Team Fortress 2 Modders Rejoice as Valve Releases Full Client and Server Game Code

Valve's Source SDK receives a monumental update, granting full access to Team Fortress 2's client and server code. This unprecedented move allows modders to create entirely new games based on TF2's foundation, going far beyond the limitations of Steam Workshop or standard modding.

This open-source access empowers creators to modify, expand, and even completely rewrite Team Fortress 2 in virtually any conceivable way. However, commercialization is strictly prohibited; all resulting mods and derivative content must be freely distributed on a non-commercial basis. Despite this restriction, creations can be published on the Steam Store, appearing as independent games within Steam's game library.

Valve's decision stems from a deep respect for the TF2 community's significant contributions. The company acknowledges the substantial investment players have in their TF2 inventories and the extensive content created by Steam Workshop contributors, stating that a majority of in-game items are a direct result of community efforts. To maintain this integrity, Valve urges modders to refrain from creating content designed to profit from the Workshop community's work and encourages compatibility with existing TF2 inventories where feasible.

This expansive update isn't limited to Team Fortress 2. Valve is also implementing a major update across its back-catalog of multiplayer Source engine titles, introducing crucial improvements such as 64-bit binary support, scalable HUD/UI, prediction fixes, and numerous other enhancements. These benefits extend to DoD:S, HL2:DM, CS:S, and HLDM:S.

The timing of this release follows the December conclusion of the long-running Team Fortress 2 comic series, after seven years and seven installments. These comics served not only as a rich source of lore and character development for fans but also as a testament to Valve's enduring commitment to one of its most iconic franchises.