Valve is bringing some fresh life to Team Fortress 2 with an upcoming update focused on the fan-favorite Mann vs. Machine mode. This update is a big deal since it’s the first major content push for this mode in years, and Valve is even inviting players to submit their maps and missions by August 27.
Mann vs. Machine launched back in 2012 for those not in the loop. It’s a PvE mode where up to six players team up to fight waves of AI robots while pushing a payload, all set in the quirky TF2 universe. Despite its age, it still draws plenty of players, and Valve’s nod to its staying power is pretty cool.
The update will come in two parts: the first arriving late August and the second right before Halloween. Valve’s blog post teased this with some quirky storytelling involving ancient Greek tablets and a dystopian George Washington statue, which is classic Valve humor, honestly. I had to chuckle at that little detour.
Valve’s call for community submissions means the update could include some fresh maps and missions created by the players. The deadline for these is Wednesday, August 27, so if you’ve got a knack for map design, now’s your chance to shine.
It’s wild to think that the last big TF2 update many remember was 2017’s Jungle Inferno. Since then, Valve has leaned chiefly on community content and minor tweaks. Interestingly, the game hit an all-time player count in 2023 after adding a community map featuring a plump seal, yes, a seal! Fans loved it, calling it the best thing ever added to the game. Who knew a chubby seal could hype up TF2 players so much?
Over on the TF2 subreddit, fans are talking. Some are ecstatic, others confused, but most are just happy Valve hasn’t forgotten about their favorite game. One user joked, “We are going to live forever,” which is how it feels with TF2’s longevity.
What surprises might Valve have in store for Mann vs. Machine? Will the new missions disrupt the gameplay or add some spooky Halloween vibes? Only time will tell, but the hype is real. Are you planning to submit a map or go into the new content when it drops? Let me know what you think in the comments below!
