Snake & Banter

In this episode of Snake and Banter, Thorin, Mauisnake, and guest messioso dive deep into the world of Counter-Strike 2 — breaking down the Valve Regional Standings (VRS) system, tournament qualification dynamics, and how teams can (and can’t) game the system.  Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SNAKE and use code SNAKE and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup!  Use our link to unlock 10% off your purchase at Manta Sleep! https://tinyurl.com/45m52ezy  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join us for an in-depth episode of Snake and Banter featuring Brazilian CS legend FalleN as we cover everything from his transition from AWP to IGL, to building synergy with YEKINDAR, and FURIA’s rise with rookie superstar molodoy. FalleN opens up about adapting to shifting metas, mentoring new talent, and navigating Brazil’s unique esports business challenges.  Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SNAKE and use code SNAKE and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup!  Use our link to unlock 10% off your purchase at Manta Sleep! https://tinyurl.com/45m52ezy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Snake and Banter, dona joins Thorin and Mauisnake to dive deep into the latest in Counter-Strike — from roster drama to gameplay updates affecting the pro scene. If you love Counter-Strike breakdowns, esports industry insights, and candid pro analysis — this is a must-watch episode. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Thorin, Mauisnake, and guest TeaTime on Snake and Banter as they dissect the latest Counter-Strike esports drama in this can't-miss esports podcast episode! We have an in-depth discussion on the current state of CS2 and the evolving esports landscape. The conversation also tackles big-picture topics such as the decline in top-tier team narratives, FaZe Clan’s struggles, MOUZ’s concerning T-side stats, and how roster changes at organizations like Astralis and Spirit could shift the CS2 competitive landscape. Thorin, Mauisnake, and TeaTime debate the importance of star players versus win-by-committee styles, the role of specialist talent in broadcasts, and the politics between TOs like ESL and PGL that affect event quality. The trio dive into the realities of working in Tier 2 Counter-Strike, from pay disparities and post-pandemic opportunities to the grind of online tournaments and the challenges of breaking into Tier 1. They examine the impact of Valve’s VRS system, how it’s reshaping the tournament calendar, and why 2025 might be one of the best years ever for Tier 2 competition. Along the way, they share behind-the-scenes stories about commentary careers, networking, and surviving in the volatile world of esports broadcasting. Whether you’re a hardcore Counter-Strike fan, a CS2 player, or just an esports enthusiast, this episode offers sharp analysis, insider perspectives, and plenty of candid banter about the game’s biggest storylines Go to https://buyraycon.com/SNAKE to get 20% off sitewide TODAY! One thing to pack, five ways to power! You can get 10% off Ridge’s Power Bank by going to https://www.Ridge.com and using code SNAKE at checkout Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Cxzi to chat about FalleN and his ranking as an IGL in CS2 esports, Spirit's recent struggles despite being ranked so highly, broky's comeback tour for FaZe, problems with the VRS system in Counter-Strike, and more! Last Free Nation’s new collaboration t-shirt with Into the AM is out now! Equip yourself with this high-quality shirt (featuring a familiar insignia) now! While you’re there, you can also shop the Into the AM Labor Day Sale! Items are up to 50% sitewide until the 7th of September. This is in addition to the 10% off you always get by using our link: https://intotheam.com/LFN-tee2 Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Visit https://prizepicks.onelink.me/LME0/SNAKE and use code SNAKE and get $50 in lineups when you play your first $5 lineup! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Ne0kai to chat about The MongolZ winning CS2 at the Esports World Cup and their impact on Asian Counter-Strike, problems with HLTV 3.0, tn1r and Spirit, ZywOo's weak August with Vitality, and more. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by voo to chat about Counter-Strike, the state of FaZe, reactions to HLTV 3.0, The MongolZ defeating Vitality, disappointments from NAVI, MOUZ, and GamerLegion, and more. Go to https://www.buyraycon.com/snake TODAY to get up to 20% off the fan-favorite Everyday Earbuds Classic! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by YouM3 to chat about Team Liquid, s1mple playing for BC.Game, recent updates to CS2, tn1r replacing zont1x on Spirit, and more! Start reliving your favorite memories with Aura Frames. For a limited time, listeners can get $35-off on their best-selling Carver Mat frame by going to https://auraframes.com and using the promo code SANDB. Offer may vary by country. Terms and conditions apply. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Dinko to chat about the CS community's perception of EliGE, Spirit's capability to win trophies this year, why the BLAST Bounty format is good, the news about YaLLA Compass, the proliferation of big online events, and more! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Get 10% Off your entire order & take advantage of Ridge’s Annual Sweepstakes by going to https://www.Ridge.com/SNAKENO PURCH. NEC. Open to legal residents of 50 US/DC, Canada & the UK, age maj.+. Void where prohibited. Begins 8/1/25 and ends 9/15/25. 2 winners selected. Max Prizes total ARV: $380,000 USD / approximately $516,000 CAD / £306,800. Canadian skill-testing question required. Subject to Rules, including free entry method & odds: ridge.com/rules. Sponsor: The Ridge Wallet, LLC. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Launders to discuss kyousuke's amazing debut for Team Falcons at IEM Cologne, why time spent on NiP DOES count now, faltering of FaZe and GamerLegion, the prevalence of cheating and match fixing in CS2 tier 2 and below, and more! ​Improve your game with a cutting-edge Wooting keyboard and get a free uWu now! Simply add any keyboard and uWu to your cart with code SNAKE and get your uWu for free! Go to https://link.wooting.io/snake ​Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Go to https://www.buyraycon.com/snake TODAY to get up to 20% off the fan-favorite Everyday Earbuds Classic! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Nohte, Senior Staff Writer at HLTV,  to discuss a good balance update from Valve, Overpass replacing Anubis, hype around IEM Cologne, Falcons skipping the next 2 BLAST events, mismanagement at Wildcard, and more! ​Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! The Last Free Nation merch shop is open! Show off your fandom and support us and by purchasing  the high-quality items on our merch shop. Check our website for more info on shipping! https://go.lastfreenation.shop/snake Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Paladin to discuss the CS2 case opening by ohnepixel and others, the lack of hype roster moves this offseason, Snax getting benched on G2, the state of HEROIC, the lackluster souvenir charm highlights, and more! ​Improve your game with a cutting-edge Wooting keyboard and get a free uWu now! Simply add any keyboard and uWu to your cart with code SNAKE and get your uWu for free! Go to https://link.wooting.io/snake Upgrade your wallet today! Get 10% Off at Ridge with code SNAKE at https://www.Ridge.com/SNAKE Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com!The Last Free Nation merch shop is open! Show off your fandom and support us and by purchasing the high-quality items on our merch shop. Check our website for more info on shipping! https://go.lastfreenation.shop/htpmyt Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake celebrate the 100th episode of Snake and Banter with guest Sean Gares! They chat about why Falcons signing kyousuke is a good thing, the ugly truths about the state of s1mple and FaZe, the ongoing Vitality era of CS2, the potential of G2's new roster, reactions to the BLAST Austin Major, and more! Shop the Into the AM Fourth of July Sale with up to 60% OFF sitewide until July 7. Save an additional 10% by using our link: https://intotheam.com/LFN. Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Upgrade your wallet today! Get 10% Off at Ridge with code SNAKE at https://www.Ridge.com/SNAKE Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get 20% off + free shipping with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by YNk to chat about s1mple's strong showing with FaZe at the BLAST Austin Major, NiKo missing out on Major glory once again, paiN and FURIA impressing, Aurora and Team Liquid's early exits, and more! Download the Sleeper app to play daily fantasy and receive a match up to $100 on your first deposit with code SNAKE - https://sleeper.com/download Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by dusT to chat about the BLAST Austin Major, the lack of confidence for reigning Major Champions Team Spirit, what the NA teams' failure in Stage 1 means for the future of NA CS, s1mple's aura already surpassing many top 20 players, and more! The Last Free Nation merch shop is open! Show off your fandom and support us and by purchasing  the high-quality items on our merch shop. Check our website for more info on shipping! https://go.lastfreenation.shop/snakeyt Right now, just in time for Father's Day, Ridge is having a HUGE sale! Get up to 40% off your order at Ridge.com/SNAKE Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Exclusive $30-off Carver Mat at AuraFrames.com. Promo Code: SANDB (US, Canada, and UK only. Offer may vary by country) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by walle to chat about FaZe and their importance to Counter-Strike esports, problems with narratives heading into the BLAST Austin Major, Valve fixing sprays in CS2 after a Reddit thread calling attention to it, The MongolZ bucking their Playoff choker status at IEM Dallas, and more! ​Improve your game with a cutting-edge Wooting keyboard and get a free uWu now! Simply add any keyboard and uWu to your cart with code SNAKE and get your uWu for free! Go to https://link.wooting.io/snake Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Vince  to chat about s1mple's performances with FaZe at IEM Dallas, Team Liquid's level of play, NakeyJakey putting the spotlight on CS2's new player experience, the BESTIA and BLAST Major drama, the overall career of XANTARES, and more! Shop the Into the AM Memorial Day Sale with up to 70% OFF sitewide until June 1. Save an additional 10% by using our link: https://intotheam.com/LFN. Also, visit the Last Free Nation Discord to give feedback on our latest t-shirt design collaboration! Take advantage of Ridge’s one-a-year anniversary sale and get UP TO 40% OFF right now by going to https://www.Ridge.com/SNAKE Get the ultimate immersive gaming experience with Turtle Beach today! For a limited time only, head to https://TurtleBeach.com and use Code CSGO for 10% off your entire order. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by Freya Spiers to chat about HooXi's level of play with Astralis, updates on the kyousuke sale to Falcons, the state of G2 as we approach the Austin Major, inconsistency in the timing of Valve's map pool changes, and more! Control Body Odor ANYWHERE with @shop.mando and get $5 off off your Starter Pack (that’s over 40% off) with promo code CS2 at https://www.shopmando.com! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by KingT to chat about s1mple playing for FaZe during IEM Dallas and the BLAST Austin Major, a roster rumor that could save G2, the exciting race for #1 player between donk, m0NESY, and ZywOo, the states of Aurora and NAVI, and more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Thorin and Mauisnake are joined by SJPUNJ to chat about EliGE and his effect on FaZe, Falcons and their rise to the top with m0NESY and NiKo, whether or not Magisk belongs on fraudwatch, the state of the CS2 competitive map pool, the BLAST Rivals format, and more! Exclusive $35-off Carver Mat at AuraFrames.com. Promo Code: SANDB (US, UK, and Canada only) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.