Different versions of counter strike 1.6

Lets cut to the chase. There are many different versions of cs 1.6

However they are all either part of the 1999 version of cs 1.6 (non-steam) or the steam version.

But what are the differences between those two versions?

First of all, cs 1.6 has many different patches applied on it. Just search for cs 1.6 patches on google. This means that there is discrepancy between versions of the pre-steam counter strike and the steam version.
Meaning two players can't play together online using different cs 1.6 versions(non-steam and steam)
Then there are install packs which install the base cs 1.6 version along with tons of custom maps, install patches too and a few other extras (skins, models, etc)

On pirated versions

Lets be frank shall we?
There is a very healthy estimate that majority of cs 1.6 players use the non-steam version. While non-steam does not implicate piracy, the truth is that it is a fancy way of saying it is pirated.
Now why would someone use a pirated cs 1.6 version?
Actually there are legitimate reasons for using the non-steam version. First is that, it is easier to map for. In the steam version, you need to manually extract the packed files to access .wad, models, etc. This makes it a real hassle for mapping.
Secondly, steam sucks. Now why do I need to be online all the time to make a level? Doesn't make sense.

Conclusion

While using the non-steam version is great for mapping and generally mucking around, I recommend the steam version to play online.
Oh and while we are at this, many people have asked me why fog doesn't show in their map. Turns out, the steam version of cs 1.6 supports fog and the non-steam version doesn't.

Final note

I have started blogging for this blog after a long time. I figured out people in the goldsrc community are still around and kicking butt. I may as well put some time aside and post few more tutorials.