The world’s most popular first-person shooter game, Counter-Strike – Global Offensive (CS:GO), has evolved well beyond its roots, becoming a multi-billion dollar industry of its own. One of the most controversial yet trendy aspects of its industry is CS:GO gambling, which mainly revolves around using in-game items known as “Skins” to make wagers.
In this article, we will take you through the world of CS:GO gambling. Along the way, we’ll make quick stops around what CS:GO gambling is, what its main types are and other aspects you might want to know about the phenomenon of CS:GO skin gambling.
Introduction to CS:GO Gaming
CS:GO gambling is a type of game where gamblers will use their virtual in-game items, which are called skins, as currency for betting and wagering. These skins are merely aesthetic features for guns or equipment that can be earned in gameplay, traded and purchased.
Although they are only virtual cosmetic accessories and don’t have any impact on the gameplay, some of the skins carry real-world monetary value, with some of the most expensive ones, such as Souvenir AWP Dragon Lore, currently listed at $231,000 dollars.
However, CS:GO gambling goes beyond skin gambling, as the game is a hot favourite for those who like to make bets on professional eSports events. Almost all online bookmakers have a special section dedicated to CS:GO betting where you can find an extensive selection of markets on some of the most popular Counter Strike events, such as the eSports World Cup, the EPL World Series and, of course, major championships.
Types of CS:GO Gambling
There are a number of different types of CS:GO gambling, with the highlights being the following:
- Skin betting – Players bet their skins against the results of professional CS:GO matches or tournaments, a form akin to sports bets anywhere.
- Roulette – Virtual roulette wheels are divided in colours or numbers, with players betting skins on the colour or number where they think the wheel will stop.
- Jackpot – Players put a number of skins into one pot; players win based on random selection, and the winner takes all.
- Case opening – Players pay money to open “cases,” which are boxes that contain random skins, hoping to receive rare and expensive skins.
- Crash games – A growing multiplier-based game where players bet skins and the goal is to cash out before the multiplier crashes back to 0.
- Coin flip – Two players put skins on the line, and a virtual coin flip decides the winner.
How Do I Start CS:GO Gambling?
To get started with CS:GO gambling, you will need to have CS:GO skins in your Steam inventory. You can earn these by playing, purchasing them from the Steam marketplace, or trading with other players. Once you have skins, simply choose a CS:GO gambling site of your choice, create an account and deposit the skin to start betting.
Site Selection & Security
Not all CS:GO gambling sites are created equal. It’s crucial to choose reputable platforms with a history of fair play and timely payouts. Look for sites with provably fair systems, which allow users to verify the randomness of outcomes. Be wary of sites that require you to download additional software, as these may pose security risks.
Understanding Skin Values
The value of skins in CS:GO gambling is generally determined by their rarity on Steam or third-party market prices. High-value skins are attractive for the purpose of gambling, as they enable bigger bets and returns. Nevertheless, common skins are also accepted on virtually all sites but at lower bet amounts.
In most cases, CS:GO gambling is based on skins, and there’s little to do with money. However, skins won in the process can later be traded for real money on Steam and other trading sites. This process of trading skins for money is known as “Cashing Out.”
Legal & Age Restrictions
CS:GO gambling mostly operates within the grey areas, as it isn’t really touched by laws in most countries. In the UK, however, there are a few laws governing skin gambling or CS:GO gambling sites. One of these laws states that the punter has to be 18 or older to be a part of any betting-related activities—skin gambling or any other form.
