Valve unleashes a colossal Source SDK update, generously gifting modders with complete access to Team Fortress 2's client and server code. This unprecedented move allows for the creation of entirely new games built upon TF2's foundation. Unlike previous limitations of Steam Workshop or local mods, this update grants modders the freedom to modify, expand, and even completely rewrite Team Fortress 2.
While commercialization is prohibited – all resulting mods and derivative content must remain free and non-commercial – creators can publish their work on the Steam Store, where they'll be listed as independent games.
In a blog post, Valve acknowledged the significant community investment in TF2 inventories and Steam Workshop contributions, stating that a substantial portion of the game's content is a direct result of community efforts. To maintain this respect, Valve requests that modders refrain from creating content designed to profit from the work of Workshop contributors. Ideally, Valve hopes that many mods will continue to allow players to utilize their existing TF2 inventories.
This expansive update isn't limited to TF2. Valve is also implementing a major update across its back-catalog of multiplayer Source engine titles, introducing 64-bit binary support, scalable HUD/UI, prediction fixes, and numerous other enhancements. These improvements benefit not only TF2, but also DoD:S, HL2:DM, CS:S, and HLDM:S.
The news follows the December release of the seventh and final installment of the Team Fortress 2 comic series, a seven-year journey that has consistently provided fans with enriching lore and character development, showcasing Valve's enduring commitment to this long-standing franchise.
