I did something unusual this weekend: I downloaded Steam. For the uninitiated, Steam - or Steam Powered, as it is formally known - is an online video game store that distributes its titles digitally. Players use the term "Steam" to describe the store and its software interchangably. The service also verifies software licenses for several retail titles, should you have bought a participating multiplayer game with Steam support in-store. Steam is owned by Valve Software.

I know that digital distribution is the future of video game sales, but I've never been keen on the necessity of an internet connection to play a game unless it is the nature of the game to be connected, like World of Warcraft. Otherwise I like to have a disk and be able to play whether I'm plugged in or stranded in the middle of Iowa.

That said, Team Fortress 2 became free to play last week via Steam, so I had to sign up for an account. I've always been a huge Unreal Tournament fan, I love cel-shading, and I'm obnoxiously cheap, so it was a natural combination.

Click the image to download Team Fortress 2 for free!

I'm still wary of Steam; the software just creeps me out as a bit invasive, but Valve has an excellent reputation and the service is well-reviewed. Still: What happens if Valve is acquired by Electronic Arts or (horror!) Activision? Will they safeguard my information or start spamming me endlessly and auction off my user data to the highest bidder?

Paranoia aside, there is a Team Fortress 2 game night coming up, and I want to be prepared. I have multiple cIasses to learn in order to not get completely squashed by my peers. Want to join in the madness?

• Gamespot Community Game Night
• When: June 29 starting at 5pm PT (8pm EST)
• Where: Game Night Chatroom and in-game!
• What: Team Fortress 2 - Free to Play version

If you have any tips, comments, or insight regarding Steam or the upcoming Game Night, or strategies on countering a Heavy effectively, please leave them in the comment section below.

Happy gaming!