Half-Life 2: Episode Two

 PC
User Score
9.2

Universal acclaim- based on 2923 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,691 out of 2923
  2. Mixed: 141 out of 2923
  3. Negative: 91 out of 2923

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  1. npc_barney
    Oct 18, 2016
    10
    When I finished this game, I cried for more. But sadly, I'm probably not going to see more of these. WHY VALVE? Just don't leave us with a cliffhanger!
  2. jacob4
    Jul 5, 2016
    10
    Another masterpiece Valve has created in their franchise! More epic storyline, more compelling moments, and more plain awesome fun! But this can't be the final Half-Life game! Where are you Episode 3!? How can this game franchise end with such a major unsolved story plot, and a whole new adventure waiting! But keep praying that the defining day in video game history will come whenAnother masterpiece Valve has created in their franchise! More epic storyline, more compelling moments, and more plain awesome fun! But this can't be the final Half-Life game! Where are you Episode 3!? How can this game franchise end with such a major unsolved story plot, and a whole new adventure waiting! But keep praying that the defining day in video game history will come when Half-Life: Episode 3 is released! But still all the games are memorable and awesome in their own right!… Expand
  3. Mithil
    Oct 14, 2015
    9
    This is my favorite of the entire series. Things can't get better!

    When I thought Episode 1 was okay with only memorable gameplay mechanics, Episode 2 sets the series on the track again with a highly engaging story, new environments and the most fun/difficult boss fights of the series that forces the players to come up with a strategy. Unlike Episode 1, the story progression is    This is my favorite of the entire series. Things can't get better!

    When I thought Episode 1 was okay with only memorable gameplay mechanics, Episode 2 sets the series on the track again with a highly engaging story, new environments and the most fun/difficult boss fights of the series that forces the players to come up with a strategy.

    Unlike Episode 1, the story progression is extremely rich. There are moments which you totally don't see coming. It put me in great emotional stress in the first quarter of the game. The tension was so thick, I was sick worried!

    The thing that I missed the most in Half Life 2 is covered by the episodes: teaming up with Alyx. Alyx is with us only for a brief time in HL2. Episode 1's lack of story is up for by this element. But now, not only is Alyx with us the entire time, but we experience a series of great plot twists and amazing story development with her. Seeing her reactions, her pain, her suffering almost becomes our own!

    It seems as if Valve is learning! The boss fights are extremely smart and engaging. One of Half Life's (the whole series') strength's is that it does tell the player through exposition what he/she has to do in a certain situation or in a boss fight. The player has to learn this just by observing the environment like the architecture, the position of barrels, etc. Episode 2 makes the most brilliant use of this, even better than Half Life 2.

    This is most definitely my favorite game of all time to date. Please Valve, give us the next part. The cliffhanger's really killing me.    … Expand
  4. Duskycarp116
    Oct 2, 2015
    8
    It was near hitting a 9/10 but the pain in the ass final boss, ITS ANNOYING AS **** It still has good acting, good writing, good story, and great gameplay to have fun with. Just buy this game when it was a low price.
  5. GolovA
    Jun 10, 2015
    9
    Even though i played it first 7 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 2 does not let you rest until you finish it - always on the brink, always hurried on, always on the move, and always insideEven though i played it first 7 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 2 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
  6. Heisenberg93
    May 25, 2015
    10
    Despite that Episode One was really nice, it was clear that it was not the best part of the journey. Episode Two is definitely nicer than Episode One, in every aspect, also because it is in this chapter that really puts an end to the story of Half-Life 2. The story was great, and the ending is really one of the best moments in the history of video games. An ending from which we expect aDespite that Episode One was really nice, it was clear that it was not the best part of the journey. Episode Two is definitely nicer than Episode One, in every aspect, also because it is in this chapter that really puts an end to the story of Half-Life 2. The story was great, and the ending is really one of the best moments in the history of video games. An ending from which we expect a sequel since a very long time now, in which I personally still have not lost hope, no matter how tough.… Expand
  7. Sanastusa
    May 11, 2015
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. All together roughly 4 hours worth of gameplay included in Episode Two. Every minute building on the amazing story that ended in the first episode. Through out ep2 there were more intense moments like the elevator event in ep1. Now I join the long list of people who really love Half-Life and are waiting for Episode 3 or Half-Life 3. Maybe some day soon we can get to the end of the story with the trusty crowbar. I did run into a few sound problems of mostly sounds playing in a loop when they shoulden't. When in a vehicle and have half in water, it makes a constant splash sound as it makes entering in water for the first time.… Expand
  8. TheEpicSheep
    Mar 28, 2015
    10
    It's absolutely amazing. More detail was put into everything against Half-Life 2 and Half-Life 2 Episode: 1, combined. The physics are better, the story is better well written, for an episode, and it's more of a challenge. For even today, for 2007 graphics you still can't help but be indulged into this world that was crafted by Valve. Now I will stand here and wait patiently for episodeIt's absolutely amazing. More detail was put into everything against Half-Life 2 and Half-Life 2 Episode: 1, combined. The physics are better, the story is better well written, for an episode, and it's more of a challenge. For even today, for 2007 graphics you still can't help but be indulged into this world that was crafted by Valve. Now I will stand here and wait patiently for episode 3..... I mean, how long can it take to develop?… Expand
  9. derek10
    Feb 8, 2015
    10
    Excellent game, substantially different than the previous Half-Life games so it's not repetitive like many episodic games out there, excellent AI, graphics, storyline for the time.
  10. aasecr14
    Jan 6, 2015
    9
    Valve once again knocks it out of the park with this game. It's just as good as the other half lifes, and offers the same superb storytelling and action that was in the previous 2. It also picks up nicely from HL2e1, and continues the story very well.
  11. Taishaun
    Jan 5, 2015
    4
    I played a total of seven hours into this and completed it, But two of those hours was dealing with crashing/freezing at main menu and in the middle of gaming , subtitle glitches, Character model glitches, texture glitches and many more. This Episode does have good Levels and memorable moments and a good set off for Half-Life 3, But the Glitches destroyed this for me.
  12. Marick
    Jan 2, 2015
    10
    Half Life 2 Episode Two is the second episode of Half Life 2, published and developed by Valve Corporation. The game happens right after Episode one, following the path of Gordon and Alyx lu the White Forest base Lambada resistance. They are destroying the organization Combine Citadel used to open a portal, they hope to send a portal to invade. The game is better than Episode One, more andHalf Life 2 Episode Two is the second episode of Half Life 2, published and developed by Valve Corporation. The game happens right after Episode one, following the path of Gordon and Alyx lu the White Forest base Lambada resistance. They are destroying the organization Combine Citadel used to open a portal, they hope to send a portal to invade. The game is better than Episode One, more and more content and events like another atmosphere. I guess now I'll be one of those and I'll cry all forums, want Half Life 3.… Expand
  13. Honestcritic19
    Sep 23, 2014
    8
    A great expansion to half life 2. The story in this one is great and is better than episode 1's, combat is pretty much the same but thats good. I recommend getting this if you liked Half life 2.
  14. MichMart
    Mar 12, 2014
    9
    I think the first two chapters are a little bit worse than the rest, because it has little variety in environment and enemies. I also thought that the last big combine attack would be more spectacular. Everything else is excellent (story, characters, enemies, weapons, ...)!
  15. 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: 4 out of 10, Re-play: 3 out of 10, Value: 7 out of 10
  16. Jwv
    Jan 9, 2014
    9
    Does a great job of improving over the already genius Half-Life 2 formula. New weapons, new puzzles, new game mechanics (the use of your flashlight), new cool enemies, a great story and absolutely magnificent locations and events (cf. the hunter-trap in the shed). Way better than Episode One.
  17. litebot
    Dec 24, 2013
    10
    Excellent, one of most exiting games ever, from the beginning to the end is a master piece. All in this game is designed to make us fall in the story, feel what Gordon Freeman feels, that's hard to get, but Valve did it with this game, congrats, and if you haven't played the half life saga let's do it right now! is one of the best video games ever created.
  18. faceless-1
    Dec 9, 2013
    7
    This episode has very good game play and story, but it is way too short. I really hoped for longer episode than the first and its 4 hours long. On the other hand i think this episode had better story and game play than episode 1.
  19. Soplex
    Nov 2, 2013
    10
    Like HL2 in core mechanics, but better overall, in my opinion. The rebels feel full of life, rather than just tools to use in killing the combine. They have important parts in the story, conversations, and generally just feel more like real people. The final boss was incredibly challenging, but not impossible, as the game teaches you exactly what to do. Just how a final boss should be.Like HL2 in core mechanics, but better overall, in my opinion. The rebels feel full of life, rather than just tools to use in killing the combine. They have important parts in the story, conversations, and generally just feel more like real people. The final boss was incredibly challenging, but not impossible, as the game teaches you exactly what to do. Just how a final boss should be. There's comic relief here and there to pep up the dark atmosphere. The G-Man is as mysterious as ever. There's exploration. This game is fantastic.… Expand
  20. ckuwiy2
    Oct 21, 2013
    10
    This is personally one of my favorite games. I can't wait for 3, much like a lot of people. Game was shorter than it should be but gets the story across. 10/10.
  21. TheGamer31
    Aug 15, 2013
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I can't find a single thing wrong with this game, squad AI is dramatically improved from the original Half Life 2, it has more story, and I didn't even think that was possible. More characters, great voice acting, amazing emotions towards the characters, hell, I even cried a little at the end. Great weapons, graphics sounds, the list goes on. This game deserves nothing less than a 9. So go out and buy the series on Steam and enjoy your life. All I have to is... I WANT HALF LIFE 3!!!… Expand
  22. starlight12
    Aug 8, 2013
    7
    So, it's simply Half Life 2 with 2 new (great) enemies.
    I finish it in 5 hours (hard mode).
    Epic moment but the same thing than Half Life 2.
    And I ask to fans The game of the decade Really ?
    Yes Episode 2 is like HL2 a good game but the best game ever Certainly not (for me)
  23. SnipingFalcon
    Jul 11, 2013
    10
    Silly hunters! While half life 2 had some minor flaws in the pacing (specifically in chapters like Root Kanal and Water Hazard) i think this game was paced perfectly and beautifully. The original HL and HL2 were challenging but, this game is also pretty challenging. And the ending battle with mini striders and striders was just magnificent. Still waiting on episode 3...
  24. Simolius
    Jul 1, 2013
    7
    I gave HL2 a 9 because it's one of my favourite games of all time, but I gave Episode 2 a 7 becouse it doesn't carry the greatness of HL2 and it's even less fun and just as short (or even shorter) as Episode 1. i'm not saying it's bad, just saying it's not as good as HL2.
  25. AWG
    Jun 7, 2013
    9
    Perfect. Just perfect. Episode Two has not a friggin' single flaw. This game is pure awesomeness from the beginning to the very last scene.
    Just... wow.
  26. sft
    May 22, 2013
    10
    Nice told with Alyx

    HALF-LIFE 2 EPISODE 2 starts immediately where Half-Life 2 Episode 1 ended. Gordon Freeman and Alyx Vance must continue their fight, alongside the resistance, against the evil Combine. After the ever so slightly below par Episode 1, Episode 2 is a real return to form. Everything that was so good about HL2 is developed here and made even better. The narrative arc is    Nice told with Alyx

    HALF-LIFE 2 EPISODE 2 starts immediately where Half-Life 2 Episode 1 ended. Gordon Freeman and Alyx Vance must continue their fight, alongside the resistance, against the evil Combine. After the ever so slightly below par Episode 1, Episode 2 is a real return to form. Everything that was so good about HL2 is developed here and made even better. The narrative arc is strong, the dialogue well-written and witty, the voice acting accomplished and convincing, the environments spectacular and varied, and the mix between puzzle solving and combat just right. We meet several new enemies and some of the combat is pretty challenging, especially the final battle which is big on scale and mayhem and requires real strategy to complete. It’s a tough finale but well worth the effort. There’s so much to enjoy in the whole Half-Life series I can’t recommend these games enough.    … Expand
  27. MasteRR
    May 3, 2013
    10
    Once again, a new episode in the Half-Life saga is here.

    The plot in the Episode Two continues right after the ending of Episode One, and features more characters and even more locations. The action is set as a desperate stab to stop the combine forces. After Citadel's explosion, there's been created a massive super portal, but not at is maximum capacity, and you must stop it from    Once again, a new episode in the Half-Life saga is here.

    The plot in the Episode Two continues right after the ending of Episode One, and features more characters and even more locations.

    The action is set as a desperate stab to stop the combine forces.

    After Citadel's explosion, there's been created a massive super portal, but not at is maximum capacity, and you must stop it from fully opening.

    In the journey you'll find new characters, both friendly and enemies, such as Acid Antlion Worker, Antlion Guardian, the hot new addition from Episode One, Zombines, Combine Hunters, and you'll have your first face-to-face(but not a duel) with the Advisors.

    Half-Life Universe is one of the richest Sci-Fi worlds ever created, and feels the closest universe after an Alien Invasion.

    Episode 2 features brand new locations, new vehicles such as the Muscle Car.

    In game play terms, well, the game still feels and plays like an Half-Life game, with many changes, such as more drama an tensioned conflicts, suspense, and a really great experience, in visual terms the things are even better as well. As the Episode One did, the new episode comes with a greatly updated engine, featuring updated High Dynamic Range Lightning( HDR Short), brand new shaders, particle effects, an physics.

    Like the previous Half-Life 2s, Episode Two contains Achievements, which are a welcome thing, for all type of players, from hard to easy, from newbies to professionals, and even more puzzles.

    Episode Two has everything needed for an sequel, by adding important and great things, and not making the game too different to it's roots, and like the previous Half-Life games, it's a must-own.    … Expand
  28. Duderoth
    Mar 29, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fantastic second expansion to one of the greatest games of all time. My reviews are usually pretty long but I'm going to try to keep this one short. The level design, as with Half-Life 2 and Episode 1 is once again top notch. But for me this time it was actually surpassed by the story. Though I've always thought Half-Life's story was excellent, this game surpassed previous titles with 2 gut-wrenching scenes where I literally just paused the game, set my headphones down, stared at the computer screen in shock and shed a couple tears. The emotions in this game are so intense after spending so much time with these characters in the past 2 titles... I just... I just... gah. I really hope Half-Life 3 comes soon.… Expand
  29. Agoingconcern
    Jan 3, 2013
    10
    Truly a masterpiece of its time. Excellent pacing. something games from all future generations can look back too. While I have enjoyed this one extremely, i still can't help but feel it lacks something. I have given it a 10, because, try as i might i can not think of what it is lacking. So, i am just guessing it is a proper ending, which will hopefully be in the next episode/game. CurseTruly a masterpiece of its time. Excellent pacing. something games from all future generations can look back too. While I have enjoyed this one extremely, i still can't help but feel it lacks something. I have given it a 10, because, try as i might i can not think of what it is lacking. So, i am just guessing it is a proper ending, which will hopefully be in the next episode/game. Curse valve and their epic cliffhanger.… Expand
  30. watithink123
    Dec 16, 2012
    8
    Half-Life 2 is a great FPS game and liking the game I decided to play the episodes one and two. Episode 1 was good but really short and a bit boring, but this episode was interesting and fun. A ending surprising me and I like that. It also can be a bit a chalenge at times so if you like a easy time play on easy difficulty. A 6-8 hour campaign making it a decent length long. Overall veryHalf-Life 2 is a great FPS game and liking the game I decided to play the episodes one and two. Episode 1 was good but really short and a bit boring, but this episode was interesting and fun. A ending surprising me and I like that. It also can be a bit a chalenge at times so if you like a easy time play on easy difficulty. A 6-8 hour campaign making it a decent length long. Overall very fun but still the exat same with guns and stuff. Half-Life 2: Episode two 8.7/0… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

9
#9 Best PC Game of 2007
6
#6 Most Discussed PC Game of 2007
17
#17 Most Shared PC Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 21 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. IGN
    94
    Any way you look at it, Episode Two stands out, even among the Half-Life series, as something special. It may be shorter than the original, but it's a burly experience packed into roughly six hours or so that offers up all the diversity, level design, and thoughtful gameplay we've known while making sure to propel the story forward and leave us wanting more.
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  2. Computer and Video Games
    90
    More great story blended with improved AI and better firefights. It's starting to retread old ground though.
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  3. PC Gamer UK
    93
    Episode Two is the most sumptuous chapter of the Half-Life saga, and by a country mile. It's as if Valve's tech and art teams are trying to outdo each other: the Source engine has had a striking technical overhaul that renders textures, materials and curves uncannily well, and the artists clearly relish having a fresh palette to work with.
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