Turtle Rock Studios, most popularly known as the creators of the Counter Strike and Left 4 Dead franchises along with Valve Corporation, has signed a new deal with THQ to create a new multi-player project, a report in THQ’s official website said.

The original Left 4 Dead game is now owned by Valve but the development of the game began with Turtle Rock. Valve obtained the game’s rights midway during its development. Before the release of Left 4 Dead 2, the second project in the franchise, the companies ended the partnership.

Our quest to sign the best artists and work with the best talent continues, said Danny Bilson, EVP Core Games, THQ. Turtle Rock Studios is responsible for one of the most original, critically acclaimed co-operative games of this generation, and we are incredibly excited to be working with them on their next project, which looks set to make a similar impact in the multi-player space.

Turtle Rock Studios' new venture will not be displayed at E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo) 2011, but gamers have been promised a full release at a later date.

Phil Robb, COO of Turtle Rock Studios, added, We're thrilled to be working with THQ. This project is the most ambitious thing we've ever attempted, and we're inspired by the support THQ has shown to help us realize that vision. We're going to take the first person shooter experience to a whole new level, and we can't wait to show the game for the first time in the months ahead.