projects, CS: Legacy is not a modification of an existing gameāit is a full remake. This means the team is developing everything from scratch, including:
- Game code
- Textures
- 3D assets
- Maps and environments
Authentic Gameplay Experience
The developers are dedicated to faithfully recreating the mechanics of Counter-Strike 1.6. Players can expect:
- Identical movement mechanics
- Accurate weapon behavior
- Classic map designs
- The same tactical gameplay that made CS 1.6 a global phenomenon

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Improved Engine with Custom Enhancements
Although CS: Legacy is based on Valve’s Source Engine, the developers have introduced numerous modifications to improve performance and bring the game closer to modern standards.
Expected Release Date
Currently, there is no exact release date for CS: Legacy. However, Midnight Madness has confirmed that the game will enter Early Access in 2025.
CS: Legacy is shaping up to be the ultimate nostalgia trip for Counter-Strike 1.6 fans. With a dedicated development team, a faithful recreation of classic gameplay, and a free-to-play model, it has the potential to become a major success among FPS enthusiasts.
For more updates, keep an eye on the official Patreon of the project and stay tuned for upcoming gameplay previews and beta testing opportunities.