With the newly launched 2 currently wowing eager gamers globally, we're pleased to report that have no intentions of entering hiding or jetting off to tropical retreats; instead the developer is already entertaining the thought of future projects. For starters, big boss tells us that the team will now focus on smaller projects to avoid burnout initially. Such projects will probably take the form of expansions to Half-Life 2 (new episodes, including an offering telling the tale of Gordon's new pal Alyx).

Such new content could be delivered via Steam, and Newell also discusses a new project called 'the ATI levels', new creations designed to push top-end to the very limit - which sounds enticing. Of course, Half-Life 2 for the is still en route, and we're even hearing that Team Fortress 2 is still on the way, despite the fact that its been forgotten for several years. Newell wouldn't be drawn on a release date for the latter, however, commenting "I'm sure we will screw that up again." All in all, it's a pleasing thought that we can look forward to more creations from Valve rather sooner than we might have expected. Thanks to GameSpot's 'Final Hours' commentary on Half-Life 2 for many of these insights.

By Luke Guttridge