Danish Counter-Strike legend Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen gave an exclusive interview to Esports News UK, where he discussed his new path in game development, shared his thoughts on Donk’s dominance, and reflected on his glory days with Astralis. Dupreeh also revealed new details about Skyward Masters, the upcoming FPS he’s working on.

“Donk is just the best player in the world right now”

When asked about who deserves the title of best player in the world, dupreeh didn’t hesitate to praise the young Russian star.

I think right now it’s mainly just between ZywOo and Donk. Donk has been so insane this year. I still think that Donk, with his numbers, will be the best player in the world — ZywOo will be second because Donk’s just so good in so many parameters.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

Astralis era: the peak of my career

Looking back on his legendary run with Astralis, dupreeh described those years as the pinnacle of both his individual and team success.

Astralis was 100% the peak of my career. I really wanted to relive that moment — those were crazy years. We had perfect chemistry, we created an era and unforgettable memories.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

He also added that Vitality was “by far the second-best team” he ever played on, but nothing could match the Astralis dominance between 2018 and 2020.

Being the best team in the world for two years straight, winning four majors, three of them back to back — that’s something I’ll always be proud of.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

Life after pro play and why coaching isn’t the plan — for now

Dupreeh said he currently has no interest in returning to professional play but doesn’t rule out the idea of coaching in the future.

I don’t have any ambitions of returning as a player. Maybe one day as a coach or assistant coach to help a team develop, but it’s not something I’m pursuing right now.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

Criticism of Valve’s communication with players

One of the key topics dupreeh touched on was Valve’s lack of transparency with the professional scene. He believes developers often make unnecessary changes without consulting players.

It’s a huge issue that still stands. When there’s an update, you just think — why would they change this? Why are they not communicating?

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

He even revealed that he once reached out to Valve himself, offering to act as a bridge between the developers and the player base.

I told them I could be a link between Valve and the Counter-Strike world — for both pros and casuals. But they weren’t interested. They just do their thing.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

Skyward Masters — the next big project

Now, dupreeh is fully focused on Skyward Masters, a new arena-style FPS developed by Trinor Entertainment. He shared insights into how the project aims to differ from traditional shooters.

We want to create a game with a high skill ceiling — something that feels unique every time you play. Four teams battling it out, dynamic environments, and crisp gunplay inspired by Counter-Strike.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

The game is currently in development, with a tentative release date set for 2027. Dupreeh explained his personal role in shaping the gameplay:

My main focus is on the gun feel, the movement, the recoil. I’m using all my years in Counter-Strike to help make it feel satisfying and competitive.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

He emphasized that Skyward Masters will be built with community feedback in mind — something he felt Valve never did right.

Even though we’re a small indie studio, we want to keep the players involved. The more you listen to the community, the better your game will be.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen

On whether the arena shooter genre can make a comeback

Despite skepticism that arena shooters are a thing of the past, dupreeh believes there’s still room for innovation.

We’re not trying to make Counter-Strike 2.0 or a new Apex Legends. But maybe we can create something that still has those arena shooter vibes and make it feel like a brand-new title. Only time will tell.

Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen