Cache map designer FMPONE shows CSGO fans preview of rework

The highly anticipated return of Cache to competitive Counter-Strike: Global Offensive approaches, with map architect FMPONE providing strategic previews of the location’s comprehensive redesign. These early glimpses build substantial community anticipation for what promises to be a fundamentally transformed battleground.

FMPONE strategically positioned a Cache image as his Twitter banner, amplifying excitement among CSGO enthusiasts eager to experience the completely overhauled environment since its competitive removal earlier this year.

The visual elements in this promotional artwork bear striking resemblance to the historic stained glass features of Cafe Pripyat, a Ukrainian dining establishment situated near the infamous Chernobyl nuclear facility. This cafe once served as a popular gathering spot for young adults before the catastrophic 1986 nuclear incident transformed the area into an exclusion zone. Patrons would stroll through adjacent areas or ascend the observation tower for panoramic views. Today, Pripyat stands as an abandoned ghost city, evacuated when radiation levels made permanent habitation impossible.

This artistic direction introduces compelling narrative depth to Cache, prompting speculation about whether the complete redesign will incorporate additional visual and thematic elements from the radioactive abandoned urban environment. The original map’s established location within Pripyat already provides contextual foundation, with the nuclear power plant visible in distant backgrounds.

During late June, FMPONE initiated his teasing campaign by suggesting on Twitter that the modernized Cache iteration might be completion-ready. He shared a minimap screenshot without accompanying details, yet the ambiguous nature of this social media post failed to deter CSGO community members from developing extensive theories about impending modifications.

Within the shared image, the term “apple” appears positioned above the Terrorist spawn zone. This detail initially seemed minor until FMPONE published a subsequent post containing merely an apple emoji symbol. Community analysts proposed this might reference “The Big Apple” nickname for New York City. Subsequent developments validated these interpretations, as the map’s official unveiling is scheduled for ESL One New York on September 29.

Alternative interpretations suggested the apple symbolism connected to viral YouTube content showing individuals consuming radioactive apples within Chernobyl’s contaminated areas.

Considering FMPONE’s latest artistic revelation, this radioactive apple theory gains additional credibility. The redesigned de_cache likely will integrate more recognizable landmarks from the notorious abandoned metropolitan area, potentially including the previously mentioned cafe structure and other significant locations.

Cache received removal from CSGO’s active professional map rotation during March, with Vertigo assuming its competitive position. While the map remains accessible within standard competitive and casual matchmaking environments, it currently lacks availability for professional tournament competitions.

This map elimination didn’t surprise the CSGO community, as speculation about potential redesign had circulated previously. Valve historically removes maps with redesign intentions, refreshing visual presentation to maintain contemporary appeal across all player skill levels while modifying gameplay pacing patterns, though the specific selection criteria for map reworks remains somewhat mysterious within the community.

Following seven months of community anticipation, Cache will debut its redesigned format at ESL One New York. The updated version will feature in an exhibition match, while attending spectators will gain opportunity to experience the map firsthand on the same day. No specific timeline has been established regarding its reinstatement into the active professional map pool.

No reproduction without permission：Games Guides Website » Cache map designer FMPONE shows CSGO fans preview of rework FMPONE reveals Cache rework details with Chernobyl-inspired themes and competitive return timeline