New CS2 Sticker System Explained

In this article, we will be explaining the new CS2 sticker system released alongside the Cologne 2026 Major Update! Making some astronomical changes in this update, Valve has left a large portion of the community wondering, “What is going on”? With changes in Souvenir items, Trade Ups, and more, don’t feel behind if you don’t understand these new systems yet!

Check out our coverage of the new CS2 souvenir system here:

New CS2 Souvenir System

Are Major Sticker Capsules Still Being Used?

Simply put, no, CS2 Major sticker capsules, as of the Cologne 2026 major, are a thing of the past, making the Budapest 2025 Major the last major to have sticker capsules. That leads to the big question: What’s the new system then?

CS2 Sticker Credit System Breakdown

Now that capsules are out of the picture, Valve has implemented this new system to address what they call a “community request” and to provide accessibility for regions unable to open capsules due to gambling-law restrictions. Major stickers are now on a purchase-based system, rather than a random opening system. So how does this work? Steps to acquiring new stickers:

1. Locate the Cologne 2026 Sticker Shop via the Game Store or the Cologne 2026 menu
2. Select the stickers you would like to purchase and add them to the cart
3. Purchase, or unlock (Via coin upgrades or the premium viewer pass), Sticker Tokens
4. Using these tokens, you can purchase the stickers, which will be instantly added to your inventory and ready for application.

An important point to cover in this new update is the volatile price system. The price of stickers is relative to demand: if an exclusive sticker is more sought-after, it’s going to shoot up in price compared to a less desirable regular sticker. Additionally, if a sticker you have purchased fluctuates by 25 tokens or more within 24 hours, a refund will automatically be issued to you, reflecting the lowest price during the purchase period.

It’s most definitely a cold splash of water to the face, but this update might be better than we think, despite the initial surprise. Allowing players to simply purchase stickers via the in-game store eliminates market manipulation and mindless gambling. If you have enjoyed this update coverage or have an opinion on the update, feel free to let us know in the comments below!

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