If you enjoy First-Person Shooters, online multiplayer and teamwork, look no further than Team Fortress 2 (TF2) developed by Valve Corporation, the minds behind other high value FPS titles such as Counter-Strike and Left 4 Dead. TF2 is strictly multiplayer – it has no singleplayer mode, and is played online through Steam.

Powered by Valve’s Source engine, TF2 is presented in cartoon-style graphics which is a change from the more lifelike appearance of its prequel, Team Fortress Classic. Some players will be turned off by the cartoon look, others will learn to love it. But despite the funny-looking characters in TF2, the gameplay can become intense and chaotic.

TF2 offers players 9 different classes to choose from, each with their own strengths, weaknesses, team role and playing style. Do you want to be the ‘glass cannon’, run fast, and have the power to double jump? Then pick the Scout. Do you like to play a supporting role and let your teammates do the killing? Pick the Medic. There’s a class for everyone – and there are also item unlocks that provide slight upgrades/to your character, to suit your taste and preferred style of play.

TF2 boasts a variety of classic FPS game types, including but not limited to: Capture the Flag, Control Points, Arena, and Payload. The game is strictly team-based (RED vs BLU), and at no point is there any kind of Free-For-All deathmatch action. I encourage new players to try all the game types to see what they enjoy the most. There is a slight learning curve in understanding the objectives, so having a microphone and communicating with your team is recommended (not necessary, but it is called Team Fortress for a reason!).

New players might feel daunted trying to find their way around maps, or learning how to use their class (and how to deal with other classes). But in all things: practice makes perfect. FPS veterans are sure to improve quicker though. Matches don’t take long (about 30 minutes each) and after a few hours into the game, newbies will feel more at home. Additionally, the short rounds provide a good gaming option for casual players who don’t have the time/energy to stay glued to the computer for a few hours.

The playerbase for TF2 is huge, and it isn’t hard to find a populated server in your region. Like other online multiplayer games, it will probably be most enjoyable when played with people you already know. However, the laid-back atmosphere on most servers also helps you make new friends online. TF2’s playerbase is definitely not as hardcore as Call of Duty or Counter-Strike: Source, to give a comparison.

Valve’s ongoing development for TF2 further increases its replay value, with major updates released every 2-3 months in the form of free downloadable content (DLC) and minor updates in between. During the leadup to major updates, Valve has also held weekends of free play for TF2, allowing people to try before they buy.

If you’re looking for a light-hearted online first-person shooter with a loyal following, get out there and put the Team into Team Fortress 2.

Platform reviewed: PC

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