The Pick’Em Challenge in Counter-Strike 2 is an interactive prediction game held during Major tournaments. Players try to predict match results and earn rewards for correct guesses. It’s one of Valve’s most popular features because it makes watching esports more exciting, every match becomes a test of knowledge and strategy.
To join the official Pick’Em, players need to buy a Viewer Pass. Once it’s activated in the game, the pass unlocks a prediction board where users choose which teams will move through each stage — Challengers, Legends, and Champions. Correct predictions earn points that upgrade the Event Coin from Bronze to Diamond and grant souvenir packages for key matches.
Each stage opens before matches begin and closes once the first game starts, so timing matters. Players must make and confirm their picks early.
The Pick’Em Challenge has been part of Counter-Strike Majors since CS:GO. In CS2, it’s now simpler and smoother, with clearer visuals and in-game progress tracking. This guide explains how the system works, and introduces an alternative: CS2 Pickem by Skin.Club.
Step-by-Step: How the Pick’Em System Works in CS2
The official Pick’Em Challenge follows the same stages as Major tournaments: Challengers, Legends, and Champions.
Each stage has its own prediction board where you choose which teams will advance, go 3-0, or end 0-3.
| Step | What you do | Why it matters |
| 1) Get a Viewer Pass | Purchase and activate it before matches start | It enables saving official picks, upgrading your Event Coin, and earning souvenir tokens based on correct predictions. |
| 2) Open the Pick’em board | Go to the Watch tab and select the current Major | You’ll see slots for 3-0, 0-3, and advancing teams for each stage. |
| 3) Lock your picks on time | Submit before the first match of each stage | After the stage begins, edits are closed; late picks won’t count. |
| 4) Score points | Earn points for correct selections | Points across stages contribute to upgrading your Event Coin from Bronze up to Diamond. |
| 5) Redeem rewards | Use souvenir tokens during the event | Viewer-pass owners can redeem tokens for souvenir packages tied to Major matches. |
Tips for a Successful Pick’Em
- Study team performance and map strengths before choosing.
- Diversify your picks — don’t fill every 3-0 slot with favorites. A smart risk can pay off.
- Track deadlines carefully — once a stage begins, you can’t change your choices.
The Pick’Em Challenge is about insight and timing, not luck. Choose wisely, plan ahead, and enjoy the thrill of predicting the world’s best CS2 matchups.
Alternatives to the Official Pick’Em System
The official CS2 Pick’Em system requires buying a Viewer Pass and works only inside the game. However, there are free alternatives that let you join prediction challenges without paying.
One of the most popular options is Skin.Club’s CS2 Pick’Em. Here, you can log in with your Steam account, make predictions for major tournaments, and compete for skins and leaderboard ranks. Unlike Valve’s version, you don’t need to buy a pass — basic participation is free, though some prizes may require deposits or higher account levels.
Comparison: Official vs. Free Prediction Platforms
| Feature | Official Pick’Em (Valve) | Free / Community Platforms (e.g., Skin.Club) |
| Requires purchase (Viewer Pass) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No (or optional) |
| Rewards within game (e.g., coin, souvenir) | ✅ Yes | ❌ Usually external (skins, site prizes) |
| Integrated into game client | ✅ Yes | ❌ Web-based / third-party |
| Cost barrier | Higher | Lower |
| Leaderboards / community competition | ✓ | ✓ (often more visible community side) |
Why Use a Free Alternative
- You want to join predictions without paying for a Viewer Pass.
- You prefer skin prizes or community leaderboards over in-game coins.
- You want to practice strategy before trying the official system.
Things to Check Before Joining
- Make sure the platform is legit and trustworthy. Check reviews and prize transparency.
- Read the terms and prize rules carefully — understand how rewards are sent.
- Know what you’re agreeing to — some sites may ask for skin deposits or small entry fees.
Strategies to Improve Your CS2 Pick’Em Predictions
Success in CS2 Pick’Em is not only about luck, it’s about making informed choices. Whether you play through Valve’s official system or use community alternatives, smart preparation makes the difference.
1. Study Team Form and Roster Changes
Before you lock in your picks, check how teams performed in recent tournaments or qualifiers. Websites like HLTV.org and Liquipedia show map win rates, player stats, and roster updates.
Teams that recently changed players or struggled in smaller events are usually risky 3-0 picks.
2. Balance Risk and Reward
Don’t fill all 3-0 slots with only top teams, even the best can stumble. Instead, choose one or two underdogs that might surprise everyone, and use stable teams for the advance slots. This balance helps you score more consistently across all stages.
3. Watch the Schedule Closely
Each stage has a strict deadline. When the first match starts, you can’t change your predictions. Set reminders and confirm your picks early, many players lose points simply because they forget to submit them.
4. Think with Data, Not Emotions
Don’t let personal bias guide your choices. Base your predictions on team stats, map strengths, and matchups. Use tools like HLTV.org Stats Hub to check real numbers, not just personal favorites.
5. Stay Updated Between Stages
After each stage — Challengers, Legends, and Champions — take time to review results. Upsets, fatigue, or new tactics can change which teams look strong. Adjust your next predictions based on current form, not past reputation.
Conclusion
Pick’Em challenges in CS2, whether official or community-based like Skin.Club’s Pick’Em, turn watching matches into an active experience. Valve’s system rewards accuracy with in-game coins and souvenirs, while Skin.Club’s version offers skin prizes and leaderboards.
No matter which you choose, remember: the best players don’t rely on luck. They analyze, plan, and adapt. Follow the matches, submit your picks early, and enjoy the thrill of competing as a true CS2 analyst.
