Team Fortress 2 Game Modes

In Team Fortress 2, the objective of the game is defined by the game mode in use. Maps are prefixed with abbreviations for various game modes. For example, maps prefixed with “cp_” are for control point and “ctf_” are for capture the flag.

Capture the Flag (ctf)

Similar to the tradition style of capture the flag games, the objective for both teams is to obtain a briefcase of intelligence from the enemy team's base and return it to their own base while preventing the opposing team from doing the same.

Maps: ctf_2fort, ctf_well

Control Point (cp)

Control point modes are more varied in their objectives, but share the common aim of capturing a particular point on the map. In some levels, the objective for both teams is to secure all the points on the map. On other levels, one team already holds all the points and must defend them from the other for a set amount of time. A third variation, introduced with the map "Hydro", is based on territory: each team must capture the other team's single active control point to secure that section of the map. Once one team has captured all sections, they are then able to attack the other team's base directly.

Maps: cp_badlands, cp_dustbowl, cp_fastlane, cp_granary, cp_gravelpit, cp_lazytown, cp_turbine, cp_warpath, cp_well

Payload aka Gold Rush (pl)

A further game mode, payload, was introduced in April 2008 with the map "Gold Rush". In payload maps, one team has to work to escort a rail cart carrying a bomb along a track through a series of checkpoints, eventually detonating the bomb in the other team's base. The other team has to defend their positions and prevent the cart from reaching the end within a set amount of time.

Maps: pl_goldrush

Sources: Wikipedia