Team Fortress 2 gets store

The largest introduction of new items in the game's history.

Valve has announced the launch of an in-game store for Team Fortress 2 on Steam, giving players the option to purchase in-game items using real money.

The Mann Co. Store launches with 65 new items, including five new Class Weapon Kits, 18 new hats, and duelling pistols.

Mercenaries who purchase items through the Mann Co. Store will not have an advantage over their rivals. "We want to make sure that our customers still have a terrific experience on the battlefield whether they buy anything or not," said Valve. "All the existing ways they were able to get their hands on weaponry still exist without them having to spend any money."

The Mann-Conomy initiative also introduces the ability for BLU and RED mercenaries to trade items with each other.