Shattered Horizon has released a dedicated server that can now be accessed from the Tools tab in the Steam client. The dedicated server contains the following features:

• GUI for creating custom level rotations, game settings and player limits.
• Custom server name, graphic and information URL.
• Optional password protection for private matches.
• Remote admin console accessible within Shattered Horizon game client.
• Configurable auto-team balancing.
• Configurable auto-kick / ban for team-killers and high-ping connections.
• Built-in anti-cheat detection with configurable auto-kick / ban.
• Admin manual kick / ban.
• Support for VAC.
• Registered servers can submit player stats and achievements to the official leaderboards (registration is optional and free).
• LAN game support.
• Supported operating systems: Windows XP, Windows Server 2003, Windows Vista, Windows 7 and Windows Server 2008. Note, DirectX 10 is not required for running a Shattered Horizon server.

Updates to Shattered Horizon have been released. The updates will be applied automatically when your Steam client is restarted. The changes include:

• HUD: Ammo count is no longer shown in scoped mode when running silent.
• HUD: When a player tries to capture a control point that is blocked by an enemy player the word "Blocked" will appear on the HUD.
• HUD: Chat is now enabled during silent running or while EMPed.
• Network protocol updated to support new server features.
• Added console for remote server control.
• Added "rules" section to in-game server browser, so players can choose servers with or without friendly fire or team auto-balancing for example.
• Server disconnect messages now include more information about the reason for disconnection for example, kicked for cheating, team-killing or high ping.
• Bug fix: Improved error handling during start-up logo videos.

That’s a good set of features and with a dedicated server now you can play with your friends, set up a group server and practice when you want.