At a certain moment on August 29, approximately 13 terabytes of Steam depot data became available online. This may very well be the largest leak related to video games ever, as it encompasses prototype builds for an astonishing number of games, including multiple first-party Valve releases such as *Portal 2*, *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive*, and *Left 4 Dead 2*.
The complete extent of the materials contained within the “Steam2” leak is challenging to assess at this time, as the process of cataloging its contents is still in progress. The depot files range from 2003 to 2013, and the nearly 13-terabyte torrent file includes builds of both third-party games and Valve’s own first-party offerings.
### Half-Life Content
Although no playable builds of *Half-Life 3* or *Half-Life 2: Episode 3* were found, the leak does feature some *Half-Life* content. A notable find is a model for the “weaponizer” gun from *Half-Life 2: Episode 3*, along with references to other weapon types like the “icegun” and “flamethrower.” The weaponizer model is present in the *Portal 2* prototype build, acting as a placeholder for the discarded Paint Gun.
### The *Portal 2* Prototypes
The leak contains at least two prototype builds of *Portal 2*. The 2009 iteration is rough, showcasing early concept art and unfinished cutscenes. For example, an early variant of the game’s introductory sequence has surfaced, revealing ideas that were not implemented in the final game. The 2010 build, on the other hand, shows functioning versions of three discarded mechanics: Adhesive Gel, the Paint Gun, and a slow-motion feature. These mechanics were previously known but never seen in action, making their discovery especially exciting for fans.
### Early *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive* Builds
At least three distinct prototype builds of *Counter-Strike: Global Offensive* have been spotted, likely as work-in-progress versions for PS3 and Xbox 360. These builds feature discarded models, a cleaner version of the HUD, and even “family guy ragdoll physics.” However, the most fascinating aspect seems to be the discarded maps, which draw inspiration from *Left 4 Dead* maps, suggesting a possible gameplay crossover that was never realized in the final product.
### *Left 4 Dead 2*
For *Left 4 Dead 2*, there seem to be at least two prototype builds, although they are glitchy and crash at various intervals. Nonetheless, they include enjoyable discoveries like enhanced jump mechanics and placeholder audio that adds a humorous touch. Importantly, many *Left 4 Dead* maps are included, allowing players to engage with them alongside *Left 4 Dead 2’s* survivors.
### Valve’s Canceled F-Stop
F-Stop, an unfinished prequel to *Portal*, was part of Valve’s “Directed Design Experiments” in 2007. Though no playable version of *F-Stop* has leaked, several assets have been uncovered within *Portal 2* prototypes. A placeholder version of Cave Johnson’s dialogue related to capturing images with the “Aperture Science Spirit Camera” has also surfaced, underscoring how aspects from this shelved project may have impacted *Portal 2*.
As fans continue to delve into the *Steam2* leak, further findings and insights are anticipated to emerge in the weeks ahead.
