There sure is a first time for everything.  Valve Software, the developer once known as being the most community-focused and fan-friendly game development studio in the industry, has recently come under fire from the last place it expected: its own community.

This story begins back at E3, when during the Microsoft press conference Valve announced a sequel to their 2008 hit, Left 4 Dead.  For fans of the first game this should be great news, right?  Surely more content is always better.  This is the same studio that has taken years to create a third piece of episodic content for its flagship franchise, Half-Life 2, and yet just one year later they are churning out a whole new zombie shooter.  Left 4 Dead fans should be jumping for joy.

Some Steam users do not feel quite so warm on the inside that Valve is releasing another stand alone game so soon.  The Steam group L4D2 Boycott (NO-L4D2), which at time of posting had reached well over 18,000 members, has decided to boycott the upcoming release and are encouraging others to do the same.  They have listed their issues with the newly announced title and the steps they believe Valve should take to remedy the situation.  The boycott is centered around the claim Valve has promised a long list of free updates to Left 4 Dead, like those they have made for updating Team Fortress 2, and with the announced standalone game coming this fall, the worry is that the effort that would have been applied to patches or DLC for the first game will instead be allocated to the sequel.  This will likely force the devoted fan base to purchase a second full-price release far sooner than expected.

Check out the group to see if their arguments have merit in your eyes.  When you are done, leave a comment to let us know your feelings on this matter.  In a perfect world, all games would be free, but how do you feel about Valve releasing a second game so soon?  Should they break up the game and release the content as large and expensive DLC packs, or do you like the plan of a standalone disc?  Leave a comment down below and let us see what our own community thinks.

Via Kotaku

Comments (30)

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Skate said:

... Uh...really? Here's what I think: To all 18,000 people boycotting L4D2: Would you like some cheese with that whine? Okay, okay...maybe I should try to be more objective. Perhaps I'll try to put myself in their shoes. Maybe for a second. *thinks* I guess I see their point...I mean, kind of? Maybe not? *scratches head* Nope. Definitely not. These guys are nuts. Everyone else who plays games pays for the sequels to their favorite games. Hell, Madden fans spend $60 annually just to play the new Madden game. Just because Valve fans have to do it so soon for once in their lives doesn't mean the world is ending. They don't really have to do anything - I mean, no one's forcing them to buy the game. If they want to play the first L4D for a couple more years before they buy the second one, they have that choice. Valve isn't making them spend $60. Obviously they want the game enough to feel like they're already obligated to buy it, so what do they really have to complain about? This is sad to me. Are some gamers really so out of touch with how the market works? I mean, I hate spending money just as much as the next person, but that's just how it goes if I want to play the newest stuff. So I do it, and when I have my shiny new video game, I'm happy to be experiencing something new. What makes these people feel like they're entitled to more free stuff? Hasn't Valve done enough for them in the past? I guess that Valve could compromise with their community and release L4D2 at a lower price point - maybe $40 instead of the full $60. But what gives those gamers the right to feel like they deserve special treatment? If I were in charge of the game, I'd release it as a standalone game like they originally planned. Final word: Petitions suck. Petitioners suck even more. Boo, Steam community!! You deserve to pay full price just for bitching about it!!

June 09, 2009

360cookie said:

... What is the big deal? I don't like Half-life but I know that people have been waiting years for this game and frankly I'd rather get a new game to play the next year than have to wait soo long. It's more content and more of the game that these people love. So again what is the big deal?

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... "I mean, no one's forcing them to buy the game." Which is exactly why we are not buying the game, and we are going to make it public. I personally see just about nothing wrong with this game except for timing. They could not release a single bit of content between now and forever for the first game, and wait to release L4D2 in 2011, and I would not complain, but this is too soon for some game that doesn't need a sequel this soon. I may not agree with everything that the group says, but I joined it because my gut reaction is that this is not fair to me as a consumer. I am being treated like some frat boy Madden Fanboy. The only difference is that the Madden Fanboy has a reason to pick up the latest game, and I don't. Also to the person who wrote the article, nice job on using the 360 cover for the story, when this is clearly a PC story. Really. Nice.

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... Also it isn't a Petition. It is a Boycott. They are two different things. Last time I checked Petitions don't work, but Boycotts do. So far by my calculations we have pulled about $750,000 from their pocket. That is enough to draw maybe only a bead of sweat, but that's almost a million dollars.

June 09, 2009

Skate said:

... Totally off-topic retort, but I can't help myself..."Frat boy Madden Fanboy"? Why is it that anyone who doesn't play Madden assumes that everyone who does is a beer-guzzling douchebag who keeps his Trojans next to his Rohypnol? It's a tired and ignorant stereotype; I love Madden and I'm as disgusted by frat boys as you apparently seem to be. Oh...before someone calls me out on it, I am very aware that I scolded a stereotype with another stereotype. Back to topic: I still think the boycott is stupid, and I still frown upon those who participate. Kaworus, you say that you don't have a reason to pick up the new game: it was just announced!! You might be completely surprised by further announcements that lead up to launch day, why turn your back on the game now?

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... The boycott is to make Turtle Rock sweat. They see that There is a Million dollars to be lost if they don't make it worth our while to get the new game. The majority, if not all of the people in the Boycott want the game if it is worth the $50. That means not new maps, not new characters, but new game-play. Of course not a total overhaul, but something that they can't exactly do in the first game that coming up with a second game will do. The moment they make it worth my while I will be on board, so this boycott is to make sure they know what they are doing. I just wish they would have delayed it. Also frat boy fanboy is to conjure up the idea that they are taking us PC gamers for fools.

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... And another thing. To point out something here about us PC gamers is that we don't like sequels to come out every single year. Expansion packs, and other smaller games are fine, but look right at the Madden series on PC, oh wait. They discontinued the line of Madden on the PC because we don't like a sequel every year.

June 09, 2009

Vitale1145 said:

... I really don't see what the big deal is. Valve released a great game, people purchased said great game and loved it so they want more. Valve gives them more in the form of an entire new game. Good for the people good for valve. Win Win. I would rather have a new game for $60 than 4 new downloadable levels for $20 each. As for everyone wanting something for nothing that isn't how capitalism works. Read a book and educate yourself

June 09, 2009

daveloft said:

... Valve promised content for L4D. "we'll do the same thing with Left 4 Dead where we'll have the initial release and then we'll release more movies, more characters, more weapons, unlockables, achievements, because that's the way you continue to grow a community over time." I bought L4D and was somewhat unhappy with the amount of content with the game it was released with just 4 co-op campaigns, 2 VS, limited weapons, balance issues and no SDK. Because of Valves history and promise of support I shrugged it off and said Valve will make up for it in the future. the L4D Survival pack in my opinion brought L4D to what I would consider full release worthy. I figured that's ok, I'm sure new campaigns, weapons and characters were in the works for a future release. As I was bored with L4D at this point I've moved back to playing TF2 and the recently released Spy and Sniper update. I can see where your coming from Skate, but I truly think your out of touch. Out biggest issue is with them breaking up the community and releasing nothing more than an expansion pack. This is how I think it should be be handled. Update all copies of L4D to L4D2 when it comes out, give them the new weapons, updated AI and new special infected. But charge $25 for the 4 new survivors, 5 new campaigns, new vs and survial maps. For anyone new buying L4D, L4D2 will be the only option and sell for $50 and include all 9 campaigns. This way even if someone just has L4D1 and their friend buys L4D2, they can at least still play the original 4 maps together. This way Valve still gets paid, the community is kept together and is given enough free content to fulfill Valves promise and everyone will be happy.

June 09, 2009

Skate said:

... I'm not out of touch. I understand your point, but I don't understand why anyone out there thinks that they're entitled to a bunch of free content. That just isn't how it works. And seriously, why the hell does every sequel these days need to blow minds for people to think they're worth their weight in cash? Considering L4D2, humor me: what in the hell can Valve do to totally reinvent their game? It's a mindless shooter. You're killing zombies. I'm sure they'll make new zombies. There was already a confirmation about new weapons like chainsaws. What more could you want? More campaigns? New modes? I'm sure it'll all be taken care of. Have some faith in the people who make your video games. It sounds to me like these L4D fans are just ungrateful and want to take take take take rather than being happy with what they're given. I understand the idea of having hopes and expectations for a game, but Valve doesn't need to kiss its community's ass.

June 09, 2009

forgetfool said:

... I personally think all L4D fans are jumping down Valve's throats a little too quickly. I have already read on several places that Valve has not forgotten about L4D and that there are several more things planned for the original in the form of new content. All this I'm sure will be free. There has also been rumors that all 4 L4D maps will be playable with the new game. Who knows maybe even with all the new updates that are coming with L4D2. And nothing has been said as far as I know that states that this is a full $50/$60 game. For all we know it is intended to be a $30/$40 game that can stand alone on its own but can also extend the original game to include features that greatly expand upon the experience. Basically I'm saying calm down, L4D2 has only been alive for one week and you guys are already crucifying it. Surely Valve has created some kind of goodwill with their track record to deserve the benefit of a doubt?

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... When I look to a sequel I want basically 3 things. I only need one to actually qualify for a good purchase. 1)Improvements to the graphical set. -This is only if the game has not had a sequel in more than about 2 years. Not needed, but always a good bonus. 2)Addition to the story. -Only needed if the game is heavy on the single player. I don't expect to get the same story every time, but I don't need to be blown out of the water if I am getting the game for multiplayer. 3)Gameplay changes -Depending on how the other two go this is the one I look for the most. If there really is no story then I want the gameplay to change. If the graphics don't improve much then I still want this to be improved upon. I still am at a loss to see where Turtle Rock is actually doing something about any one of those categories. They don't deserve out money if they don't make the game worth one of them.

June 09, 2009

Killazilla said:

... When it comes down to it this while issue just shows the difference between console gamers and PC gamers, at least in mindset. Console gamers have always had to pay for additional content. Its the nature of the beast. A company owns a system and service and so charges a premium for new content to be delivered over their service. Think of it as a tariff on imported goods. On the PC this is not the case at all. Since the PC is an open platform there is no corporate hand reaching into a developer's wallet. Thus PC developers have over the years be able to deliver free content if they so wish. The "problem" is that companies like Epic and Valve have set the standard by releasing dlc for free or episodic content for a low price. The reason I say "problem" is that this has created an expectation in the PC community that all content should be free or delivered in bits and pieces, thus the failure of annual sequels on the PC ala Madden. For the average PC gamer a sequel that is very similar to the original boarders on blasphemy. For lack of a better analogy, PC gamers are the rich elite and console gamers are the middle-class. The PC gamer is used to getting what he wants for free while the console gamer is resigned to the reality of paying for content because that is all that has been available to him. There are two distinct sides here. In the end nether side is going to completely understand the position of the other because each side comes from a completely different way of doing things. Quite frankly I don't mind paying for more L4D. I loved the first and if the second delivers I will gladly pay again.

June 09, 2009

Bacchus said:

... Kaworus - I don't want to sound like a jerk, but how are they NOT changing the gameplay between the two games? New weapons (which handle differently than those in the first game), new infected (only one of which has been shown, and I can say it DEFINITELY affects the way you play), new Director (weather, pathway changes, along with everything from the original), the Witch behaves differently (she actually walks around now instead of sitting on the ground), and of course the new melee weapons and incendiary ammo. I can tell you from personal experience that the gameplay in L4D2 is quite a bit different from that in L4D, and we still don't even know about the other new infected or the new game mode they're promising. I know I can't change your mind for you. All I can do is tell you that, from my hands-on time at E3, it feels very different, and very improved. And since we're going to be getting new info over the next few months, I would have no qualms about paying $60 for this game, on the 360 OR on the PC. Also, you're right about the box art. That's my fault...I'm changing it as soon as I submit this message. Thank you for pointing it out to me.

June 09, 2009

360cookie said:

... @Kaworus First of all from the gameplay videos I've seen the gameplay has changed alot with the new crescendos, weapons, zombies and improved director how can you say it hasn't? I also doubt we have seen much of what is being added, not to mention the hint at all the Left 4 Dead 1 content be available in Left 4 Dead 2. This is a TRUE sequel. You also mentioned that PC gamers don't like sequels every year and that is why Madden is no longer on the PC, well at this rate it looks like Left 4 Dead will no longer be on the PC, and people wonder why PC gaming is dying when stuff like this happens.

June 09, 2009

XBX360Dad said:

... Wow... This sooooooo reminds me of what Criterian went through with Burnout Paradise. Both companys gave out an enourmous amount of free content only to be criticized the second they actually try to make a little money. These whiners are nothing more than elitist snobs who desperately need a life. The more you give them for free the more they want! Valve is a business you know. I'm with Valve 100% on this. I'm not a big Left 4 Dead guy to begin with but I'll definitely pick up the sequel now and so my support to a top notch company that has been loyal to their fans. Even the ones that don't deserve it!

June 09, 2009

DeltaNuGuy said:

... Meh, no need to really, other than if you like the game. The Steam community can have their hissy fit all they want, but I really doubt 100% of those people, come November, are still going to be sitting on their high ground, no matter if Valve does anything or not. How about all of the PC gamers stop for a second, and maybe just give Valve the benefit of the doubt that THEY think they are giving enough value with a sequel so soon (which I do, admittedly think is too soon).

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... I wonder what happened the last time a small group of people began to 'boycott' a game before it came out...

June 09, 2009

Peew971 said:

... 18.000 so-called gamers with no gratitude... What about all the things Valve gave you for free or very low cost? Just don't buy the gam, who cares?!

June 09, 2009

360cookie said:

... Kaworus this is nothing like Sarcastic Gamers Battlefield Bad Company boycott. They decided to boycott the game because people were going to be charged $60 for a game and then charged extra for individual weapons and items. This is nothing like that, this is a bunch of whining b*****ds thinking that because they have been given free stuff before they should always get it. Valve are going to release a FULL game. They aren't going to make you pay to unlock a melée weapon or pay to have a certain gun. Therefore this is nothing like the Battlefield boycott because again Valve are releasing a FULL game.

June 09, 2009

Kaworus_lover said:

... The idea of a Boycott still stands. Once we gain enough members Valve will bend. How far they bend, and which way they bend is dependent on how much support we get amongst the PC community. This is a PC problem so you can keep yourself out of it since it doesn't effect the 360. Only a matter of time.

June 10, 2009

Bacchus said:

... Kaworus - You're sounding awfully elitist with this whole "It's about the PC, you don't matter" stuff. Unfortunately, if Valve changes their approach on the PC side of things, they'll have to do the same on the 360. So really, we're all involved in this, no matter what your view is of us lowly console gamers. This whole thing has become exceedingly argumentative. If we can't have a calm, mature discussion on this topic, then we shouldn't be talking about it at all. Remember, folks... we're all friends here.

June 10, 2009

Skate said:

... Lessons I've learned: 1) The Steam community is ungrateful 2) PC gamers are entitled to incessant whining

June 10, 2009

Skate said:

... Pardon my trolling, this is just hilarious to me.

June 10, 2009

daveloft said:

... Its unfortunate that Valve is so focused on the Xbox 360 because I think that is main reason this is a sequel and not downloadable content. I have no problem paying for this content, thats not my issue. I just want these updates added to L4D. I don't like the idea of segmenting the community. Its as simple as that. For the PC this content would sell better if it was an add on for L4D. It obviously annoys a lot of people and many will not buy it and promote others to do so. Im sure many will end up buying, but thats not really the point. It just goes against the promise Valve has made when the game was released and Valves natural way of doing things. If they need to get paid, by all means charge for it. There is no reason to release a separate game. Valve has always been about making their customers happy and having them promote their games for them. This has worked very well with TF2 and even though the content is free, the increase in sales after an update pays for the work put in. Everyone of you putting us down for complaining think its just because we want it for free. Seriously are you reading anything we have said. Some people have an issue with price, most are just annoyed at a sequel that is released before the first one is done. Im sick of being called a whiner by people like XBX360Dad who obviously don't know what the PC gaming community is about. This is our hobby and our passion and the only thing we love more than playing games is making our voice heard about any issues we have with it. If you don't have an issue with it awesome, but no need to insult us.

June 10, 2009

Deschain said:

... The same kind of reaction occurred when Valve announced that they would only be selling The Orange Box, not the The Black Box (TF2, Portal, and HL2:EP2). There was a mass outcry about how it wasn't fair - we shouldn't have to pay for HL2 and HL2:EP1 again. Today, almost two years later, buying Portal, TF2, and HL2:EP2 individually costs more than The Orange Box did at release. I'm voting with my wallet. I bought Prototype and Velvet Assassin off Steam today. I'll buy L4D2. I understand people feel like they were promised something, but I think L4D2 is more than what we were promised. In almost 11 years Valve has not cheated me. It will take more than an announcement to convince me I'm being cheated now.

June 10, 2009

Soldier X25 said:

... I wish I was rich like Patrick he has a 50,000 dollar Alienware rig if I had that computer I would be the smartest man on the planet.... Kinda like Patrick is now. Left for dead sucks, who cares anyway.

June 10, 2009

Deschain said:

... You're just mad because some of the achievements are hard.

June 10, 2009

Soldier X25 said:

... LOL, are you challenging me D? OK, as soon as Im done with Indy im coming back to L4D.

June 10, 2009

Joshua said:

... First off, they aren't going to lose that much money by any stretch of the imagination. I'd wager that almost all of those people interested in the game go back on their word, and that a substantial amount of them wouldn't buy L4D in the first place. Over the last year or two there have been mass layoffs in the industry, declining profit, and a lot of people looking for jobs. Valve employees have to feed their families too. No, Valve isn't making more money then before... their profits have fallen. How come people don't have a problem paying $90 estimated for Modern Warfare 2 when it comes out? The first one is still going strong online, and it's arguable that World At War was a "sequel." This is stupid, they released the SDK and other stuff for free, opening up user content for L4D meaning basically infinite amounts of free stuff. If you want free content that bad, why not make some? Oh? It takes too long? Takes 50 hours to make a level that is empty, untextured, no meshs, no AI info, no triggers, and a poor layout? It takes a lot of money and man hours to make this thing...

June 10, 2009