Train is officially joining the map rotation for BLAST Bounty Season 1, as confirmed by the tournament organizer to HLTV. This development comes shortly after Valve’s announcement that the reimagined map will be included in the lineup for the Austin Major later this year.
Replacing Vertigo, Train’s inclusion marks a significant shift in Counter-Strike’s Active Duty pool. Vertigo had been a part of the competitive landscape since 2019 but struggled to gain popularity among players and teams. Despite numerous updates aimed at enhancing its appeal, Vertigo remained one of the least-played maps in professional competitions, frequently vetoed by teams across the board.
Starting on January 14, BLAST Bounty will showcase the newly introduced map in a single-elimination format featuring 32 teams. The event boasts a substantial $500,000 prize pool, with teams vying for the largest share. The initial two rounds of the tournament will be held online, leading up to the final stages, which will take place at BLAST’s state-of-the-art studio in Copenhagen.
Train’s return to competitive play has generated significant anticipation, particularly given its legacy as one of Counter-Strike’s most iconic maps. With its strategic depth and visually updated layout, the map is expected to bring renewed excitement to professional matches and reintroduce fresh tactical opportunities for teams.
As the BLAST Bounty kicks off the 2025 season, all eyes will be on how teams adapt to Train’s reintroduction, setting the stage for a dynamic year in Counter-Strike esports.
