The TF2 SDK has arrived!
Mod makers, rejoice! We've just released a massive update to the Source SDK, adding all the Team Fortress 2 client and server game code. This update will allow content creators to build completely new games based on TF2. We're also doing a big update to all our multiplayer back-catalogue Source engine titles (TF2, DoD:S, HL2:DM, CS:S, and HLDM:S), adding 64-bit binary support, a scalable HUD/UI, prediction fixes, and a lot of other improvements!
Unlike the Steam Workshop or local content mods, this SDK gives mod makers the ability to change, extend or rewrite TF2, making anything from small tweaks to complete conversions possible.
The SDK is licensed to users on a non-commercial basis, meaning that any mod created using the SDK must be free, and any content in those mods must be free. TF2 mods may be published on the Steam Store, and after publication will appear as new games in the Steam game list.
Players have a lot of investment in their TF2 inventories, and Steam Workshop contributors have created of a lot of that content. The majority of items in the game now are thanks to the hard work of the TF2 community. To respect that, we're asking TF2 mod makers continue to respect that connection, and to not make mods that have the purpose of trying to profit off Workshop contributors' efforts. We're hoping that many mods will continue to allow players access their TF2 inventory, if this makes sense for the mod.
Questions? See the Steamworks Source Engine mods FAQ.
Important Links:
Did you know the construction of the Leaning Tower of Pisa was one hundred and ninety nine years late? Literally everyone alive when construction started was dead by the time it finished. So unless you're having this read to you from the bad side of a Ouija board, you made it out the other end of issue seven's historically-speaking-pretty-short seven year delay alive. Which isn't too bad.
And, honestly, we can think of another, much more popular project we're involved with that you're STILL waiting on: The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, which began construction in 1886 and still isn't done, and which the Spanish government hired us to write a delay-themed blog post about after seeing an early draft of the blog post you're reading right now.
Speaking of you reading things, we are very, very relieved to present Team Fortress Comics issue 7.
TFConnect is blazing a trail back like a man flying through the air in a stub-nosed sports car!
Veg-out to a gargantuan, bite-sized 80s’ internet throw-back event. The gnarly agenda includes an interview with Mike Morasky, award-winning composer of TF2’s legendary soundtrack. They also have the most epic server packed to the gills with gaming creators from across the web. Chaos makes a welcome return and there are spotlights showing the best of this community, the TF2 Quiz Show, MvM with Valve Devs, & much more!
The event streams, like totally live, December 7th from 6:30 am Eastern (12:30 CET) on the KritzKast Twitch channel.
Donations are now OPEN on the TFConnect website!
TFConnect has raised over $100,000 for charities including this year’s cause, SpecialEffect. This charity has a profoundly positive impact on quality of life, confidence and rehabilitation of disabled gamers.
Remember what the dinosaur told us, "Teamwork is very important."
TF2 Coaching Central is announcing the ninth iteration of their North American Newbie 6s Cup, a learning experience and friendly competition for people who are new to competitive 6v6.
Players with no to minimal competitive experience will sign up to be placed on a team of six, led by coaches who will teach the basics of the 6v6 format and help them learn the maps. Teams have a total of four weeks to learn and train together before facing off in a tournament with a prize pool of 18 keys for the winners and runners up. TF2 Coaching Central's previous Newbie Cup events have successfully prepared many players and teams to continue competitive play in RGL, the biggest North American TF2 league.
Sign-ups are open now! The deadline to apply and be placed on a team is December 11. Team and coach assignments will be made by December 14 and tournament matches, brought to you by Fireside Casts, will be the weekend of January 11-12, 2025.
Check out the TF2CC Discord for more info. Whether you're looking to dip your toes in competitive TF2 or a more experienced player looking to mentor newbies, feel free to join the community - with learning resources and pickup games running daily, all skill levels are welcome!