Valve files unmask upcoming next-gen Source 2 engine

Valve is tinkering away at a new next-gen engine, according to files found within one program's lines of code.

Files spotted in Valve's Source Filmmaker software hint at a next-gen engine called Source 2 developed by the company, according to one investigator on the ValveTime forum.

Lines of script found in the Source Filmmaker code reference Source 2 over 60 times, as well as "Hybrid" which is believed to be the base that Source 2 is being built on top of. In addition, it is believed that Source 2 will keep the .BSP level format of its predecessor Source.

"Return an str with the current engine version. If key doesn't doesn't exist, assume 'Source', otherwise invalid - assume next-gen 'Source 2'," reads one line.

The first Source engine was initially introduced through Counter-Strike: Source and Half-Life 2 in 2004, and has received various improvements in the years since. Source Filmmaker debuted last month on Steam as a free program that allows users to develop films within the engine using assets from games such as Team Fortress 2.