The Source SDK is a collection of software used to create custom content for games made with Valve's Source engine. Also known as authoring tools, the Source SDK contains all the tools you need to start creating your own levels. In order to get started with the Source SDK, you first need to get a hold of Steam. Steam is Valve's entertainment platform that allows its users to download and play a multitude of different games.
In this chapter, we will cover the following topics:
- Downloading and installing Steam
- Gaining access to the SDK
- Glancing at the tools
- Creating your own modification (mod) with the Source SDK
So, let's get started!
You might ask yourself what is Steam, and why do I need it? First and foremost, the only way to gain access to the Source SDK is by downloading the SDK or a Valve game that uses the Source engine. All of Valve's Source engine games are downloaded and managed with a program called Steam. Steam lets you purchase, organize, and update thousands of games, and it's completely free.
In order to download and install Steam, you need to visit store.steampowered.com, and click on the Install Steam button in the top-right corner of the web page, as shown in the following screenshot:
This will redirect you to another page where you can download the actual installation file. After you have downloaded and installed Steam, you need to log in or create a new user account if you do not already have one. All you need is a valid e-mail address in order to create a new Steam account.