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Difference between revisions of "Team Fortress 2"

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{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Buka Entertainment|Russia (The Orange Box)}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Buka Entertainment|Russia (The Orange Box)}}
 
|engines      =  
 
|engines      =  
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Source}}
+
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Source|Original|name=Source 2007}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Source|Current|name=Source 2013 Multiplayer}}
 
|release dates=  
 
|release dates=  
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|October 9, 2007}}
 
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|October 9, 2007}}
Line 41: Line 42:
 
|winehq      = 5823
 
|winehq      = 5823
 
|license      = free-to-play
 
|license      = free-to-play
 +
}}
 +
 +
{{Introduction
 +
|introduction      =
 +
 +
|release history  = The game was purchasable individually and as part of ''The Orange Box'' compilation as of October 9, 2007. It became free-to-play on June 23, 2011.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://store.steampowered.com/oldnews/5721|title=News - Team Fortress 2 is now Free to Play|date=2023-08-12}}</ref>
 +
 +
|current state    =
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 52: Line 61:
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability|
 
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | Steam | Gives access to Premium account features<ref>{{Refsnip|url=https://www.teamfortress.com/freetoplay/faq.php|title=Team Fortress 2: Free-to-Play FAQ|date=2016-5-22|snippet=If you've ever spent money on TF2, you have a premium account. This includes purchasing the game before it was Free-to-Play, activating a retail version of the game, or making a purchase in the Mann Co. in-game store.}}</ref> |  | Windows }}
 
{{Availability/row| Retail |  | Steam | Gives access to Premium account features<ref>{{Refsnip|url=https://www.teamfortress.com/freetoplay/faq.php|title=Team Fortress 2: Free-to-Play FAQ|date=2016-5-22|snippet=If you've ever spent money on TF2, you have a premium account. This includes purchasing the game before it was Free-to-Play, activating a retail version of the game, or making a purchase in the Mann Co. in-game store.}}</ref> |  | Windows }}
{{Availability/row| Steam | 440 | Steam | Free to play, Install with <code>steam://install/440</code><br/>Also available to purchase in the Orange Box bundle, which gives access to Premium account features. |  | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
+
{{Availability/row| Steam | 440 | Steam | Free to play, Install with <code>steam://install/440</code><br/>Also available to purchase in The Orange Box bundle, which gives access to Premium account features. |  | Windows, OS X, Linux }}
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Steam}}.
 
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|Steam}}.
 +
 +
 +
==Monetization==
 +
{{Monetization
 +
|ad-supported                =
 +
|cross-game bonus            =
 +
|dlc                        = The soundtrack is sold as DLC.
 +
|expansion pack              =
 +
|freeware                    =
 +
|free-to-play                = The base game is free-to-play as of June 23, 2011, but [https://wiki.teamfortress.com/wiki/Account_types Premium] accounts have access to additional features.
 +
|one-time game purchase      =
 +
|sponsored                  =
 +
|subscription                =
 +
|subscription gaming service =
 +
}}
 +
 +
==Microtransactions==
 +
{{Microtransactions
 +
|boost              =
 +
|cosmetic            = There are hundreds of cosmetics items that players can use to customize their appearance in the game. Some are Halloween-restricted.
 +
|currency            =
 +
|finite spend        =
 +
|infinite spend      =
 +
|free-to-grind      = Timed drops allow players to "find" weapons and other unlockables; rarely, they may find cosmetic items. Premium accounts get an advantage.
 +
|loot box            = Mann Co. Supply Crates, and other types of crates, drop automatically, but must be unlocked with a purchased key.
 +
|none                =
 +
|player trading      = Most items in the game can be traded for on Steam with other players, or listed for sale on the community marketplace.
 +
|time-limited        = Some cosmetic items were available for purchase, or as part of a promotion, in the past, but are no longer available.
 +
|unlock              = All non-reskin weapons in the game can either be outright purchased, traded for, or found in random drops with enough gameplay time.
 +
}}
 +
{{ii}} Limited-use items: Some purchasable items have a limited number of uses, such as Noise Makers and the Dueling Mini-Game.
 +
 +
{{DLC|
 +
{{DLC/row| Fight Songs: The Music Of Team Fortress 2 | Soundtrack | Windows, OS X, Linux}}
 +
}}
  
 
==Essential improvements==
 
==Essential improvements==
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
===Skip intro videos===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use the <code>-novid</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=159366732|title=Skipping the Valve-intro :: Team Fortress 2 Steam Community Guide |date=14-03-2018}}</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use the <code>-novid</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=159366732|title=Skipping the Valve-intro :: Team Fortress 2 Steam Community Guide |date=14-03-2018}}</ref>|fix=
# Or alternatively, go to <code>{{p|game}}\hl2\media</code>
+
# Alternatively, go to {{folder|{{p|game}}\hl2\media}}.
# Delete or rename <code>Valve.bik</code>.
+
# Delete or rename {{file|Valve.bik}}.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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{{ii}} TF2's default settings are generally not well optimized. Therefore, it is recommended to install a custom config, such as '''mastercomfig'''.
 
{{ii}} TF2's default settings are generally not well optimized. Therefore, it is recommended to install a custom config, such as '''mastercomfig'''.
 
{{Fixbox|description=Install mastercomfig|ref={{cn|date=August 2019}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Install mastercomfig|ref={{cn|date=August 2019}}|fix=
#Go to the [https://mastercomfig.com/app mastercomfig website] and choose a preset that suits your needs, alongside any addons that are relevant to you and download the necessary VPK files.
+
#Go to the [https://mastercomfig.com/app mastercomfig website] and choose a preset, alongside any relevant addons and download the necessary VPK files.
#Place the VPK files you downloaded in <code>{{p|game}}\tf\custom</code> and follow [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/customization/launch_options/ these directions] to add the necessary launch options. (Don't forget to remove the <code>-dxlevel</code> launch option after launching the game)
+
#Place the downloaded VPK files into {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf\custom}} and follow [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/customization/launch_options/ these directions] to add the necessary launch options. (Don't forget to remove the <code>-dxlevel</code> launch option after launching the game)
#Boot up the game and test the performance/visual fidelity. If you run into any errors, check [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/next_steps/troubleshoot/ the troubleshooting section].
+
#Boot up the game and test the performance/visual fidelity. If errors occur, check [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/next_steps/troubleshoot/ the troubleshooting section].
#If there are any settings that you would like changed without changing presets, you can use [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/customization/modules/ modules] to alter individual settings.
+
#To change any settings without changing presets, use [https://docs.mastercomfig.com/en/latest/customization/modules/ modules] to alter individual settings.
{{ii}} Any already existing custom configs you might have will need to be moved from <code>{{p|game}}\tf\cfg</code> to <code>{{p|game}}\tf\cfg\user</code>. You will need to create the <code>user</code> folder yourself. It is also recommended to check if any commands in these custom configs overwrite mastercomfig's.  
+
{{ii}} Any already existing custom configs will need to be moved from {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf\cfg}} to {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf\cfg\user}} (create the {{folder|user}} subfolder if not present already). It is also recommended to check if any commands in these custom configs overwrite mastercomfig's.  
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Higher texture quality===
 
===Higher texture quality===
 
{{ii}} Using the console command <code>mat_picmip #</code>, one can change TF2's texture quality preset independently from the in-game settings, where <code>#</code> can range from <code>2</code> to <code>-10</code>. The lower the value, the better.
 
{{ii}} Using the console command <code>mat_picmip #</code>, one can change TF2's texture quality preset independently from the in-game settings, where <code>#</code> can range from <code>2</code> to <code>-10</code>. The lower the value, the better.
{{ii}} The in-game "Very High" Texture detail setting uses <code>-1</code>, therefore it isn't the highest possible texture quality the engine can offer.
+
{{ii}} The in-game "Very High" Texture detail setting uses <code>-1</code>, therefore it is not the highest possible texture quality the engine can offer.
 
{{Fixbox|description=Set mat_picmip value in autoexec.cfg|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://wiki.teamfortress.com/wiki/Ultra_high_settings|title=Ultra High Settings :: Team Fortress 2 Official Wiki |date=22-07-2022}}</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Set mat_picmip value in autoexec.cfg|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://wiki.teamfortress.com/wiki/Ultra_high_settings|title=Ultra High Settings :: Team Fortress 2 Official Wiki |date=22-07-2022}}</ref>|fix=
#Go to <code>{{p|game}}\tf\cfg</code> and create a text file named <code>autoexec.cfg</code>, if it doesn't already exist.
+
#Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf\cfg}} and create a text file named {{file|autoexec.cfg}} if it does not already exist.
#Open <code>autoexec.cfg</code> and add the line <code>mat_picmip -10</code>.
+
#Open {{file|autoexec.cfg}} and add the line <code>mat_picmip -10</code>.
 
#Save and close the file. This will ensure that the command is read on start-up.
 
#Save and close the file. This will ensure that the command is read on start-up.
{{ii}} '''IMPORTANT''': if you use mastercomfig, <code>autoexec.cfg</code> will need to be moved to a folder named <code>overrides</code> inside <code>{{p|game}}\tf\cfg</code>.
+
{{ii}} '''IMPORTANT''': if mastercomfig is used, {{file|autoexec.cfg}} will need to be moved to a folder named {{folder|overrides}} inside {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf\cfg}}.
 
{{ii}} Alternatively, use the launch parameter {{code|+mat_picmip -10}}.
 
{{ii}} Alternatively, use the launch parameter {{code|+mat_picmip -10}}.
 
}}
 
}}
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===Configuration file(s) location===
 
===Configuration file(s) location===
 
{{Game data|
 
{{Game data|
{{Game data/config|Steam|{{p|game}}/tf/cfg/}}
+
{{Game data/config|Steam|{{p|game}}\tf\cfg/}}
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} Steam Cloud settings are stored in <code>{{p|Steam}}/userdata/{{p|uid}}/440/remote/</code>
+
{{ii}} Steam Cloud settings are stored in {{folder|{{p|Steam}}\userdata\{{p|uid}}\440\remote}}.
{{ii}} Demo files are stored in <code>{{p|game}}/tf/</code>
+
{{ii}} Demo files are stored in {{folder|{{p|game}}\tf}}.
 
{{XDG|unknown}}
 
{{XDG|unknown}}
  
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|antialiasing notes        = [[MSAA]], up to 8x.
 
|antialiasing notes        = [[MSAA]], up to 8x.
 
|vsync                      = true
 
|vsync                      = true
|vsync notes                = Labeled as "Wait for vertical sync".
+
|vsync notes                = Triple Buffering
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps                    = true
 
|60 fps notes              =  
 
|60 fps notes              =  
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}}
 
}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Plugins|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Plugins|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
{{ii}} It is possible to increase the FOV limit up to 130 or even unplayable 179, using server-side plugins such as [http://tftrue.esport-tools.net/ this one]. However it is important to note that, while allowed by the ETF2L, and while client-side plugins are not classified as a cheats they are not officially supported by Valve. Some cheats include fov increase hacks, so '''use at your own risk'''.
+
{{ii}} It is possible to increase the FOV limit up to 130 or even unplayable 179, using server-side plugins such as [http://tftrue.esport-tools.net/ this one]. However it is important to note that, while allowed by the ETF2L, and while client-side plugins are not classified as a cheats they are not officially supported by Valve. Some cheats include FOV increase hacks, so '''use at your own risk'''.
 
}}
 
}}
  
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  |audio    = false
 
  |audio    = false
 
  |subtitles = false
 
  |subtitles = false
  |notes    = The game contains files for complete subtitles, but they are not compiled. The user can compile it themselves using the <code>captioncompiler.exe</code> program which is provided with the game.
+
  |notes    = The game contains files for complete subtitles, but they are not compiled. The user can compile it themselves using the {{file|captioncompiler.exe}} program which is provided with the game.
 
  |fan      =  
 
  |fan      =  
 
}}
 
}}
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==Issues fixed==
 
==Issues fixed==
 
===Generic fixes for issues===
 
===Generic fixes for issues===
{{Fixbox|description=Console Commands|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Console commands|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
# Reload the HUD: In console, <code>hud_reloadscheme</code>
+
# Reload the HUD: in the console, type  <code>hud_reloadscheme</code>
# Resync the game state with the server (start/stop an in-game demo): In console, <code>record s; stop</code>
+
# Resync the game state with the server (start/stop an in-game demo): in the console, type  <code>record s; stop</code>
# Reload sound resources: In console, <code>snd_restart</code>
+
## The "s" can be anything; it's just the name of the demo file. Using the same name every time will overwrite the unusable demo file every time you need to re-synchronize.
# Re-connect to a server: In console, <code>retry</code>
+
# Reload sound resources: in the console, type  <code>snd_restart</code>
# Re-show missing/hidden viewmodel: In console, <code>r_drawviewmodel 1</code>
+
# Reconnect to a server: in the console, type  <code>retry</code>
 +
# Reshow missing/hidden viewmodel: in the console, type <code>r_drawviewmodel 1</code>
 
}}
 
}}
{{Fixbox|description=Restart the game|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Verify Your Game Cache|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
# Find Team Fortress 2 in your Steam Library
 
# Right-click the game name
 
# Select <code>Properties</code>
 
# Go to the <code>Local Files</code> tab
 
# Select <code>Verify Integrity of Game Cache...</code>
 
# This may take a while, just wait for it to finish
 
# Once it's done press <code>OK</code>
 
# Launch the game
 
}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Delete your Team Fortress 2 registry settings|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
# Delete the entire content of <code>{{p|hkcu}}\Software\Valve\Source\tf\Settings</code>
 
}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Reinstall Steam|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}}}
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fully re-install Team Fortress 2|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}}}
 
  
 
===Sprays are not visible===
 
===Sprays are not visible===
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{{ii}} A generic fix for this issue can be found [[Engine:Source#Broken textures|on our Source engine page]].
 
{{ii}} A generic fix for this issue can be found [[Engine:Source#Broken textures|on our Source engine page]].
  
===Game Crashes at Valve Logo on Startup===
+
===Game Crashes at Valve logo on startup===
{{Fixbox|description=Game Crashes at Valve Logo on Startup|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
+
{{ii}} Most likely caused by [[DirectX]] problems.
More than likely, you are having DirectX issues. Try the following:
+
{{Fixbox|description=Run the game with [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line arguments]]|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 
# Reinstall the latest DirectX
 
# Reinstall the latest DirectX
# Find Team Fortress 2 in your Steam Library
+
# Set the game to run with different [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line arguments]] until it functions: <code>-dxlevel ##</code>. Replace <code>##</code> with <code>80</code>, <code>81</code>, <code>90</code>, and <code>95</code>, corresponding to [https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/DirectX_Versions Shader Models]. Lower is more compatible but 80 may cause more frequent crashes.
# Right-click the game name
 
# Press <code>Properties</code>
 
# Select <code>Set Launch Options...</code>
 
# Input <code>-dxlevel 80</code>. <code>80</code>, <code>81</code>, <code>90</code>, and <code>95</code> are all valid options, corresponding to [https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/DirectX_Versions Shader Models]. Lower is more compatible but 80 may cause more frequent crashes.
 
 
# Try setting <code>-nod3d9ex</code>. This will disable some DirectX 9 extensions used in Windows Vista/7.
 
# Try setting <code>-nod3d9ex</code>. This will disable some DirectX 9 extensions used in Windows Vista/7.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Game crashes after closing MotD===
 
===Game crashes after closing MotD===
 +
{{ii}} Some servers use Pinion advertisement, a buggy plugin that sometimes crashes TF2.
 
{{Fixbox|description=Game crashes after closing MotD|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Game crashes after closing MotD|ref={{cn|date=October 2016}}|fix=
Some servers use Pinion advertisement, a buggy plugin that sometimes crashes TF2.
 
# Update Flash/Java plugins.
 
 
# Disable HTML motd (in advanced options, under performance options)
 
# Disable HTML motd (in advanced options, under performance options)
 
# Install a Pinion blocker by editing the hosts file.  
 
# Install a Pinion blocker by editing the hosts file.  
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{{Fixbox|description=Use unique client ports|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Use unique client ports|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
* Each player needs a different client port, by adding this to the launch options: <code>+clientport N</code>, where N is a number between 27005 and 27032, but not 27015 or 27020.
 
* Each player needs a different client port, by adding this to the launch options: <code>+clientport N</code>, where N is a number between 27005 and 27032, but not 27015 or 27020.
}}
 
 
===Game cache files are stuck validating===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Game cache files are stuck validating|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 
# Close Steam and delete ClientRegistry.blob in the Steam folder:<ref>https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=7241-EYON-2343</ref>
 
* Windows: <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\</code>
 
* OS X: <code>~/Library/Application Support/Steam/</code>
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
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}}
 
}}
  
=====Anti-Virus Exception=====
+
=====Anti-virus exception=====
{{Fixbox|description=Add an anti-virus exception|ref=<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20161108120736/http://forums.steampowered.com:80/forums/showthread.php?t=1093560 Source thread on the Steam forums from 2009] (retrieved)</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=http://etf2l.org/forum/general/topic-25307/|title=Thread on the ETF2L forums|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
+
{{ii}} Anti-virus software can interfere with a file in TF2's folder, which gets updated constantly during gameplay.
Anti-virus software can interfere with a file in TF2's folder, which gets updated constantly during gameplay.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Add an anti-virus exception for the game's entire installation folder|ref=<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20161108120736/http://forums.steampowered.com:80/forums/showthread.php?t=1093560 Source thread on the Steam forums from 2009] (retrieved)</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=http://etf2l.org/forum/general/topic-25307/|title=Thread on the ETF2L forums|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
# Open anti-virus program.
+
}}
# Select settings > exceptions/exclusions.
+
 
# Add the following folders to the scan exceptions:
+
===No sound in Linux===
<pre>C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\appcache\stats\
+
{{Fixbox|description=Ensure that the PulseAudio is installed and its daemon is enabled.|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\SteamApps\common\
 
C:\Program Files\Steam\appcache\stats\
 
C:\Program Files\Steam\SteamApps\common\</pre>
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
===No Sound In Linux===
+
 
{{Fixbox|description=No sound in Linux|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Command the game to use ALSA instead by adding <code>SDL_AUDIODRIVER=alsa</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]] as the first launch option.|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
* Ensure that the PulseAudio is installed and it's daemon is enabled. If not, you can command the game to use ALSA instead by adding <code>SDL_AUDIODRIVER=alsa</code> to the Launch Options as a 1st thing to do.
 
* If that does not work, specify AUDIODEV instead, use <code>aplay -1</code> command to list available sound cards.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
===Loading Screen Freezes in Linux===
+
{{Fixbox|description=Specify AUDIODEV instead, use <code>aplay -1</code> command to list available sound cards.|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
{{Fixbox|description=Loading Screen Freezes in Linux|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
+
}}
 +
 
 +
===Loading screen freezes in Linux===
 
{{ii}} This happens mostly if you are on a non-english user in ArchLinux, but that may happen on other distros as well.
 
{{ii}} This happens mostly if you are on a non-english user in ArchLinux, but that may happen on other distros as well.
# Find and edit <code>locale.gen</code> file and remove the commentary (# symbol) from <code>en_US.UTF-8</code>
+
{{Fixbox|description=Edit configuration file|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
 +
# Find and edit {{file|locale.gen}} file and remove the commentary (# symbol) from <code>en_US.UTF-8</code>
 
# Generate the locale with <code>locale-gen</code> command as root.
 
# Generate the locale with <code>locale-gen</code> command as root.
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Textures load slowly on Linux===
 
===Textures load slowly on Linux===
{{Fixbox|description=Textures load slowly on Linux|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
 
 
{{ii}} Happens only when you are using any configuration file responsible for improving the framerate such as Chris' FPS Config.
 
{{ii}} Happens only when you are using any configuration file responsible for improving the framerate such as Chris' FPS Config.
Set <code>mat_picmip 2</code> to <code>mat_picmip -1</code> in the configuration file.
+
{{Fixbox|description=Set <code>mat_picmip 2</code> to <code>mat_picmip -1</code> in the configuration file.|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
===Game does not start on ArchLinux===
 
===Game does not start on ArchLinux===
{{Fixbox|description=Game does not start on ArchLinux|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Ensure that the <code>lib32-libpng12</code> has been installed.|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
Ensure that the <code>lib32-libpng12</code> has been installed.
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 708: Line 721:
  
 
{{Fixbox|description=Make the game use Unicode supported font by default|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Make the game use Unicode supported font by default|ref={{cn|date=June 2017}}|fix=
# Open <code>sourceschemes.res</code> and change <code>ConsoleText</code> into Unifont
+
# Open {{file|sourceschemes.res}} with a text editor and change <code>ConsoleText</code> into Unifont
# Open <code>chatschemes.res</code> and change the fonts into a Unicode supported one such as Arial, Ubuntu etc.
+
# Open {{file|chatschemes.res}} with a text editor and change the fonts into a Unicode supported one such as Arial, Ubuntu etc.
# Remove/Purge the <code>fonts-wqy-zenhei</code> package
+
# Remove/purge the <code>fonts-wqy-zenhei</code> package
{{ii}} You must install Unicode supported fonts.
+
{{ii}} Unicode-compatible fonts must be installed.
{{--}} You have to perform this method in every update for the game.
+
{{--}} This method needs to be performed after every game update.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 
===Audio delay/distortion when using PipeWire===
 
===Audio delay/distortion when using PipeWire===
 
{{Fixbox|description=Change the value of <code>snd_mixahead</code> to 0.03 or higher|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gitlab.freedesktop.org/pipewire/pipewire/-/issues/401|title=gitlab.freedesktop.org|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Change the value of <code>snd_mixahead</code> to 0.03 or higher|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gitlab.freedesktop.org/pipewire/pipewire/-/issues/401|title=gitlab.freedesktop.org|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 
===Mouse sensitivity is doubled than what was set in Linux===
 
===Mouse sensitivity is doubled than what was set in Linux===
{{ii}} Caused by the use of the very outdated SDL2 library included with the game
+
{{ii}} Caused by a very outdated SDL2 library included with the game.
{{Fixbox|description=Go to the bin folder in main game's directory and remove <code>libSDL2-2.0.so.0</code> this will enforce the game to use the one from your PC, if SDL2 library isn't available on your system, install it or use the Steam Linux Runtime container.|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Source-1-Games/issues/1834|title=github.com|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
+
{{Fixbox|description=Go to {{folder|{{p|game}}/bin}} and remove {{file|libSDL2-2.0.so.0}} to force the usage of the system-native library.|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Source-1-Games/issues/1834|title=GitHub|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 
===Flickering Black Graphics on Linux===
 
===Flickering Black Graphics on Linux===
 
{{ii}} Caused by a Mesa driver bug
 
{{ii}} Caused by a Mesa driver bug
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fixing via console commands|ref={{cn|date=February 2021}}|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fixing via console commands|ref={{cn|date=February 2021}}|fix=
Add these console commands to <code>autoexec.cfg</code>
+
Add these console commands to {{file|autoexec.cfg}}:
 
* <code>mat_phong 1</code>. This enables phong lighting, which is usually only disabled for graphical preference or for framerate improvement.
 
* <code>mat_phong 1</code>. This enables phong lighting, which is usually only disabled for graphical preference or for framerate improvement.
 
* <code>mat_bumpmap 1</code>. This enables bumpmapping, which some may prefer disabled.
 
* <code>mat_bumpmap 1</code>. This enables bumpmapping, which some may prefer disabled.
 
{{--}} This fix affects visual quality
 
{{--}} This fix affects visual quality
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fixing by rolling back Mesa driver|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gitlab.freedesktop.org/mesa/mesa/-/issues/3514|title=gitlab.freedesktop.org|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
{{Fixbox|description=Fixing by rolling back Mesa driver|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://gitlab.freedesktop.org/mesa/mesa/-/issues/3514|title=gitlab.freedesktop.org|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
 
Users can rollback to Mesa version 20.1.7 or earlier to avoid the issue as long as <code>mat_bumpmap 1</code> is set.
 
Users can rollback to Mesa version 20.1.7 or earlier to avoid the issue as long as <code>mat_bumpmap 1</code> is set.
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 +
===Game refuses to run on Linux===
 +
{{ii}} Caused with the outdated libtcmalloc_minimal.so.4 library included with the game which causes problems with LLVM 16 or higher
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Replace libtcmalloc_minimal.so.4 with the newer one|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/Source-1-Games/issues/5043|title=Failure to start with tcmalloc "Attempt to free invalid pointer" against llvm 16 - Github|date= January 2024}}</ref>|fix=
 +
{{ii}} 32 bit package of gperftools must be installed
 +
Create a symlink using the following command (Location of the library may vary on distro, Archlinux was used for reference):
 +
<pre>ln -s /usr/lib32/libtcmalloc.so.4 ~/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Team Fortress 2/bin/</pre>
 +
Alternatively running the game with <code>LD_PRELOAD=/usr/lib32/libtcmalloc.so.4 %command%</code> may also work
 +
}}
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Run the game through the flatpak version of Steam|fix=}}
  
 
==Other information==
 
==Other information==
Line 750: Line 777:
 
|metal support          =  
 
|metal support          =  
 
|metal support notes    =  
 
|metal support notes    =  
|vulkan versions        =  
+
|vulkan versions        = hackable
|vulkan notes          =  
+
|vulkan notes          = Available through the ''x64_test'' beta branch. Uses DXVK-Native to translate the DirectX 9 calls to Vulkan.
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes              =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
 
|dos modes notes        =  
Line 757: Line 784:
 
|shader model notes    =  
 
|shader model notes    =  
 
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
+
|windows 64-bit exe    = hackable
 
|windows arm app        = false
 
|windows arm app        = false
|windows exe notes      =  
+
|windows exe notes      = 64-bit version is available through the ''x64_test'' beta branch. It currently cannot connect to public servers or matchmaking.
 
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
 
|mac os x powerpc app  = unknown
 
|macos intel 32-bit app = true
 
|macos intel 32-bit app = true
Line 766: Line 793:
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|macos app notes        =  
 
|linux 32-bit executable= true
 
|linux 32-bit executable= true
|linux 64-bit executable= false
+
|linux 64-bit executable= hackable
 
|linux arm app          = false
 
|linux arm app          = false
|linux executable notes =  
+
|linux executable notes = 64-bit version is available through the ''x64_test'' beta branch. It currently cannot connect to public servers or matchmaking.
 
}}
 
}}
  
Line 781: Line 808:
 
|input            =  
 
|input            =  
 
|input notes      =  
 
|input notes      =  
|cutscenes        = Bink Video
+
|cutscenes        = Bink Video, WebM
|cutscenes notes  =  
+
|cutscenes notes  = WebM is currently only used in <code>x64_test</code> beta branch.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Kr0tchet|date=2024-02-10|comment=All files in {{path|tf\media}} folder has been all converted to WebM, including the Valve intro in {{Path|hl2\media}} folder. {{code|startupvids.txt}} file appears to be redirect to {{code|valve.webm}} and the game plays that file instead of {{code|valve.bik}} even if it's already specified.}}</ref>
 
|multiplayer      = Steamworks
 
|multiplayer      = Steamworks
 
|multiplayer notes=  
 
|multiplayer notes=  
Line 801: Line 828:
 
|-
 
|-
 
| [http://openfortress.fun/ Open Fortress] || Windows, Linux || Based on the February 2008 build, it is a open-source mod, which adds lots of custom content such as new gamemodes and maps, Mercenary and Civilian classes. It is in development now, but can be downloaded using SVN (TortoiseSVN for Windows or various SVN clients for Linux). '''Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer and Team Fortress 2'''. Discord server link: https://discord.gg/mKjW2ACCrm
 
| [http://openfortress.fun/ Open Fortress] || Windows, Linux || Based on the February 2008 build, it is a open-source mod, which adds lots of custom content such as new gamemodes and maps, Mercenary and Civilian classes. It is in development now, but can be downloaded using SVN (TortoiseSVN for Windows or various SVN clients for Linux). '''Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer and Team Fortress 2'''. Discord server link: https://discord.gg/mKjW2ACCrm
 +
|-
 +
| [https://prefortress.com/ Pre-Fortress 2] || Windows, Mac OS X, Linux || Based on the February 2008 build, it is a community-maintained mod that caters to the gameplay of earlier Team Fortress installments while maintaining the aesthetics from TF2's alternative designs from 2006. '''Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer'''.
 +
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
Line 825: Line 855:
 
===[[Glossary:Command line arguments|Command line arguments]]===
 
===[[Glossary:Command line arguments|Command line arguments]]===
 
{{ii}} View [https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=1040-JWMT-2947 this Steam Support Article regarding launch options] as well as [https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Launch_options#Source_Games the relevant Valve Developer wiki page] for further information and a list of useful Source engine launch options.
 
{{ii}} View [https://support.steampowered.com/kb_article.php?ref=1040-JWMT-2947 this Steam Support Article regarding launch options] as well as [https://developer.valvesoftware.com/wiki/Launch_options#Source_Games the relevant Valve Developer wiki page] for further information and a list of useful Source engine launch options.
{{ii}} You can launch Team Fortress 2 with launch parameters - these parameters can dictate how certain aspects of the game behave.
 
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
Line 876: Line 905:
 
|minother = (Graphic Drivers: Nvidia 310, AMD 12.11)
 
|minother = (Graphic Drivers: Nvidia 310, AMD 12.11)
 
}}
 
}}
{{ii}} OpenGL versions require the GL_EXT_draw_buffers2 extension.<ref>[https://github.com/ValveSoftware/steam-for-linux/issues/248#issuecomment-12125062 Could not find required OpenGL entry point 'glColorMaskIndexedEXT'! · ValveSoftware/steam-for-linux]</ref> A hacky workaround [https://steamcommunity.com/app/221410/discussions/0/882966056532198187/?ctp=7 exists].  
+
{{ii}} OpenGL versions require the GL_EXT_draw_buffers2 extension.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/ValveSoftware/steam-for-linux/issues/248#issuecomment-12125062|title=Could not find required OpenGL entry point 'glColorMaskIndexedEXT'! · ValveSoftware/steam-for-linux|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> A hacky workaround [https://steamcommunity.com/app/221410/discussions/0/882966056532198187/?ctp=7 exists].  
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}

Revision as of 07:53, 13 February 2024

Dev general icon.svg
Although this product has been released, it remains under active development - information may change frequently and could be outdated or irrelevant.
Team Fortress 2
Team Fortress 2 cover
Developers
Valve Corporation
PASS Time Escalation Studios[1]
Publishers
Valve Corporation
Russia (The Orange Box) Buka Entertainment
Engines
Original Source 2007
Current Source 2013 Multiplayer
Release dates
Windows October 9, 2007
macOS (OS X) June 10, 2010
Linux November 6, 2012
Reception
Metacritic 92
Taxonomy
Monetization Free-to-play, Cross-game bonus
Microtransactions Cosmetic, Loot box, Player trading, Unlock
Modes Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Action, FPS
Art styles Stylized
Themes North America, Sci-fi
Series Team Fortress
Team Fortress 2 on HowLongToBeat
Team Fortress 2 on IGDB
Team Fortress 2 guide on StrategyWiki
Team Fortress 2 on MobyGames
Team Fortress 2 on Wikipedia
Team Fortress
Team Fortress (mod) 1996
Team Fortress Classic 1999
Fortress Forever (unofficial mod) 2007
Team Fortress 2 2007

Warnings

The macOS (OS X) version of this game does not work on macOS Catalina (version 10.15) or later due to the removal of support for 32-bit-only apps.

Team Fortress 2 is a multiplayer first-person action and FPS game in the Team Fortress series.

The game was purchasable individually and as part of The Orange Box compilation as of October 9, 2007. It became free-to-play on June 23, 2011.[2]

General information

Official wiki - Run by the TF2 community and hosted by Valve
GitHub Issue Tracker includes other Source-based games
Steam Community Discussions
Steam Workshop

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Icon overlay.png
Gives access to Premium account features[3]
Windows
Steam
Icon overlay.png
Free to play, Install with steam://install/440
Also available to purchase in The Orange Box bundle, which gives access to Premium account features.
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux
All versions require Steam DRM.


Monetization

Type Notes
DLC The soundtrack is sold as DLC.
Free-to-play The base game is free-to-play as of June 23, 2011, but Premium accounts have access to additional features.

Microtransactions

Type Notes
Cosmetic There are hundreds of cosmetics items that players can use to customize their appearance in the game. Some are Halloween-restricted.
Free-to-grind Timed drops allow players to "find" weapons and other unlockables; rarely, they may find cosmetic items. Premium accounts get an advantage.
Loot box Mann Co. Supply Crates, and other types of crates, drop automatically, but must be unlocked with a purchased key.
Player trading Most items in the game can be traded for on Steam with other players, or listed for sale on the community marketplace.
Time-limited Some cosmetic items were available for purchase, or as part of a promotion, in the past, but are no longer available.
Unlock All non-reskin weapons in the game can either be outright purchased, traded for, or found in random drops with enough gameplay time.
Limited-use items: Some purchasable items have a limited number of uses, such as Noise Makers and the Dueling Mini-Game.

DLC and expansion packs

Name Notes
Fight Songs: The Music Of Team Fortress 2 Soundtrack
Windows
macOS (OS X)
Linux

Essential improvements

Skip intro videos

Use the -novid command line argument[4]
  1. Alternatively, go to <path-to-game>\hl2\media.
  2. Delete or rename Valve.bik.

Increase performance

TF2's default settings are generally not well optimized. Therefore, it is recommended to install a custom config, such as mastercomfig.
Install mastercomfig[citation needed]
  1. Go to the mastercomfig website and choose a preset, alongside any relevant addons and download the necessary VPK files.
  2. Place the downloaded VPK files into <path-to-game>\tf\custom and follow these directions to add the necessary launch options. (Don't forget to remove the -dxlevel launch option after launching the game)
  3. Boot up the game and test the performance/visual fidelity. If errors occur, check the troubleshooting section.
  4. To change any settings without changing presets, use modules to alter individual settings.
Any already existing custom configs will need to be moved from <path-to-game>\tf\cfg to <path-to-game>\tf\cfg\user (create the user subfolder if not present already). It is also recommended to check if any commands in these custom configs overwrite mastercomfig's.

Higher texture quality

Using the console command mat_picmip #, one can change TF2's texture quality preset independently from the in-game settings, where # can range from 2 to -10. The lower the value, the better.
The in-game "Very High" Texture detail setting uses -1, therefore it is not the highest possible texture quality the engine can offer.
Set mat_picmip value in autoexec.cfg[5]
  1. Go to <path-to-game>\tf\cfg and create a text file named autoexec.cfg if it does not already exist.
  2. Open autoexec.cfg and add the line mat_picmip -10.
  3. Save and close the file. This will ensure that the command is read on start-up.
IMPORTANT: if mastercomfig is used, autoexec.cfg will need to be moved to a folder named overrides inside <path-to-game>\tf\cfg.
Alternatively, use the launch parameter +mat_picmip -10.

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Steam <path-to-game>\tf\cfg/
Steam Cloud settings are stored in <Steam-folder>\userdata\<user-id>\440\remote.
Demo files are stored in <path-to-game>\tf.
It's unknown whether this game follows the XDG Base Directory Specification on Linux. Please fill in this information.

Save game cloud syncing

System Native Notes
Steam Cloud
Approx. 1 GB available.
Settings, in-game sprays and Steam Workshop submissions.

Video

In-game general video settings.
In-game general video settings.
In-game advanced video settings.
In-game advanced video settings.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
Multi-monitor
Ultra-widescreen
Some UI assets don't fill the entire screen.
4K Ultra HD
Interface scales with resolution and can become unusable.
Field of view (FOV)
Slider from 75 to 90°. See Field of view (FOV) for further options.
Windowed
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Use the -window -noborder command line arguments.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
Up to 16 samples.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
MSAA, up to 8x.
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Triple Buffering
60 FPS and 120+ FPS
300 FPS cap by default. With console, can change "fps_max" to any value; use 0 for uncapped framerate. The game will break when above 1000 fps, so it may be worthwhile to keep the framerate capped.[citation needed]
High dynamic range display (HDR)
In-game HDR option refers only to HDR Rendering for rendering Bloom and sun shine type effects.
Color blind mode
Under "Advanced HUD Options". Only changes some minor effects like Jarate and Mad Milk.[6]

Field of view (FOV)

For 16:9, a setting of 90° results in a FOV slightly above 106°.
Console commands can change the FOV to arbitrary values, but are not allowed in Competitive Mode. Viewmodel FOV can also be adjusted.
fov_desired[citation needed]
  1. Open the console (~).
  2. Enter fov_desired #, where # is your desired FOV.
viewmodel_fov[citation needed]
  1. Open the console (~).
  2. Enter viewmodel_fov #, where # is your desired viewmodel FOV.
It is also possible to turn on Use minimized viewmodels in the Advanced Options menu.
Alternatively, input tf_use_min_viewmodels 1 into the console.
Plugins[citation needed]
It is possible to increase the FOV limit up to 130 or even unplayable 179, using server-side plugins such as this one. However it is important to note that, while allowed by the ETF2L, and while client-side plugins are not classified as a cheats they are not officially supported by Valve. Some cheats include FOV increase hacks, so use at your own risk.

Input

In-game key map settings.
In-game key map settings.
In-game mouse/gamepad settings.
In-game mouse/gamepad settings.

Controller support

See also: Xbox 360 controls on the Official Team Fortress Wiki.
Enabling Xbox 360 HUD[citation needed]
  1. Open the console (~).
  2. Input exec 360controller.

Notes

To reverse the change, input exec undo360controller.

Audio

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Over-all game volume and separate music slider.
Surround sound
7.1, 5.1 surround sound, 4 speaker surround. Linux version lacks the surround support as SDL itself was chosen to handle the audio without the additional API such as SDL_mixer or OpenAL.
Subtitles
The Developer Commentary is the only part of the game with subtitles.
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
"Silence the audio while the game window is in the background" check box
EAX support
Linux only. Open alsoft-config (included with OpenAL package) and in HRTF tab set HRTF Mode to Forced On. It'll work only if you have a 32-bit package of OpenAL.

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
Bulgarian
Simplified Chinese
Traditional Chinese
Czech
Danish
Dutch
Finnish
French
German
Greek
Hungarian
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Norwegian
Polish
Brazilian Portuguese
Portuguese
Romanian
Russian
Spanish
Swedish
Thai
Turkish
Ukrainian
The game contains files for complete subtitles, but they are not compiled. The user can compile it themselves using the captioncompiler.exe program which is provided with the game.

Network

In-game general multiplayer settings.
In-game general multiplayer settings.
In-game advanced options/multiplayer settings.
In-game advanced options/multiplayer settings.
For more information, see the "Source Dedicated Server" section of our Source engine article.

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
Local play
32 Co-op, Versus
Use Nucleus Co-op.
LAN play
32 Co-op, Versus
Online play
32 Co-op, Versus

Connection types

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
TCP 27014-27050
UDP 3478-4380, 27000-27030
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.

VR support

3D modes State GG3D Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
TriDef 3D
Headsets
SteamVR
This game might be playable with the Revive Compatibility Layer (compatibility list).
Oculus VR (LibOVR)
Available under Video Settings. See Oculus Rift for more information.
Windows Mixed Reality
This game might be playable with the Revive Compatibility Layer.
Devices
Tracked motion controllers
Supports Razer Hydra Sixense API. Exit the Hydra tray application and use the launch options +sixense_enabled 1[7]
See Input for details.
Traditional controller
See Input for details.
Keyboard/Mouse
Play area
Seated
Standing
Room-scale

Oculus Rift

By default VR mode will run full screen, to switch back to a borderless windowed set the vr_force_windowed convar.
Toggle world view models[citation needed]
  1. Open the console (~).
  2. Enter cl_first_person_uses_world_model 1 to enable or cl_first_person_uses_world_model 0 to disable.

Issues fixed

Generic fixes for issues

Console commands[citation needed]
  1. Reload the HUD: in the console, type hud_reloadscheme
  2. Resync the game state with the server (start/stop an in-game demo): in the console, type record s; stop
    1. The "s" can be anything; it's just the name of the demo file. Using the same name every time will overwrite the unusable demo file every time you need to re-synchronize.
  3. Reload sound resources: in the console, type snd_restart
  4. Reconnect to a server: in the console, type retry
  5. Reshow missing/hidden viewmodel: in the console, type r_drawviewmodel 1

Sprays are not visible

As of the September 16, 2021 update, sprays are no longer available on official Valve servers and can be disabled per server by the server admins.
Multiplayer Decal Limit[citation needed]
  • Try raising Multiplayer Decal Limit. Check settings cl_allowdownload, cl_allowupload, cl_playerspraydisable, mp_decals, r_decals and r_spray_lifetime.

Purple and black broken textures

A generic fix for this issue can be found on our Source engine page.

Game Crashes at Valve logo on startup

Most likely caused by DirectX problems.
Run the game with command line arguments[citation needed]
  1. Reinstall the latest DirectX
  2. Set the game to run with different command line arguments until it functions: -dxlevel ##. Replace ## with 80, 81, 90, and 95, corresponding to Shader Models. Lower is more compatible but 80 may cause more frequent crashes.
  3. Try setting -nod3d9ex. This will disable some DirectX 9 extensions used in Windows Vista/7.

Game crashes after closing MotD

Some servers use Pinion advertisement, a buggy plugin that sometimes crashes TF2.
Game crashes after closing MotD[citation needed]
  1. Disable HTML motd (in advanced options, under performance options)
  2. Install a Pinion blocker by editing the hosts file.
  3. Try adding the following lines to your autoexec.cfg or in the launch options
  • sv_motd_unload_on_dismissal "1" // The MOTD contents will be unloaded when the player closes the MOTD.
  • alias closed_htmlpage ""; echo BLOCKED an attempted html wait timer"
  • cl_disablehtmlmotd 1

Note that some servers require you to watch the MotD for a minimum amount of time (e.g. 30 seconds)

Cosmetic items do not appear on a player

Bug is caused by the dynamic-model-loading system implemented in Team Fortress 2.
Touch a resupply cabinet[citation needed]

Getting disconnected while playing on a LAN with multiple players

This is caused by multiple players trying to connect to a server using the same client port.
Use unique client ports[citation needed]
  • Each player needs a different client port, by adding this to the launch options: +clientport N, where N is a number between 27005 and 27032, but not 27015 or 27020.

Low FPS fix

Ubuntu (12.10 to 17.04) or any distro with Unity desktop
Fix low FPS on Ubuntu (12.10 to 17.04) or any distro with Unity desktop[citation needed]

Once the game has loaded and the FPS have dropped below playable:

  1. Press Esc. to return to the game menu.
  2. Go to Options → Video
  3. Switch Display Mode from Fullscreen → Windowed

From here on, the game should increase dramatically in performance.

  1. Optional: Switch back from Windowed -> Fullscreen
Linux with Cinnamon Desktop
Fix low FPS on Linux with Cinnamon Desktop[citation needed]

To increase performance:

  1. Press the Windows (Super) Key to open the mint menu
  2. Go to System Settings → Display (May be under General settings instead)
  3. Enable "Skip Compositing Manager", then close the window.
  4. Launch the game
  5. Switch Display Mode from Windowed → Fullscreen

Cinnamon, by default, skips the compositing rendering manager if an application runs fullscreen, which in turn, disables Vsync. Enabling the compositing manager turns ON Vsync and (depending on the system) slows the game down.

  1. Optional: Switch back from Windowed -> Fullscreen
Anti-virus exception
Anti-virus software can interfere with a file in TF2's folder, which gets updated constantly during gameplay.
Add an anti-virus exception for the game's entire installation folder[8][9]

No sound in Linux

Ensure that the PulseAudio is installed and its daemon is enabled.[citation needed]


Command the game to use ALSA instead by adding SDL_AUDIODRIVER=alsa command line argument as the first launch option.[citation needed]
Specify AUDIODEV instead, use aplay -1 command to list available sound cards.[citation needed]

Loading screen freezes in Linux

This happens mostly if you are on a non-english user in ArchLinux, but that may happen on other distros as well.
Edit configuration file[citation needed]
  1. Find and edit locale.gen file and remove the commentary (# symbol) from en_US.UTF-8
  2. Generate the locale with locale-gen command as root.

Textures load slowly on Linux

Happens only when you are using any configuration file responsible for improving the framerate such as Chris' FPS Config.
Set mat_picmip 2 to mat_picmip -1 in the configuration file.[citation needed]

Game does not start on ArchLinux

Ensure that the lib32-libpng12 has been installed.[citation needed]

FL_LoadGlyph error in Linux

Caused by any user who inputs a Unicode symbol in chat
Make the game use Unicode supported font by default[citation needed]
  1. Open sourceschemes.res with a text editor and change ConsoleText into Unifont
  2. Open chatschemes.res with a text editor and change the fonts into a Unicode supported one such as Arial, Ubuntu etc.
  3. Remove/purge the fonts-wqy-zenhei package
Unicode-compatible fonts must be installed.
This method needs to be performed after every game update.

Audio delay/distortion when using PipeWire

Change the value of snd_mixahead to 0.03 or higher[10]

Mouse sensitivity is doubled than what was set in Linux

Caused by a very outdated SDL2 library included with the game.
Go to <path-to-game>/bin and remove libSDL2-2.0.so.0 to force the usage of the system-native library.[11]

Flickering Black Graphics on Linux

Caused by a Mesa driver bug
Fixing via console commands[citation needed]

Add these console commands to autoexec.cfg:

  • mat_phong 1. This enables phong lighting, which is usually only disabled for graphical preference or for framerate improvement.
  • mat_bumpmap 1. This enables bumpmapping, which some may prefer disabled.
This fix affects visual quality
Fixing by rolling back Mesa driver[12]

Users can rollback to Mesa version 20.1.7 or earlier to avoid the issue as long as mat_bumpmap 1 is set.

Game refuses to run on Linux

Caused with the outdated libtcmalloc_minimal.so.4 library included with the game which causes problems with LLVM 16 or higher
Replace libtcmalloc_minimal.so.4 with the newer one[13]
32 bit package of gperftools must be installed

Create a symlink using the following command (Location of the library may vary on distro, Archlinux was used for reference):

ln -s /usr/lib32/libtcmalloc.so.4 ~/.steam/steam/steamapps/common/Team Fortress 2/bin/

Alternatively running the game with LD_PRELOAD=/usr/lib32/libtcmalloc.so.4 %command% may also work

Run the game through the flatpak version of Steam

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9
OpenGL 2.1 OS X and Linux, uses Valve's DirectX 9 to OpenGL conversion called 'ToGL'. Can be launched on Windows with -gl launch parameter.
Vulkan
Available through the x64_test beta branch. Uses DXVK-Native to translate the DirectX 9 calls to Vulkan.
Shader Model support 2, 3
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows
64-bit version is available through the x64_test beta branch. It currently cannot connect to public servers or matchmaking.
macOS (OS X)
This 32-bit-only macOS game does not work on macOS Catalina (10.15) or later.
Linux
64-bit version is available through the x64_test beta branch. It currently cannot connect to public servers or matchmaking.

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Physics Havok Heavily modified variant.
Audio Miles Sound System, OpenAL, SDL SDL and OpenAL are used in Linux.
Interface SDL
Cutscenes Bink Video, WebM WebM is currently only used in x64_test beta branch.[14]
Multiplayer Steamworks

Total Conversions

Name System Description
TF2 1.0.1.8 Source 2013 Windows, Mac OS X, Linux Based on the February 2008 build of the game which does not contain any additional weapons, cosmetic items or even recent game modes, it is ported into Source 2013 engine which fixes a lot of security exploits. This is currently the most original form of the game. Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer.
TF2 Classic Windows, Mac OS X, Linux Based on the February 2008 build, it is a community-maintained mod which brings in some features from TFC such as 4-team modes, VIP/escort etc. Right now it provides community-made balances and unique weapons, graphical improvements (such as dynamic lighting for some particle effects) and new features that are completely absent in the original game. The update cycle is slow, but brings in many new changes that keeps it very fresh. Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer. Discord server link: https://discord.com/invite/3zMk4vn
TF2 Vintage Windows, Mac OS X, Linux A fork of TF2 Classic. It aims to bring back the game to the pre-Mannconomy Update which happened in October 2010. Primarily focused on gameplay and quality updates. Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer and Team Fortress 2.
Lambda Fortress: Extended Windows, Mac OS X, Linux Based on Team Fortress 2 Classic Beta 4. It is a community mod, which adds Half-Life: Source and Half-Life 2 campaign with co-op features. Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer and Team Fortress 2. Discord server link: https://discord.gg/QEHADrdhZr
Open Fortress Windows, Linux Based on the February 2008 build, it is a open-source mod, which adds lots of custom content such as new gamemodes and maps, Mercenary and Civilian classes. It is in development now, but can be downloaded using SVN (TortoiseSVN for Windows or various SVN clients for Linux). Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer and Team Fortress 2. Discord server link: https://discord.gg/mKjW2ACCrm
Pre-Fortress 2 Windows, Mac OS X, Linux Based on the February 2008 build, it is a community-maintained mod that caters to the gameplay of earlier Team Fortress installments while maintaining the aesthetics from TF2's alternative designs from 2006. Requires Source SDK 2013 Multiplayer.

Console commands

"List of useful console commands" - Official TF2 Wiki
Games running on the source engine can utilize Source Engine Console Commands for various tasks.
These commands can be saved into <path-to-game>\tf\cfg\autoexec.cfg to be executed when the game launches.
Enabling the console in Source games[citation needed]
  1. Launch the game
  2. From the main menu select Options
  3. Select the Keyboard tab
  4. Click the Advanced button
  5. Check the box next to Enable developer console (~)
  6. Click Apply

Notes

Press ~ to open the console.
Some commands may first require you enabling sv_cheats. You can do so with sv_cheats 1.
Many servers will not allow you to play with cheats enabled, or will disable them upon entering the server.
Users without a US keyboard could experience some problems.

Command line arguments

View this Steam Support Article regarding launch options as well as the relevant Valve Developer wiki page for further information and a list of useful Source engine launch options.

System requirements

Windows version requires a CPU supporting SSE instructions.
Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) 7
Processor (CPU) Intel Dual Core 2.8 GHz
AMD Dual Core 2.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 512 MB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 15 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 8xxx series
ATI Radeon X1600
Intel HD Graphics 3000
DirectX 8.1 compatible
DirectX 9 is required for Competitive Mode.[15]
Windows XP and Vista were previously supported, but as future updates for this game and Steam occurred; the support was dropped, even with retail copies.
macOS (OS X)
Minimum
Operating system (OS) 10.5.8
Processor (CPU) 1.7 GHz
System memory (RAM) 1 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 15 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 8xxx series
ATI Radeon X1600
Intel HD Graphics 3000
Linux
Minimum
Operating system (OS) Ubuntu 12.04
Processor (CPU) Intel Dual Core 2.8 GHz
AMD Dual Core 2.8 GHz
System memory (RAM) 1 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 15 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 8600/9600 GT
ATI/AMD Radeon HD 2600/3600
OpenGL 2.1 compatible
Sound (audio device) OpenAL Compatible Sound Card
Other (Graphic Drivers: Nvidia 310, AMD 12.11)
OpenGL versions require the GL_EXT_draw_buffers2 extension.[16] A hacky workaround exists.


References

  1. Introducing PASS Time, a New Beta Game Mode! - TF2 Team - last accessed on 2016-5-22
  2. News - Team Fortress 2 is now Free to Play - last accessed on 2023-08-12
  3. Team Fortress 2: Free-to-Play FAQ - last accessed on 2016-5-22
    "If you've ever spent money on TF2, you have a premium account. This includes purchasing the game before it was Free-to-Play, activating a retail version of the game, or making a purchase in the Mann Co. in-game store."
  4. Skipping the Valve-intro :: Team Fortress 2 Steam Community Guide - last accessed on 14-03-2018
  5. Ultra High Settings :: Team Fortress 2 Official Wiki - last accessed on 22-07-2022
  6. 'colorblind mode' - Steam Users' Forums (retrieved)
  7. sixense.com - last accessed on May 2023
  8. Source thread on the Steam forums from 2009 (retrieved)
  9. Thread on the ETF2L forums - last accessed on May 2023
  10. gitlab.freedesktop.org - last accessed on May 2023
  11. GitHub - last accessed on May 2023
  12. gitlab.freedesktop.org - last accessed on May 2023
  13. Failure to start with tcmalloc "Attempt to free invalid pointer" against llvm 16 - Github - last accessed on January 2024
  14. Verified by User:Kr0tchet on 2024-02-10
    All files in folder has been all converted to WebM, including the Valve intro in folder. startupvids.txt file appears to be redirect to valve.webm and the game plays that file instead of valve.bik even if it's already specified.
  15. Team Fortress 2 - Competitive FAQ - last accessed on July 8, 2016
  16. Could not find required OpenGL entry point 'glColorMaskIndexedEXT'! · ValveSoftware/steam-for-linux - last accessed on 9 June 2023