Valve's Source SDK receives a massive update, granting full access to Team Fortress 2's codebase! This unprecedented release allows modders to create entirely new games based on TF2, going far beyond the limitations of Steam Workshop or simple modifications.
Modders now have the freedom to alter, expand, and even completely rewrite Team Fortress 2. While commercialization is prohibited – all creations must be free and non-commercial – these new games can be published on the Steam Store, appearing as independent titles within the Steam game library.
Valve's decision acknowledges the significant community investment in TF2, both in terms of player inventories and the vast amount of content created via Steam Workshop. The company urges modders to respect this existing ecosystem, specifically requesting that mods refrain from exploiting the efforts of Workshop contributors for profit. Ideally, many mods will maintain compatibility with players' existing TF2 inventories.
This update isn't limited to TF2. Valve is also rolling out a major update across its back-catalog of multiplayer Source engine games. This includes crucial 64-bit binary support, improved scalability for HUD/UI elements, prediction fixes, and numerous other enhancements. DoD:S, HL2:DM, CS:S, and HLDM:S all benefit from these improvements alongside TF2.
This news follows the December release of the seventh and final chapter in the long-running Team Fortress 2 comic series. These comics have served as a valuable source of lore and character development, demonstrating Valve's continued commitment to this enduring franchise.
