Valve released an update to Left 4 Dead via Steam today, ushering in long-awaited support for custom campaigns. Map authoring tools have been updated as well, sporting sample files for several official maps in addition to bug fixes and tweaks.

Custom campaigns are packaged in a single .VPK file, which can be installed simply by double-clicking on it from a built-in Add-ons menu under Extras. Easy enough.

Likewise, options for choosing a campaign from within matchmaking have been expanded. Included is an Add-on campaign option, allowing players to open up a lobby with their starting map of choice or perform a search for ongoing sessions associated with any fan-made campaigns that are installed.

Hopefully it won’t be too long before those Resident Evil inspired campaigns emerge from concept to fruition. Running from a Tank on the zombie infested streets of Raccoon City is a tantalizing thought.

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