Minh “Gooseman” Le, the co-creator of Counter-Strike, has shared his thoughts on some of the most talked-about features in CS2, including Valve’s controversial subtick system, weapon charms, and the possibility of pets making their way into the game.
Le spoke in a recent chat with CS2 content creator Thour, where he admitted he doesn’t quite understand why Valve is sticking so firmly to subtick. The system, introduced in CS2 as a replacement for the traditional tickrate, is meant to make gameplay more responsive and precise. However, it’s been a hot topic among the community since launch, with many players still calling for a return to the old 128-tick servers used in CS:GO.
I asked Minh Le (@GoosemanCS), the co-creator of @CounterStrike, what he thinks about Subtick and Charms in the game.
He also shared his opinion about Pets, which have been leaked in the game files multiple times. 🐔 pic.twitter.com/0rmLt34gjk
— Thour (@ThourCS2) September 9, 2025
“I know subtick is a really controversial feature that Valve are implementing, and I don’t know the exact reasons why they are so adamant in keeping it,” Gooseman said. “Most casual players don’t really notice the difference between CS:GO’s tickrate and CS2. At least that’s what I feel when I talk to my casual friends that play CS2. I am hopeful that Valve will come up with an ideal solution, as I am sure they’re well aware of the complaints about it.”
His comments reflect the split in the CS2 player base. For competitive and professional players, even the smallest inconsistencies in how shots register can make or break a game, while casual players often don’t notice any difference. Valve has insisted that subtick is the future of CS2’s netcode, but Gooseman’s uncertainty shows that even the man who helped shape the franchise isn’t fully convinced.
Charms and Skins Are Fine, But Pets Cross a Line
When asked about cosmetic additions like weapon charms and the long-running rumours of pets hidden in the game’s files, Gooseman admitted he’s come to terms with skins and charms being part of CS.
“I’ve accepted the skins and trinkets that get hung on the weapons. It was never my initial intention for CS to have colourful skins but over the years, I’ve come to accept the fact there are weapon skins. I even think many of them look really cool,” he said.
But the idea of pets actually following players around, as leaked multiple times in CS2’s files, is where he draws the line. “I think pets would be ok, as long as they’re hung on the gun. But if they decide to add actual pets in the game, like a cat that follows you around like in World of Warcraft, then I’ll have to brush off my pitchfork and make my way down to Valve’s offices,” Gooseman joked.
Why His Words Still Matter
Although Gooseman hasn’t been directly involved with Counter-Strike’s development since leaving Valve in 2006, his opinion still carries weight with fans. Counter-Strike has always been known for its competitive integrity and no-nonsense design, so features like subtick and pets strike at the heart of what players expect from the franchise.
His remarks highlight the tension between Valve’s desire to evolve CS2 into a modern shooter with more cosmetic appeal, and the community’s passion for preserving the simplicity that made the series iconic. For some, weapon skins and charms are harmless additions that help keep the game thriving. For others, the thought of pets running around the battlefield feels like a step too far from Counter-Strike’s roots.
As the subtick debate continues and Valve experiments with new content, it’s clear that fans will be watching closely, and Gooseman’s voice remains a reminder of where Counter-Strike came from, even as the series pushes into new territory.