SDK Docs

The Source SDK is freely available to all Steam users. It is used to develop mods and content for the Source 2006, Source 2007, Source 2013 and Team Fortress 2 branch engine branches.

Download and Installation · Distributing Source mods · Frequently Asked Questions · Release Notes

Modding	Creating, organizing and releasing your Source project.
Level Design	Maps are the 3D worlds where everything comes together.
Programming	A mod's C++ code defines the way its world and game rules behave.
Scripting	Scripting can be used for adding new functionality or logic to entities.
Modeling	Models are the detailed 3D objects that appear in the game world.
Materials	Textures and shaders are combined in Source to create materials.
Sounds	Quality audio adds a fourth dimension to your world.
Particles	Effects like smoke, sparks, blood and fire are created with particles.
Artificial Intelligence	AI controls the behavior of all but the simplest of NPC actions.
Choreography	Direct your digital actors' performances with choreographed scenes.
Filmmaker	Create movies inside the Source Engine.
Tutorials	Step-by-step guides on a variety of topics.
Technical	In-depth discussion on the Source Engine's features.
Glossary	Explanations for terms you may encounter.
Official Tools	Official tools made by Valve for their games.
Third-Party Tools	Useful developer tools created by the community.
I/O System	The I/O system is the backbone of most levels in Source-based games/mods.

List of game-specific documentation indexes

Team Fortress 2 · Left 4 Dead · Left 4 Dead 2 · Portal 2

Didn't find the game you wanted? See the full list →