As a tactical, multiplayer first-person shooter game, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CSGO) has steadily amassed a dedicated player base since its release. The game’s appeal extends beyond its immersive gameplay, with all CSGO skins offering a range of customization options that add a dash of personality and uniqueness to each match.
These skins, varying in color and grade, allow players to express their individuality on the battlefield. For many, the thrill of obtaining rare skins is a big part of the game’s allure. But what determines the rarity of these skins? It’s all in the color grading.
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Unraveling the Skin Color Grading Systemа
Source: skinwallet.com
Understanding the skin grading system in CSGO is crucial to grasp the worth of your inventory. Each skin in the game is categorized into a grade which is represented by a specific color. These grades indicate the rarity and quality of a skin. The grading system in CSGO is divided into seven grades, each represented by a unique color.
From lowest to highest rarity, these grades are: Consumer Grade (white), Industrial Grade (light blue), Mil-Spec (darker blue), Restricted (purple), Classified (pinkish purple), Covert (red), and Contraband (gold).
Consumer Grade (White) and Industrial Grade (Light Blue) Skins
The most common skins in CSGO are Consumer Grade and Industrial Grade skins. Consumer Grade skins, represented by the color white, are the most abundant and consequently the least valuable.
These are skins that players receive frequently from drops after matches. Next, Industrial Grade skins, indicated by light blue, are slightly rarer but still rather common. These skins are of higher quality than Consumer Grade skins, but they remain plentiful and generally of low value.
Mil-Spec (Darker Blue) to Covert (Red) Skins
Source: esports.net
The next three grades represent the middle tier of CSGO skins. The Mil-Spec skins, portrayed as a darker blue, start to show more elaborate designs and are thus rarer and more valuable than the previous two grades. Following these are the Restricted skins, represented by purple. These skins are of higher rarity and usually boast more complex and appealing designs.
The last of the mid-tier skins are the Classified skins, depicted as pinkish purple. These skins are very rare and usually have unique, appealing designs, making them quite valuable.
Contraband (Gold) Skins
Contraband skins are the rarest and most valuable skins in CSGO. These gold skins were formerly Covert skins, but were reclassified as Contraband due to their removal from the game’s drop list. Contraband skins are no longer obtainable through in-game means, which significantly boosts their rarity and value. These skins are prized possessions in the CSGO community and are often considered the pinnacle of skin collection.
Understanding Skin Float Value
Apart from the color grading, another important factor in a skin’s worth is its ‘float value.’ This term refers to the wear and tear on a skin, which ranges from ‘Factory New’ (minimal wear) to ‘Battle-Scarred’ (significant wear). A lower float value indicates less wear and tear, increasing the skin’s value.
Unveiling the Sticker Grading System
Beyond the skins, CSGO also boasts a comprehensive sticker grading system that contributes to the customization of the game. Stickers, like skins, can be applied to weapons to further personalize and enhance their appearance. Stickers come in various grades, following a similar system to skins: High Grade (normal), Remarkable (Holo), and Exotic (Foil).
High Grade (Normal), Remarkable (Holo), and Exotic (Foil) Stickers
Source: liquidsky.com
High Grade, or Normal stickers, are the most common type. These are relatively easy to acquire and offer a standard, colorful design. Remarkable, or Holo stickers, are a step up.
These holographic stickers have a shimmering effect that varies with the viewing angle, making them more attractive and sought-after than their High Grade counterparts. Exotic, or Foil stickers, are the rarest and most valuable. These stickers offer a shiny, metallic finish, which makes them stand out on any weapon.
The Impact of Grading System on the CSGO Economy
The skin and sticker grading systems play a significant role in the CSGO economy. The market value of skins and stickers can vary widely depending on their grade, float value, and availability. The rarer the grade, the lower the float value, and the scarcer the item, the higher the market value tends to be. It’s important for players to understand these factors to make informed decisions when trading or purchasing items in the marketplace.
Conclusion: Embracing the Richness of CSGO’s Customization
CSGO’s color grading system for skins and stickers provides a rich and engaging customization experience for players. The system contributes significantly to the overall enjoyment of the game by introducing an additional layer of excitement and anticipation. Collecting, trading, and applying these graded items allows players to create a unique in-game identity and stand out amongst their peers.
Regardless of whether you’re in the game for the thrill of the competition, the camaraderie of team play, or the joy of collecting and trading, understanding the color grading system of skins and stickers will undoubtedly enhance your CSGO experience. So gear up, get in the game, and let the hunt for that golden Contraband skin or exotic Foil sticker begin!
