Half-Life 2
Release Date: November 16, 2004
Action, FPP, science fiction, FPS, dystopia, Meta Quest / Oculus, shooters, VR, multiplayer, singleplayer, internet, LAN
Steam
A sequel to the Valve Software's best-selling game that set new standards for the FPS genre back in 1998. Half-Life 2 is set several years after the events of the first game. Once again, the player assumes the role of Gordon Freeman – a doctor of physics who used to work in Black Mesa Labs, where an unfortunate incident opened a portal for alien life forms to invade the Earth.
Videos and Screens
[1:09] Half-Life 2 RTX trailer
[5:56] Half-Life 2 "We don't go to Ravenholm"
The main pros of the game
- Timeless Quality: Many reviews highlight that Half-Life 2 remains relevant and enjoyable even 20 years after its release, with graphics and gameplay that still impress players.
- Immersive Storytelling: The narrative is frequently praised for its depth and engagement, with memorable characters and a compelling plot that keeps players invested.
- Innovative Gameplay Mechanics: The game's physics engine and mechanics, such as the gravity gun, offer unique interactions and puzzle-solving experiences that set it apart from other games.
- Atmospheric World-Building: The detailed environments, sound design, and overall atmosphere contribute to a captivating dystopian setting that enhances the gaming experience.
- Mod Support: The addition of workshop support allows for user-generated content, enriching the gameplay and extending replayability.
The main cons of the game
- Cliffhanger Ending: Several users express disappointment with the game's conclusion, noting it ends on a cliffhanger and lamenting the lack of a sequel (Half-Life 3).
- Lack of Multiplayer: Some players wish for multiplayer support, believing it would enhance the experience of playing through the campaign with friends.
- Occasional Bugs: While not a major issue, a few reviews mention minor bugs that can detract from the experience.
The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users
- Multiplayer Mode: Users have pointed out the absence of a multiplayer option as a missed opportunity for cooperative gameplay.
- Integrated Episodes: Some players feel that the episodes (Episode 1 and Episode 2) should have been fully integrated into the main game rather than being presented as separate chapters.
- Guidance and Navigation: A few reviews mention that the lack of a minimap or clear objectives can lead to confusion, especially for players unfamiliar with the game or those who are non-native English speakers.
Summary
- Overall, Half-Life 2 is celebrated as a classic that has stood the test of time, with its innovative gameplay, rich storytelling, and lasting impact on the gaming industry. However, some players express a desire for additional features that could enhance the experience further.
Summary generated on:
GAMERS Score
Average score from 12155 votes.
Half-Life 2 Description
A sequel to the excellent FPS from 1998. This new title was created by the same team who gave us the first Half-Life, the Valve Software company. The script for Half-Life 2 was written by the creator of the original story – Marc Laidlaw.
The PC version of the game primarily features a story-driven single player campaign, but also local and online multiplayer modes. Moreover, the developers provided a level editor, called Hammer, which allows for creation of mods and maps.
Story
Gordon Freeman, the protagonist of the first Half-Life, reprises his role as the main character. This time the ex-employee of Black Mesa Labs visits City 17, where most of the story takes place. On the other side of the barricade we have Dr. Wallace Breen – a puppet governor of Earth, ruling under the authority of an alien, Combine, that took over control of our planet. A mysterious person, known as G-Man, tasks Dr. Freeman with overthrowing the invaders, in which he is aided by new allies: the Xen race (his former enemies from Half-Life) and Alyx Vance, a young woman fighting for the human resistance.
Gameplay
The game takes you through a variety of locations in or near the City 17: sewers, suburbs, prison, harbor, etc. While traversing the game’s world you have to constantly fight different types of enemies, starting with your “old-friends” Headcrabs, all the way to Antlions and law enforcers. Just as you did before, you fight your opponents with a variety of weapons: a crowbar, revolver, shotgun, futuristic cross-bow, or the gravity gun.
Technology
Half-Life 2 for PC, AND and XBX employs a new game engine, called Source, which generates not only 3D graphics, but also realistic physics. The technology introduces a certain degree of destructibility to the environments – many elements can be broken, destroyed or at least damaged. You can also use the in-game objects as either cover from enemy bullets or as weapons. Thanks to the ragdoll effect bodies of enemies fall down on the ground in a more realistic manner. Opponents are gifted with smart AI and are able to call in reinforcements, take cover, flank the player, etc.
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in Half-Life Game Series
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Half-Life Series
A hugely popular series of first-person shooters (FPS) in science fiction climates. The series was created by Valve Software studio with support from Gearbox Software and Taito Corporation, among others.
8 video games
Half-Life 2 Summary
Platforms:
PC / Windows November 16, 2004
Android OS May 12, 2014
Xbox November 15, 2005
Developer: Valve Corporation
Publisher: Sierra
Half-Life 2 System Requirements
PC / Windows
Recommended: Pentium 4 2.4 GHz, 512 MB RAM, graphic card 64 MB (GeForce 4 Ti4400 or better), 4.5 GB HDD, Windows 98/Me/2000/XP
Android OS
Requirements: Nvidia Shield Tablet / Shield Portable
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