News that Valve has released its Source engine for use as an official middleware solution for development of Xbox 360 games might sound like Greek to some gamers. But, the reality is, the announcement could result in a lot more titles translating to the 360, which is always good for gamers.Here’s the skinny.
By creating games using Valve’s Source engine, designers will be able to move more easily from the Xbox 360 platform to the PC and vice versa. This means less work to create different versions of the games. Plus, it also means the end result will be Source-powered games, which many consider to be some of the best in the industry.
Here’s what Valve’s Gabe Newell, president and co-founder had to say in the company’s media release. “The combination of Source and the Xbox 360 provides game designers throughout the industry the chance to create powerful entertainment experiences. Whether they're pursuing a traditional FPS, RTS, RPG or delving into new genres, Source and the Xbox 360 are designed to offer the flexibility and tools to allow designers to pursue any design imaginable."
So, what does this mean for modders who use the free Source technology offered in end-user games?
It means the possibility for modders or at-home game designers to create viable 360 games is more than present. Just like Microsoft’s XNA, Source’s introduction to the 360 world could open a lot of doors for new titles.
Joystiq delved pretty deeply into the questions surrounding modding and game development. When asked if a modder could make a title using end-user Source and then port it to a 360, Valve’s Doug Lombardi answered by saying “That's the idea. Obviously a MOD could have issues that need rethinking.”
Sounds like great news for 360 gamers who are itching for newer and better titles.
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