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
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. RetR.
    Jul 4, 2006
    0
    Amazing.
  2. DJBreslin
    Jul 4, 2006
    9
    I enjoyed it a lot. You play almost the entire episode with Alyx, which I considered refreshing. She
  3. Paul
    Jul 4, 2006
    7
    [Minor Spoilers]
    Good addition to story? Yes, even though it was basically a movie version of Doom 3. Sure they introduced a new enemy, but it was almost exactly like the Command Zombie in Doom 3, fighting it even felt the same. The "Hospital" level seemed almost completely ripped out of Doom even.
    Better Graphics? Yes, slightly. Not once did I notice the "hard" edges around    [Minor Spoilers]
    Good addition to story? Yes, even though it was basically a movie version of Doom 3. Sure they introduced a new enemy, but it was almost exactly like the Command Zombie in Doom 3, fighting it even felt the same. The "Hospital" level seemed almost completely ripped out of Doom even.

    Better Graphics? Yes, slightly. Not once did I notice the "hard" edges around charactesr that HL2 had, and I'm still using the same brand new computer as I did a few hours ago for HL2. Other graphics enhancements? Didn't notice any.

    Ally AI? Sure, a lot of it was pretty good... except that within the first 5 minutes of having Alyx as a teammate she was stuck not 3 inches below my level, trying to run _through_ a stair instead of up it. Besides that I wish I had some of the moves she does, i.e. busting down zombies by beating them with my shotgun. Largely because it takes so long to get anything but a pistol, shotgun, or gravity gun.

    Advances to plotline? Yes, actually. [lots of spoilers for this part] You have to watch for it, instead of be sucked into the shoot-shoot-shoot-turn crank-shoot part of the game. I.E. Alyx starts hitting on you (Gordon) at one point. Also there's the message being sent out, yours, Alyx's and Barney's escape routes, so on and so forth. [end spoilers]

    The problem with all this is that it was released in an Episode for too much. Half-Life 2, takes say 20 hours (I know not for us more experienced gamers, but on average if you're not just trying to rip through it). Now if you paid 40 dollars for HL2, that means it's 2 dollars per hour. Episode 1, took me under 3 hours (and I had issues with some of it), but say 5 hours. Taking that same ratio, you should only pay 10 dollars for it.
    The way they're going now, the entirety of the "Episode" will be a 60 dollar game, that lasts 9 hours. Bit of a problem.

    Ultimately I'll still buy Episode 2 for the story (I see it as starting to bloom, and answer things, although at this rate very slowly). If Episode 2 isn't overall worth it, like Episode 1 wasn't worth it, then that's where I end the HL story for myself and I'd recommend others to do as well.

    Note [and spoiler]: They actually introduced 3 new enemies, but you only get to fight 1 of them; for those who weren't paying attention. Episode 2 is where you get to fight one of them more often.    … Expand
  4. AnsonG
    Jul 3, 2006
    5
    Half-Life 2 was a huge disappointment for me. Only 2 1/2 hour i finished this game. Why the valve created this game such a time like this? The game chapter were quite few, there is no new weapon at all, and theres only one new enemy creature, which is call Zombine. Yes, i like that enemy. The gameplay is your typical Half-Life 2 but there were only a few exciting and nervewracking momentsHalf-Life 2 was a huge disappointment for me. Only 2 1/2 hour i finished this game. Why the valve created this game such a time like this? The game chapter were quite few, there is no new weapon at all, and theres only one new enemy creature, which is call Zombine. Yes, i like that enemy. The gameplay is your typical Half-Life 2 but there were only a few exciting and nervewracking moments to be found. Anyway Episode One is worth a rental.… Expand
  5. 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!
  6. FerdinandM
    Jul 3, 2006
    0
    I can't even get the game to run for more than 10 min. without it hanging/audio loop. My system is new and meets all hardware requirements. I can play other non-valve games with no problem. I've contacted Valve support and their response is extremely slow and they don't offer any solutions. Many other users on steams
  7. MG
    Jul 2, 2006
    10
    The best expansion pack I have ever played for any game. With most packs, you get a lously game with nothing new, just a few more places to run around. But with EP1, you get your new maps, but it's jam-packed with enough story and excitement to make it it's own game. And for the babies complaining about it being too short: Great things take time to make. For example, a giantThe best expansion pack I have ever played for any game. With most packs, you get a lously game with nothing new, just a few more places to run around. But with EP1, you get your new maps, but it's jam-packed with enough story and excitement to make it it's own game. And for the babies complaining about it being too short: Great things take time to make. For example, a giant redwood tree takes 200 years or so to be elevated to it's giant stage. Not everything in the world has to be fsat and rushed out of a factory. Great things take time, and are worthwhile in the end.… Expand
  8. M.M.
    Jul 2, 2006
    10
    Best game ever!
  9. 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
  10. Davrosddd
    Jul 1, 2006
    3
    Nothing new, quickly completed, spoiled by Alyx (sp?) constantly chattering away (seems to be just a ploy for easy filler), poor value. The 'puzzles' are pretty weak - one 'stacking boxes' thing and one 'turn the lights out with monsters' thing.

    Episode 2 will need some *good* reviews from the public before I hand over another 20 bucks to Valve / Steam / whoever.
  11. RobB
    Jul 1, 2006
    10
    Awesome game. the graphics are just as good as the lastone, but the expansion to the story is why i really wanted to play it. The ending was very good, and I can't wait for Ep2 to come out. The fact that it is short doesn't really matter to me, because of the fact that it is an expansion to HL2, not a stand alone game.
  12. AllanConstable
    Jun 30, 2006
    5
    I loved half life 2 it was a good length and the only disappointment was the ending which left me quite bewildered (having completed EP1 i can now sleep easy:) ). Considering the shortness of this new game and the closed in feel of the levels i think the price tag was a bit too high and development time too long perhaps to tease that bit extra cash from the eager public. There was nothingI loved half life 2 it was a good length and the only disappointment was the ending which left me quite bewildered (having completed EP1 i can now sleep easy:) ). Considering the shortness of this new game and the closed in feel of the levels i think the price tag was a bit too high and development time too long perhaps to tease that bit extra cash from the eager public. There was nothing like the wonderfully long canals in HL2 the path was extreamly rigid in this title. Some of the visuals were breathtaking but there was no chance to explore at all. As many have said far to linear. The next episdode is looking far more promising as teasers are showing woodland. Please valve let us take a stroll this time. Just to see whats there.… Expand
  13. LawrenceS
    Jun 30, 2006
    7
    Very short but very nice. They did improve the engine added effects and tweaked and expanded the npc interaction. But those things are not visible enough for most players i guess. IMHO new weapons and mobs would not have greatly improved the gameplay. I praise valve for sticking to the storyline and not making just another addon like some ppl think it is.
  14. PYROFLAME
    Jun 30, 2006
    10
    Valve did it again! A expantion pack to HL2 was released and it IS GOOD!!! The graphix use the most out of your video card. You will enjoy the gameplay from the beginning to end. If you truly like gaming, this is the perfact game. The only problem is that the game is too short, but what else do u expect from a game thats $20.
    P.S. YES the AI of the enemies are good, you WILL get a challenge.
  15. EubieButt
    Jun 30, 2006
    8
    Just funushed Ep 1, so here's my im[pression while it's still fresh: gameplay wise, it's excellent, especially the final sequence in Nova Prospekt. Very tight, very well paced, and the dose of humor was a welcome addition. All that said, I have two major problems, the first being that as tight as the gameplay is, the programming is not; load times were egregious and theJust funushed Ep 1, so here's my im[pression while it's still fresh: gameplay wise, it's excellent, especially the final sequence in Nova Prospekt. Very tight, very well paced, and the dose of humor was a welcome addition. All that said, I have two major problems, the first being that as tight as the gameplay is, the programming is not; load times were egregious and the graphics made my computer chug at levels Half Life 2 never did. Second, obviously, is that it's much too short for a twenty dollar price tag. Ten dollars, fine, fifteen maybe, but at twenty bucks I'm shelling out five dollars an hour for gameplay, a ratio no reasonable gamer should accept.
    I also wasn't crazy about the ending, it works dramatically, but it's not nearly the level of payoff I was expecting. Was The Agent's VA off sick or something?    … Expand
  16. VanL.
    Jun 29, 2006
    10
    Awsome game with amazing gameplay and as always, wonderful graphics. Other people comment about how short the game was, well if they had a life and a brain they would realize that they were paying for a EXPANSION not a whole series.
  17. GeneT.
    Jun 29, 2006
    3
    Its just same as b4 only new is co-op with alyx till the whole game finish,sad nothing improves.
  18. ErikA.
    Jun 29, 2006
    9
    Very great gameplay, with the right mixture of scary and exciting gameplay.
  19. 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.
  20. LivingDog
    Jun 27, 2006
    0
    If anyone tells you that HL2 was "awesome" then they don't know HL. HL was the best game ever - all three versions. Fans wanted more - and nothing was delivered. The plot was incredibly thin - run here shoot things and repeat.

    So what are the fans raving about? The engine. That's it. Ok, the engine is the (current) best. But technology aside, there is no story, there is no    If anyone tells you that HL2 was "awesome" then they don't know HL. HL was the best game ever - all three versions. Fans wanted more - and nothing was delivered. The plot was incredibly thin - run here shoot things and repeat.

    So what are the fans raving about? The engine. That's it. Ok, the engine is the (current) best. But technology aside, there is no story, there is no drama, there are no puzzles... it's empty. And this does not make a game.

    I've played some pretty cheap, low budget games that were MUCH more fun than HL2. E.g. Duke Nuke'em - cheap 2D graphics, but a game I still haven't forgotten about.

    HL2: EP1 aka "the rip-off" continues.

    -LD
    ______________________________________
    my faith: http://www.angelfire.com/ny5/jbc33/    … Expand
  21. SteveP.
    Jun 26, 2006
    0
    I really wanted to come here and say good things about EP1 but, as has been mentioned all ready, it's way to short and there isn't even anything new to look at. If you want, download HL Lost Coast and play it twice. It's essentially the same.
  22. z0mbieJesus
    Jun 26, 2006
    10
    this game is just awesome.
    as i got it over steam, only cost me £12.80 (conversion rates r0xors)
    its well worth the money, and hardcore hl fans shouldnt be so annoyed just because its about 6 hours long, just over £2 an hour, cheaper than some adult phone lines. and well worth it
  23. RichardC.
    Jun 26, 2006
    10
    This was superb. I was on the edge of my seat wondering if I was going to make it out alive. I knew I needed to be cunning and fast. When will the next episode begin? You are to good at this to let it end there, there has to be another one.
  24. 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.
  25. T.S.
    Jun 24, 2006
    1
    very unhappy with the game. very small / short, nothing is accomplished in episode 1 a waste of 20 bucks in my opinion. No improvements to game play, weapons, or image quality. For having used scenes from hl2 (i.e. the reactor) and having the engine already this expansion was pretty sad, especially for the time they have had to do it.
  26. iananderson
    Jun 24, 2006
    9
    Absolutely fantastic. Carries on the Half Life story supberbly. At first wasnt sure how episodic gaming will go, but if this 1st episode is anything to go by then bring on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th...well you get the idea! Good ending aswell, makes you want to know what happens next to Gordon and Alyx, can't wait.
  27. [Anonymous]
    Jun 24, 2006
    10
    Half Life 2 was a masterpiece of game design, there is absolutely no question about that. The source engine, even two years later, is still one of the best game engines available. And havoc physics is unbelievable. In Episode One, they added a new facial animation engine and a new lighting engine, which made the game even more amazing. And the amount of detail that was put into the Half Life 2 was a masterpiece of game design, there is absolutely no question about that. The source engine, even two years later, is still one of the best game engines available. And havoc physics is unbelievable. In Episode One, they added a new facial animation engine and a new lighting engine, which made the game even more amazing. And the amount of detail that was put into the different maps was amazing! While it is true that there was not very much room for you to go on your own path through the game (for example, as there was with Far Cry), that's what goes with the territory when you make an episodic game. Overall, valve made another masterpiece.… Expand
  28. 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!
  29. JimK.
    Jun 23, 2006
    6
    Great graphics, good AI, let down by short story and were still been treated like Alice, that is kept to the yellow brick road so we don
  30. RachaelAllen
    Jun 22, 2006
    0
    Where are all these 10"s coming from? I can only guess they are a bunch of preteens or hired fanboys, cuz this game sucks! Extremely linear, cover the antlion holes with cars ad nauseum, if there is a valve to turn you are going to be attacked b4 you can finish, EVERY level is a "logic" puzzle, and youre stuck w/ the gravity gun for half the game. too short finished on difficult in<2hrs.
  31. RachaelA.
    Jun 22, 2006
    3
    What was that? A few logic puzzles and an hour of gameplay?! (half of which you only have the gravity gun) They will have to do a LOT better than this if valve wants anymore of my money. I had more fun playing Lost Coast, and it was almost as long as "episode" one! If you havent bought yet vote with your dollars, I cant recommend this "episode" for any reason.
  32. TylerC.
    Jun 21, 2006
    10
    I was astonished at how amazing this installment was. yes, it was twenty bucks but i thought it was still a pretty good value. if you want to play it again, i'd say download fakefactory's cinematic mod. very well worth it.
  33. MisterB.
    Jun 21, 2006
    8
    A section where you find yourself strolling back and forth in the same area for a prolonged period of time, saving civilians knocked 1 point off the score for me. Apart from that, this episode expands the Half Life universe further and creates more questions, left to be answered in the next chapters. This is really 'more of the same' - but that makes it more of the best FPS game A section where you find yourself strolling back and forth in the same area for a prolonged period of time, saving civilians knocked 1 point off the score for me. Apart from that, this episode expands the Half Life universe further and creates more questions, left to be answered in the next chapters. This is really 'more of the same' - but that makes it more of the best FPS game of all time, in my opinion.… Expand
  34. KyleP.
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    This was an excellent continuation to Half-Life 2, albeit a tad too short. I still enjoyed playing it, especially with HDR in the whole game.
  35. thestory
    Jun 20, 2006
    1
    Remember when you spent £40 on Half-Life2 and you played it to the end only to feel completly ripped off because the ending was just plain crap. well guess what you can now spend another £20 to see how they all survive. this time around this episode does not want to let you aff the tracks as you are guided without any freedom to do anything else through this realy short add on.Remember when you spent £40 on Half-Life2 and you played it to the end only to feel completly ripped off because the ending was just plain crap. well guess what you can now spend another £20 to see how they all survive. this time around this episode does not want to let you aff the tracks as you are guided without any freedom to do anything else through this realy short add on. you would think that they should have at least thrown in half-life source as part of the package but all you are offered is halflife 2 multiplayer and if you own HL2 it means you have the multiplayer game anyway. For the price they are asking you will feel let down and to realy rub salt into your already open wounds you are stuck with your retail copy as you cant trade it in. After valve screwed vivendi over you would think that they would sell the game fo a cheaper price because they got rid of the middle man, NO!! all Valve did was to assorb the extra money. ill Bet you all my complete game collection that after Mr Freeman gets to Episode III your gonna be left with another complete crap ending suggesting that the story will continue into Half-Life 3 and will also be followed by a further 3 exspansion packs, you all should all be ashamed for allowing episodic to get a foot hold because this will now give the go ahead for other software houses to rip us all off.… Expand
  36. ArtK.
    Jun 20, 2006
    6
    Disappointing!
    * the game was a 1 day game , too short
    *The game got no shoot action, I know action is not the point of the game but lack of it nakes it nothing * it is not as smooth as I expected it to be, it is not polished enough. By that, I mean the game got quite a lot of flaws in the design * Valve gave up :( , can't u c. Valve is making episodes cause they want money and    Disappointing!
    * the game was a 1 day game , too short
    *The game got no shoot action, I know action is not the point of the game but lack of it nakes it nothing
    * it is not as smooth as I expected it to be, it is not polished enough. By that, I mean the game got quite a lot of flaws in the design
    * Valve gave up :( , can't u c. Valve is making episodes cause they want money and all they do is say at the end of the game " oh, what happens next...BUY THE NEXT EPISODE AND FIND OUT"
    * 20$ = RIP OFF, C'MON ITS WORTH 8-12 $

    well, Valve forgot about the true meaning of the game. It is GRAPHICS ADVENTURE ACTION
    but replaced it with GRAPHICS ADVENTURE ALYX
    All this is is a rip off, the truth can be sad

    HL1 = 10
    HL2 = 8
    HL2 episode 1= 6

    see where this is going

    the game lost its replayability quality, and shooting action and if its 4 more episodes they are making, get a life cause that is 4 days of gaming for 100$ and probably 2 years of waiting
    People should start making something good and long like HL2 but not rush and make a worse game such as the aftermath    … Expand
  37. JohnS.
    Jun 19, 2006
    5
    As said elsewhere the game is SHORT, far too short for the money. Gameplay is same old, same old, with nothing new or innovative at all. As a fan of HL & HL2 I was sadly disappointed with this release, which falls well below par. To be honest the Lost Coast was better to play in my opinion. I hope that this isn't the way Valve is going, with poor quality and terrible value episodic As said elsewhere the game is SHORT, far too short for the money. Gameplay is same old, same old, with nothing new or innovative at all. As a fan of HL & HL2 I was sadly disappointed with this release, which falls well below par. To be honest the Lost Coast was better to play in my opinion. I hope that this isn't the way Valve is going, with poor quality and terrible value episodic releases. I'll be much more wary befor thinking of any purchase of Episode 2. Sadly disappointing.… Expand
  38. 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.
  39. DenisG.
    Jun 19, 2006
    10
    Well, I think Episode One is a game of "must have" type. Very good grafics (even now) , wonderful sound and brilliand work of voice-actors. Gameplay and AI - 10/10.
  40. 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
  41. KeithM.
    Jun 19, 2006
    10
    it is more fun than the half-life 2 we had to wait for 6 years and in Episode One ALyx follows u all the way its more fun like this than having to figure the game out on your own, though some people might find it more thrilling and exciting.
  42. HolyCrap
    Jun 18, 2006
    10
    Very great game sure its a lil short, but its only $20 all you people are say what a waste of $20. so what a waste of an hour of work...yeah right all you people giving it 2s should shut up and go away HL2 Ep1 is a great game.
  43. RuneW.
    Jun 18, 2006
    8
    A worthy episode to the half-life saga. Put me on the edge of my seat for 5 hours, and made me beg for more. A short and sweet extension well worth the $19.95.
  44. ???
    Jun 18, 2006
    10
    Very good.
  45. Chucky
    Jun 18, 2006
    7
    The game play is exerllent! The HDR is coming along, including character interaction, a shame the game was far too short!! I'd waited for ages to play, only to finish it in one night! I'm a hard-core gamer! And would still rate this game far higher than any current game around due to its posiblities! such as: graphics, gravity elements, gameplay, and more... Lets hope the HL2:E2 The game play is exerllent! The HDR is coming along, including character interaction, a shame the game was far too short!! I'd waited for ages to play, only to finish it in one night! I'm a hard-core gamer! And would still rate this game far higher than any current game around due to its posiblities! such as: graphics, gravity elements, gameplay, and more... Lets hope the HL2:E2 is a allot longer!… Expand
  46. -AnToN
    Jun 17, 2006
    10
    Come on people 20$ is 20$, you can't expect the same amount of play time as hl2 for 20$, if you think about it by the time you have 3 episodes you would have payed 60$, and you will have about the same play time as hl2 execpt we payed 100$ for hl2, I payed the money got the game and finished it in about 2 and a half hours, i wasnt expecting anything new from this episode and i Come on people 20$ is 20$, you can't expect the same amount of play time as hl2 for 20$, if you think about it by the time you have 3 episodes you would have payed 60$, and you will have about the same play time as hl2 execpt we payed 100$ for hl2, I payed the money got the game and finished it in about 2 and a half hours, i wasnt expecting anything new from this episode and i enjoyed it alot, i WILL buy the next installment and the one after that. Just a thing to think about, would you have said the same thing about hl2 is it was in episode form? yes you would have... how many hours did it take you to play hl2, it took me about 8, so if we pretend it was in episodes, 3 episodes = less than 3 hours a episode , see what im trying to get at? Its a good game and well worth the money… Expand
  47. ArthurA.
    Jun 17, 2006
    8
    It's a very good game, good script... but... we've already seen this kind of gameplay earlier: in HL2. New grafic features are nice, but we've already seen them in Lost Coast. And, especially, the game is EXTREMELY SHORT. But if you love HL2, you MUST purchase Episode One.
  48. 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.
  49. ScottR.
    Jun 16, 2006
    7
    A good continuation story to the Half Life Universe, some nice new touches to the machanics of the game. The A.I. has been in prooved in terms of allied NPC's, most puzzles remain challenging and imaginative. Let down by it almost feeliing like Ravenholm all over again not of progression in the story and FAR too short. Buy it through steam don't bother with the high street A good continuation story to the Half Life Universe, some nice new touches to the machanics of the game. The A.I. has been in prooved in terms of allied NPC's, most puzzles remain challenging and imaginative. Let down by it almost feeliing like Ravenholm all over again not of progression in the story and FAR too short. Buy it through steam don't bother with the high street prices it's not worth £20 imo but it is worth $20.… Expand
  50. Bear
    Jun 15, 2006
    9
    Although much of the gameplay is the same as HL2 - the overall storyline and new use of physics freshens the game to a 9. I would have liked to have seen some new weapons, but perhaps in the following episodes...
  51. KDep
    Jun 15, 2006
    9
    This is another good sequel in the HL universe. The biggest thing people complaigned to Valve about was lack of storyline and the mystery ending of HL2. Episode 1 does some to reveal where things are going, but it is only one part in 3. It's too bad Ep 2 won't be out until about Christmas, because I need to see what happens next. The gameplay and monsters are the same as HL2, This is another good sequel in the HL universe. The biggest thing people complaigned to Valve about was lack of storyline and the mystery ending of HL2. Episode 1 does some to reveal where things are going, but it is only one part in 3. It's too bad Ep 2 won't be out until about Christmas, because I need to see what happens next. The gameplay and monsters are the same as HL2, but with new puzzles and strategies. More forced use of the Gravity Gun is encouraged, also moving with Alyx the whole game leads to some different gameplay. Value at $20 is okay, and I may or may not play this again, but the variations in the game levels are enough to keep you seeing something new all the way through. Graphics and sound continue to be spectacular.… Expand
  52. [Anonymous]
    Jun 15, 2006
    9
    i can only give it an 9 because of how short it was, wich realy pissed me off. But over all the game was freakin amazing. the shhul had made it a little more long. This could have been one of the best games to come to the gamming comunity in a long long time.
  53. MichaelM.
    Jun 14, 2006
    7
    I think this game definitely lives up to the awesome experience that was introduced with HL2. However, EP1 was ridiculously short. After having played EP1, I don't think I'll be spending $20 on another one of these little "episodes." A good price tag for this game would have been $9.99. That is the worst part about the game - it just leaves you feeling like you were ripped off. I think this game definitely lives up to the awesome experience that was introduced with HL2. However, EP1 was ridiculously short. After having played EP1, I don't think I'll be spending $20 on another one of these little "episodes." A good price tag for this game would have been $9.99. That is the worst part about the game - it just leaves you feeling like you were ripped off. No questions are answered besides, "Do they live?" and in retrospect it seems the plot wasn't planned as a continuation of the story of HL2 but rather as an extension, once Valve saw all the potential that continuing the series had.… Expand
  54. DanielR.
    Jun 14, 2006
    8
    Great game. Great delivery. Too short. Way too short. Sin Emergence got the length about right.. ish. Half life 2 is the best game in the FPS genre and Episode 1 is a worthy sequel. The commentary is excellent and gives another reason to play it though, more of this please. Shame about the video bug.. An ending that crashes me back to the desktop is a bit of a let down. Still well worth Great game. Great delivery. Too short. Way too short. Sin Emergence got the length about right.. ish. Half life 2 is the best game in the FPS genre and Episode 1 is a worthy sequel. The commentary is excellent and gives another reason to play it though, more of this please. Shame about the video bug.. An ending that crashes me back to the desktop is a bit of a let down. Still well worth the cash and the time.. keep them coming Valve.. reason to play it though. shame about the video bug.. An ending that crashes me back to the desk top is a bit of a let down. still well worth the cash and the time.. keep them coming Valve..… Expand
  55. ZámbóG.
    Jun 14, 2006
    9
    It was a really good game...but I think I started hate this episodic thing.For example the end of the game...I can't wait for the next episode.Oh and I missed a newq weapon and it was too short.
  56. ReneMaes
    Jun 14, 2006
    0
    What is the use to vote here if you don't publish real clients opinions? I don't see my comments about the dreadfull "memory could not be read" error I posted days ago. I know I did: Prepay, wait for 2 weeks, download for hours, play none! Now have done all that is suggested on the Valve FAQ including flashing a more recent Bios with no avail. I can't even be critic,What is the use to vote here if you don't publish real clients opinions? I don't see my comments about the dreadfull "memory could not be read" error I posted days ago. I know I did: Prepay, wait for 2 weeks, download for hours, play none! Now have done all that is suggested on the Valve FAQ including flashing a more recent Bios with no avail. I can't even be critic, positive or negative, about EP1. I simply can't play it (while I can play HL2 without probs). 20$ in the bin. Thanks Valve. Will remember.… Expand
  57. ColinW.
    Jun 14, 2006
    10
    In no previous game have I played has so much obvious effort been put in to ensuring an NPC is eventually valued. In this case it is the character of Alyx. Once you have played through this episode you actually care for this NPC and it would actually bring about feelings of vengance and aggression if she were to be killed. In no other game have so many gamers become attatched to an NPC
  58. AndrewN.
    Jun 14, 2006
    7
    More of the same from HL2. FIrst part is by far the worst with only the grav gun to play with, gets better as more weapons become available. However good the graphics engine and physics are still only takes about 5 hours to complete so value for money is an issue.
  59. RufusGartonSmith
    Jun 14, 2006
    10
    By far the most intense game I have played in a long time, a major step away from the Half-Life 2's signature "it's just around the bend" half-hour vehicle sequences. Makes fantastic use of the source engine to produce fantastic visually rewarding landscapes and cityscapes. The panic and urgency of the rather unenlightening plot is reflected in the fact that the actionBy far the most intense game I have played in a long time, a major step away from the Half-Life 2's signature "it's just around the bend" half-hour vehicle sequences. Makes fantastic use of the source engine to produce fantastic visually rewarding landscapes and cityscapes. The panic and urgency of the rather unenlightening plot is reflected in the fact that the action doesn't seem to stop. When it does, you can be sure an interesting puzzle is ahead of you... and not one involving piling bricks on a see-saw as a means of getting to a higher ledge. It is fairly expensive (you should have preordered!) for the 5-6 hours experience that it provides but you can be sure that it's replayable many times over. Listening to the commentary (which I recommend you do after you play the game through at least once) makes it very obvious how much work, editing and fine-tuning has gone into making this fantastic game. I look forward to episode 2!… Expand
  60. AndrewSutherland
    Jun 14, 2006
    9
    This is a truly brilliant game which takes the Half Life 2 formula and refines it with varied and constantly enjoyable gameplay. The characters are brilliantly portrayed (Alyx especially) and i really started to feel attached to them by the end of the game. It is short but i feel its to be expected considering its named EPISODE 1. There is very little to critisise about this game... itsThis is a truly brilliant game which takes the Half Life 2 formula and refines it with varied and constantly enjoyable gameplay. The characters are brilliantly portrayed (Alyx especially) and i really started to feel attached to them by the end of the game. It is short but i feel its to be expected considering its named EPISODE 1. There is very little to critisise about this game... its totally bug free, runs well on most hardware and has HDR which looks very nice indeed if you have the hardware to enable it... I could only wish for a few more weapons, enemies and perhaps a vehicle scene. Buy this game!!!… Expand
  61. ChristiaanDevilliers
    Jun 14, 2006
    9
    Its a truly amazing game. Its makes use of a well balanced technique whereby gordon must solve puzzles and fight monsters accordingly. The phyics is amazing and the graphics is astonishing especially the game is programmed so well that lower end users can still experience good graphics! The only let down was that it was so short.
  62. JackW.
    Jun 13, 2006
    7
    Episode 1 was a great continuation of the Half Life story. I really enjoyed having a companion through most of the playable game. One glaring issue instantly smacked this reviewer's rating down from a perfect 10 to a mediocre 7. My jaw hit the floor when the game ended. Friends down the hall wondered why I just yelled "That's IT?!"
    I'm excited that Valve wants to    Episode 1 was a great continuation of the Half Life story. I really enjoyed having a companion through most of the playable game. One glaring issue instantly smacked this reviewer's rating down from a perfect 10 to a mediocre 7. My jaw hit the floor when the game ended. Friends down the hall wondered why I just yelled "That's IT?!"
    I'm excited that Valve wants to continue working on the Half Life universe, but for the next episode, they had better lower the price if all they are going to release is 4 to 5 hours of gameplay.
    Definitely NOT impressed for the $25cdn. that I paid for the "Special pre-relase pricing". Otherwise, loved it.    … Expand
  63. ryanmales
    Jun 13, 2006
    0
    half life 2......EXCELENT GAME!!! CANT WAIT FOR HALF LIFE 3!!!!
    half life 2 episodes........oh, ok well um, this should be good. More games and more time.
    half life 2 episode 1 for £20.....WHAT A RIP OFF!!!!! YOU GET AT THE MAX 3 HOURS ON PLAY FOR THIS GAME. COMPLETE AND UTTER TRASH. DO NOT BUY IT NULES U R A MORON!
  64. andyfinney
    Jun 13, 2006
    10
    Ok, so it costs 23 dollars for us brits but still it's worth the money. It's 4 - 6 hours as other people have stated to complete. It's a triology. Just wait for the others to come out. Coulsd have been longer but they really have gone to town with the physics and graphics. Damn it's still good after 2 years.
  65. MichaelG.
    Jun 13, 2006
    9
    I love the Half-life series and this new episode does not dissapoint. I can not wait for episode 2.
  66. BenR.
    Jun 13, 2006
    9
    Damn good game, was very immersive and some of the combat was more immersive than the original, but it was just too short with not enough puzzly bits, and Alyx did get annoying at times, i like lonely Gordon!
  67. MartinI.
    Jun 13, 2006
    5
    Im afraid I can only give this game 5 out of ten. Not because I didnt enjoy it, but because it was very short; way to short in fact. I enjoyed the new sections, the brevity of the episode left me feeling ripped off. Be aware I finished this in an evening and I am not even a full time gamer anymore! wait until it comes down in price, Valve has become what all successful corporations are, GREEDY!!
  68. 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
  69. JesseE.
    Jun 12, 2006
    7
    Its a very good game, with lots of action. It didn't have any of the stuff that I really liked from HL2, along the coast or rides in the vehicles. Overall, too short for $20, maybe $10.
  70. JerB.
    Jun 12, 2006
    10
    There's not much you can say about it. The lenght was a bit of a dissapointment, But not because it was so short (it was short) but because it is very consuming experience. Those 4-5 hours seem to pass very fast, simply because it's that much fun.
  71. DelaneyS.
    Jun 12, 2006
    10
    What an awesome add-on! It is definately worth the $20 to buy this game. Even though it is noticably shorter than HL2, there is just as much, if not more, fun and surprises packed into this game. zombines.....hehehe, get it, zombines.
  72. ReneMaes
    Jun 12, 2006
    5
    I became a fan of Half Life2 the minute I played with it the first time only two months ago! Discovery of Half Life1 after V2 made me realize the progress made by the team at all levels in a few years.
    I'm am now under the deep shock to have prepaid for Episode One and found myself with an unplayable game as it does crash on a "cannot read memory" at every start attempt (V2 works    I became a fan of Half Life2 the minute I played with it the first time only two months ago! Discovery of Half Life1 after V2 made me realize the progress made by the team at all levels in a few years.
    I'm am now under the deep shock to have prepaid for Episode One and found myself with an unplayable game as it does crash on a "cannot read memory" at every start attempt (V2 works just fine). Done all that is recommended by Valve on their FAQ with no avail. I don't see the Valve commercial service to a customer here, in saying a game user should flash his Bios and the like in order to play the sequel of a working previous version. Fact is: I paid, it does not work, I am a dissapointed customer and a frustrated player. I will say this everywhere until I get a decent reply to my mail (with system description attached) to Valve. At this moment no answer from them. Located in Bellevue it looks like some Microsoft habits leaked on Valve customer services.
    My 5 is not for the game (which I'm sure is again a masterpiece I can't judge today). It's for the lousy customer support. A FAQ is not sufficient guys!
    You need to address all customers issue. Or pay me back.    … Expand
  73. Pase
    Jun 12, 2006
    9
    Too short!
  74. OzW.
    Jun 12, 2006
    6
    Too short, need some new weapons. It may be cheap episode by episode, but in the end could be quite expensive. $20 for an evening.
  75. Dan
    Jun 12, 2006
    7
    The game itself is great. Amazing graphics, unique AI, intesnse action, and trivial puzzle-solving. But the game is just too short, you dont get your moneys worth, and its too much like the origonal HL2. Now, I get that valve is 'extending the story', which is fine....though why did they insist on making more of HL2 when it was perfect how it was? Why did they split it all up The game itself is great. Amazing graphics, unique AI, intesnse action, and trivial puzzle-solving. But the game is just too short, you dont get your moneys worth, and its too much like the origonal HL2. Now, I get that valve is 'extending the story', which is fine....though why did they insist on making more of HL2 when it was perfect how it was? Why did they split it all up and make it into different episodes? Why not just make one great, huge game? Conclusion: Stupid decision by valve just to draw in more profits...yet still a great gameplay experience.… Expand
  76. NB
    Jun 12, 2006
    0
    I saw here that some wrote "you won't be disapointed"..... well... they were wrong. this is the biggesty waste of $20 since.... um... there never has been a bigger waste of $20! Come on! it only has ~5 levels! there is nothing new. no new guns, no new enemies (except the zombines) the only thing new was the levels, which mostly sucked. who wants to just use the gravity gun for theI saw here that some wrote "you won't be disapointed"..... well... they were wrong. this is the biggesty waste of $20 since.... um... there never has been a bigger waste of $20! Come on! it only has ~5 levels! there is nothing new. no new guns, no new enemies (except the zombines) the only thing new was the levels, which mostly sucked. who wants to just use the gravity gun for the whole first level! i got enough of that in HL2!… Expand
  77. SeanK.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    This game feels even more like the original half life than the second one. There are way more electricity effects and surprise effects the first was famous for. It is also way darker than the second game and that made it awesome.
  78. StephenV.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    A wonderful continuation of the HL2 saga. Intense gameplay that leaves you salivating for episode 2. Rated.
  79. MatthewB.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    I've played many many FPS this quarter and this one is the only one worth my time. The commentary lends a vital human tone behind the scenes of valve. We get to know the process and developer mentality in the commentary mode, the rhyme and reason for most scenes in the game become apparent that way..
  80. SebastianF.
    Jun 11, 2006
    8
    I Thought it was Story wise pretty awesome. But if u look at what have changed....it is pretty weak. All Half Life Nerds (like me) will love this game and even spend the 20 Bucks. An ordinary FPS Shooter however, will not be satisfied with Episode one.In my opinion its an awesome game (improved Graphics awesome plot), but with little change.
  81. RickHoffman
    Jun 11, 2006
    4
    The game itself is entertaining enough. Not as good as the first two, but decent. What seems to be one issue is having to sign on to the Steam website to play a stand-alone game. It takes time to get in, you get programs loaded that you may or may not want, and just the simple fact that it takes time to get in to play. Another issue is the constant crashing. I have a decent system (2.4ghzThe game itself is entertaining enough. Not as good as the first two, but decent. What seems to be one issue is having to sign on to the Steam website to play a stand-alone game. It takes time to get in, you get programs loaded that you may or may not want, and just the simple fact that it takes time to get in to play. Another issue is the constant crashing. I have a decent system (2.4ghz w/1gb RAM) with all new drivers, new video card (ATI Radeon 9800) , new sound card (Creative Soundblaster Audigy 2ZS), yatta yatta, and it still freezes up with the only way out, turning the computer off physically and then bringing it back up. I really enjoyed Half Life, and all its incarnations, but this is getting to be too much. I may never buy another Valve game again. Clean up your act.… Expand
  82. NagaSadow
    Jun 11, 2006
    6
    The game was far shorter than I expected. For $20 I expected more than 2 hours of gameplay. It was nice to see the introduction of HDR into the game but there really wasn't much else here. The game was too easy, too short, and at the end of the day felt quite empty conpared to the origional. Hopefully Episode 2 will actually we long enough to make an afternoon out of.....
  83. BillP.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    The depths of personality and interaction added to Alyx and others is stunning. If you like to run'n'gun this is not the game for you. If you like to move through a real world appreciating all the set pieces Valve has laid out, and can enjoy participating in an environment and paying attention to characters and the things the say, you will have a blast.
  84. JukkaP.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    Absolutely suberb 5-6 hours! Big screen cinema quality gameplay, extremely polished. Only minor gripes are relative shorthness and extremely linear progression, but considering the quality these are really minor gripes! Can't wait to see ep2.
  85. Mr.E.
    Jun 11, 2006
    7
    A generally space-less shooter. The player becomes disengaged from the characters & scenarios of this game Each scene is more puzzle-based than Half-Life 2, and the interaction with Alyx is not cooperative enough to compliment such emphasis on puzzle solving. .
  86. ChrisM.
    Jun 11, 2006
    9
    Overall I'm a big fan of the Half-Life franchise and this expansion is no different.
  87. RyanL.
    Jun 11, 2006
    9
    Yes, it plays a lot like HL2, but takes familiar settings and gives them a new twist. Its certainly a good beginning for the episodes, and the next one should be awsome.
  88. ChrisC.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    Absolutely amazing. The line between game and movie is blurred even further with this new installment of Half Life 2.
  89. DavidR.
    Jun 10, 2006
    8
    I really like it wished it was a bit longer, there are a Few things tho that bugs me the Npc Ai is Asefull i cant tell you how many times Alex and barrney get in the way of you moving. cause they have to be right next to you. other than that it was fun.
  90. SamD.
    Jun 10, 2006
    10
    A little shorter than I would have liked, but Valve made up for it with an extremely polished game. Can't wait for Episode 2 :)
  91. AMAC
    Jun 10, 2006
    10
    great game not worth 20 should be free. torrent it save the trouble. also the 44 review made me laugh because it was actually 4.4 out of 5 not 44 probabily dragging the score down but oh well.
  92. QuestionDeca
    Jun 10, 2006
    8
    Great game, plays just like half life too but the story comes at you pretty fast, some of these things don't give you much of a pause between one death defying feat and another. Much more realism and even Emotion from one of the main charaters (Alyx) then before, especially since she Can and did die at least once my first time through. Though while the faster story keeps the Great game, plays just like half life too but the story comes at you pretty fast, some of these things don't give you much of a pause between one death defying feat and another. Much more realism and even Emotion from one of the main charaters (Alyx) then before, especially since she Can and did die at least once my first time through. Though while the faster story keeps the adrenaline up, I wish it didn't also not last as long.… Expand
  93. BrodieS.
    Jun 10, 2006
    10
    Great game, story follows on very well from the previous. Cant wait for Episode 2.
  94. RonyeG.
    Jun 10, 2006
    6
    The game is very easy and too short! The graphs are fine and yuo can play it with any average video adapter. $20 is too expensive for a 3 days game. HL2 was much better!!
  95. Bill
    Jun 10, 2006
    7
    Great start for the next release, but it was way too short for $20. I had it finished in 3 hours. The graphics and sounds were perfect and it had a great story line.
  96. TerenceC.
    Jun 10, 2006
    1
    all the same weapons from Half-Life 2, no new ones, only one new enemy creature, and well zombines are a disappointment, there's only 2-4 hours of gameplay, so it's not worth $20 very disappointed with you valve.
  97. PaulM.
    Jun 10, 2006
    9
    Terrific game series, super game play, but needs more story content. More,sooner please!
  98. JBobinski
    Jun 10, 2006
    6
    More frustrating than fun, especially the really dark parts.
  99. DonA.
    Jun 9, 2006
    9
    Half-Life 2 episode one has stayed as sharp as i was hoping, and the gameplay is one of the best you will find in pc gaming. I am very pleased with the low price and quality of game, and am eagerly looking forward to the next two episodes.
  100. MikeP.
    Jun 9, 2006
    9
    This game is very fun and keeps up with the fast pace set by the original. A must have!
Page:

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
See all critic reviews »