Official ZBlock Integration with Source?

[CSN NewsBot]

This interesting tid bit comes to us from Gameconnect. Apparently, TheUnknownfactor, co-author of zBlock, has been in correspondence with Valve's Alfred Reynolds regarding some possible amendments to the cl_restrict_server_commands variable.

We are going to work on removing cl_cmdbackup (it does not need to be configurable) to prevent that issue. We are also going to enable servers to define limits for cmdrate so ops can choose the window of values allowed for users playing. We will look at updaterate vs. cmd rate, I am not sure that they should be uncoupled as they currently are. We are also working on restricting that list of cvars you sent me in the zBlock source.

We are also investigating a cvar interogation interface so server side plugins can enforce configuration limits on connecting players (you will not be able to change user configs without user interaction however).

These were some of Alfred's responses via email to TheUnknownfactor. There is more information to be read that should make more than a few server admins happy.

[FAF]

Valve really shouldn't be that worried about integrating server variable enforcements. There's thousands of CSS servers out there, if the players don't like cvars being enforced they can always go somewhere else or just rent their own damn server!



I don't know about the rest of the world, but in the UK nightclubs, pubs and other entertainment places have ROAR....Right Of Admission Reserved. The management of a venue have the right to keep you out and not have a reason why; CSS servers and games servers in general should have the same rights. They should be able to enforce whatever rules they see fit and not worry about upsetting some random strangers who pass by.

[DevgruSeal H.E]

But joining a server, not knowing anything about the server, and the server not having any MOTDs saying, "We'll abuse you for no reason whatsoever. We'll kick you for no reason whatsoever!" shouldn't warrant config abuse.

[DaRk-AnGeL]

Enforce Higher rates and lower interp..........



That'll soon fix the whining, not everyone is still using a 56k modem......

[LeRaldo]

Just another reason I'll never play CS:S ever again. This is ridiculous.

[Zips]

LeRaldo wrote..

Just another reason I'll never play CS:S ever again. This is ridiculous.

Because they're working with the community to please the community?



...

[Thortok2000]

It's nice to have some response from Valve about issues that are important to the community.



I hope they continue and maximize this trend.

[Marlin]

This is great news, with it being implemented by the game itself there is less chance of it being bypassed like other CVAR blockers. This is a huge step forward for VALVe and they need to continue listening to community feedback.

[Diamond Dust]

Thortok2000 wrote..

It's nice to have some response from Valve about issues that are important to the community.



I hope they continue and maximize this trend.

I agree, valve takes allot of bitching from fans. But they seem to be the only developers that actually have the resources and the will to care what the fans think. Unlike allot of other companies that just care about the games sold and not what could be done to learn more from the fans.

[.Sn0w.]

This will be the 2nd best update EVER to hit source im 100% serious.



first best update was crouch height.

[DaRk-AnGeL]

The line of sight bug still needs fixed ^_^

[DevgruSeal H.E]

Which one's that? o.O

[Que_?]

Can anyone help them fix:



Shadows

Defuse bug

Clipping

Hostage AI

Tweak the guns

fake reload sound

[DaRk-AnGeL]

DevgruSeal H.E wrote..

Which one's that? o.O

You see maybe a 1/4 of the the enemys head but they have full view of you.



Yes, they tried to fix it, and failed badly....

[FAF]

Just the fact that you can't get "wtfpwned" through every bit of brickwork on a level is enough to keep me playing (1.6 is still a pwnage game though :) )