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. RogerV.
    Jul 16, 2006
    9
    Extremely cool, but maybe too easy.
  2. MikeS.
    Jul 16, 2006
    10
    Truly without a doubt the BEST Game I have ever played! The visiuals, action, thrill and fun that has been put into this game! HL2 is one of the greatest games yet to any PC Gamer, I highly recommend that you get this game!
  3. Flamz3d
    Jul 19, 2006
    10
    Awesome game, brilliant concept.
  4. MatheusR.
    Jul 19, 2006
    10
    this game is relly coll but is relly smart..the hl2 is 12 capters and this just have 4 including video of hl2 episode two.
  5. PatrickD.
    Jul 25, 2006
    9
    Excellent storyline addition, which satiated while still saying absolutely nothing. The only real quip I have is the lack of length. Other than that, Valve really out-did themselves, coming up with unique and creative puzzles and scenarios.
  6. AndreyK.
    Jul 27, 2006
    10
    The Best Ever!
  7. RickO.
    Jul 27, 2006
    6
    It was enjoyable, but definently not what I expected.After beating the game so quickly i feel very dissappointed that there was barely anything new. It has an excellent story line, but that's it. Only recommended for people who are die hard fans of Half life.
  8. JamesV.
    Jul 28, 2006
    9
    Great addon to the Half-Life 2 story, a bit short. It offers a diffrent kind of single player experience with teamwork. Very cool.
  9. DmitriyM
    Aug 12, 2006
    7
    Great game. Awesome storyline and very quality execution. Nothing new besides the story however, I think I counted 1 new monster and that's about it. Still fun though. The only reason I give it a 7 is it is VERY short. It took me about 5 hours to beat, and I'm a very slow and curious player... saving and loading until I find the perfect way through an area. This game should have Great game. Awesome storyline and very quality execution. Nothing new besides the story however, I think I counted 1 new monster and that's about it. Still fun though. The only reason I give it a 7 is it is VERY short. It took me about 5 hours to beat, and I'm a very slow and curious player... saving and loading until I find the perfect way through an area. This game should have cost $10, not $20, if Valve keeps being this greedy, I'll have to think twice before buying the next episode.… Expand
  10. JavierMorawski
    Aug 12, 2006
    10
    Awsome game... it kind of does not make sense without playing the first Half-Life 2 but it was great!
  11. RandyM.
    Aug 23, 2006
    9
    Astounding in almost every reason the first one was. But, with no new weaponry, and it's insanely short campaign, i'll have to deduct a point.
  12. RichV.
    Aug 26, 2006
    9
    it was a very good game and i really enjoyed it, and i cant wait to see ep2, and Alex Vance is Hwat.
  13. HarryT.
    Sep 12, 2006
    10
    A deeply immersing and addictive game, that features a solid story and amazing graphics. A must have for any gamer's collection.
  14. JasonS.
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    Awesome game. Very Fun with amazing graphics and sound effects.
  15. SergeyP.
    Sep 18, 2006
    10
    Excellent game! Had played with plesure. Waiting for more.
  16. mxmx
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    Half-Life 2 Episode One is a must have game.
  17. MacS.
    Sep 23, 2006
    9
    Great continuation, picks up right where the last one left off. New enemies and leaving wanting more.
  18. 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.
  19. TylerE.
    Nov 14, 2007
    10
    Half-Life 2 was excellent and this is a wonderful -continuation- of the story. This is NOT an expansion pack, it's not Half-Life 3! Valve does more with their engine than any other company. A "next gen" game might have 8 billion triangles per character, but if it can't run on less than a $4k computer, who cares? HL2:E1 looks amazing, sounds amazing, plays amazing. The physics Half-Life 2 was excellent and this is a wonderful -continuation- of the story. This is NOT an expansion pack, it's not Half-Life 3! Valve does more with their engine than any other company. A "next gen" game might have 8 billion triangles per character, but if it can't run on less than a $4k computer, who cares? HL2:E1 looks amazing, sounds amazing, plays amazing. The physics puzzles, level designs, and npc characters are wonderfully constructed and fun to interact with.… Expand
  20. JoeM.
    Nov 26, 2007
    5
    This game provides no new environments or story. you could easily skip from hl2 to hl2e2 and not miss a beat, While what is here is done well it is just too short and doesnt help a game with an already patchy story. The gfx and sound both look good, but nothing new over hl2, The AI is much improved and reacts very well to various challenges. Overall this is a mediocre filler game. Pros: This game provides no new environments or story. you could easily skip from hl2 to hl2e2 and not miss a beat, While what is here is done well it is just too short and doesnt help a game with an already patchy story. The gfx and sound both look good, but nothing new over hl2, The AI is much improved and reacts very well to various challenges. Overall this is a mediocre filler game. Pros: Gameplay Gfx and sound AI Cons: Story Length Repetitiveness.… Expand
  21. 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!
  22. MattHoade
    Jan 25, 2007
    10
    This game is awsome it shows what games should be able to do. It takes Action games to a new level. Can't wait for Episode 2 and 3
  23. IanB.
    Feb 12, 2007
    5
    Not the challenge the original Half-Life 2 was, short and not worth the money I paid for it.
  24. pcgeek
    Mar 14, 2007
    9
    It was a fun and exciting add to the original. However is was far to short. I hope it don't take to long to release episode 2. Was definitely well worth the money.
  25. Ben
    Apr 22, 2007
    10
    People have to remember that this game is one third of a whole, and for less than 1/3 of the price, you cant expect it to go on forever. Its really 10/10 great job Valve!
  26. OneBit
    May 14, 2007
    10
    This is not a game, it's a harrowing adventure! A++
  27. JonathanL.
    May 22, 2007
    9
    Great game, could be longer and could have more AI interaction, but apart from that, great gameplay and good storyline.
  28. BenC
    Jun 12, 2007
    7
    I thought it was a good game but finished it in a day really and the new combine zombies just annoyed me with the grenades, i did enjoy it and will be buying the next chapter but if its not longer and theres no new story il start to get bored. =D
  29. MichelT.
    Jul 11, 2007
    9
    Great game. Same great feel as Half Life 2. A little short but, I like how valve is releasing it in small sections. Brilliant move. A must play for HL fans.
  30. Pase
    Jul 14, 2007
    5
    Too short!
  31. SilviuF.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    Although I agree that this expansion is way too short than any normal expansion and it's way to expensive because of the short time to play, it's the same hl2 and it for sure deserves the best rating. god bless valve for creating such a wonderful game, I forgive them for this EP One robbery, I can't really wait for the next episodes.
  32. FalkoN.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    Perhaps my 10 rating is a bit too generous, but I do believe this game deserves a lot of respect. Personally, the first time I played it through (and I used cheats from Lowlife and on) I was extremelly satisfied even though it was a bit short. However, when I played it through a second time with an entirelly new computer (that means graphics turned way up) I began to notice how stunning Perhaps my 10 rating is a bit too generous, but I do believe this game deserves a lot of respect. Personally, the first time I played it through (and I used cheats from Lowlife and on) I was extremelly satisfied even though it was a bit short. However, when I played it through a second time with an entirelly new computer (that means graphics turned way up) I began to notice how stunning this game really looks with the new lighting effects givnig it a beautiful touch. I also played it through with no cheats which really improved my experience. I used the the gravity gun the entire time in the third time I played it and believe me, there's nothing better than lighting a zombie on fire and then flinging him back with a rock. Priceless. However, I did see how this installment might have been a bit boring and confusing if you haven't played Half Life 2. So my suggestion for people that are planning to buy this game: Buy the Half Life 2 + 1 pack off of Steam or just buy Half Life 2 and Episode 1 seperatelly.… Expand
  33. TeodorIkonomov
    Aug 29, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  34. MightySanta
    Sep 17, 2007
    10
    Ep1 is one of the best games besides for HL2. If you liked HL2 you must get this game. Be sure not to play this game until you've played HL2.
  35. killtacular
    Sep 29, 2007
    10
    Awesome continuation to an incredible game. It will be confusing for anyone who hasn't played Half-life 2 so playing that before Episode 1 is a must. The graphics are excellent and it introduces several new gameplay features, expanding the Half-Life 2 storyline in many ways. Creating an awesome expirience to continue a spectacular series.
  36. Wildsnail
    Feb 24, 2008
    10
    Perfection! Probably the most entertaining 5 or 6 hours I have had playing games. I rated Half-Life 2 as one of the best games I have ever played and this just distills the HL2 experience - removing the slower parts, increasing emotional attachment to the characters and ramping up the adrenaline. It may be short, compared to a full-price, full-length title but it seems to me that all Perfection! Probably the most entertaining 5 or 6 hours I have had playing games. I rated Half-Life 2 as one of the best games I have ever played and this just distills the HL2 experience - removing the slower parts, increasing emotional attachment to the characters and ramping up the adrenaline. It may be short, compared to a full-price, full-length title but it seems to me that all Valve have done is strip Episode One of all that is unnecessary and leave an incredible gaming experience that I'll never forget.… Expand
  37. 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
  38. BenF
    Apr 29, 2008
    9
    Realy good game, but short only reason it is not a 10... most of you people say that you dont get a gun till late in the game well you start off with a grav GUN!!! and the best bart is you can kill people with it just like a GUN very good game just short
    P.S. it was funny seeing people rosting humans on a fire :)
  39. MantasK.
    May 31, 2008
    10
    Very good game, in which sometimes you use your brain.
  40. Bozo4154
    Oct 18, 2009
    10
    To carry on with the GREAT Adventure is Bliss! Graphics and Gameplay still 100% A Big Clap goes to the Valve team, Imaginative, Storyline, Action, Thrill, With just a few Quid! Hope the trail continues, ESPECIALLY an extension to the Lost Coast, It's short and Sweet and would be a big Punch if there was a continuation to complete it's Adventure. Come On Valve, Give it a Kick To carry on with the GREAT Adventure is Bliss! Graphics and Gameplay still 100% A Big Clap goes to the Valve team, Imaginative, Storyline, Action, Thrill, With just a few Quid! Hope the trail continues, ESPECIALLY an extension to the Lost Coast, It's short and Sweet and would be a big Punch if there was a continuation to complete it's Adventure. Come On Valve, Give it a Kick Start back on trail.… Expand
  41. JeradMiller
    Jan 26, 2009
    10
    excellent balance of solo work and team work with alex. Never got confused on what am i doing or where am I going like the first game. Good ammo placement, never stocked completely but not hitting zombie's with a crow bar repeatedly. Didn't feel helpless or god like throughout. Keep it up Valve
  42. Billy
    Jul 27, 2009
    10
    It's not that long nor is it much more than Half Life 2 but It has everything you loved about HL2. This time you are with Alex. She talks WAAAAY too much but she is a bit useful for fighting off the enemies. The story line will be very confusing to you if you do not first play Half Life 2. This not so much an expansion as it is a continuation of the story line, as it begins exactly It's not that long nor is it much more than Half Life 2 but It has everything you loved about HL2. This time you are with Alex. She talks WAAAAY too much but she is a bit useful for fighting off the enemies. The story line will be very confusing to you if you do not first play Half Life 2. This not so much an expansion as it is a continuation of the story line, as it begins exactly where HL2 left off. the game though, finally makes use of the sprint thing early on. Personally i think that this is a great continuation of HL2.… Expand
  43. PhillipB.
    Nov 13, 2006
    9
    This game is off the hook, aside from a great story it has super cool graphic effects and will keep you play all night long. its sorta short but the difficult ranges and the game change completely with each level. I finished it in about 16 hours on easy, and am still struggling to clock it on hard so it is a thrillingly fun expieriece. get the full game from steam now for only $20 US!
  44. EricL.
    Nov 25, 2006
    10
    An absolute wonderful expansion to the revolutionary Half-Life 2 game. The interaction between Freeman and Alyx is beautiful, well thought out and perfectly executed. There were times where I found myself reminiscing of the past and laughing because of Alyx cute remarks. A splendid game which should be played by every fan of Half-Life X.
  45. RikiH.
    Nov 28, 2006
    9
    The game, the story, the weapons, and the characters are great but the game itself is relatively short. there are other episodes coming out so I guess that the story will be longer.
  46. 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.
  47. QuentinL.
    Dec 27, 2006
    10
    I loved playing through this game as much as I loved playing through Half-Life 2. I was disappointed by the length of the game, but the low price tag makes me feel better about it. This is just a small extension to the story line with 2 more on the way. I can only hope that thhay can be as great as this one. (And longer)
  48. DanielD.
    Dec 28, 2006
    9
    The game mechanics are always top-notch, just like in HL2 the original, so its no suprise that this game gets high rating with me, I wish it was a tad bit longer thou.
  49. JamesHeard
    Nov 25, 2007
    10
    An excellent sequel to legendary Half-Life 2, very worthy of exceptionally high praise. In my opinion, included in this episode are not only all the gameplay elements that have made the franchise so popular, but several new things.
    I really liked how all the characters (most noteably Alyx Vance) seem more developed and capable of expression to Gordon,eachother, and their environment. It    An excellent sequel to legendary Half-Life 2, very worthy of exceptionally high praise. In my opinion, included in this episode are not only all the gameplay elements that have made the franchise so popular, but several new things.
    I really liked how all the characters (most noteably Alyx Vance) seem more developed and capable of expression to Gordon,eachother, and their environment. It makes them seem more human, thereby adding to the ever-increasing level of realism in the Half-Life universe. The improved facial animations and dynamic range graphics come a long way to enriching the gaming experience.
    I also found the cliff-hanger ending was very suspenseful and effective to suit the mood the game had imbued into the player up to that point. For those who have played Half-Life 2 and enjoyed it, and I believe that's practically everyone, playing Episode 1 should be your next gaming endeavour. If you like it a mere tenth of how much I do, I'm sure it will become one of your favourites.
    This game is truly superlative.    … Expand
  50. 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.
  51. MrWhite1337
    Aug 22, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Very very gooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooood.… Expand
  52. davenbettridge
    Sep 26, 2011
    9
    Half Life 2 has obtained legendary status as one of the most flawless modern games BUT the question does need to be asked: is Half Life 2 over-rated? My answer is Yes as all things are flawed (even Half Life 2), that's not saying the game is not one of the best the industry has provided in recent times, it is however just an interactive game with a lot of copied elements of other scienceHalf Life 2 has obtained legendary status as one of the most flawless modern games BUT the question does need to be asked: is Half Life 2 over-rated? My answer is Yes as all things are flawed (even Half Life 2), that's not saying the game is not one of the best the industry has provided in recent times, it is however just an interactive game with a lot of copied elements of other science fiction, it's not as original as many claim. Half Life 2 has awesome graphics, innovative physics, game play, fabulously designed levels and game moments but my point is that it shows how lacking and unoriginal the rest of the industry is - that many would claim Half Life 2 to be better than it actually is. If Half Life 2 is the best there is in single player gaming - then video games truely are lacking... HL2 is still a real achievement and Valve has something to be proud of.â… Expand
  53. GolovA
    Jun 10, 2015
    9
    Even though i played it first 8 years after its initial release, i enjoyed the game thoroughly due to its beautiful marrying of story-telling and pacing. Sounds simple, but most games (almost all) miss this masterful harmony in their gameplay. Half-Life 2: Episode 1 stars off from what seemed to be the end of the prequel and blows it out into a complete and full story of its own withEven though i played it first 8 years after its initial release, i enjoyed the game thoroughly due to its beautiful marrying of story-telling and pacing. Sounds simple, but most games (almost all) miss this masterful harmony in their gameplay. Half-Life 2: Episode 1 stars off from what seemed to be the end of the prequel and blows it out into a complete and full story of its own with skill and eloquence; the game does not let you rest until you finish it - always on the brink, always hurried on, always on the move, and always inside the story - i as a player loved the experience.… Expand
  54. 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.
  55. 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
  56. cmpgk1024
    Nov 5, 2011
    9
    Half-Life 2: Episode One is an excellent game. It continues the great story started in Half-Life 2, and improves on the experience in multiple ways, such as the shading, lighting, and AI. Alyx accompanies you the entire time, and it makes for no boring and lonely levels like Highway 17 from Half-Life 2. Its only drawback is the incredibly short playtime, at 6-7 hours.
  57. Mushe
    Jun 12, 2012
    9
    If you liked the first, is a safe buy this episode, as history is its strongest point. In this episode there are not many new features such as HDR technology is incorporated and a significant improvement in the facial expressions. The campaign can be very short while somewhere a bit dense when we meet again with the zombies, but still very good because it lets you continue the story.
  58. 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.
  59. 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
  60. lucidanarchy
    May 27, 2012
    9
    Half-Life 2 being my favourite game ever, I loved everything about the first episodic content and think anyone who has not played it should. Excellent game by a great developer!
  61. e_x_p
    May 14, 2012
    9
    The is possibly the earliest game in the form of DLC. But a goddamn good DLC unlike the greedy cheap contents offered nowadays. It's short but quite worth it.
  62. 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
  63. Wpnfire
    Aug 6, 2012
    9
    Valve definitely stepped their game up in Ep. 1, which I didn't think was possible. This game is just simply excellent. The difficulty can still be a bit frustrating at times, and VERY inconsistent, but the game gets so much easier every time you play through it. The music, like in Half-Life 2, is timed perfectly, and I'm not kidding, it plays right into the gameplay. The music selectionValve definitely stepped their game up in Ep. 1, which I didn't think was possible. This game is just simply excellent. The difficulty can still be a bit frustrating at times, and VERY inconsistent, but the game gets so much easier every time you play through it. The music, like in Half-Life 2, is timed perfectly, and I'm not kidding, it plays right into the gameplay. The music selection is also perfect, some rock-oriented music here, some spooky ambience there. The most notable improvement in the game is in the NPCs, namely Alyx. The sense of complete isolation that I felt when I was playing Half-Life 2 is not present in this game. You feel like you're actually part of something, and not someone who just goes around doing everything by themselves, although that STILL happens a great deal. My only legitimate complaint is in the gameplay elements that Half-Life 2 had. Whatever happened to the huge amount of puzzles present in Half-Life 2, you know like physics puzzles? Ep. 1 is mostly combat, which is not a good direction for Valve, because it only makes me think of the features not present in this game that other shooters have. The puzzles were what made this game SO interesting, they need to go back to that. However, I would still rather play this entire episode than play the last few chapters of Half-Life 2. Those were mercilessly hard, and particularly brainless. Speaking of endings...Ep. 1 has to have one of the most epic endings I've ever seen in a video game, and it's all because of the excellent graphics and sound. Seeing such an awesome ending was just what needed to happen after the difficulty in achieving it.… Expand
  64. Spazzie
    Sep 19, 2012
    9
    Date night on the Half Life train. Too bad she had to go home early. Oh well, there is Episode 2 to look forward to. After spending several days with the original Half Life 2, I was disappointed to have completed Episode 1 in just 3 sittings.
  65. suneater
    Dec 13, 2012
    6
    The equivalent of a filler episode. You could probably go right from HL2 into episode 2 because of how little happens in this episode. It's still a Valve game and has it's moments but it's plot is stretched thin between predictable puzzles and fights. Worth playing if you get it in a bundle but I wouldn't recommending purchasing it on it's own.
  66. 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
  67. AWG
    Jun 4, 2013
    9
    Short, quick, sudden... and fabulous. This game is from 2006 and still its graphics are better than many nowadays titles. Also, Alyx is hotter than usual and totally into you. Terrific.
  68. 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
  69. iddqd4
    Jan 22, 2018
    9
    HALF-LIFE с эпизодами до сих пор не устарел, все еще перепрохожу раз в несколько лет на Xbox.
  70. MichMart
    Mar 1, 2014
    9
    Episode One is for me as good as Half-Life 2! And Alyx is a nice character (imagine Episode One and Two without Alyx!). My only issue is the short gameplay.
  71. fateappointed
    Feb 3, 2014
    9
    Story: 8 out of 10, Graphics: 9 out of 10, Fun: 9 out of 10, Controls: 9 out of 10, Ease to Learn: 8 out of 10, Length: 7 out of 10, Re-play: 3 out of 10, Value: 8 out of 10
  72. 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!
  73. 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
  74. 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.
  75. jacob4
    Jun 23, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An interesting little continuation of the second game, but seriously, couldn't the story be a bit longer? You can seriously beat this game in like a day. But even though the story is short it was nice to to go on an adventure with close companion Alyx and develop a somewhat close connection. The sections of pitch blackness increases the fun game play value, and sort of amps up the horror element. So if were left hanging from the ending of Half-Life 2, get ready to play Episode One and be left on another cliffhanger where you escape City 17 and into the woods, but that's a story for Episode 2!… Expand
  76. 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.
  77. 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
  78. aasecr14
    Jan 6, 2015
    9
    Almost as good as the first half life 2. Spectacular gameplay. The antlion level drags a bit, but who cares, you get to blast bugs in the face with your shotgun! If you want to know what happens after HL2, you won't be disappointed.
  79. Heisenberg93
    May 25, 2015
    9
    Episode One was really great. A nice way to continue the story after the end of Half-Life 2. The longevity was pretty good, and it was fun to complete. However it was clear how it was part of a larger project, and that the best was yet to come. Episode One is only an interlude to what will actually happen then.
  80. Termin8ter
    Jan 11, 2018
    7
    Episode One was a lot like Half Life 2. Some sections of fun or investment, but even more sections of frustration or boredom, or both. This game didn't do it for me. Episode Two makes this game look like the Old Boy remake. Average.
  81. 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
  82. Sanastusa
    May 11, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Picking up where Half-Life 2 ended, Episode One added some crazy events to the game that made it feel like a better game. Was a fun playthrough to extend on the story to end on yet another cliffhanger. Thankfully I have episode two installing as I write this review because I need to play it and see what happens. That is what makes playing Half Life 2 so much fun, the ending and not knowing. Needing to play the next episode....or like everyone else waiting for Half Life 3 ;D.
    Positive: Juiced up gravity gun to start and rollermines
    Negative: Still waiting for that kiss with Alyx! Come on!    … Expand
  83. SrPepe
    Feb 23, 2019
    8
    Excelente .
  84. Syl3nc3
    Nov 5, 2016
    7
    It's a good game, but it's short and nowhere near the huge greatness of the 2004 original. While the level design is still superb, its shortcomings are where it took what was great from its predecessor and failed to revive them.
  85. Broyax
    Mar 26, 2017
    7
    Le jeu principal souffrait de longueurs, ce qui n'est à l'évidence pas le cas de cet épisode certes court mais très dense. La jouabilité un peu "vieux jeu" pour ne pas dire "vieille école" demeure encore assez efficace tandis que la technique est assurément des plus présentables. Un ajout digne d'intérêt bien orchestré à Half-Life 2.
  86. DreamEaglr
    Apr 8, 2020
    7
    Практически никаких изменений относительно оригинала. Просто двухчасовая беготня по унылым локациям.

    Взаимодействия с Аликс прикольные, но не более.
  87. 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
  88. KingJailson
    May 30, 2018
    9
    Apesar de curto é muito foda, e ainda prefiro o episodio 1 do que o episodio 2
  89. 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
  90. default_access
    Jul 9, 2018
    9
    Few companies tease its customers as well as Valve. 1998's Half-Life ended on an intriguing note, with series hero Gordon Freeman basically being "recruited" by the mysterious G-Man to work for him as a dimension-hopping commando. But fans were really caught off guard by the ending of 2004's Half-Life 2, as Gordon and ally Alyx Vance were caught in a massive explosion. Rather than have usFew companies tease its customers as well as Valve. 1998's Half-Life ended on an intriguing note, with series hero Gordon Freeman basically being "recruited" by the mysterious G-Man to work for him as a dimension-hopping commando. But fans were really caught off guard by the ending of 2004's Half-Life 2, as Gordon and ally Alyx Vance were caught in a massive explosion. Rather than have us wait years and years for the outcome of that cliff-hanger, Valve has taken the series into episodic territory to get us answers more quickly. Half-Life 2: Episode One is the first in a new trilogy of episodes that are scheduled to be released over the course of the next year. (You don't need to own Half-Life 2 to play Episode One, as it's a stand-alone product, though it would definitely help if you did.) And Episode One is a memorable romp through the Half-Life universe, with gameplay that's even more satisfying than that of Half-Life 2. The only downside is that, due to its episodic nature, it's over far too soon.… Expand
  91. PalpetineSheev
    Mar 20, 2020
    9
    Of course it isn't as good as Half-Life 1 or 2. It never was going to be and it never planned to be. Its a great continuation of the story from HL2 and very entertaining and satisfying in it's own right.
  92. killer1237
    Oct 24, 2018
    9
    While Episode One is not as good as the base game or Episode Two, it still is a must play for Half Life fans.
  93. RazorSamurai
    Jan 17, 2019
    9
    Намного лучше чем оригинальная вторая часть.
  94. Hayter
    Nov 10, 2019
    9
    Долго не мог придумать, о чём писать, да и какая разница, это всё равно никто не читает.
    Здесь 2к+ оценок, никто не обратит внимание на мой отзыв.
  95. MatikTheSeventh
    Oct 10, 2020
    9
    A great follow-up to the cliffhanger HL2 left us with, but the decision to cut the game into pieces is strange.
  96. SilverOrlov
    Oct 5, 2019
    9
    If you went through the first and second part of the game, then the first and second episode are necessary to fill in the gaps of the story left after the second part.
  97. 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.
  98. trarantino
    Dec 29, 2018
    9
    Игра шидевр! Просто лучшая игра всех времён и народов. Какая графика, какой графон!
  99. NightElves
    Mar 7, 2019
    10
    First expansion to Half-Life 2. The great story continues from where we left Half-Life 2. Alyx is a wonderful partner. Now we just have to escape City 17...
  100. Cz3rw0ny
    Feb 11, 2021
    9
    The story of Morgan Freeman continues, and this is a decent expansion. The changes to HL2 might not be dramatic but with each expansion the graphics were slightly improved.
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Awards & Rankings

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

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
87

Generally favorable reviews - based on 61 Critic Reviews

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