Half-Life 2: Episode One

 PC
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3112 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,622 out of 3112
  2. Mixed: 334 out of 3112
  3. Negative: 156 out of 3112
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  1. FireBird
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Cost
  2. ChrisD.
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    I will admit, this game felt shorter than expected, and when I finished it left me wanting more. But hey, isn't that what a good game is supposed to do? The animation anvances in Alyx was incredible and the storyline is greatly advaced in this expansion. I hope Alyx returns in episode 2, the additon of a partner through most of this game was a fantastic descision on the part of Valve.
  3. DanW.
    Jun 3, 2006
    9
    This game is really great but it is very short if you've played any other Half-Life game because if your new to Half-Life games then this game might be a lot longer and worth the price.
  4. MartinL.
    Jun 3, 2006
    3
    Today at half past 2 I purchased this game, an hour and a half later it had finished downlaoding through Steam and I could finaly play it, 3 hours and 45 minutes after that I had finished it... In my opinion Episode One to Half-Life 2 is what Blue Shift was to Half-Life, only shorter. Officially this year's biggest waste of 20 dollars.
  5. David
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    HL2 was GREAT, i think all players who played the game and are a fan wanted to spend more time with Alyx, and now you can! The graphics, storyline and AI in EP2 are FANTASTIC! I'ts certainly worth the 20$. EP1 leaves you aching for EP2 and HL3 and that's why it doesn't matter if the game only takes 4-6 h to finish it, you had so much fun playing it and wanting to know what HL2 was GREAT, i think all players who played the game and are a fan wanted to spend more time with Alyx, and now you can! The graphics, storyline and AI in EP2 are FANTASTIC! I'ts certainly worth the 20$. EP1 leaves you aching for EP2 and HL3 and that's why it doesn't matter if the game only takes 4-6 h to finish it, you had so much fun playing it and wanting to know what happens next that you can't wait for EP2 to be realeased . Ignore the people who rate this game below 7 or 8. I pitty them because obviously they have no taste and are just trying to make this game look bad. HL2:Episode One is a perfect example of how pc games should be like. It always keeps you in suspense and u never get tired of it. Great job Valve!!!!… Expand
  6. 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
  7. JMan_1_2
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Damn, this was a good game. A bit short though. Lots of trial & error.
  8. JanF.(CZE)
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    This game is NICE! And when you get all episodes and Half Life 2 so its over 26 hours of play time. I think all Half life is genial idea,and whos saing NO,isnt right player! I think a name-Gordon Freeman and Alyx will be never forgot,dont you think too? :)
  9. AdamS.
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    The essence of all the good things from HL2!
  10. KieranH.
    Jun 3, 2006
    9
    Half-Life 2: Episode One is undoubtly a thrilling adventure yet again. Great story, and an unexpected survival by Freeman and Alyx. I completed it in exactly 1 hour 27 mins, but despite its short length the game itself is amazing with all new gun and model textures. The crowbar had an especially bright glint to it, very detailed modelling on everything all in all. I give this a 9, I am Half-Life 2: Episode One is undoubtly a thrilling adventure yet again. Great story, and an unexpected survival by Freeman and Alyx. I completed it in exactly 1 hour 27 mins, but despite its short length the game itself is amazing with all new gun and model textures. The crowbar had an especially bright glint to it, very detailed modelling on everything all in all. I give this a 9, I am extremely eager to find out more of what happens.… Expand
  11. ChrisH.
    Jun 3, 2006
    9
    I found the overall gameplay BETTER than half life 2, as you wern't just left to solve a puzzle you stll had to defend from enemy attacks. Great game looking forward to further releases.
  12. 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
  13. Alex
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Game is really fun to play. In someways I would say it is better that HL2 in the fact that it gets on witht the game instantly and has action throughout it for about 5 hours. It is seriously fun to play and has little challenges throughout to make the player think and not feel like a robot. People complaining about price are stupid, £15 for 5 hours (What can you really buy with Game is really fun to play. In someways I would say it is better that HL2 in the fact that it gets on witht the game instantly and has action throughout it for about 5 hours. It is seriously fun to play and has little challenges throughout to make the player think and not feel like a robot. People complaining about price are stupid, £15 for 5 hours (What can you really buy with £15), Im happy atleast we didnt have to wait like 7 years! Also about how it took like 3 years to make this episode, well it didnt because they have also been working on EP2 at the same time so that the episodes come out very soon after each other. I say great game I just want some more!… Expand
  14. NicolasR.
    Jun 3, 2006
    10
    Brilliant game- don't worry about its length. It's definitly short but sweet!
  15. TomP.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Don't forget - it's better to have 4 hours of perfect gameplay-expirience, than playing a 12 hour boring standard-shooters.
  16. SlowJustice
    Jun 2, 2006
    5
    Game is just to short for the $$ for it. I have been a half-life fan since the day the first one was released. I would rather have waited and got the full game as to do in in chapters and be done with it in a day. I have told everyone I know how great hl is because you get a lot of game time for your money.. but this time I will have to say that as good as the game is, its not worth the Game is just to short for the $$ for it. I have been a half-life fan since the day the first one was released. I would rather have waited and got the full game as to do in in chapters and be done with it in a day. I have told everyone I know how great hl is because you get a lot of game time for your money.. but this time I will have to say that as good as the game is, its not worth the money spent on it.… Expand
  17. Hawke
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    I usually would give a "Perfect" game a 9, but I could not do that this time around. Considering that this is really just a whole new Half-Life game (not an expansion) based on the same engine (SOURCE) as Half-Life 2, and while still mainting a certain level of quality in it's in-game content, I chose to give it the credit a "non-sequel-non-expansion-pack type of expansion" game I usually would give a "Perfect" game a 9, but I could not do that this time around. Considering that this is really just a whole new Half-Life game (not an expansion) based on the same engine (SOURCE) as Half-Life 2, and while still mainting a certain level of quality in it's in-game content, I chose to give it the credit a "non-sequel-non-expansion-pack type of expansion" game deserves. Episode One plays so well into the Half-Life universe (more specifically Half-Life 2), that one would wonder why Half-Life 2 was not named "Half-Life 2: Part One" and the Episodes named "Part Two". Episode One really shows off the dynamics of the Combine and I found myself quite impressed at just how important the Citadel was to C17's existence... It wasn't just electricity that that thing was supplying to C17. Gameplay wise, Episode One feels so much more "Real" than the first Half-Life 2, simply because everything finally comes together in the story/gameplay aspect, while adding a little something of its own. It's far more dynamic than it's predecessor. AI is more dynamic and coincides whats going on at every moment in the game. It really adds a whole new level of quality to Half-Life 2. Technically speaking the game is hopped up on steroids compared to the first Half-Life 2. Everything runs far smoother than ever before especially if your Hardware supports some of the newer features like HDR, which realy gives Half-Life 2 the final touch that seems to have been in mind from the very beginning, but lacking in "Half-Life 2". All in all I would consider the game engine finally "Finished", but you know there will be more additions to come. You'll just have to play it to learn more about the story, but needless to say, the game leaves you a similar feeling that Half-Life 2 did, only more understand and in a bit shorter amount of time. Imagine compacting "Half-Life 2" into a third/half the amount of time without changing a thing. It kindof feels like that, defying the laws of physics.… Expand
  18. AustinK.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Extremely entertaining and very fun to play. Although a little to short for my taste, I could have bought a $50 game that still wouldn't have amounted to what I experienced during play. A very good game indeed and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Lets just hope episode 2 has a few more hours of play. Not that I would mind either way.
  19. BellinoP.
    Jun 2, 2006
    0
    Way to little content for Way too much Money. Don't fall for this rip off like I did.
  20. T.B.
    Jun 2, 2006
    7
    I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to Half Life 2, but for me it had one major disappointment - perhaps by its very episodic nature it lacked some of the scope that made Half Life 2 so spectacular. It didn't have any of the amazing open vistas and strong sense of journey that characterized Half Life 2, instead repeating the more claustrophic feeling of some of the former game's I thoroughly enjoyed this sequel to Half Life 2, but for me it had one major disappointment - perhaps by its very episodic nature it lacked some of the scope that made Half Life 2 so spectacular. It didn't have any of the amazing open vistas and strong sense of journey that characterized Half Life 2, instead repeating the more claustrophic feeling of some of the former game's latter sections. Having Alyx with you nearly the entire time completely changes the feeling of the game. Not necessarily in a bad way, but Gordon has always been, first and foremost, a loner. While the Half Life franchise has always had some of the best character interaction of any FPS, that sense of mostly being alone, and in control of what you are doing, has always been pervasive. Not so in Episode One, where you seem to spend most of your time following Alyx's directions like a faithful puppy dog. Although all that is perhaps worth it just to hear her ask if there is room for two in your hazard suit! The puzzles are mostly interesting and inventive, if usually fairly obvious. But always fun. On the positive side, the visuals are impressive. The story is fascinating. And it's a lot of fun to play. The gentle humor of Half Life 2 is also well and truly evident. Definitely worth the money, and looking forward to Episode 2.… Expand
  21. ChrisK.
    Jun 2, 2006
    7
    Fun and a nice continuation of Halflife 2 but for the price tag its rather disapointingly short.
  22. TuomoL.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    I can say that this game has the most interesting and therefore the best story ever, which almost by itself is a reason to give this game a 10. If this game didn't have a story like this, the score would be about 8. The game is quite short, but I find it worth all the money. It's great to have a more interactive and a lively companion fighting alongside with you. I actually I can say that this game has the most interesting and therefore the best story ever, which almost by itself is a reason to give this game a 10. If this game didn't have a story like this, the score would be about 8. The game is quite short, but I find it worth all the money. It's great to have a more interactive and a lively companion fighting alongside with you. I actually didn't feel like that Alyx was just a clumsy bot in my way. It's been a while from the last time the "wow-factor" of a game has been this high as it was in this game. In fact, the last time it was with HL2 original :D.… Expand
  23. MikeL.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    Great game good pace didn
  24. KevinM.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Simply amazing i cant wait for the next episode!
  25. KileH.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    This was great, a little short but valve gave us exactly what they said they would, YAY VALVE. heh, it was awesome...
  26. Michael
    Jun 2, 2006
    6
    Hi. Not as good as HL2 :( Some really nice scences but too short and sometimes a bit boring. cya
  27. MarkS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    There are those that are critical of this game because it's so short. The average price for a new release PC game in Nova Scotia is $60. A typical FPS has around 10 - 12 Hours of game play. Therefore this "Episode" is more than on par with the norm. I wish that the quality of other games was as good as Half-Life 2 Episode 1. No there is nothing really new here. So what? This has all There are those that are critical of this game because it's so short. The average price for a new release PC game in Nova Scotia is $60. A typical FPS has around 10 - 12 Hours of game play. Therefore this "Episode" is more than on par with the norm. I wish that the quality of other games was as good as Half-Life 2 Episode 1. No there is nothing really new here. So what? This has all the same feeling of the game that inspired it, plus some added graphical polish, and a partner that actually assists you, instead of getting in the way. I'm enjoying this game as much as I did Half Life and Half Life 2. However, I still hate, hate, hate that I have to run Steam to play the game. The time it takes from first click to playing the game is as atrocious as ever. At least it's worth it, once you're playing… Expand
  28. MarkJ.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Awesome game, great graphics, great physics puzzles.
  29. MatthewR.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    I'm speechless. Absolutely fantastic.
  30. AlexL.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Best Game I Have Ever Played! I can't wait for more of the half life storie to be unfolded!
  31. ChaseS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    great game! the ai is pretty decent althought i wish it was up to a FEAR level. the combine zombies friggin own yea its short but u gotta go soow, enjor the hdr n itsa better than waiting 6 YEARS 4 hl3 im really excited about episode 2.
  32. AaronS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    An amazing game, easily one of my favorites. Playing HL2 I was disappointed that it was not more innovative and fun, but episode 1 completely makes up for and surpasses HL2. The game play is inspired and additively fun, the story telling is great, and havening a AI partner throughout the whole game is amazing. As far as length it is easily worth the 20 bucks and leaves you salivating at An amazing game, easily one of my favorites. Playing HL2 I was disappointed that it was not more innovative and fun, but episode 1 completely makes up for and surpasses HL2. The game play is inspired and additively fun, the story telling is great, and havening a AI partner throughout the whole game is amazing. As far as length it is easily worth the 20 bucks and leaves you salivating at the episode 2 trailer. My only complaint is that there are no new guns, and only one new enemy, but this dose not detract from the game, its just nice to get new stuff in expansions. Episode 1 is a piece of FPS art and a must buy.… Expand
  33. BobS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    Short? Fairly. Clever? Especially. Fun? Undoubtably. Good value? Yes. Although this, the first in a trilogy of episodes tagged on to the end of the superb Half-Life 2, lasts only 4-6 hours (although very very fast players have allegedly managed it in uder three), the game is ceratinly worth it's $20 price tag. It can be played stand alone but there's no question that the main Short? Fairly. Clever? Especially. Fun? Undoubtably. Good value? Yes. Although this, the first in a trilogy of episodes tagged on to the end of the superb Half-Life 2, lasts only 4-6 hours (although very very fast players have allegedly managed it in uder three), the game is ceratinly worth it's $20 price tag. It can be played stand alone but there's no question that the main game should be played first. The excellent action from HL2 is upped even further in EP1 with many tense moments. The consensus is that the gameplay in general is an improvement over what was already a formidable experience. The puzzles are more fun and certainly more intelligent and, although there are few new enemies or weapons, there is certainly variety of experience and a satisfying challenge. You will spend most of the with Alyx alongside you which turns out to be a great help and not a hinderance as is so often found when an FPS gives you an AI companion. Futhermore, the script is still excellent and the improved facial expressions system brings a new level of immersion to the dialogue. Some players have even caught themselves talking back! Add to this HDR lighting, a few plot revelations (just a few though :P) and an optional audio commentary, the likelyhood is that you will play this through numerous times and feel completely satisfied.… Expand
  34. 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
  35. VárnaiD.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    I think this game is very good. Small and good but I find some bug (I'm stucked in some place). The maps are very nice. Good job VALVe!
  36. MattB.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    not only the best expansion ive ever played, but the THE BEST GAME ive ever played absolutely brilliant, saying its short is no excuse to rate it lower, its value for money is incredible, played it through 3 times already.
  37. JRZ
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Loved it all physics, graphics, and overall the way the storyline is going! Only prob is a little too short for my $17(bought during preload). on all other notes SUPURB!
  38. Rulero
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    half-life is one of the best shooter series arround altough i miss the gameplay of half-life 1 sometimes, and what has happend to black mesa? il hope to see something about that in later episodes besides that HL 2 ep 1 is just great, i enjoyed it evry minute.
  39. AlexS.
    Jun 2, 2006
    9
    Very cinematic! I loved the game, but just like the others I wish it was longer, oh and a bigger variety of different weapons! :-p
  40. PatB.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    A perfect example of what episodic gaming should be. After the release of the first episode of SIN on steam, I was slightly concerned that Half Life 2: Episode 1 would not be able to showcase all the new visual upgrades, incredible storytelling, and panic-inducing gameplay I expected from the Half-Life universe. I am more than excited to say, this game has surpassed all of my hopes and A perfect example of what episodic gaming should be. After the release of the first episode of SIN on steam, I was slightly concerned that Half Life 2: Episode 1 would not be able to showcase all the new visual upgrades, incredible storytelling, and panic-inducing gameplay I expected from the Half-Life universe. I am more than excited to say, this game has surpassed all of my hopes and dreams. The Storyline is a perfect continuation from the rather enigmatic ending of Half-Life 2, and character development in games has been redefined once again. Sadly, due to its short length, not much of an appearance is made by the all-powerful G-Man, an element I was much anticipating after reading the pre-release hype. The graphic enhancements to the source engine are visually breath-taking. After playing through the game once more with the commentary enabled, I am much more impressed with the skill and art of Episode 1's creation. though I must say, the audio commentary enjoys placing heavy reliance on the term "vista." Not that I can complain, for these vistas are truly stunning. Gameplay is on-par with what should be expected from the Half-Life 2 universe. New tweaks, and npc animations, provide visual flair and definite moments of pure player shock. The first time I saw, in-game, Alyx deftly crack a zombie in the side wih her knee, pull back, and place a three-round burst into it's head-crabbed melon, I was amazed. Half-Life 2: episode 1 is well worth a buy at twenty dollars, and as far as I am concerned,it is the future of gaming.… Expand
  41. BretC.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    One of the best single player FPS expiriences outside of the other Half-Life Games. In fact, its too good. It was so good I could stop playing it untill I beat it in one sitting with only a couple breaks. Each part of the game segways into the next so well theres no good place to stop untill its over.
  42. SphelxLizard
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    People will complain it's short; but it's an Episode. It's one portion of a whole thing. And it's damn fantastic, the Source engine has stepped up a notch, and with a high-level DX9 card you'll be forever hitting F5 to capture it in all it's glowing, specular, HDRI glory. The emphasis on puzzle solving has stepped up a few notches and extends the gameplay People will complain it's short; but it's an Episode. It's one portion of a whole thing. And it's damn fantastic, the Source engine has stepped up a notch, and with a high-level DX9 card you'll be forever hitting F5 to capture it in all it's glowing, specular, HDRI glory. The emphasis on puzzle solving has stepped up a few notches and extends the gameplay through careful manipulation of the physical environment we've known and come to love from the original HL2.… Expand
  43. DavidS.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    This is just BEST game ever. I love it.
  44. [Anonymous]
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Awesome game would have given a score of 10 if it was longer, much longer, heh ah well.
  45. JoeF.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Nearly perfect game. Best Expansion ever.
  46. ChrisW.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    The game is quite short (about 5 hours), but that is the only complaint. The amazing graphics, physics, and story of Half Life 2 is improved in Episode 1 and is just breathtaking. Definite recommendation.
  47. Gerard
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    It's an extension of Half-Life2 with only one mod that I could think of ( Combine rifle seems more efficient ) Very well made episodic content. Although smaller than I'd like, I have to force myself to remember its not a full game. Although it kind of sucks that this episode raises more questions than it answers, when everything is said and done, im sure we'll all wish it It's an extension of Half-Life2 with only one mod that I could think of ( Combine rifle seems more efficient ) Very well made episodic content. Although smaller than I'd like, I have to force myself to remember its not a full game. Although it kind of sucks that this episode raises more questions than it answers, when everything is said and done, im sure we'll all wish it would have stretched out for another episode or 2. The AI is very well developed, especially Alex. She's not just some tag-along, she does her fair share of work. My only 2 gripes are that they haven't introduced a new gun along the lines of an m4a1-type, but they did partly make up for it with a more 'solid' feeling Combine Assult Rifle. The recoil doesn't kick in as fast, making the gun a lot more functional. Also, I wish Valve would make 'nade-cooking' possible on the Single player HL2 like it does in HL2:DM. Some things I'd like to see from the new episode ( since I know Valve reads these metascores since they direct people to this site directly from steam ): 1)a combine m4a1 2)nade cooking in single player… Expand
  48. Luke
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    The game was great it was cool to hear those poison head crabs they always freak me out. Great game and i hope they make another instalment soon.
  49. BriceG.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Surpsingly very good.Obviously on the short side, but with the next 2 installments coming out within a year I think this just might work. The game is nonstop action and great character interactions. Some amazing animation work and voice acting really push this game beyond Half-Life 2. Once put together with Episodes 2 and 3 I think this could easily pass Half-Life 2.
  50. MalcolmS.
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Exciting game, yes it's a bit short, but thinking of it as one of three episodes it's very good. 9/10.
  51. ChrisJ.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Possibly the most fun I have ever had in a first person shooter. Though somewhat short, I found this game extremely impressive.
  52. FunkDr.Spot
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Great game for the $$$. Our ( all gamers ) expectations of full games might get the best of us and lower the score because of it, but understand its an episodic game.
  53. BrianA.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Absolutely wonderful! Graphics, pacing, price...It's all here!
  54. AdamM.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Better than HL2. I really loved Half-Life and Half-Life 2, but Episode One is by far my favorite of the series. Alyx is a great "side-kick", and is very helpful... I am looking forward to more gametime with Alyx at Gordon's side throughout the next two episodes, and Half-Life 3. This game is intense; however, does get a bit too excessive with all of the enemies being fought at one Better than HL2. I really loved Half-Life and Half-Life 2, but Episode One is by far my favorite of the series. Alyx is a great "side-kick", and is very helpful... I am looking forward to more gametime with Alyx at Gordon's side throughout the next two episodes, and Half-Life 3. This game is intense; however, does get a bit too excessive with all of the enemies being fought at one time. The graphics are enhanced (HDR), which makes it incredible. This is probably my favorite game ever.… Expand
  55. DanielC.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    HL2:EP1 is a step forward in FPS single player games. Both technologically and in level design, the main features that stand out are the commentary tracks (seen in lost coast) which explain in detail and the development process of the games. This gives the players a new insight to the game and all the stuff you didn't get to see that got cut out. If you find these annoying you can HL2:EP1 is a step forward in FPS single player games. Both technologically and in level design, the main features that stand out are the commentary tracks (seen in lost coast) which explain in detail and the development process of the games. This gives the players a new insight to the game and all the stuff you didn't get to see that got cut out. If you find these annoying you can always turn them off. This episode focuses on alyx and unlike every other FPS you've every played (including HL2) they have explored her character in depth, so you don't get the feeling she is just there to shoot stuff. Lighting/AI/Objects and everything else have, as you would expect, been improved and are the most sophisticated to date. The story is continued and there is even more shooting than previously between your enemies, watching them battling it out is just as fun as taking part yourself. Other things to watch out for is the use of the flash light in places too dark to see and some new moves alyx has up her sleeve (or under her boot). The short list of negatives in the game are, it takes ages to get your crowbar and some aspects of the maps are a little repetitive. But before you can become bored the scene changes and your faced with yet another challenge in the fight for survival. Valve have done it again and taken Half-Life 2: Episode 1 up another level and ensured their dominance as leaders in First Person Shooters.… Expand
  56. KennyJ.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Perfect game in all aspects. It is basically a continuation of HL2, with some graphical and AI improvements. Taking into consideration that HL2 was astounding, and that EP1 just gives us an improved version of what we already liked, this game is easily a 10/10.
  57. EduardoF.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    I am the first!! yupi!! I knew this game was going to be the best, cuz i ve played half life 1 and 2 andall the mods existence. Now lets wait episode 2 and 3 :D
  58. SubversiveTrooper
    Jun 1, 2006
    2
    This game is not worth it. It is far too short. People beat this in 2:30. There are much better games. A must have is Guild Wars. Half-Life 2 is horrible and I am starting to wonder if Valve is till alive cause of a mod they aquired a long time ago????? CS... CS made Valve what they are today, and they sure have more to buy... By the looks of Half-Life EP 1 at 2:30, Half-Life 3 should be This game is not worth it. It is far too short. People beat this in 2:30. There are much better games. A must have is Guild Wars. Half-Life 2 is horrible and I am starting to wonder if Valve is till alive cause of a mod they aquired a long time ago????? CS... CS made Valve what they are today, and they sure have more to buy... By the looks of Half-Life EP 1 at 2:30, Half-Life 3 should be outsourced. 2/10… Expand
  59. HenryWolfVII
    Jun 1, 2006
    9
    Another winner... if only it weren't so short!
  60. DanB.
    Jun 1, 2006
    4
    The game was fun felt like a good mod. It took me four hours to finish this game, and I took my time to look around. For the price of $20 there should at least be six to eight hours of game play. I mean four hours. Give me a break. After buying sin I should have known better than to spent another $20 on this episode. Remember when they made expansion packs for nine dollars more that had The game was fun felt like a good mod. It took me four hours to finish this game, and I took my time to look around. For the price of $20 there should at least be six to eight hours of game play. I mean four hours. Give me a break. After buying sin I should have known better than to spent another $20 on this episode. Remember when they made expansion packs for nine dollars more that had twelve or more hours of game play. This episodic thing is a joke and rip-off.… Expand
  61. JerF.
    Jun 1, 2006
    10
    Incredible game, took almost 7 hours, but I played on hardest setting and took my time to enjoy the scenery. Only thing I can ask for is...MORE!!!
  62. HectorS.
    May 31, 2006
    6
    After what seems like an endless wait for new content, Valve present us with a big technical exercise and no substance. Perhaps they think we've all been playing Half Life 2 for the last 2 years (glassy eyed and dumb struck). Move on, and make a new game. I'm bored with this one. It's a decent enough add-on, but did we really have to wait this long? And pay again? If this After what seems like an endless wait for new content, Valve present us with a big technical exercise and no substance. Perhaps they think we've all been playing Half Life 2 for the last 2 years (glassy eyed and dumb struck). Move on, and make a new game. I'm bored with this one. It's a decent enough add-on, but did we really have to wait this long? And pay again? If this extra content were priced realistically, there would be less of a problem.… Expand
  63. JonGri
    May 25, 2006
    10
    Like Half-Life and even better, Half-Life2 & Half-Life2:Lost Coast ,yes, Episode One is easily as good or better than all 3 of its' predessors! You will love Half-Life2:Episode One as much or more. VALVE HAS DONE IT AGAIN STEALING ALL THE #1 GAME OF YEAR THUNDER FROM EBGames ElderScrollsIV:OBLIVION. Half-Life2:Episode One Rocks PERIOD!
  64. DennisS.
    May 19, 2006
    10
    Greatest chapter EVER!
  65. PeterU.
    May 12, 2006
    10
    They have worked 6 yrs to create HL2. I allready feared that is would take another 6 yrs to make new missions or HL3. But just 1 yr later.. New missions !! and more comming on next episode !
  66. AdamTominoio
    May 7, 2006
    2
    This Game Was Complete Cr*p and not just that, the graphics on this game could be done by a 12 year old, im not joking, my son is making a mod for half life 2 with better deatil then this game, please valve, steam and all that, give us a game we can ENJOY!
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 61 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 58 out of 61
  2. Mixed: 3 out of 61
  3. Negative: 0 out of 61
  1. Eurogamer
    90
    Just like the original Half-Life 2, Episode One keeps the player entertained almost the entire time through perfect pacing and by being inventive, surprising and getting the basics absolutely right. It's a wonderful advert for the excitement that true episodic content can generate when approached the right way.
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  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.
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