Revamped CS:GO with New Weapons, Remade Maps, and a Half-Life FPS Game

Revamped CS:GO with New Weapons, Remade Maps, and a Half-Life FPS Game

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. References to CS:GO on Source 2
3. Weapon assets and map remakes
4. UserMessages protobuf update
5. GOTV demo system and cosmetic item tool
6. References to a new Source 2 FPS game
7. Assets system and porting
8. Unusual player movement type
9. Development of a game in the Half-Life universe
10. Graphics improvements and shader compilation
11. Addition of photo mode and random map generation
12. Bots navigation system and new physics-based vehicles

References to CS:GO on Source 2

In the recent update of Dota 2, there were several lines of leaked code that hinted towards the development of CS:GO on Source 2 and a new Half-Life FPS game. The first obvious reference is the inclusion of custom, paid agent skins in CS:GO, specifically a SWAT unit woman model. This model's mention appeared alongside the testing of a hair transparency shader, which suggests that the developers are experimenting with graphical improvements in the new engine. Another interesting asset mentioned is a model for the weapon called SG 553, which hints at brand new weapon models and optimizations in Source 2. Additionally, there are references to new models and materials, indicating potential map remakes for popular maps like de_mirage and de_inferno.

Weapon assets and map remakes

The leaked code also revealed significant changes and improvements in the weapon system of CS:GO on Source 2. Currently, weapon models are divided into viewmodels and worldmodels, but the new model mentioned in Source 2 uses a common weapon prefix. This suggests that weapons will now utilize a single asset and be optimized through smart LODs. Furthermore, the leaked code hinted at possible map remakes, with references to assets related to de_mirage and de_inferno. These remakes may involve updating existing maps with new models and materials.

UserMessages protobuf update

The UserMessages protobuf, which is responsible for displaying text notifications in the game UI, underwent an update in CS:GO on October 21. Interestingly, a similar update appeared in Dota 2 two weeks later. This could imply a potential link between the two games in terms of UI functionality and version compatibility. One speculation is that players using different versions of Source 2 games might receive a warning when attempting to play together due to version differences. However, alternative explanations are welcome.

GOTV demo system and cosmetic item tool

The GOTV demo system, a feature in CS:GO that allows players to watch recorded gameplay, was mentioned once again in the leaked code. This suggests that this system will be carried over to CS:GO on Source 2. Additionally, the leaked code revealed the existence of a tool specifically for compiling cosmetic items, including cases, keys, weapon skins, knives, and gloves. This tool, which had been previously leaked, enables the developers to create and manage the cosmetic economy in the game.

References to a new Source 2 FPS game

The leaked code contained strings that strongly implied the development of a new first-person shooter game on Source 2 engine. These references mentioned various aspects of the game's mechanics, such as weapon states, number of bullets, automatic or semi-automatic mode, attachment options, sensitivity and accuracy adjustments, FOV angle changes, aim matrix for third-person view, hitboxes tied to bones, and lag compensation system for players with high ping differences. These details indicate the developers' focus on creating a realistic and immersive FPS experience.

Assets system and porting

The leaked code revealed the existence of an assets system in CS:GO on Source 2, which allows for the importing of assets into the Workshop from the first source engine to Source 2. This indicates that Valve may delegate the process of porting maps and skins to the community instead of automating it. While this approach may help filter out outdated and irrelevant content, it also requires content creators with a large number of publications to invest significant effort in the porting process. Overall, this change in the assets system highlights Valve's commitment to community involvement in the development process.

Unusual player movement type

One intriguing discovery in the leaked code is a reference to an unusual player movement type that doesn't rely on ticks. In existing games, calculations are typically based on time, frame rate, or game ticks. However, time and frame rate-based calculations are not efficient for FPS games due to variations in players' FPS and difficulty rounding time to integral numbers. The mention of a tickless movement type suggests that Valve may have developed a new, more efficient way of calculating player movement, or it could be related to asynchronous or turn-based multiplayer gameplay.

Development of a game in the Half-Life universe

The leaked code contained strings that indicated the further development of a game within the Half-Life universe. Specifically, there were references to interaction with the gravity gun, including pulling and throwing objects and adjusting the power. These references strongly suggest that the future game will feature gameplay similar to Half-Life, where players assume the role of a character equipped with the iconic gravity gun and navigate through the game world.

Graphics improvements and shader compilation

In almost every Dota 2 update, there are lines of code related to shader compilation on various hardware and operating systems, including mobile platforms like Android and iOS. This indicates that Valve aims to improve the graphics quality and performance of Source 2 games on a wide range of devices. The adoption of Vulkan and DirectX11 exclusively in Source 2 engine further demonstrates Valve's commitment to optimizing graphics and portability. The removal of support for older APIs like OpenGL and DirectX9 suggests a shift towards modern technologies that provide better cross-platform compatibility.

Addition of photo mode and random map generation

The leaked code hinted at the addition of a photo mode in Source 2 games, similar to the one present in S&Box, the spiritual successor to Garry's Mod. Photo mode is a feature that allows players to pause the game, adjust angles, apply various effects, and capture stunning screenshots. This addition is likely to enhance the creativity and content creation potential within the community. Furthermore, the leaked code revealed references to Smart Props and Locator systems, indicating the potential for random map generation and dynamic object placement, adding variety and uniqueness to each gameplay session.

Bots navigation system and new physics-based vehicles

The leaked code also mentioned a bots navigation system, particularly for FPS games, including the ability to move underwater or in the air. This suggests that Valve is working on improving AI-controlled bot behavior and movement in Source 2 games. Additionally, there were references to the development of new physics-based vehicles, which will allow players to build and customize their vehicles from the ground up. This opens up possibilities for more diverse gameplay experiences, including aerial transportation.