Heavy Update

This article is for content released in the update. For the patch itself, see August 19, 2008 Patch.

“

It's pretty much exactly what we would start a design meeting with. Try coming up with a new unlockable for the Heavy that addresses the goal, while staying within the constraints as much as possible. The extra section includes other details that are useful when trying to compare two viable ideas. Goal: Make the Heavy more viable when he has no Medic to pair with.

— Robin Walker

”

The Heavy Update, officially known as A Heavy Update, was the third major content update for Team Fortress 2.

The focus of the update was the Heavy class. As was customary, three new weapons for the class were revealed, and the slowdown mechanic was introduced. To accompany the Sandvich consumable weapon, Meet the Sandvich was released alongside the update.

A new game mode, Arena, was introduced. It focused on combat between the two teams and brought five new maps to the game. Two other maps, Badwater Basin and Steel, were also included.

The update was released with the August 19, 2008 Patch.

Additions

Weapons

Heavy		Natascha
		Sandvich
		Killing Gloves of Boxing

Maps

Name	Picture	Game mode	File name
Badwater Basin	160px	Payload	`pl_badwater`
Steel		Control Point	`cp_steel`
Badlands		Arena	`arena_badlands`
Granary		Arena	`arena_granary`
Lumberyard		Arena	`arena_lumberyard`
Well		Arena	`arena_well`
Ravine		Arena	`arena_ravine`

Update progress

Beginning a recurring process for major updates, portions and features of the Heavy Update were revealed on a daily basis leading up to its culimation and release into the game. Each day was marked with a page depicting at least one of the aspects, delivered in an informative and unique style.

Trivia

The slowdown effect inherent with Natascha originally stacked upon itself, resulting in enemies coming to a complete halt when hit with multiple bullets. This occured at any range between the Heavy and his target.
The Sandvich was advertised as healing 120 Health every time it was eaten, and having unlimited use. A cooldown bar was implemented for balance issues, and then it healed the wearer to their maximum health when they taunt.