Counter-Strike 2’s latest update introduces one of Valve’s most unexpected changes.

Strange happenings are afoot in Counter-Strike 2. The latest update brings a host of significant changes, including a brand-new game mode called Rush Hour, described in the patch notes as a “fast-paced 3v3 queued mode.” Other noteworthy updates involve adjustments to map bans and major enhancements to bullet and blood visual effects.

While Valve teased many of these features beforehand, they also introduced a surprising twist: players can now raise pet chickens.

In Counter-Strike 2, players have the opportunity to receive an egg in their weekly drops. Over time, these eggs will hatch into adorable little pets, available in various skins. Starting as chicks, these pets will eventually mature into different types of adult chickens, including “regular,” Polish, or Silkie varieties, each with multiple color options.

Interestingly, this addition isn’t aimed at boosting the game’s notorious skin market, as these pets are completely untradeable. Once a chicken hatches, players can name it, snap photos with it, and even let it perch on their shoulder during the loadout screen. These little companions can also join players in lobbies. However, the joy is temporary; once fully grown, the chickens will leave, prompting players to start anew with a different pet.

While some players are thrilled about the chance to nurture a new friend, there’s a catch. If you don’t log in regularly to feed your pet, it will abandon you. It’s a tough situation, but at least it’s not as grim as Tamagotchi, where neglect leads to death.

Some players have reacted to the chicken feature with skepticism. One Reddit user remarked, “They saw the declining player numbers and made [a] ‘play every week to feed your chicken or it dies’ minigame.” Despite Counter-Strike 2 being the most played game on Steam, boasting a peak of over 1.4 million concurrent players, it recently hit its lowest peak player count since January 2024. Another user expressed frustration, stating, “Anything but proper anti-cheat holy fuck what are we even doing.” Many have pointed to rampant cheating as a key factor driving players away. While these chicken companions are cute, they may not be enough to address the larger issues at hand.

Counter-Strike 2 is free to play on SteamOS and Windows PC.