Half-Life 2: Episode One

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3112 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,622 out of 3112
  2. Mixed: 334 out of 3112
  3. Negative: 156 out of 3112
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  1. DanielO.
    Jun 19, 2006
    9
    A brilliant addition to a brilliant franchise. Has some of the finest moments in the half life series so far, the graphics are top notch, the gameplay and story are as good as ever and most suprisingly dare i say it, it actually makes you care for a computer character (Alyx) The only problem despite being petty but quite significant, is that it's over way too fast. I literally almost A brilliant addition to a brilliant franchise. Has some of the finest moments in the half life series so far, the graphics are top notch, the gameplay and story are as good as ever and most suprisingly dare i say it, it actually makes you care for a computer character (Alyx) The only problem despite being petty but quite significant, is that it's over way too fast. I literally almost finished it in a single night over the course of a few hours, i know its meant to be episodic but you'd normally expect a game that cost around £20 to last you quite a bit longer, this is why it gets a 9 and not a perfect 10. However, this is just a fly speck on the ceiling of the sistine chapel, overall it's brilliant and definitly worth picking up even if you haven't got HL2. Roll on episode 2.… Expand
  2. MarkS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    There are those that are critical of this game because it's so short. The average price for a new release PC game in Nova Scotia is $60. A typical FPS has around 10 - 12 Hours of game play. Therefore this "Episode" is more than on par with the norm. I wish that the quality of other games was as good as Half-Life 2 Episode 1. No there is nothing really new here. So what? This has all There are those that are critical of this game because it's so short. The average price for a new release PC game in Nova Scotia is $60. A typical FPS has around 10 - 12 Hours of game play. Therefore this "Episode" is more than on par with the norm. I wish that the quality of other games was as good as Half-Life 2 Episode 1. No there is nothing really new here. So what? This has all the same feeling of the game that inspired it, plus some added graphical polish, and a partner that actually assists you, instead of getting in the way. I'm enjoying this game as much as I did Half Life and Half Life 2. However, I still hate, hate, hate that I have to run Steam to play the game. The time it takes from first click to playing the game is as atrocious as ever. At least it's worth it, once you're playing… Expand
  3. IraC.
    Jun 24, 2006
    9
    Good action throughout. Some easy parts and some not so easy. I'm definitely ready for Episode Two now. Hurry up, guys!
  4. PeteS.
    Jun 28, 2006
    9
    I think Episode 1 was a smooth transition from the orginal game itself. There was plenty of action and building of the story line to keep me entertained and wanting more. I'm looking forward to the release of Episode 2.
  5. NickW.
    Jun 3, 2006
    9
    I think Half Life 2 Episode 1 was a very thrilling experience. Pros: Episode one gave you a lot more of Half-Life 2. There are a good amount of puzzles, only a few of which require physics. Valve did well and keeping you on your toes with nonstop action. The loading sequences and puzzles are well placed to ensure that you do get your breaks from the action when it becomes too stressful, I think Half Life 2 Episode 1 was a very thrilling experience. Pros: Episode one gave you a lot more of Half-Life 2. There are a good amount of puzzles, only a few of which require physics. Valve did well and keeping you on your toes with nonstop action. The loading sequences and puzzles are well placed to ensure that you do get your breaks from the action when it becomes too stressful, however. The AI of Alyx is absolutely wonderful, she has the capability to move around the world according to your movements and your actions, plotting out the best strategy in that situation. The game answers the question: "How do you and Alyx survive?". Cons: The game was relatively short. It took me 5 hours on hard mode, and took me 6 hours on hard mode with the commentary turned on (the commentary is very interesting to listen to, however). Though the game is worthy of two playthroughs, it is difficult to find a reason to play it a third time, seeing as how nothing in episode 1 is new or original. Overally: This game is worth the $20; basically, it is more Half-Life 2, which isn't a bad thing, but not necessarily a good thing either. I was hoping for some unique gameplay; instead, we got HDR lighting, improved AI, and one question answered. This review may sound negative, but that is because I am outlining what is bad; the things that are good are very obvious.… Expand
  6. StaM.
    Jun 5, 2006
    9
    Great game!!! Better than HL2 but too short to beat it.
  7. SteinOveSorlie
    Jun 5, 2006
    9
    Short but Sweet.
  8. FrankB.
    Jun 5, 2006
    9
    Great levels, animations & sounds. Story is still one of the best I seen, and looks like it will be a jaw dropper of an ending. Only reason this isn't a 10/10 is because I would have liked to have played through another two/three levels, and would have been nice to be brought into some newer enviorments to hl2. Can't wait for ep2!!
  9. GregW.
    Jun 7, 2006
    9
    Not much is the way of weapons just like half-life 2, It has good gameplay and also the citidal levels were very fun. I like to use the doors that you go into the ball tube with and use them as sheilds so you don't have to dodge them.
  10. MahnpritJ.
    Jun 9, 2006
    9
    Great gaming and story continuation. Could be an hour longer by adding more enemies at certtain points. I wish to see more alone time without Alyx during gameplay. I'm not saying the change is nessecary, it would just feel more classic.
  11. MikeP.
    Jun 9, 2006
    9
    This game is very fun and keeps up with the fast pace set by the original. A must have!
  12. ZachC,
    Jul 1, 2006
    9
    I thought it was a exellent continuation of the Halflife saga. Although it was really short it had exellent lighting and the grafics. I also liked the commentary add in, the surprises (like the airship crashing in the cididel in the very begining) , how you had to use ur brain to solve the varies tasks, and to combat the varies enemies that u faced. I didn't like how we had to use aI thought it was a exellent continuation of the Halflife saga. Although it was really short it had exellent lighting and the grafics. I also liked the commentary add in, the surprises (like the airship crashing in the cididel in the very begining) , how you had to use ur brain to solve the varies tasks, and to combat the varies enemies that u faced. I didn't like how we had to use a flashlight most of the begining and that we had to rely on Alyx for protection so many times. I think that u should also give us guns earlier because the gravitygun is kinda useless because i ended up having to fall back several times and having to turn on my flashlight like in dark places so Alyx could fire and protect me. But the AI system is very creative and the addin of Alyx jokes is hillarious, but sometimes gets pretty annoying. Plus the game would be more interesting if u added in a voice for Gordon Freeman like other games have done in the past like Duke Nukem for instance. But overall I thought it provided a great storyline and I can't wait for the next one to come out.… Expand
  13. ThomasA.
    Jul 22, 2006
    9
    I am close to give it a 10, i enjoyed this small episode than i enjoyed whole HL2, the reason is as simple as this: it contains much less boring parts in it. The voiceacting keeps the same high quality and while the lip syncing is top notch, some facial expressions arent quite just there yet. The scripted sequences with Alyx and Dog are absolutely lovable, and having Alyx doing pranks on I am close to give it a 10, i enjoyed this small episode than i enjoyed whole HL2, the reason is as simple as this: it contains much less boring parts in it. The voiceacting keeps the same high quality and while the lip syncing is top notch, some facial expressions arent quite just there yet. The scripted sequences with Alyx and Dog are absolutely lovable, and having Alyx doing pranks on the player in the darkness makes her really feel like a person, a fearless one atleast. The darkness can be abit overwhelming when you have a flashlight that leaves alot to wish for, and the almost too frequent use of the gravity gun made me cringe at times. What i really liked about this that i was able to finish it in about 4 hours, one straight sitting with only a toilet break every now and then, when i played HL2 i only played 2h at a time, just because i knew it was larger and frankly, quite boring. I will defenitely be getting the second episode, and are waiting unpatiently for it.… Expand
  14. mwagner
    Jul 3, 2006
    9
    Finally got a chance to finish this game and I'm stunned at how much fun it was. The underground parking garage levels were absolutely amazing...And the NPC AI has improved significantly. I loved all the puzzles in the game, EXCEPT the antlion holes having to be covered over by cars. That got old quick.

    Overall, an amazing game. Can't wait for episode 2!
  15. DJBreslin
    Jul 4, 2006
    9
    I enjoyed it a lot. You play almost the entire episode with Alyx, which I considered refreshing. She
  16. Miles
    Jul 7, 2006
    9
    Great stroy really sucks you in. Only problems are way to short i really wish they could have given it a little more time at least i hop EP2 will come out real soon to make up for short gameplay.
  17. TobyK.
    Jul 9, 2006
    9
    EP1 is a very good addon. I don't agree with those who say that it's too short. Remember that you didn't pay the full price, just one-third. And that is what you get with EP1: one-third of an addon. There are still 2 episodes more to come which i'm realy looking forward to play.
  18. CalebM.
    Aug 2, 2006
    9
    Any fan of the Half Life series will like the gameplay and storyline in episode one. However, finishing the game the first time you sit down and play it will leave you wondering if you got 20 bucks worth of a game. You would expect at least one new weapon but all you get is the same type of gameplay as the first with a couple different use your head puzzles. It is a good continuation of Any fan of the Half Life series will like the gameplay and storyline in episode one. However, finishing the game the first time you sit down and play it will leave you wondering if you got 20 bucks worth of a game. You would expect at least one new weapon but all you get is the same type of gameplay as the first with a couple different use your head puzzles. It is a good continuation of Half Life 2, but, you are left wishing you got more for your money at the end.… Expand
  19. DrewH.
    Aug 2, 2006
    9
    It was a great continuation to the story and the graphics and AI are top-notch, it was a tad to short and hopefully the second episode can keep the momentum.
  20. Turtleproof
    Aug 24, 2006
    9
    It was short but sweet. Using the flashlight to such an extent was sometimes exasperating, but the new sceanrios were good, as well as the puzzle elements. Seeing Alyx use a shotgun was great, and her invincibility was appreciated despite how strange it was. Great job on the Zombine voice-overs.
  21. StephenG.
    Aug 26, 2006
    9
    Good continuation from the original HL2, maybe a little shorter than I would have liked, but it has taken a few sessions to knock it off.
  22. DanieleD.
    Sep 27, 2006
    9
    An excellent job, the HDR is used very good.
  23. ArdjanS.
    Sep 3, 2006
    9
    The only minor downside to EP1 was that it indeed was a little short, but seen in the perspective that several such episodes will create an ongoing storyline, I am very happy with this choice of development path. Price is fine, EP1 is infact worth every penny for true HL2 lovers. Recommend to start in Hard mode to fully enjoy the challenges the game presents you. The nuisance of dieing The only minor downside to EP1 was that it indeed was a little short, but seen in the perspective that several such episodes will create an ongoing storyline, I am very happy with this choice of development path. Price is fine, EP1 is infact worth every penny for true HL2 lovers. Recommend to start in Hard mode to fully enjoy the challenges the game presents you. The nuisance of dieing (and yes you WILL die - many times) only adds to the experience ;-) Other upsides: Marvellous "interaction" with Alyx Fantastic Gfx Challenging puzzels Very nice dev. commentary with background info. Just dont enable it when you play it for the 1st time as it will spoil the game at times (reveals upcoming events) Story is left wide open for next episode Keep them coming!!!… Expand
  24. AlexanderK.
    Dec 13, 2007
    9
    One of my favourite games. That's very intresting and fun, but so shortly. Excellent game with not boring story. A lot of people love this game, and i too.
  25. CemeronB.
    Oct 22, 2007
    9
    Fantastic game.... Great continuation of the second.
  26. Jamil
    Dec 30, 2007
    9
    Adds new elements to combat, full HDR, brand new AI and adds more to the story of Half-Life.
  27. jayRedlief
    Oct 9, 2007
    9
    Great game! very fun, must have played it hundreds of times, pre-order the orange box just for episode 2, the zombie level gave me a thrill! but was to short(if you know what your doing) and would have loved to use the super gravity gun in other levels. And piloting an air vehicle wouldn't have hurt.. ; )
  28. JasonP.
    Feb 16, 2007
    9
    Excellent game. Can't wait till Episode 2 is released. My only disapointment was that it wasn't as big as Half Life 2. HL2 took me weeks to finish. HL2-E1 took me a few days. Other than that.. It would have gotten a 10 from me as the games shelf life is vastly reduced.
  29. BrendonC.
    Feb 22, 2007
    9
    Being able to command some antlions would have been good just after you kill the big warrior one although I know that this would have made call for more enemies.
  30. SB
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    Very slick and smooth, a bit too short but exellent gameplay!!! Now hope that episode 2 comes out soon!!!
  31. TimB.
    Sep 12, 2007
    9
    Great graphics. i think it helps in the story line a little but it should have been longer. a little to short on game play in my mind.
  32. DG
    Mar 13, 2008
    9
    It's an E X P A N S I O N - not a NEW game! I was satisfied, except for the wierdness never intended to even have an answer. True, Alyx and Dawg were annoying and slow to catch up, but overall, I think it was fun. I'm looking forward to affording Ep 2. I do hope the environments change a bit more in Ep 2...
  33. MatthiasS.
    Apr 4, 2008
    9
    The storyline playing on and you'll find new quest in the tradition of HL2. But in my mind playtime is too short!
  34. ChrisDixey
    Jan 6, 2009
    9
    Half-Life 2: Episode 1 is just what fans of Half-Life 2 itch for after finishing the game, it's plot driven, it's challenging and it's fun. Admittedly, without being a fan of the Half-Life series the game has little to bring to the table that can't be found in it's predecessor, however, for anyone who has played Half-Life 2, Episode 1 is plot-heavy, action packedHalf-Life 2: Episode 1 is just what fans of Half-Life 2 itch for after finishing the game, it's plot driven, it's challenging and it's fun. Admittedly, without being a fan of the Half-Life series the game has little to bring to the table that can't be found in it's predecessor, however, for anyone who has played Half-Life 2, Episode 1 is plot-heavy, action packed and really gives more of a focus on everyone's favourite side kick, Alyx.… Expand
  35. AaronW.
    Oct 13, 2006
    9
    Magnificent. Was what Half-Life 2 should have been throughout, though Alex's drooling over Gordon getting tiresome.
  36. TylerW.
    Dec 24, 2006
    9
    Though visually less polished than Half-Life 2, Episode one feels like some of the better level design and puzzle solving experiences of the series all brought together in one installment. It's well paced, well acted and directed. The NPC support was even stepped up a bit, making Alex feel more like a companion rather than computer AI. Overall, it can't be beat for $15-20 and Though visually less polished than Half-Life 2, Episode one feels like some of the better level design and puzzle solving experiences of the series all brought together in one installment. It's well paced, well acted and directed. The NPC support was even stepped up a bit, making Alex feel more like a companion rather than computer AI. Overall, it can't be beat for $15-20 and offers some great fun that won't eat up all your time.… Expand
  37. ChrisM.
    Jun 11, 2006
    9
    Overall I'm a big fan of the Half-Life franchise and this expansion is no different.
  38. MiguelM.
    Jun 12, 2006
    9
    Excellent sequel from Half-life 2. The first chapters are very nice, but later sometimes you may experience Deja Vu if you already played Half-life 2. The graphics are stunning, and runs well on a lot of hardware. I thought it was boring at parts, but it caught me to the end, which came too soon like all people say. Comparing 17-chapter Half-life 2 with 2 very large vehicle scenes with Excellent sequel from Half-life 2. The first chapters are very nice, but later sometimes you may experience Deja Vu if you already played Half-life 2. The graphics are stunning, and runs well on a lot of hardware. I thought it was boring at parts, but it caught me to the end, which came too soon like all people say. Comparing 17-chapter Half-life 2 with 2 very large vehicle scenes with only 5-chapter Episode One lets you wanting a lot more. It is good to know that Episode Two comes into the road soon so the wait is little. Finally this game is quite enjoyable, I strongly recommend you buy it if you liked Half-life 2. A pretty good job from Valve, as always.… Expand
  39. AndyC.
    Jun 17, 2006
    9
    Fabulous game. There's a lot of suspense and drama. Your computer needs to be quite fast to run it and there are some very slow load-up times, so it gets a nine.
  40. ChrisG.
    Jun 19, 2006
    9
    It was an amazingly good game to play with.I only give it a 9 because it was thrilling and full of action, but it had been so short. I fell that 20$ were way too much for it.And besides, I got very answers.
  41. Jay
    Jun 25, 2006
    9
    I liked it, it was one of the hardest games I have played, I got though it in a little under 3 hours. Same type of ending as Half-Life 2....come on, give Gorden a break now and then, you guys are gonna throw him in knee deep next episode, so give him a break for once.
  42. RogerV.
    Jul 16, 2006
    9
    Extremely cool, but maybe too easy.
  43. PatrickD.
    Jul 25, 2006
    9
    Excellent storyline addition, which satiated while still saying absolutely nothing. The only real quip I have is the lack of length. Other than that, Valve really out-did themselves, coming up with unique and creative puzzles and scenarios.
  44. JamesV.
    Jul 28, 2006
    9
    Great addon to the Half-Life 2 story, a bit short. It offers a diffrent kind of single player experience with teamwork. Very cool.
  45. RandyM.
    Aug 23, 2006
    9
    Astounding in almost every reason the first one was. But, with no new weaponry, and it's insanely short campaign, i'll have to deduct a point.
  46. RichV.
    Aug 26, 2006
    9
    it was a very good game and i really enjoyed it, and i cant wait to see ep2, and Alex Vance is Hwat.
  47. MacS.
    Sep 23, 2006
    9
    Great continuation, picks up right where the last one left off. New enemies and leaving wanting more.
  48. pcgeek
    Mar 14, 2007
    9
    It was a fun and exciting add to the original. However is was far to short. I hope it don't take to long to release episode 2. Was definitely well worth the money.
  49. JonathanL.
    May 22, 2007
    9
    Great game, could be longer and could have more AI interaction, but apart from that, great gameplay and good storyline.
  50. MichelT.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    Great game. Same great feel as Half Life 2. A little short but, I like how valve is releasing it in small sections. Brilliant move. A must play for HL fans.
  51. BenF
    Apr 29, 2008
    9
    Realy good game, but short only reason it is not a 10... most of you people say that you dont get a gun till late in the game well you start off with a grav GUN!!! and the best bart is you can kill people with it just like a GUN very good game just short
    P.S. it was funny seeing people rosting humans on a fire :)
  52. PhillipB.
    Nov 13, 2006
    9
    This game is off the hook, aside from a great story it has super cool graphic effects and will keep you play all night long. its sorta short but the difficult ranges and the game change completely with each level. I finished it in about 16 hours on easy, and am still struggling to clock it on hard so it is a thrillingly fun expieriece. get the full game from steam now for only $20 US!
  53. RikiH.
    Nov 28, 2006
    9
    The game, the story, the weapons, and the characters are great but the game itself is relatively short. there are other episodes coming out so I guess that the story will be longer.
  54. DanielD.
    Dec 28, 2006
    9
    The game mechanics are always top-notch, just like in HL2 the original, so its no suprise that this game gets high rating with me, I wish it was a tad bit longer thou.
  55. davenbettridge
    Sep 26, 2011
    9
    Half Life 2 has obtained legendary status as one of the most flawless modern games BUT the question does need to be asked: is Half Life 2 over-rated? My answer is Yes as all things are flawed (even Half Life 2), that's not saying the game is not one of the best the industry has provided in recent times, it is however just an interactive game with a lot of copied elements of other scienceHalf Life 2 has obtained legendary status as one of the most flawless modern games BUT the question does need to be asked: is Half Life 2 over-rated? My answer is Yes as all things are flawed (even Half Life 2), that's not saying the game is not one of the best the industry has provided in recent times, it is however just an interactive game with a lot of copied elements of other science fiction, it's not as original as many claim. Half Life 2 has awesome graphics, innovative physics, game play, fabulously designed levels and game moments but my point is that it shows how lacking and unoriginal the rest of the industry is - that many would claim Half Life 2 to be better than it actually is. If Half Life 2 is the best there is in single player gaming - then video games truely are lacking... HL2 is still a real achievement and Valve has something to be proud of.â… Expand
  56. GolovA
    Jun 10, 2015
    9
    Even though i played it first 8 years after its initial release, i enjoyed the game thoroughly due to its beautiful marrying of story-telling and pacing. Sounds simple, but most games (almost all) miss this masterful harmony in their gameplay. Half-Life 2: Episode 1 stars off from what seemed to be the end of the prequel and blows it out into a complete and full story of its own withEven though i played it first 8 years after its initial release, i enjoyed the game thoroughly due to its beautiful marrying of story-telling and pacing. Sounds simple, but most games (almost all) miss this masterful harmony in their gameplay. Half-Life 2: Episode 1 stars off from what seemed to be the end of the prequel and blows it out into a complete and full story of its own with skill and eloquence; the game does not let you rest until you finish it - always on the brink, always hurried on, always on the move, and always inside the story - i as a player loved the experience.… Expand
  57. cmpgk1024
    Nov 5, 2011
    9
    Half-Life 2: Episode One is an excellent game. It continues the great story started in Half-Life 2, and improves on the experience in multiple ways, such as the shading, lighting, and AI. Alyx accompanies you the entire time, and it makes for no boring and lonely levels like Highway 17 from Half-Life 2. Its only drawback is the incredibly short playtime, at 6-7 hours.
  58. Mushe
    Jun 12, 2012
    9
    If you liked the first, is a safe buy this episode, as history is its strongest point. In this episode there are not many new features such as HDR technology is incorporated and a significant improvement in the facial expressions. The campaign can be very short while somewhere a bit dense when we meet again with the zombies, but still very good because it lets you continue the story.
  59. lucidanarchy
    May 27, 2012
    9
    Half-Life 2 being my favourite game ever, I loved everything about the first episodic content and think anyone who has not played it should. Excellent game by a great developer!
  60. e_x_p
    May 14, 2012
    9
    The is possibly the earliest game in the form of DLC. But a goddamn good DLC unlike the greedy cheap contents offered nowadays. It's short but quite worth it.
  61. Wpnfire
    Aug 6, 2012
    9
    Valve definitely stepped their game up in Ep. 1, which I didn't think was possible. This game is just simply excellent. The difficulty can still be a bit frustrating at times, and VERY inconsistent, but the game gets so much easier every time you play through it. The music, like in Half-Life 2, is timed perfectly, and I'm not kidding, it plays right into the gameplay. The music selectionValve definitely stepped their game up in Ep. 1, which I didn't think was possible. This game is just simply excellent. The difficulty can still be a bit frustrating at times, and VERY inconsistent, but the game gets so much easier every time you play through it. The music, like in Half-Life 2, is timed perfectly, and I'm not kidding, it plays right into the gameplay. The music selection is also perfect, some rock-oriented music here, some spooky ambience there. The most notable improvement in the game is in the NPCs, namely Alyx. The sense of complete isolation that I felt when I was playing Half-Life 2 is not present in this game. You feel like you're actually part of something, and not someone who just goes around doing everything by themselves, although that STILL happens a great deal. My only legitimate complaint is in the gameplay elements that Half-Life 2 had. Whatever happened to the huge amount of puzzles present in Half-Life 2, you know like physics puzzles? Ep. 1 is mostly combat, which is not a good direction for Valve, because it only makes me think of the features not present in this game that other shooters have. The puzzles were what made this game SO interesting, they need to go back to that. However, I would still rather play this entire episode than play the last few chapters of Half-Life 2. Those were mercilessly hard, and particularly brainless. Speaking of endings...Ep. 1 has to have one of the most epic endings I've ever seen in a video game, and it's all because of the excellent graphics and sound. Seeing such an awesome ending was just what needed to happen after the difficulty in achieving it.… Expand
  62. Spazzie
    Sep 19, 2012
    9
    Date night on the Half Life train. Too bad she had to go home early. Oh well, there is Episode 2 to look forward to. After spending several days with the original Half Life 2, I was disappointed to have completed Episode 1 in just 3 sittings.
  63. AWG
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    Short, quick, sudden... and fabulous. This game is from 2006 and still its graphics are better than many nowadays titles. Also, Alyx is hotter than usual and totally into you. Terrific.
  64. iddqd4
    Jan 22, 2018
    9
    HALF-LIFE с эпизодами до сих пор не устарел, все еще перепрохожу раз в несколько лет на Xbox.
  65. MichMart
    Mar 1, 2014
    9
    Episode One is for me as good as Half-Life 2! And Alyx is a nice character (imagine Episode One and Two without Alyx!). My only issue is the short gameplay.
  66. fateappointed
    Feb 3, 2014
    9
    Story: 8 out of 10, Graphics: 9 out of 10, Fun: 9 out of 10, Controls: 9 out of 10, Ease to Learn: 8 out of 10, Length: 7 out of 10, Re-play: 3 out of 10, Value: 8 out of 10
  67. jacob4
    Jun 23, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An interesting little continuation of the second game, but seriously, couldn't the story be a bit longer? You can seriously beat this game in like a day. But even though the story is short it was nice to to go on an adventure with close companion Alyx and develop a somewhat close connection. The sections of pitch blackness increases the fun game play value, and sort of amps up the horror element. So if were left hanging from the ending of Half-Life 2, get ready to play Episode One and be left on another cliffhanger where you escape City 17 and into the woods, but that's a story for Episode 2!… Expand
  68. aasecr14
    Jan 6, 2015
    9
    Almost as good as the first half life 2. Spectacular gameplay. The antlion level drags a bit, but who cares, you get to blast bugs in the face with your shotgun! If you want to know what happens after HL2, you won't be disappointed.
  69. Heisenberg93
    May 25, 2015
    9
    Episode One was really great. A nice way to continue the story after the end of Half-Life 2. The longevity was pretty good, and it was fun to complete. However it was clear how it was part of a larger project, and that the best was yet to come. Episode One is only an interlude to what will actually happen then.
  70. Sanastusa
    May 11, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Picking up where Half-Life 2 ended, Episode One added some crazy events to the game that made it feel like a better game. Was a fun playthrough to extend on the story to end on yet another cliffhanger. Thankfully I have episode two installing as I write this review because I need to play it and see what happens. That is what makes playing Half Life 2 so much fun, the ending and not knowing. Needing to play the next episode....or like everyone else waiting for Half Life 3 ;D.
    Positive: Juiced up gravity gun to start and rollermines
    Negative: Still waiting for that kiss with Alyx! Come on!    … Expand
  71. XV_
    Aug 8, 2018
    9
    Played it on a PS3. Episode One is a very good follow up of an amazing game, it maintains its core gameplay and expands it to a more complex level, the only thing is that is that is very short (like two hours or so) but if you're like me and you're playing this on 2018 you have a little more HL2 waiting for you. My favorite part and maybe in the whole series is when you're stuck in thePlayed it on a PS3. Episode One is a very good follow up of an amazing game, it maintains its core gameplay and expands it to a more complex level, the only thing is that is that is very short (like two hours or so) but if you're like me and you're playing this on 2018 you have a little more HL2 waiting for you. My favorite part and maybe in the whole series is when you're stuck in the dark and the thing goes like full survival horror, just sublime.… Expand
  72. KingJailson
    May 30, 2018
    9
    Apesar de curto é muito foda, e ainda prefiro o episodio 1 do que o episodio 2
  73. default_access
    Jul 9, 2018
    9
    Few companies tease its customers as well as Valve. 1998's Half-Life ended on an intriguing note, with series hero Gordon Freeman basically being "recruited" by the mysterious G-Man to work for him as a dimension-hopping commando. But fans were really caught off guard by the ending of 2004's Half-Life 2, as Gordon and ally Alyx Vance were caught in a massive explosion. Rather than have usFew companies tease its customers as well as Valve. 1998's Half-Life ended on an intriguing note, with series hero Gordon Freeman basically being "recruited" by the mysterious G-Man to work for him as a dimension-hopping commando. But fans were really caught off guard by the ending of 2004's Half-Life 2, as Gordon and ally Alyx Vance were caught in a massive explosion. Rather than have us wait years and years for the outcome of that cliff-hanger, Valve has taken the series into episodic territory to get us answers more quickly. Half-Life 2: Episode One is the first in a new trilogy of episodes that are scheduled to be released over the course of the next year. (You don't need to own Half-Life 2 to play Episode One, as it's a stand-alone product, though it would definitely help if you did.) And Episode One is a memorable romp through the Half-Life universe, with gameplay that's even more satisfying than that of Half-Life 2. The only downside is that, due to its episodic nature, it's over far too soon.… Expand
  74. PalpetineSheev
    Mar 20, 2020
    9
    Of course it isn't as good as Half-Life 1 or 2. It never was going to be and it never planned to be. Its a great continuation of the story from HL2 and very entertaining and satisfying in it's own right.
  75. killer1237
    Oct 24, 2018
    9
    While Episode One is not as good as the base game or Episode Two, it still is a must play for Half Life fans.
  76. RazorSamurai
    Jan 17, 2019
    9
    Намного лучше чем оригинальная вторая часть.
  77. Hayter
    Nov 10, 2019
    9
    Долго не мог придумать, о чём писать, да и какая разница, это всё равно никто не читает.
    Здесь 2к+ оценок, никто не обратит внимание на мой отзыв.
  78. MatikTheSeventh
    Oct 10, 2020
    9
    A great follow-up to the cliffhanger HL2 left us with, but the decision to cut the game into pieces is strange.
  79. SilverOrlov
    Oct 5, 2019
    9
    If you went through the first and second part of the game, then the first and second episode are necessary to fill in the gaps of the story left after the second part.
  80. trarantino
    Dec 29, 2018
    9
    Игра шидевр! Просто лучшая игра всех времён и народов. Какая графика, какой графон!
  81. Cz3rw0ny
    Feb 11, 2021
    9
    The story of Morgan Freeman continues, and this is a decent expansion. The changes to HL2 might not be dramatic but with each expansion the graphics were slightly improved.
  82. MYP
    Jun 18, 2021
    9
    I know some people consider episode one flawed or sorta like a bridge between Half-life 2 and episode two but i still think it's a perfect expansion pack.
  83. TommyLee
    Feb 1, 2020
    9
    Not as strong as Half-Life 2, but still provides excellent gameplay and a strong continuation of the Half-Life story.
  84. KarolP
    Aug 21, 2020
    9
    Succeed continuation of remarkable game. Short campaign, but diversed enough with few memorable moments. Technical develop is rather unnoticeable. Most of missions are interesting and exciting even today. Like HL 2 game is linear, but the action is well distributed, using Alyx potential to be a great comrade. There are some movement issues (especially blocking on another character) whichSucceed continuation of remarkable game. Short campaign, but diversed enough with few memorable moments. Technical develop is rather unnoticeable. Most of missions are interesting and exciting even today. Like HL 2 game is linear, but the action is well distributed, using Alyx potential to be a great comrade. There are some movement issues (especially blocking on another character) which still were not solved. Episode One's quality is similar to the one from HL 2 and it is definitely worth playing.… Expand
  85. Henker
    Apr 20, 2020
    9
    Excellent, first because I found the levels very well elaborated and the story of this game despite being relatively simple, because it was just the protagonist Gordon Freeman and Alyx trying to escape City 17 made the game quite short, but in compensation it made me have a good time more than the previous Half-Life 2 itself.
  86. KapralDominik
    Jul 20, 2022
    9
    Прямое продолжение, вышедшее в виде отдельной игры, хотя тянет максимум на небольшое дополнение. Все также держит темп оригинала, добавляя схваток с новыми противниками, челленжами (одна пуля) и представляя новый взгляд на измененный Сити-17, через который нам и предстоит совершать последний забег. Итого: 9.Прямое продолжение, вышедшее в виде отдельной игры, хотя тянет максимум на небольшое дополнение. Все также держит темп оригинала, добавляя схваток с новыми противниками, челленжами (одна пуля) и представляя новый взгляд на измененный Сити-17, через который нам и предстоит совершать последний забег. Итого: 9.
  87. MacMountainGoat
    Sep 27, 2020
    9
    This will go down in history as one of the greatest shooters of all time. Epic story, great blend of extremely dark setting with sprinkles of humor, insane graphics/voice acting/environments for its time, and great blend of puzzle solving and shootout arenas.
  88. Schmchr
    Jul 16, 2021
    9
    A great sequel to its predecessor, Half-Life 2, but it couldn't beat it, it's a great game and I recommend it for anyone to play.
  89. C4teater
    Jul 25, 2020
    9
    Episode 1 feels like a polished form of Half Life 2 (HL2), albeit very short. This game picks up on what I thought was a satisfying ending in HL2, and has a cheesy way of bringing us back into the story. However, once it gets going it is well written and feels more enthralling than HL2 and ends on a solid cliffhanger that makes you want to play episode 2. The puzzles/map design and fightsEpisode 1 feels like a polished form of Half Life 2 (HL2), albeit very short. This game picks up on what I thought was a satisfying ending in HL2, and has a cheesy way of bringing us back into the story. However, once it gets going it is well written and feels more enthralling than HL2 and ends on a solid cliffhanger that makes you want to play episode 2. The puzzles/map design and fights felt just as if not more difficult. Different parts of the game often gave me a since of urgency whether it was trying not to die or the writing of the plot. Overall, this game is a short but very sweet, unnecessary addition to HL2.… Expand
  90. PatitoCosmico67
    Jul 29, 2020
    9
    Una secuela con una historia relativamente corta, pero que la lleva la historia bastante bien, en todo momento
  91. storygamer
    Aug 30, 2020
    9
    If you love Half-Life 2, its Episode One is an equivalent sequel. Cool story, beautiful graphics, impressive physics and dynamic sound. Fine!
  92. FRIST_008
    Jun 14, 2021
    9
    Целостно и сюжет и геймплей не плохой, но из-за монотонности происходящего, игра не тянет на 10-ку.
  93. kimi1775
    Nov 9, 2020
    9
    ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎ ‏‏‎
  94. TremendousMan
    Apr 25, 2021
    9
    Episode 1 felt really short, it was still very good but not the perfect continuation like Half-Life 2.
  95. SadenRedTT63
    May 21, 2021
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Episode one is not exactly a new experience, and it doesn't advance the story that much. Episode 1 and 2 should have been combined together and packed into one episode, but i think Valve was really scared about developing the next Half-Life experience for another 6 years. The gameplay in episode 1 is more challenging, the puzzles got a bit simpler but they are still ok and above average, the atmosphere is what really makes this episode awesome, Valve art directors nailed the tone and feeling of the situations in this game, that part where you have to wait for the elevator was so good; it reminded me a lot of the last of us; a game that came 7 years after episode 1. Half-Life 2 episode 1 is still a fantastic first-person shooter continuation of the legendary Half-Life 2, yes, it is very short but it's worth your time and money.… Expand
  96. Ka3rA_freeman
    Jun 8, 2021
    9
    این اپیزود برای ادامه دهنده این بازی عالی بود فقط یکم زود تموم شد ولی پایان نفس گیری داشت
    در کل عالی بود
  97. Goodbadcritic45
    Jun 26, 2021
    9
    I never liked Valve's idea of episodic entries but hey that was their choice. I'm just giving my idea about it. The first episode of Half-Life 2 definitely puts you in some memorable and immersive moments but it isn't the perfect Half-Life 2 that i was expecting. The episode's length is surprisingly short and i finished the whole thing in two days. The lack of environmental variety and newI never liked Valve's idea of episodic entries but hey that was their choice. I'm just giving my idea about it. The first episode of Half-Life 2 definitely puts you in some memorable and immersive moments but it isn't the perfect Half-Life 2 that i was expecting. The episode's length is surprisingly short and i finished the whole thing in two days. The lack of environmental variety and new weapons definitely is present but as this is more Half-Life 2, i won't take that into consideration. Episode one is definitely worth playing but its length may disappoint some of the players.… Expand
  98. Torment3837
    Jul 12, 2021
    9
    The first episode of Valve's episodic nature to continue the story certainly was a brilliant piece of first-person shooting but it lacked the true diversity and innovation that Half-Life 2 brought with itself. Episode 1 had some very high moments in particular the hos3and the core and also some meh ones but in general the levels were executed perfectly. The best feature that this gameThe first episode of Valve's episodic nature to continue the story certainly was a brilliant piece of first-person shooting but it lacked the true diversity and innovation that Half-Life 2 brought with itself. Episode 1 had some very high moments in particular the hos3and the core and also some meh ones but in general the levels were executed perfectly. The best feature that this game added to the franchise was Developer Commentary; hearing all these fascinating behind the scenes stories was so refreshing.
    Episode 1 did improve some of the flaws from the base game such as the poor ally AI or interacting with the antlions and etc. In general Episode one feels and plays like a lesser experience but the writing and art direction simply makes up for it; the atmosphere of each Half-Life 2 title just gets better and better and Episode 1 is no exception.    … Expand
  99. EatmeApart881
    Jul 20, 2021
    9
    The first episode of Half-Life 2 is more great Half-Life 2 and still tremendously enjoyable. But it's rather short. I finished it in five to six hours in my first playthrough and three to four hours in the next ones. That might be my only issue with this episode, other than that it continues the story flawlessly.
  100. HyptoGamer
    Oct 8, 2021
    9
    Episode One is a great ride for Half-Life fans but its short length definitely turned down some people at the time. It has some of the most iconic and memorable character moments with Alyx and the adventure feels more gruesome and intense compared to the original title. There's a sort of urgency throughout the game that pushes you to continue through some of the scariest places inEpisode One is a great ride for Half-Life fans but its short length definitely turned down some people at the time. It has some of the most iconic and memorable character moments with Alyx and the adventure feels more gruesome and intense compared to the original title. There's a sort of urgency throughout the game that pushes you to continue through some of the scariest places in Half-Life's dark world and Valve's brilliant art and level design really show themselves during this chapter. Alyx's AI had a great jump making her a real companion during the game and seeing a corrupting City 17 really gives me shivers everytime that i go through it. There are still moments of challenge when the game puts you through some disturbing and unnerving moments making this chapter still a memorable piece from Half-Life's cryptic world.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best PC Game of 2006
1
#1 Most Discussed PC Game of 2006
82
#82 Most Shared PC Game of 2006

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 61 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 58 out of 61
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 61
  3. Negative: 0 out of 61
  1. Eurogamer
    90
    Just like the original Half-Life 2, Episode One keeps the player entertained almost the entire time through perfect pacing and by being inventive, surprising and getting the basics absolutely right. It's a wonderful advert for the excitement that true episodic content can generate when approached the right way.
    Read full review
  2. GameSpot
    87
    Episode One is a memorable romp through the Half-Life universe, with gameplay that's even more satisfying than that of "Half-Life 2." The only downside is that, due to its episodic nature, it's over far too soon.
    Read full review
  3. IGN
    85
    A brief, stylistically claustrophobic experience whose polish and personality manage to keep things moving.
    Read full review
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