Game engines are rapidly becoming more powerful and the practice of modding (customizing a game and its levels and other assets) to tailor the game to the player's desires is growing exponentially. Half-Life 2 provides an incredibly versatile game engine and modding tools that game players and developers can readily use to change the game itself by doing everything from tweaking parts of the game to creating entirely new games, 3D environments, and simulations. In Mapping and Modding Half Life 2, readers will learn how to create amazing mods using innovative techniques developed by the author. The book shows, step-by-step, how to create new maps, textures, characters, 3D objects, weapons, audio effects, game action, and much more. Readers will learn how to start out by creating new maps and models and then learn basic techniques of coding to create useful mods. The second part of the book features more advanced techniques as readers learn how to expand their skills and develop more sophisticated models and 3D action. The book also covers other important areas of mod development including creating and managing a mod development team, working with fans, and using skills to develop a professional career in game development.