In a significant move for the gaming community, Valve has unveiled the complete client and server code for Team Fortress 2 (TF2) within its Source engine Software Development Kit (SDK). This development opens the door for developers to craft innovative game modifications, breathing new life into the beloved online shooter.
Empowering Creativity in the Community
According to a recent blog post from Valve, this initiative empowers fans to “change, extend or rewrite” the TF2 experience. The introduction of the SDK is a call to arms for game creators, inviting them to explore their creativity without the constraints typically associated with game development.
However, it is important to note that while the SDK offers a wealth of opportunities, it comes with specific guidelines. The licensing agreement stipulates that all modifications created using the SDK must be non-commercial. This means that any mod developed must be offered free of charge, and all content included within those mods must also be free.
- Non-commercial basis: All mods must be free to access.
- Steam Store publication: TF2 mods can be published on the Steam Store, appearing as new games in the Steam game list.
Valve emphasizes the importance of respecting the contributions of the TF2 community, particularly those who have enriched the game through their creative efforts in the Steam Workshop. The company acknowledges that players have invested significantly in their TF2 inventories, and many of the in-game items are a direct result of community contributions. As such, Valve urges mod creators to honor this connection and refrain from developing mods that aim to profit from the hard work of Workshop contributors.
In a spirit of collaboration, Valve expresses hope that many of the upcoming mods will continue to provide players with access to their TF2 inventories, ensuring a seamless integration of community-driven content with the new modifications.
