Cache’s return to the FACEIT map pool has sparked major debate after creator Shawn “FMPONE” Snelling said the current version is still unfinished and should not be used competitively. The discussion intensified after analyst Duncan “Thorin” Shields shared the comments, raising fresh questions about Cache’s future and Valve’s plans for the iconic map.
FMPONE: “That version of Cache is literally unfinished”
Responding to a question about possible optimization updates for FACEIT, FMPONE made it clear that the version currently available is not something he fully supports.
That version of Cache is quite literally unfinished, and I don’t think it would be appropriate of me to try to finish it considering when Valve bought it.
He also explained that FACEIT’s decision likely came from player demand rather than internal development plans.
The decision to put it on FACEIT servers simply reflects how popular the map is IMO. I would have preferred it not be used rn.
Those comments immediately raised concerns among players who have already reported FPS issues and technical problems while playing Cache on the platform.
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Players complain about performance
Several community members replied under the discussion saying the map feels poorly optimized, especially on mid-range systems. One player claimed he had to remove Cache from his queue after suffering a “massive FPS drop” during matches. Another user said the map becomes nearly unplayable on average hardware, despite agreeing with opponents to play it.
Thour added his own criticism, joking that Cache is currently “the only map that gives you the most FPS in CS2,” before clarifying that Valve did not use FMPONE’s version in active duty and are likely developing their own edition.
They bought the rights and now are working on their version, which I hope will be ACTUALLY optimised.
Why Cache still matters
Despite the criticism, Cache remains one of the most beloved maps in Counter-Strike history. Its classic three-lane structure, memorable mid control battles, and legendary tournament moments made it a staple of the competitive scene for years. That nostalgia likely explains why FACEIT users voted it back into the pool so quickly. Even in an unfinished state, many players still prefer playing Cache over some current official maps.
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What happens next?
The debate now shifts toward Valve. If the company is truly preparing an official CS2 version of Cache, community pressure will only grow after these public comments from the map’s original creator. For now, Cache is back — but instead of celebration, its return has opened a new controversy around optimization, ownership, and whether one of Counter-Strike’s greatest maps is truly ready for competition again.
