The SDK for Valve’s Steamworks service has been released.
Announced before GDC, Steamworks offers publishing and development tools that allows PC games companies to use the game features and services available via Steam, such as product key authentication, copy protection, auto-updating, social networking, matchmaking and anti-cheat technology.
Developers and publishers can use the service free of charge in both digital download and boxed versions of their games.
The Official Steamworks SDK includes an API for all the components offered in Steamworks, plus a multiplayer game example to demonstrate many of the services’ features. Valve has also updated the Steamworks partner web site (partner.steamgames.com) with documentation outlining the API, authoring and editing of achievements, gameplay statistics, and other details.
"In working with developers on the pre-release SDK, our focus has been on making it as easy as possible for them to integrate Steamworks into their games," said Jason Holtman, director of business development at Valve.
"They get access to these tools and services in a proven, scalable, and simple to work with package that has already been deployed to millions of gamers worldwide."