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. JJ2FAS4U
    Dec 28, 2021
    9
    For Xbox 360
    Atmosphere: 9
    Enjoyment: 9
    Gameplay: 9
    Graphics: 8
    Music: 8
    Story: 9
    Total: 8.67
  2. Targaryen006
    Jan 21, 2023
    9
    Good Things(+)
    -main Story
    -gameplay

    İt Could Be Better

    Bad things(-)
    -play time

    on record:4h
  3. Mastereed
    Mar 31, 2023
    9
    THE BEGINNING OF THE END

    BEFORE WE BEGIN: Half-Life 2: Episode One is a continuation of the story after the ending of the base game, deepening the rivalry between Gordon Freeman and his allies against the Combine forces. Episode One was developed by Valve Softwares in 2006 and is their first game to take advantage of the power of HDR technology, previously tested with Half-Life 2: Lost    THE BEGINNING OF THE END

    BEFORE WE BEGIN:
    Half-Life 2: Episode One is a continuation of the story after the ending of the base game, deepening the rivalry between Gordon Freeman and his allies against the Combine forces. Episode One was developed by Valve Softwares in 2006 and is their first game to take advantage of the power of HDR technology, previously tested with Half-Life 2: Lost Coast.

    ODD VISIONS:
    The game, being a continuation of a cliffhanger, begins abruptly, seeing Gordon Freeman and Alyx escaping from the Combine tower due to the events seen in Half-Life 2. The player starts off with only the energy manipulator, which soon transforms into its electric version. Being a stand-alone game, the beginning is built to be playable even by those who had not played the first one, offering the typical Valve learning curve.

    RUN FREEMAN RUN!:
    The gameplay of the first episode of Half-Life 2 is divided into two focal points. The first is the level design, i.e., everything including the puzzles and the approach to the game map, which is extremely superior to the first title. The introduction of several new mechanics brought a breath of fresh air that the first title needed. The second point, on the other hand, is the lack of new weaponry, which certainly brings boredom to anyone who played the first title and was already a limitation of Half-Life 2 compared to the first one. New enemies have also been added with this chapter, leading to new uncomfortable situations and consequently different approaches to combat. Finally, the plot turns out to be simply a continuation of the combat against the Combine forces, not leading to particularly interesting intrigue and ending with another cliffhanger that will introduce the second episode.

    RED SKY AT NIGHT, SHEPHERD'S DELIGHT:
    Aesthetically, apart from the addition of HDR, and thus improved in-game lighting and shadows, the graphics and models turn out to be identical to those of the first chapter.

    “WE’LL SEE ABOUT THAT”:
    As with the graphics, the audio part turns out to be the same as Half-Life 2, with the addition of several new original OSTs.

    BUT WHY 9?

    PROS:
    The pros of this title are numerous. The level design has been enhanced and improved a lot compared to the first title, but most importantly it has been thickened so as not to create boring void zones, which were present in the first title. In addition, there are numerous interactions and surprises in the puzzles that are very surprising. In addition, the game areas are, at least personally, much more interesting than those in the first one, even adding more frightening and anxiety-provoking areas based entirely on the use of the flashlight being completely immersed in darkness.

    CONS:
    The cons, on the other hand, besides the lack of new weapons, lies in some extremely boring game situations, such as the train part, where the player is required to go from point A to point B more than five times. Also, there are too many situations where the player is required to stand still to listen to dialogues, making those phases much more boring and lowering the tension and atmosphere.

    RATING
    Gameplay: 10+
    Music: 8
    Story: 9
    Level Desing: 10+
    _    … Expand
  4. threeoftendie
    Feb 5, 2023
    9
    Это одна из первых игр моего детства. И, несмотря на возраст и недостатки, о которых я сейчас узнаю от других, она не кажется мне плохой
  5. mawwex
    Jul 19, 2023
    9
    Really good but has the same style and architecture so it gets kind of boring, some of the bossfights feel drawn out and it doesn't have that same story-building that draws you forward automatically in other VALVe titles and the other Half-Life 2 parts.
  6. 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
  7. Novi4ekNone
    Feb 17, 2007
    8
    good game
  8. Josh.G
    May 29, 2007
    8
    Would have given it 9 for extra gameplay and 10 for new weapons and environments. Over all though it was fun!
  9. YermakirumY.
    Oct 29, 2006
    8
    Very good game.
  10. GregoryG.
    Jun 3, 2006
    8
    The main reason for the 2 point drop is the game play. The levels are a bit too long and often I find myself running out of flashlight batteries and being in total darkness, which is extremely annoying. Also, the creators still keep bragging about the physics. I am also constantly finding myself pulling wood planks out of doorways and shooting cars into antlion pits every level! It's The main reason for the 2 point drop is the game play. The levels are a bit too long and often I find myself running out of flashlight batteries and being in total darkness, which is extremely annoying. Also, the creators still keep bragging about the physics. I am also constantly finding myself pulling wood planks out of doorways and shooting cars into antlion pits every level! It's so annoying. There's just something different about this game from the original Half-Life 2. I am only on the fifth level, but I found that the cheesiest part so far was having my gravity gun turn super powerful again. Having my grav gun turn super powerful was somethign that was only good once. Almost like a treat for using the grav gun for the entire game in the originaly hl2. But bringing it back in the expansion, let alone right in the beginning, was cheesy. The grav gun in Doom 3 was cooler, because the space around the gravity beam looked distorted, almost as if it was distorting the fabric of the space is occupied. But this game does have some nice new perks like the ncie ominous sky and the flares (which is also a show-off the the lighting effects). Also, the zombine (mix of combine and zombie) soldiers. All-in-all, it could have been better. Also, I HATE escorting Alyx around. She's dead weight. If the devs had given you a gun earlier on in the game (which is what I would have preferred), Alyx would have been a useless character.… Expand
  11. AndrewH.
    Jun 5, 2006
    8
    Excellent Half Life gameplay as would be expected but its far too short. Still good game overall.
  12. DavidB.
    Jun 5, 2006
    8
    Great add on to HL2. Superb graphics, gameplay, level design. A few issues though: it's too short (but it's cheap!) and there are no new environments. Alyx is too tough and her bullets don't hurt you, which does reduce the realism significantly.
  13. MarekB.
    Jun 7, 2006
    8
    This is a great game not as good as original hl2 or counterstriek:source or halflife 2:lost coast but still a worthy addition to a gamers collection.
  14. GilbertoM.
    Jun 7, 2006
    8
    Great game, made by genius, but too short!!! Really too short for almost 20
  15. MikE
    Jun 9, 2006
    8
    a very good game. I expected it to be alittle longer. The graphics are excellent!! so is the sound. The gameplay great as well. For $20 its worth it. Can't wait for episode 2
  16. mike
    Aug 10, 2007
    8
    I want to know why people are giving this game a bad review, the most common reasons I've heard are
    1) no new weapons
    2) short 3)no new monsters 4) you don't get a gun till really late in the game 5) not a good value for money 6) valve is only doing episodes for more money &) I think everyone giving a good review is hired by valve to do so well, to start I was not    I want to know why people are giving this game a bad review, the most common reasons I've heard are
    1) no new weapons
    2) short
    3)no new monsters
    4) you don't get a gun till really late in the game
    5) not a good value for money
    6) valve is only doing episodes for more money
    &) I think everyone giving a good review is hired by valve to do so

    well, to start I was not hired by valve to give the game a good review, secondly, my theory for the "not much new" thing is that vavle wants these games to be as realistic as possible and as far as I know in episode 1 gordon wakes up like an hour after HL2, do you really think that the combine or the humans could have come up with any new weapons in an hour?!?!? or for that matter do you think the combine could have sent any new monsters within an hour?!?. next is the "the game was way to short, I beat it in two hours, no value to it at all" sure I agree it was short but why would you play a game to beat it as fast as you can, a game is supposed to entertain you and give you something to do other than use the infinite aux power cheat and sprint through the whole thing, and there is also the complaint of no story line, on one hand I agree having no story line was kind of a drag but in some games you really don't need one, in this case, the idea is escape the underground while avoiding zombies and death traps while trying to get a data pack to someone enough said right? and as for the value you ask? well think about it most good games cost like 30-50 dollars and some 50 dollar games are worse than a 20 dollar game. I bought HL2 plus all of the rest of the bundled games for like 20 dollars and the same with episode 1 so about 40 dollars total thats like 5 games for under the price of one 50 dollar game.finally, the only reason I am giving this review an 8 instead of a 9 or 10 is because of the late getting a gun issue and the too short issue.    … Expand
  17. MSG.Johnatone
    Sep 7, 2007
    8
    Valve is doing well as a money hungry monster, as they released this teaser on us which completely forgets what episodic gameplay is all about (I'm from the old-school Doom gen). Still, it gives us a little tease until Episode 2, which, considering the times it has taken to make E2, will hopefully be much longer. Worth twenty bucks? Hell yeah! Sure, it's only two or three hours Valve is doing well as a money hungry monster, as they released this teaser on us which completely forgets what episodic gameplay is all about (I'm from the old-school Doom gen). Still, it gives us a little tease until Episode 2, which, considering the times it has taken to make E2, will hopefully be much longer. Worth twenty bucks? Hell yeah! Sure, it's only two or three hours worth of gameplay, but it's fun the whole way through and the new zombine enemy adds some dangerous fun to the mix. Do not buy this if you [barely] meet the minimum system requirements, as the flashlight won't work on lower end machines and is required for an entire chapter (this little tidbit runied my experience the first time through). If you haven't bought it yet, wait for the orange box with HL2, HL2:E1, HL2:E2, TFC2 and Portal, which will be well worth it for new (and maybe even old, I'm getting it for 360 too) gamers.… Expand
  18. 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.
  19. TJD.
    Jun 2, 2006
    8
    I was highly amused and entertained, but the cost of the game was $18 for approximately 2 hours of play. This is twice as much as a movie at a theater (frankly, they are way overpriced too!). While I would probably pay the price again in the future it is a big ouch to know that you have to pay this much for something that should be much less now the Valve has taken advantage of the I was highly amused and entertained, but the cost of the game was $18 for approximately 2 hours of play. This is twice as much as a movie at a theater (frankly, they are way overpriced too!). While I would probably pay the price again in the future it is a big ouch to know that you have to pay this much for something that should be much less now the Valve has taken advantage of the Internet Distribution and Publishing model. I digress. Back to the point of the review. The episode is nicely done. There is what I feel a strong and exciting plot that carries the essence of HalfLife throughout the full two hours, yet provides some exciting new twists that make ya go hmmmmm..... Yes, the story remains very convoluded to you and I. We are, afterall, Gordon Freeman. We have no clue what's hapening but we are starting to get pieces of the puzzle to put together the whole picture. The level of immersion is, in my opinion, the best yet. I was living as gordon Freeman for two hours. the objectives are engaging, and while relatively simple to solve, are unique and clever. Valve seems to have a niche in the clever department. I recommend this game to anyone who is a HL fanatic and to anyone who hasnt played Halflife before it is a quick way to get addicted and play the previous two games.… Expand
  20. CoreyT.
    Jun 3, 2006
    8
    I thoroughly enjoyed Episode One as an attachment to HL2. Although making some variation in the approach to Episode One, Valve continues to produce the same world of engaging battles and puzzles. The addition of Alyx as a sidekick adds a refreshing feature, as well as the new "Zombine" and other enemies. I found that the ending was much better than HL2, providing some closure of the I thoroughly enjoyed Episode One as an attachment to HL2. Although making some variation in the approach to Episode One, Valve continues to produce the same world of engaging battles and puzzles. The addition of Alyx as a sidekick adds a refreshing feature, as well as the new "Zombine" and other enemies. I found that the ending was much better than HL2, providing some closure of the overall mission of getting your ass out of the City 17. The humor and writing in the game was well done, especially the scenes with Dog. I did, however, mentally note that some parts of the game I was drudging through, such as the elevator section of Lowlife and parts of Urban Flight. The real thrill was all done in the beginning of the game with preventing the collapse of the Citadel, but after that the action started to get boring. While Episode One does provide a nice continuation, I wished for something more storywise, although the prospect of the "transmission" Alyx copied will keep me guessing. Another nice job by Valve, but just a little lower than expectations.… Expand
  21. GavinL.
    Jun 4, 2006
    8
    I believe Half-life 1 and 2 are the best first person shooter games to date. Episode one was good. It does explain a lot of missing information, but it leaves you hanging again. It also too short, with no new weapons. Either if you enjoyed Half-life 2 you will enjoy this too. Its only 20 bucks and the second episode will be out soon too.
  22. TimothyB.
    Jun 5, 2006
    8
    Great game, Worth every penny but I missed the toys like the Flying Boat and Cars and it was over way too fast. Not used to this Episode Gameplay thats why. Still worth every penny.
  23. MichaelM.
    Jul 26, 2006
    8
    I just finished playing the game thought for the first time and I have too say that I was overjoyed on what I saw. I was happy with the game in that it keep true to HL2 in that it never got boring and keeps you on your toe's with new puzzles. Also new and fun ways too kill your enemies. and is it just me or has the AI gotten better. overall though the game didn't provide much inI just finished playing the game thought for the first time and I have too say that I was overjoyed on what I saw. I was happy with the game in that it keep true to HL2 in that it never got boring and keeps you on your toe's with new puzzles. Also new and fun ways too kill your enemies. and is it just me or has the AI gotten better. overall though the game didn't provide much in the way of a new expectance itself as much of what happen it Ep.1 is just quick redo's from HL2. it did provide to the story of HL2 and was a great continuation of HL2. One more big concern I have is will freeman lose his weapons at the beginning of each episode since they will be made as separate games or will each episode be and expansion of the last. I really don't want to have to be yelling at the beginning of Ep.3 saying that someone should get that man a back pack so he will stop losing his gun!!! also if I treat all the eps like one game losing my guns all the time would get really tedious. And one more thing. they did very well in the original with the creation of original weapon, monsters, and different types of battle conditions, which I saw little of in this game. Lets make these episodes like a real expansion not a VERY well put together fan scenario with only old enemies, weapons, and worlds. OK I might sound a little like I didn… Expand
  24. AndrewF.
    Jul 7, 2006
    8
    It is Half Life 2 with a little new material, but not enough in my opinion. It was also too short, but the graphics and action etc. make up for that.
  25. DavidL.
    Jul 8, 2006
    8
    It's amazing!! But it's too much short and the extra: Half Life Deathmatch Source it's too bad, it's the same than the old Half Life Deathmatch.
  26. JosephG.
    Oct 3, 2007
    8
    I would have given this game a 9 - the usual great storyline unfolding etc all rank this game highly. The increased partnership with Alyx made this very good. Being deaf - subtitles made this game just almost perfect. What bought the score down was that it was perhaps a bit short. This could be forgiven if Episode Two came out soon after - ie 6-9 months later...but not over a year (and I would have given this game a 9 - the usual great storyline unfolding etc all rank this game highly. The increased partnership with Alyx made this very good. Being deaf - subtitles made this game just almost perfect. What bought the score down was that it was perhaps a bit short. This could be forgiven if Episode Two came out soon after - ie 6-9 months later...but not over a year (and half?) later. That bought the score down, but everything else - it's a great game. It's a great story. You care what happens to characters and even some corny humour thrown in - brilliant!… Expand
  27. StephenP.
    Mar 20, 2007
    8
    This game has only 1 flaw: it is too short! Half-Life 2: Episode 2 would've been perfect if it just squeezed in 9 more hours of gameplay.
  28. JagdeepS.
    Aug 4, 2008
    8
    Half Life 2 original was better, I was so much more drawn into the game. This just doesn't have the sametype of story that was instantly catching you and you not wanting to quit playing.
  29. LukeT.
    Nov 10, 2006
    8
    A very immersive and beautifull sequal to Half Life 2, You feel very attatched to the characters from before and it really shows that chaotic feeling of frantic fighting and intense moments of uncontrolled action. The downside is the amount of game for the money, it is short in length but they have gone all out in every part. The first thing that really takes your breath away is the sky, A very immersive and beautifull sequal to Half Life 2, You feel very attatched to the characters from before and it really shows that chaotic feeling of frantic fighting and intense moments of uncontrolled action. The downside is the amount of game for the money, it is short in length but they have gone all out in every part. The first thing that really takes your breath away is the sky, ash is falling all around you, its real eye candy and had my heart going from the start. Recomended for HL2 fans. Eagerly awaiting the next installment.… Expand
  30. 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
  31. 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.
  32. 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
  33. 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.
  34. 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
  35. GrahamG.
    Jun 6, 2006
    8
    Very well done. Another new enemy and some new weapons and/or characters would have made this game even better. Even though it's an expansion pack, I felt it was just a tad too short. Another hour or so would have been great. Plus a few performance issues have arisen for many players including myself. Other than these minor flaws, Valve has done a great job.
  36. Korben
    Jun 6, 2006
    8
    un peu court mais l'intrigue continue et les graphismes sont hallucinants!!
  37. FlipvanRijn
    Jun 7, 2006
    8
    Very nice game. The story is well tuned and you keep playing. Although the levels in the dark were less cool, but it didn't bother. The game had a very nice gameplay and lots of clues to solved. Characters and graphics were nice too.
  38. MattB
    Jul 28, 2006
    8
    An excellent game with amazing AI, story, and gameplay. However it was over before you noticed, and too similar to HL2. After seeing the trailer for the next episode I see that they've added a new enemies (or enemies) and hopefully a new weapon or two. If your a penny pincher, wait till these episodes get bundled.
  39. StephenKellett
    Sep 30, 2006
    8
    I found this game had too much of the same thing as in the main game, and gameplay was quite stingily short for the money. On the otherhand, a great game.
  40. RyszardSkotnicki
    Jan 25, 2007
    8
    Nicely cut. Keeps you on the verge of crushing either the sift W keys or the mouse primary fire. Lovely coulured scenes and the can't-be-mistaken-for-something-else Steam engine :-)
  41. DaveW.
    Aug 25, 2007
    8
    Episode 1 doesn't drop atall in quality from Half-Life 2. The only problem is that it's a bit too short, even for an episodic release. Still, you can't argue the quality.
  42. NickZ.
    Oct 5, 2008
    8
    It was nice to play some more HL2 and see the story continue. The game play was entertaining and gave me a fright sometimes. The game ended short and lacking, now downloading EP 2 to continue the story. Hopefully EP 2 gives a longer game play experience for the money.
  43. AndreB.
    Feb 27, 2008
    8
    Episode One comes and gives again the good experience that HL2 gave. But it's way too short. The company of Alyx Vance is very pleasant through the game and makes it different from HL2. It's great to finally see what happens after the "time-freeze" and to play the city 17 from the end to the beginning. From the Tower to the Station, it's a great experience. Unfortunately, Episode One comes and gives again the good experience that HL2 gave. But it's way too short. The company of Alyx Vance is very pleasant through the game and makes it different from HL2. It's great to finally see what happens after the "time-freeze" and to play the city 17 from the end to the beginning. From the Tower to the Station, it's a great experience. Unfortunately, the game is cheaper in US than in Brazil, where I happen to live... Here it's about 60 bucks!… Expand
  44. 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.
  45. NickJ.
    Nov 11, 2007
    8
    While this game is good, and it's graphics are nice, it isn't quite as addicting as regular HL2.
  46. StewartA.
    Oct 22, 2007
    8
    This game was up to the usual Half Life standard on gameplay and graphics although I feel that it was a little short and the storyline could have been a little better, although all in all a very good game!
  47. RandolphG.
    Mar 27, 2008
    8
    First: this is an EPISODE not a complete game, so it's short as a chapter of a book leading to the next chapter (Episode 2). It's an experiment of sorts by the developers to break up a big long game into episodes so that if one episode has problems & complaints they can fix it for the next episode. Ok, now for me it was a bit too difficult and had one point that seemed First: this is an EPISODE not a complete game, so it's short as a chapter of a book leading to the next chapter (Episode 2). It's an experiment of sorts by the developers to break up a big long game into episodes so that if one episode has problems & complaints they can fix it for the next episode. Ok, now for me it was a bit too difficult and had one point that seemed impossible to get through, however my rating is based on that there was not so much storyline involved in this one and the site was not my favorite (The Citadel). Episode 2 promises to be fantastic from what I've seen in terms of action (and hopefully story). Love the series though!… Expand
  48. ChrisB.
    Dec 18, 2006
    8
    i love hl2:episode one, but i can only love it for 3 hours total? this is an incredible game, but incredibly too short. i suppose the $20 wasn't too bad, though.
  49. Tubie
    Oct 9, 2010
    8
    It's hard to come up with a follow up after making what might be the perfect game (HL2) but this expansion or addon is great in itself and if it wasn't for the hype the ratings would be much higher. I would recommend this to anyone, even people that were not huge fan of the original game.
  50. Overrwatcher
    Sep 3, 2011
    8
    It's a lot shorter and less inspired than Half-Life 2, but the new stuff including extremely dark rooms, pushing cars into pits, and running around taking cover from a strider trying to gun you down. Worth the $7 if you're a Half-Life fan.
  51. FFStudios
    Jun 6, 2012
    8
    After the masterpiece that was Half life 2, Valve seemed under a lot of pressure to make Episode 1 live up to its predecessors. Overall, I found episode 1 to be an excellent, if a bit of a flawed entry, in the series. The story remains although NPC's have a tendency to spout plot points that are already quite obvious even to the daftest of players. Nevertheless, despite a lack ofAfter the masterpiece that was Half life 2, Valve seemed under a lot of pressure to make Episode 1 live up to its predecessors. Overall, I found episode 1 to be an excellent, if a bit of a flawed entry, in the series. The story remains although NPC's have a tendency to spout plot points that are already quite obvious even to the daftest of players. Nevertheless, despite a lack of innovation, Episode 1 is still a worthy follow up to the timeless classic.… Expand
  52. gilas18
    Nov 11, 2011
    8
    I found this episode a very good one, it picks up where the original game stops and as the game its basically the same but somehow i felt bored after a couple of minutes, its mainly because you play almost alone during the chapters, althought i liked it very much.
  53. shaun37
    Oct 26, 2011
    8
    Great fun as a whole and a welcome improvement in graphical quality over HL2 due to the inclusion of High-Dynamic Range and other subtle effects. Valve has worked wonders with the development of Alyx as a character in this game, with the help of industry leading facial animations and voice work. The enemy AI has been improved a decent amount and the level design is tight and intense (notGreat fun as a whole and a welcome improvement in graphical quality over HL2 due to the inclusion of High-Dynamic Range and other subtle effects. Valve has worked wonders with the development of Alyx as a character in this game, with the help of industry leading facial animations and voice work. The enemy AI has been improved a decent amount and the level design is tight and intense (not in a negative way). Unfortunately the game is too short for the standard asking price @ roughly 3-4 hours long, however those 4 hours were some of the most intense and fun I have experienced in a shooter in a long time. Recommend you buy it on special or as part of the HL Pack or Orange Box.… Expand
  54. Ztride
    Jan 20, 2012
    8
    An good follow-up to its mighty predecessor, altough it was very short (but also very cheap). It doesn't really change much from HL2 rather than just continue the story for a few hours.
  55. Mouse
    Jan 3, 2012
    8
    Not quite as well paced as its base game, but still very compelling. The sections tend to blur together, which only a surrealist would appreciate for their representation of a chaotic conflict on the brink of apocalyptic mayhem. The ending hits you like a .22 to the side of your fiberglass placeebo helmet, but it serves its purpose: heading up to the next section in this epic series.Not quite as well paced as its base game, but still very compelling. The sections tend to blur together, which only a surrealist would appreciate for their representation of a chaotic conflict on the brink of apocalyptic mayhem. The ending hits you like a .22 to the side of your fiberglass placeebo helmet, but it serves its purpose: heading up to the next section in this epic series. Though, my favorite part of this one is actually the recap of it in the beginning of Ep.2. Followed closely by the dynamic dialog between you and Alyx.… Expand
  56. watithink123
    Nov 3, 2012
    8
    This was really good add on. Not very long though and storys not as good but its still a really good and recommend if you loved Half Life 2. Half Life 2: Episode One 8.2/10
  57. Diego1390
    Dec 15, 2012
    8
    A short little story, but I explained allegedly happened after the explosion of City 17. Back to the Same, ie same graphics, same characters and same gameplay. This does not prevent is good because if it's the same this never bored
  58. sft
    May 22, 2013
    8
    Those darn headcrabs!

    EPISODE 1 starts immediately where Half-Life 2 ended. Basically it’s more of the same, and that’s more than welcome to a fan like me. If you want to know what I thought of HL2 I refer the reader to that review. Suffice it to say I loved it and Episode 1, although not as memorable as its predecessor, is still enormous fun to play. The only criticism I have of this    Those darn headcrabs!

    EPISODE 1 starts immediately where Half-Life 2 ended. Basically it’s more of the same, and that’s more than welcome to a fan like me. If you want to know what I thought of HL2 I refer the reader to that review. Suffice it to say I loved it and Episode 1, although not as memorable as its predecessor, is still enormous fun to play. The only criticism I have of this episode is that Valve haven’t given the narrative development as much thought as they did in HL2 and will do again in HL2 Episode 2. Still great fun though.    … Expand
  59. SnipingFalcon
    Jul 11, 2013
    8
    Don't get me wrong, this game is not a bad game, but its not a good game, either. The sequel to the original half life 2 has come! And is it a good game? Yes, is it better than the original Half-life 2? Not in the slightest. I think the most annoying part of this game is the overloading of enemies. Zombine are the second most annoying thing on the planet next to ant-lions. Do ant-lionsDon't get me wrong, this game is not a bad game, but its not a good game, either. The sequel to the original half life 2 has come! And is it a good game? Yes, is it better than the original Half-life 2? Not in the slightest. I think the most annoying part of this game is the overloading of enemies. Zombine are the second most annoying thing on the planet next to ant-lions. Do ant-lions really need to be a thing in the HL universe? The game is fairly short too, only reaching about 2-3 hours worth of game play before leaving you at a cliff hanger, that at the time pissed me off.

    There are good parts to this game, some of them i had a blast playing through, parts like the hospital, the train station part, and the fact that the game can keep you hooked, and the underground segment was a good idea, but executed poorly with the introduction of zombine and antlions. Overall it is a must have chapter that further develops the half life story with some major flaws.    … Expand
  60. DanySK
    Oct 19, 2016
    8
    More of the same Half-Life 2, plus there is Dog. Which means that is great game, and you should definitely play it. I have tested it under Linux, and it runs very well: if you play on such platform, grab it!
  61. PublicNuisance
    Nov 25, 2021
    8
    Half-Life 2: Episode One is kind of the black sheep of the Half-Life 2 games. It is a good game in it’s own right but it lacks the innovation of Half-Life 2 and it lacks the story of Episode 2 which is by far the best story arc of the whole series in my eyes. So we are left with a good game that is sadly forgotten in the mix by many because it is the middle child. All of the same greatHalf-Life 2: Episode One is kind of the black sheep of the Half-Life 2 games. It is a good game in it’s own right but it lacks the innovation of Half-Life 2 and it lacks the story of Episode 2 which is by far the best story arc of the whole series in my eyes. So we are left with a good game that is sadly forgotten in the mix by many because it is the middle child. All of the same great game play is back in Episode One. The story in itself is good and enjoyable. City 17 is now a war zone and the game revolves around trying to escape it. The graphics are just as good as Half-Life 2, no better but no worse. The game doesn’t have any of the driving sections of the original. There is however a great level taking place in a hospital which was almost as creepy as Ravenholm.

    I played Episode One on Linux. It never crashed on me. There are once again some AI issues. This time what happened to me was on a mission where I have to lead civilians to a departing train some of them got stuck in a wall corner and wouldn’t proceed making me have to reload a previous save. Outside of the AI issue I noticed no other bugs. There were 4 AA settings; 6 AF settings; a V-Sync toggle; 9 other graphics options and an FOV slider that went from 75-90. You could change the difficulty level at any time as well as manually save at any time. Performance was fantastic which wasn’t surprising given the game’s age.

    Graphics Engine: Source
    Graphics API: OpenGL
    Disk Space Used: 1.05GB (not counting HL2 base game)

    Graphics Settings: All Highest; 8x AA; 16x AF; blur off; V-Sync on; multi core rendering on; HDR full; 90 FOV; 1920x1080

    GPU Usage: 16-52 %
    VRAM Usage: 1022-1398 MB
    CPU Usage: 5-20 %
    RAM Usage: 2.7-3.3 GB
    Frame Rate: 137-144 FPS

    Overall I can’t say too many negative things about Episode One. It does it’s job well which is to further the Half-Life story. It doesn’t innovate but it also doesn’t make anything worse. I finished the game on the hardest difficulty in 3 hours and 48 minutes.

    My Score: 8.5/10

    My System:

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600X | 16GB DDR4-3000 CL15 | MSI RX 580 8GB Gaming X | Mesa 21.2.5 | Samsung 970 Evo Plus 500GB | Manjaro 21.2.0 | Mate 1.26.0 | Kernel 5.15.2-2-MANJARO | AOC G2460P 1920*1080 @ 144hz    … Expand
  62. Tomle1202
    Jun 1, 2022
    8
    Episode One's biggest problem is its short length, but that same downside is the reason for a more focused game with better pacing than the original.
  63. azeitona
    Dec 10, 2014
    8
    It's still Half Life, so it's an amazing experience right away. But, for the series standards, it has some down points. Like that underground level, filled with zombies. And it also is too short. But, anyway, it's obligatory for anyone who played Half Life 2.
  64. jelikey
    Mar 19, 2022
    8
    A short little story, but I explained allegedly happened after the explosion of City 17. Back to the Same, ie same graphics, same characters and same gameplay. This does not prevent is good because if it's the same this never bored
  65. russiangamer
    Nov 15, 2016
    8
    Геймплейно - это всё тот же HL2. По-скольку игра проходится за 3,5-4 часа, то она не успевает надоесть. Экшн, который в HL2 ближе к концу начинал навивать скуку, здесь делает это наоборот в начале. Но ближе к середине играть становится только интереснее. А вот сюжет... Его тут крайне мало, вопросы остались, а концовка хоть и эпичная опять, но так же обрывается на полуслове, прям сериалГеймплейно - это всё тот же HL2. По-скольку игра проходится за 3,5-4 часа, то она не успевает надоесть. Экшн, который в HL2 ближе к концу начинал навивать скуку, здесь делает это наоборот в начале. Но ближе к середине играть становится только интереснее. А вот сюжет... Его тут крайне мало, вопросы остались, а концовка хоть и эпичная опять, но так же обрывается на полуслове, прям сериал LOST какой-то...
    Вообщем получился крепкий боевик с неплохим экшеном и небольшой частичкой сюжета.    … Expand
  66. SrPepe
    Feb 23, 2019
    8
    Excelente .
  67. UncleEd
    Nov 30, 2017
    8
    I liked it more than Half-Life 2. It felt more focused, without any tedious and unnecessary gameplay moments. I also found the graphics considerably better. The negative side is the game is even more linear, stuffed with scripted scenes. At the end, I think this is a more polished game than the original, although pretty short.

    PS: Alyx is hot
  68. gold
    Oct 16, 2019
    8
    Хоть эпизод в разы меньше 1-й 2 части, но всё ровно игра кажется затянутой. Графика не изменилась, сюжет прост.
    Итог: 8.454/10
  69. mr-NachoMen
    Feb 25, 2020
    8
    Half Life 2 Episode one is in short terms a DLC that expands and continues the story of the base game after it ends in a cliffhanger, and it still retains great combat and the puzzle solving from the base game... sadly it does to little to improve over it's predecessor and you basically end off playing the same game but shorter.
    In the whole game there's just one new character or enemy    Half Life 2 Episode one is in short terms a DLC that expands and continues the story of the base game after it ends in a cliffhanger, and it still retains great combat and the puzzle solving from the base game... sadly it does to little to improve over it's predecessor and you basically end off playing the same game but shorter.
    In the whole game there's just one new character or enemy introduced a sort of alien thing that has mind control or something like that... i didn't pay to much attention to that part, and there's one new enemy type... yet another zombie but this has bulletproof vest that makes him handle more damage... out of that there's nothing new.
    The level design is not that amazing compared to the base game and you play in the same environments which are located in "city 17" streets and more streets.
    The combat remains great, I wish they could have add a new weapon or something like that. But no.
    The game has a pretty simple premise and objective... escape from city 17 with a bunch of survivors and that it, let see how it end in episode 2.
    Even that it did nothing to improve, the game stills be enjoyable and fun, and still worth your money... As i mention... it could have been better if they could have add more environments, weapons and more enemies and more new characters, i don't mind the short length.    … Expand
  70. sebastianali
    Jun 20, 2019
    8
    Este juego sigue la estela de Half Life 2 pero con una inteligencia artificial muy mejorada y unos graficos y diseños de niveles espectaculares. Sin embargo la falta de nuevo contenido y corta duración le quita varios puntos.
  71. Soullex
    Nov 29, 2022
    8
    Döneminde ilk çıktığı zaman oynamadığım için. Sonradan oynayınca, ikinci oyundaki mekaniklerin üstüne bir şeyler koymamış olmaları beni üzdü. Sonuçta bu bir ara oyun, demi?
  72. Genek13
    Nov 20, 2019
    8
    Great continuation to the original story. Overall gameplay and mechanics were outstanding :)
    Still enjoyable as hell :) Not a perfect expansion, but still great :)
  73. Shtern
    Jul 3, 2020
    8
    Сюжетное продолжение 2 части под названием Episode one. Если брать только сюжет, то все как обычно прекрасно, но вот с геймплеем становится хуже, потому что эта часть проходится за два часа
  74. Broyn
    Nov 18, 2021
    8
    I can say about the episode that it is very interesting, there are not enough changes, the gameplay has become much more dynamic and the whole game will be accompanied by Alix, who will help us in battle and comment on everything that happens. The main disadvantage is that the first episode is very short. Also appeared, a new type of zombie Zombine,he can get a grenade and run to you toI can say about the episode that it is very interesting, there are not enough changes, the gameplay has become much more dynamic and the whole game will be accompanied by Alix, who will help us in battle and comment on everything that happens. The main disadvantage is that the first episode is very short. Also appeared, a new type of zombie Zombine,he can get a grenade and run to you to blow you up. Although the game turned out to be short, it turned out to be very interesting for one thing. I recommend you go!… Expand
  75. yangfanhong
    Feb 9, 2022
    8
    It is kind of dlc of that time? Anyway it is a great game, though the name EPISODE ONE is a little weird.
  76. hileger
    Dec 3, 2022
    8
    это шедевр стрельба муа засасываю просто в десны гордона по физике ....
  77. drcoomer
    Mar 1, 2021
    8
    A very nice addition to the revolutionary series. Levels lack some variety but the Gordon and Alyx's compelling journey more than makes up for it.

    Overall score: 7.8/10
  78. DefaltWorld
    Jun 19, 2020
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Impresionante pero corto
    Imposible encontrarle un punto negativo a este juego, envegecio bien con el paso de los años,tanto en fisicas como en la cara de los personajes que aun me sorprende la de expresiones que tienen para ser un juego de ese año,lastima que no hicieron en capitulo 3 o half life 3 para ver como unian portal y half life
    Esta reseña es cojunta contando los este juego y los dos capitulos como uno unico    … Expand
  79. Onlyclassicvg1
    Jul 15, 2020
    8
    Half-Life 2: Episode One (EP1) es el primer título de la trilogía de expansiones para el videojuego de acción en primera persona, Half-Life 2. El episodio ocurre inmediatamente después del final de Half-Life 2, en los alrededores de la Ciudadela de la Alianza en Ciudad 17. El jugador es obligado a tratar con los efectos de sus acciones durante el primer juego. El episodio es un juegoHalf-Life 2: Episode One (EP1) es el primer título de la trilogía de expansiones para el videojuego de acción en primera persona, Half-Life 2. El episodio ocurre inmediatamente después del final de Half-Life 2, en los alrededores de la Ciudadela de la Alianza en Ciudad 17. El jugador es obligado a tratar con los efectos de sus acciones durante el primer juego. El episodio es un juego independiente; si bien es continuación de Half-Life 2, este no requiere que el juego original sea instalado o registrar una cuenta de Steam para jugar. Esto aprovecha varias mejoras principales al motor Source desde el lanzamiento de Half-Life 2, principalmente el HDR (High Dynamic Range o Alto Rango Dinámico ) y el sistema de animación facial mejorado.… Expand
  80. emilyratesgames
    Jul 21, 2020
    8
    Score: 8
    ------------------------------------------------------------------
  81. ErayTellezi
    Nov 17, 2020
    8
    Good old days. Asla bitmesini istemediğim oyunlardan birisiydi. Basit ama etkiliydi.
  82. Koleck0LP
    Oct 1, 2020
    8
    I enjoyed HL2 EP1 more than the base game the game seemed harder, more arena like and it took me less time to beat it I had less time to get bored. I remember being at the and saying this is a great time for it to end and it did so I feel like the game did it's job.
  83. DavidSoria
    Dec 2, 2020
    8
    Una continuación del Half Life 2 enfocada mas al cooperativo, bien acompañado de una muy buena IA

    Cambiando un poco el final de Half Life 2 mostrándonos a un G-Man "vulnerable" ante un conjunto de Vortigaunts uniendo sus fuerzas (cosa nunca antes vista literalmente) estos nos teletransportan a través del espacio-tiempo lejos de la explosión mientras esta ocurre, despertándonos entre las    Una continuación del Half Life 2 enfocada mas al cooperativo, bien acompañado de una muy buena IA

    Cambiando un poco el final de Half Life 2 mostrándonos a un G-Man "vulnerable" ante un conjunto de Vortigaunts uniendo sus fuerzas (cosa nunca antes vista literalmente) estos nos teletransportan a través del espacio-tiempo lejos de la explosión mientras esta ocurre, despertándonos entre las ruinas con el objetivo de salir corriendo de ahí pero antes teniendo que volver a aquellas instalaciones a retrasar una explosión para recién ahí irnos al ♥♥♥♥♥♥, esa es la introducción.

    Apenas comenzamos es obvia la intención de esta entrega a darnos una experiencia cooperativa, Alyx esta desde el principio hasta el final a nuestro lado y nosotros necesitamos de ella tanto como ella necesita de nosotros, al principio siendo nosotros los que permitirán avanzar (gracias a el Arma Anti-gravedad) para luego ser nosotros los que dependamos mucho de ella (ya que inicialmente no portamos armas de fuego), incluso hay ocasiones en las que nosotros solamente podremos alumbrar a los enemigos para que ella los mate, pero esto va mas haya ya que hay ocasiones en las que incluso estando separados existe la cooperación, como cuando Alyx usa el Rifle de la Alianza para despejarnos el camino a la distancia.

    El diseño de los escenarios es increíble, tiene muchos escenarios y distintas situaciones, en especial el Final Boss, que no es mas que un Strider, pero que a falta de armamento y escenario favorable para el jugador este Strider de lo cuales aniquilamos bastante presenta un verdadero reto.    … Expand
  84. Richard_dias
    Aug 14, 2023
    8
    They kinda dropped the ball with this one as far as I'm concerned (compared to HL2 and HL2:EP2 it is not as good), but still a pretty good game. Besides that, you need to play it before you go to Episode Two, which is one of the best games ever made.
  85. nazarkin123
    Mar 11, 2021
    8
    A little too short but a very cool game. One of the best games ever IMHO. Suggested.
  86. BrainlessCowork
    May 26, 2021
    8
    This is required playing if you love Half Life! It actually raps up the ending to Half life 2 without stringing you along which is always a good thing. Its just long enough to not feel short and there's enough story that i definitely feel like a got my moneys worth with this one. The Gun-play carries over from Half life 2 and still is amazing and it seems they fixed a lot of the clippingThis is required playing if you love Half Life! It actually raps up the ending to Half life 2 without stringing you along which is always a good thing. Its just long enough to not feel short and there's enough story that i definitely feel like a got my moneys worth with this one. The Gun-play carries over from Half life 2 and still is amazing and it seems they fixed a lot of the clipping issues I was having with the original. So all in all this games deserves the attention it got and still gets every day by the gaming community that loves and cherishes it.… Expand
  87. notidentified3
    Jul 30, 2021
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game. It's very entertaining. Although I didn't like the elevator part, where there was zombies. it was a bit difficult. I had to give it a few tries. Another thing, is that it was short. In conclusion, I think it's worth it.… Expand
  88. bruhman54
    Aug 2, 2021
    8
    It was good. Pretty much just Half Life 2 but a bit more. It was a bit short but Episode 2 makes up for it. Play it. The AI also improved well and Alyx is a great character to lighten up the mood.
  89. mariavkj
    Apr 19, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Pika, e gostei d+ que a Alyx tá por perto a maior parte do tempo, só foi meio curto… Expand
  90. DonldTrump_45Th
    Jan 26, 2023
    8
    Hello, this is a default review because i'm forced to use 75 characters. I'll edit this review in the future talking about the game, don't worry ;)

    My final rate is: 8
  91. petrkozak13
    Dec 12, 2021
    8
    Not as good as the original Half-Life 2 but still an awesome game. Must-play for every Half-Life fan.
  92. Hyperfailure
    Nov 27, 2022
    8
    (╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
    ┻━┻ ︵ ヽ(°□°ヽ)

    ┻━┻ ︵ ＼( °□° )／ ︵ ┻━┻

    ┬─┬ノ( º _ ºノ)

    (ﾉಥ益ಥ）ﾉ ┻━┻

    ┬──┬ ¯_(ツ)

    ┻━┻ ︵ヽ(`Д´)ﾉ︵ ┻━┻

    ┻━┻ ︵ ¯(ツ)/¯ ︵ ┻━┻

    (╯°Д°）╯︵ /(.□ . )

    ʕノ•ᴥ•ʔノ ︵ ┻━┻
  93. bakpak
    Dec 18, 2022
    8
    It still good since its half-life, but its not as interesting. Only 1 new enemy and you don't approach differently to other enemies but the dark gimmick is quiet fun.
  94. Magical_Viktor
    Apr 30, 2023
    8
    Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»Существуют просто Зло и Большое Зло, а за ними обоими в тени прячется Очень Большое Зло. Очень Большое Зло, Геральт, это такое, которого ты и представить себе не можешь, даже если думаешь, будто уже ничто не в состоянии тебя удивить. И знаешь, Геральт, порой бывает так, что Очень Большое Зло схватит тебя за горло и скажет: «Выбирай, братец, либо я, либо то, которое чуточку поменьше»
  95. DylanT.
    Aug 20, 2006
    7
    should be longer even though its an episode and should have more action and stay with its true meaning.
  96. Greg
    Oct 4, 2006
    7
    The game seemed, in terms of quality, to fall short in comparison to the original HL2 release. There were a few areas in the game where it felt things were just thrown together; or just fell short to the level of experience we've come to know and love. Still a cool game.
  97. JohnT.
    Jun 5, 2006
    7
    Absolutly brilliant - just too short.
  98. 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.
  99. 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
  100. MattG.
    Jun 3, 2006
    7
    CONS: Way too much money for such a short experience! Took two to three hours to complete the entire thing! Also, the game seemed to give me a lot more trouble a lot more often then the original HL2 ever did... Crashed a few times for no apparent reason. PROS: The game itself is great as Half-Life has and hopefully always will be. Great story, great gameplay and although it was only two CONS: Way too much money for such a short experience! Took two to three hours to complete the entire thing! Also, the game seemed to give me a lot more trouble a lot more often then the original HL2 ever did... Crashed a few times for no apparent reason. PROS: The game itself is great as Half-Life has and hopefully always will be. Great story, great gameplay and although it was only two hours it was an interesting two hours.… Expand
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 »