L4D DLC coming in September

Crash Course to deliver new single-player, multiplayer and co-op gameplay.

Valve has announced the next major downloadable content for its co-operative zombie thriller, Left 4 Dead on Xbox 360 and PC.

Entitled "Crash Course," the latest DLC promises new single-player, multiplayer and co-operative gameplay and is targeted for release in September. “Crash Course" bridges the gap between the end of the "No Mercy" campaign and the beginning of "Death Toll" in the original game, expanding the game universe with new locations, new dialogue from the original cast and an explosive finale.

The DLC contains Survival maps and a Co-operative Campaign, but Valve says the primary goal is to deliver a complete Versus mode experience in just 30 minutes. Players will be able to take part in a streamlined version of the game's existing Versus campaigns. A recharge timer for infected team mates has also been added, and item spawn behaviour has changed for more balanced gameplay.

"Since the release of Left 4 Dead last November, the design team has been excited about creating new experiences for this world and allowing players to do the same, by releasing much of our internal toolset, like the Survival Pack and Authoring Tools," said Gabe Newell. "We're working with the fans toward the ongoing entertainment value of the product."

Left 4 Dead: Crash Course will be offered free of charge on PC and for 560 MS Points on Xbox LIVE.