Premier spectating and camera behavior
The August 31, 2023 Counter-Strike 2 Limited Test added CSTV for spectating Premier matches. A September 6 update improved its free-roaming and chase-camera behavior. The first change added a spectator option to that test build; the second adjusted how those camera modes behaved. Neither note specifies a universal viewing delay, camera controls or replay-retention policy.
Server-side demo recording
On November 8, 2023, CS2 added `tv_record_immediate` to control when a CSTV demo begins capturing content. With the setting enabled, recording starts when the server executes `tv_record`; with it disabled, recording begins `tv_delay` earlier. The update also allowed a server to record CSTV demos without delayed CSTV spectating, using `tv_record_immediate 1` and executing `tv_record` when capture should begin.
The November 9 follow-up fixed missing game events in demos recorded with immediate mode. It also required CSTV auto-record to have either an active CSTV server or `tv_record_immediate` enabled, and listed performance improvements to server demo recording. Together, the dated changes explain when to use immediate recording and how automatic recording is gated; they do not establish where a file is stored or how long it is retained.
Premier match spectating
CSTV was added to the Counter-Strike 2 Limited Test on August 31, 2023 so Premier matches could be spectated. It is a spectator feature associated with viewing a match in progress, distinct from a player occupying one of the teams in the match.
The dated note names Premier specifically. It does not document spectator delay, recording controls, broadcast access, camera options or availability in other queues, so those details should not be inferred from this launch bullet. Premier and CS Rating are linked parts of the same Counter-Strike 2 competitive ecosystem.
Free-roaming and chase-camera improvements (September 6, 2023)
The update improved free-roaming and chase-camera behavior in CSTV. It does not name a specific camera input, follow rule or spectator restriction. The note describes a viewing-tool adjustment, not a change to player movement or a tactical mechanic.