We've just launched Cross Product Multiplayer on Steam, and we know you might have some questions. Here's everything you need to know to get started.
What is Cross Product?
In 2020, we began work on a project internally called "Codename ZAMNHL" which became Half-Life: Cross Product. It's a long-term ambitious project that includes a full singleplayer story-driven campaign still in development.
While building the campaign, we wanted to nail down gameplay first - which is why we released the Multiplayer component early: it lets players test, give feedback, and help shape the mechanics together.
Cross Product Multiplayer is an overhaul of classic HLDM - it's a modernized, feature-rich makeover with new gamemodes, refined maps, Workshop support, and ongoing yearly Seasonal updates.
Can I host a dedicated server?
Yes. We've released an official DS tool on Steam which will also be included in the Anonymous Server Package that Steam offers, so you can download it via Steam CMD without it being attached to the Steam Client.
Uses the same content depot as the base game
Updates at the same time as the game itself
Can be scripted with automated SteamCMD updates for convenience
Does this work on Linux?
Yes, both the game and the DS have native Linux support.
What are Seasons? Why is it already Season 9?
We've been releasing content for Cross Product Multiplayer since 2020, with the Seasonal Scheme beginning in 2021. Each Season delivers new maps, features, and balance updates on a yearly schedule. Season 9: White Sands launched in November 2024, and we're currently preparing Season 10 for release this Winter.
Why no new Season with the Steam release?
Bringing Cross Product Multiplayer to Steam was a big undertaking. We decided to launch mid-Season 9 so we could focus on the Steam release itself.
Season 10 is currently in development and will be revealed later this year.
How do I make Workshop content?
Creating Workshop Addons is similar to making any Half-Life 1 Mod or Deathmatch map, except you won't be using a "liblist" file, and DLLs with custom code cannot be posted to the Workshop.
Our toolkit, the Aura SDK, is included with your Steam install and features:
Harbinger & Spectra - publish Workshop Addons, and convert PNG to TGA
Tessera - Sprite & WAD creator (based on Half-Life Texture Tools)
Helix - model inspector & editor (based on Half-Life Asset Manager)
Sapien - compiled BSP editor (based on bspguy)
Some of the above tools are, like Aura itself, forks, and open-source and community driven. They will evolve over time and we plan to introduce more tools.
Any documentation on these tools?
Yup, check out the Cross Product Wiki - https://github.com/phoenixprojectsoftware/crossproduct_wiki/wiki
Are there any official servers already?
Not yet, but Steam Networking means you can host and play with friends instantly, no port forwarding required. Custom Games will appear in the Server Browser and you can also send invites to your friends.
What about Half-Life Classic (& the Classic Collection)?
It's still in development and we'll have important news to share about it very soon; stay tuned.
Where do I report bugs or issues?
Please use the respective Steam Discussions page for bug reports and feedback.
Is there a community hub?
Yes! Join our Discord: https://discord.gg/mGr94ZqDWU