Retromatch is a modern matchmaking platform built specifically for Counter-Strike 1.6, one of the most iconic competitive shooters in gaming history. Our mission is to bring back the classic CS 1.6 experience — with the structure, balance, and reliability of modern matchmaking — all while staying true to the spirit of the original game.
Whether you're reliving your youth or discovering CS 1.6 for the first time, Retromatch offers a competitive, cheat-resistant, and community-focused environment where every round counts.
Retromatch is built by passionate CS 1.6 players for the community. We're self-hosted, lightweight, and sustainable. Our goal is long-term availability, not quick profit.
Retromatch is a matchmaking platform for Counter-Strike 1.6. It pairs players into 5v5 competitive matches using ELO-based ranking, with map vetoes and fast server creation.
Anyone who loves CS 1.6 — from veterans to new players. We support both casuals and competitive players worldwide.
Yes! Playing is free. Optional VIP subscriptions offer perks like reserved slots and badges.
Yes. We use server-side protections and match review tools to detect and ban cheaters.
We use a captain-based ban system. Each team bans maps until one remains, which is then loaded on a clean server.
We support Windows, Linux, macOS (via Wine), Android (via Xash3D), and even FreeBSD. If you can run CS 1.6, you can play.
Our matchmaking servers are vanilla, but a "Rent Your Own Server" feature is coming soon for custom setups.
Yes — limited paid admin roles are available. We also appoint unpaid moderators based on merit.
Join our Discord or old-school IRC (#retromatch). Follow us on Twitter, Reddit, or YouTube for updates.
We’re excited to bring CS 1.6 back — the way it should be played.