The 2024 CS2 competitive season has come to an end, and we can start with the first ever CS2 recap article. Teams earned points for their achievements throughout the year based on their performance in S-tier events, prize money accumulated, and consistent participation in top-tier tournaments. Here’s an in-depth analysis of the top teams of 2024.

Liquid

Liquid earned 28.02 points, salvaging a disappointing start to the year with a strong second half. Their initial "superteam" experiment with cadiaN as captain failed to deliver results, prompting a mid-year rebuild. The revamped roster exceeded expectations, reaching the playoffs of the Perfect World Shanghai Major and performing well in several other tournaments.

With a debutant captain in Twistzz and a rising talent in ultimate as the AWPer, Liquid’s late-season resurgence was remarkable. The team has laid a solid foundation for 2025 and proved that even drastic changes can lead to success.

HEROIC

HEROIC finished with 44.14 points, reflecting a year of rebuilding and adaptation. Following changes to their Danish roster, the team transitioned to an international lineup. While the results were mixed, they managed to reach the playoffs of the Perfect World Shanghai Major and several other tournaments, including Elisa Masters Espoo, IEM Rio 2024, and Thunderpick World Champinship 2024.

New additions like degster have shown promise, but HEROIC’s overall performance was inconsistent. They closed the year on a high note, and with further adjustments, they could regain their former dominance in 2025.

Eternal Fire

Eternal Fire earned 56.02 points, marking their best year to date. They reached the playoffs of the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024, won the CCT Global Finals, and finished as runners-up in ESL Pro League Season 20. Despite these achievements, they failed to qualify for the second Major and struggled to sustain momentum throughout the season.

Eternal Fire’s limited regional scene makes their accomplishments all the more impressive, but their inability to make a breakthrough on the global stage remains a challenge. To compete consistently with top-tier teams, they will need to address their weaknesses and improve their adaptability.

Vitality

Vitality scored 95.2 points, underlining a year of unfulfilled potential. Despite having arguably the best roster in CS2, the team managed to win only one tournament — IEM Cologne 2024. Frequent playoff appearances and three finals demonstrated their strength, but their inability to close out crucial matches raised concerns.

Both Majors saw Vitality eliminated by FaZe, with the team failing to capitalize on favorable brackets. As rumors of roster changes circulate, Vitality must reassess their approach to unlock their full potential in 2025.

READ MORE: CS2 2024 Rewind

FaZe

FaZe amassed 99.06 points in 2024, reflecting a year of stark contrasts. The team reached the finals of both Majors but struggled throughout the rest of the year. Their second season was particularly disappointing, with early exits in most tournaments. Despite their challenges, FaZe’s Major final appearances salvaged what would otherwise have been a lackluster year.

The team’s legendary roster has shown signs of wear, raising questions about motivation and consistency. While their Major runs were impressive, FaZe needs to address their mid-season issues to remain competitive in 2025.

MOUZ

MOUZ ended the year with 169.16 points, showcasing both promise and inconsistency. They secured a few notable achievements, including winning ESL Pro League Season 19 and reaching the finals of IEM Rio 2024. However, their playoff struggles, particularly at Majors, revealed their inexperience and inability to handle high-stakes matches.

Despite their ups and downs, MOUZ’s young roster has significant potential. However, their lack of stability and consistency might lead to roster changes in the coming months. With more experience and better preparation, MOUZ could become a formidable force in 2025.

The MongolZ

With 170.74 points, The MongolZ achieved the best year ever for an Asian Counter-Strike team. They won the Thunderpick World Championship 2024, and YaLLa Compass 2024, and made it to the playoffs of the Perfect World Shanghai Major, solidifying their status as a rising force in CS2.

However, their lack of experience was evident in high-pressure playoff matches. Their defeat to MOUZ in Shanghai highlighted the challenges they face when competing against more seasoned opponents. While their performance was historic for an Asian team, The MongolZ still have a long way to go to become a consistent top-10 contender. Addressing their inexperience will be crucial for future success.

G2

G2 earned 306.26 points, thanks to victories at IEM Dallas 2024, BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024, and BLAST Premier World Final 2024. Their consistent presence in playoffs and semifinals, including at both Majors, highlighted their competitive strength. However, the team’s future remains uncertain, as their star player NiKo is set to leave.

The departure of NiKo, one of the most impactful players in the game, raises concerns about G2’s ability to maintain their competitive pace. Also, their in-game leader is a real weak part of the team as Snax doesn’t seem to make a great impact at tier 1. Despite their achievements, G2 ends the year on a bittersweet note, with a mix of success and uncertainty.

Spirit

With a score of 420.08 points, Spirit secured their spot as one of the top teams of the year. 2024 was the most successful year in the organization’s history. Spirit started 2024 at Katowice with an impressive 3:0 domination over FaZe and capped it off with their first-ever Major victory at the Perfect World Shanghai Major. They also won BLAST Premier: Spring Final 2024 at the end of the first half of the year.

Donk had an incredible debut year, delivering one of the most dominant rookie performances in Counter-Strike history. Spirit’s ability to manage their schedule — including skipping IEM Rio 2024 — helped them maintain peak form throughout the year. However, questions remain about magixx’s consistency, despite his stellar showing at the Major final. It’s unclear if the team will keep their roster intact, but 2024 was undoubtedly Spirit’s best year.

READ MORE: Best CS2 Rookies 2024

NAVI

NAVI finished with 450 points, proving that their transition to an international roster was a successful gamble. The team’s systematic approach helped Natus Vincere clinch the PGL Major Copenhagen 2024, Esports World Cup, ESL Pro League Season 20, and IEM Rio 2024. Despite a strong first half of the second season, fatigue took a toll on the players and resulted in disappointing final two tournaments of the season.

This year demonstrated NAVI’s resilience and adaptability, even without a traditional superstar player. Their focus on teamwork and structure has solidified them as a top contender moving into 2025. While their late-season struggles raised concerns, these were likely the result of exhaustion rather than fundamental issues. NAVI’s rebuilding process appears to be a resounding success.

NAVI is the best team of the year.  Well, it makes no sense, NAVI is top 1. They would have competed with G2, but G2 didn't win the major. There are no options. If NAVI is not top 1 somewhere, then it's bought.

Rodion "fear" Smyk

Final Words

The 2024 season was a year of contrasts, with some teams achieving historic success while others faced challenges. Spirit dominated the scene, setting new benchmarks for excellence, while NAVI’s rebuilding efforts paid off handsomely. Teams like The MongolZ and Liquid showcased the potential for growth, while established giants like G2 and Vitality struggled to meet expectations.