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. ChrisF.
    Oct 20, 2007
    9
    Excellent continuation of the story with new challenges not seen in the previous episodes.
  2. JustinA.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    Great continuation of the epic storyline against the combine. Graphics and gameplay are a tad outdated though but still pretty to look at.
  3. AndreasN.
    Jan 1, 2008
    10
    Awesome as usual. Cant wait to the next part. The Episodes are so short. Too short. Bigger please. Only thing that sucked was the ORGANGE BOX Package. Buy the whole game again. 2 copies. Great thoe for new player. Great package.
  4. AlexanderV.
    Feb 1, 2008
    10
    I don't know, how Episode Three will look like, but I do know, that Half-Life 2: Ep 2 is showing the best gameplay in all of FPS (Not counting HL2 & Ep 1, because evolution of the series started with superior game).
  5. NikolayI.
    Jun 26, 2008
    9
    I'm sure the game is impressive - gameplay, storyline and characters are excellent. The only thing to worry about is graphics. The game was released in October 2007, but it doesn't support DX10 features or full dynamic shadows and detail level is very low... I know many gamers think graphics in this game isn't so important as gameplay, for example, but I think Source engine I'm sure the game is impressive - gameplay, storyline and characters are excellent. The only thing to worry about is graphics. The game was released in October 2007, but it doesn't support DX10 features or full dynamic shadows and detail level is very low... I know many gamers think graphics in this game isn't so important as gameplay, for example, but I think Source engine needs a serious modernization. P.S. Sorry for my English because I'm from Russia.… Expand
  6. RossH.
    Mar 2, 2009
    9
    I would first like to say that half of the User Reviews don't even make sense, let alone give you a decent reason for why they rated the game as such. I will refer you first to Danny G who rated the game a 1. It seem he hated this esp, WTF is a esp? Probably short for episode but the individual is too stupid to realize the "p" is before the "s" in episode. I hope nobody continued I would first like to say that half of the User Reviews don't even make sense, let alone give you a decent reason for why they rated the game as such. I will refer you first to Danny G who rated the game a 1. It seem he hated this esp, WTF is a esp? Probably short for episode but the individual is too stupid to realize the "p" is before the "s" in episode. I hope nobody continued reading his review after that unless they were trying to get a laugh out of it. The second I would like to note is Philip B. He rated the game a zero because operating system didn't grant him the permission to run executable. Please don't abuse the game rating system because you can't play it. Personally I gave the game a 9. It had everything I could want in good FPS. The story line was amazing and continued an arc that seems to keep the mystery of what is going on alive, well progressing itself in an interesting manner. The graphics continue to amaze and delight me and the physics compliment it nicely. The only two things I have against this game is difficulty and length of play. Since everyone already knows that these are episodes and are going to be short I don't have to explain my lust for more when I get done with an episode. However my problem with the fact that the game isn't very hard even on the hardest of settings still bugs the shit out of me. Please valve make another setting for die hard gamers to give us the challenge we need.… Expand
  7. scottd
    Jan 1, 2010
    8
    yes could it be? something that actualy may be better then half-life 2! episode two (of three) push's the envelope for the series as it breaks out of the norm and gives us insight like never before! the enviroments are beutyful and the story is as wonderfuly told as ever and if i had to have any gripe with the expansion it would only be the finale, not that it's a bad finale, i yes could it be? something that actualy may be better then half-life 2! episode two (of three) push's the envelope for the series as it breaks out of the norm and gives us insight like never before! the enviroments are beutyful and the story is as wonderfuly told as ever and if i had to have any gripe with the expansion it would only be the finale, not that it's a bad finale, i just couldnt get 'into' the last little bit of action… Expand
  8. TravisG
    Jan 20, 2010
    10
    The ending. I've never been so drawn into a game like this. This was the episode that REALLY made me care about Alex Vance as a person and not just as that quirky/funny chick that happened to like Gordon form the other games. Because of Episode 2 my outlook on this series has completely changed. Before I loved these games. But episode 2 ingrained them in me. Good job Valve, The ending. I've never been so drawn into a game like this. This was the episode that REALLY made me care about Alex Vance as a person and not just as that quirky/funny chick that happened to like Gordon form the other games. Because of Episode 2 my outlook on this series has completely changed. Before I loved these games. But episode 2 ingrained them in me. Good job Valve, here's hoping that the announcement of your progress on Episode 3 come out this year.… Expand
  9. TannerH.
    Oct 11, 2007
    10
    Great game, loved all the half life 2 games, love this one cause u get to continue the great adventure of gordan freeman! of course has alot more great action and puzzles and its fun!
  10. BrianS.
    Oct 11, 2007
    8
    I liked the extension of the storyline done here, but as usual the episodic content for HL2 once again rides far too short for the amount of development time that does into it. I love the episodic content model Valve is doing, but for them to truely be hitting home runs with 6 hours of content, that 6 hours of content needs to be developed and released within around a 3 - 6 month time I liked the extension of the storyline done here, but as usual the episodic content for HL2 once again rides far too short for the amount of development time that does into it. I love the episodic content model Valve is doing, but for them to truely be hitting home runs with 6 hours of content, that 6 hours of content needs to be developed and released within around a 3 - 6 month time scale, and Valve has yet to meet a quick release schedule for the HL2 episodes. In general while the expansion is good, theres not alot of majorly new concepts in pay here and while the levels are good the lack much in the area of new content and resources to justify the amount of time its taken to develop it all. Overall I have no complaints about Episode 2, but to get above an 8 rating from me Valve is going to have to either increase the amount of game play content per Episode to at least 12 hours, or start releasing these 6 hour episodics at least once every 6 months.… Expand
  11. JamesH.
    Nov 2, 2007
    10
    This is definitely one of my all-time favourite games. Episode Two has it all: a gripping sci-fi plot, memorable characters, amazing graphics, incredible action, the list goes on. I agree with the other reviews that it seemed a bit short, and the last chapter was somewhat diminished by what I thought an abrupt (but good) ending. (Even before starting the game I had a feeling that Eli This is definitely one of my all-time favourite games. Episode Two has it all: a gripping sci-fi plot, memorable characters, amazing graphics, incredible action, the list goes on. I agree with the other reviews that it seemed a bit short, and the last chapter was somewhat diminished by what I thought an abrupt (but good) ending. (Even before starting the game I had a feeling that Eli Vance would die.) However, niether of these small shortcomings can make me take off even one point, because the game is so AWESOME!!!! I was left wanting the sequel right after it ended;I really can't wait until it comes out! I think this is an excellent continuation of the Half-Life saga. Nice work, Valve. Thank you for making this game, and please release the next episode ASAP. Also, thank you for reading and posting up this message. Peace, y'all.… Expand
  12. SebastianF.
    Oct 12, 2007
    9
    This game is alot of fun!I was hooked from the beginning on and the view after you exit the train....wow...Again, like in episode 1, the gametime is a little short. I know its just an episode but the story and game was well made and i just wanted to play for at least another two hours but than it ended quickly...This is the only reason why i didnt give it a 10.Amazing gameplay, Awesome This game is alot of fun!I was hooked from the beginning on and the view after you exit the train....wow...Again, like in episode 1, the gametime is a little short. I know its just an episode but the story and game was well made and i just wanted to play for at least another two hours but than it ended quickly...This is the only reason why i didnt give it a 10.Amazing gameplay, Awesome story and unbelievable graphics!… Expand
  13. AlexK.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Episode Two brings you the moments when just stick to the monitor and can do nothing but play... no not play, you live these 5 hours of gameplay all by yourself. It`s a great experience after such masterpieces like Half-Life 2 and Episode One. Remarkable as always.
  14. RobA.
    Oct 12, 2007
    9
    Back on par with the half life series for quality after the disapointing episode 1. Good story advancement, character dialogue and gameplay. No knew weapons though.
  15. AnonymousMC
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Truly a masterpiece of gaming.

    The story is great and gameplay is way more fun, than it was in original HL2 or in Episode one.

    It's way too short, but you can't get everything.

    And with it, you'll get even 2 great games: Portal (With it's genius gameplay and atmosphere) and Team Fortress 2, which is the most fun online multiplayer shooter yet.
  16. YannC.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    This game is perfect. Just one thing : too short.
  17. MichaelS.
    Oct 14, 2007
    10
    Half life 2 Ep 2 is by far one of the most thought out games in the HL series. It is not only a good story but the story relates to the player's expeirence. I have gone thought the game and have listened to all the creators comments in the game and I was amazed at how much though that the makers of ep2 put into the game. In my opinion HL2 ep2 surpasses my expectations and turned out Half life 2 Ep 2 is by far one of the most thought out games in the HL series. It is not only a good story but the story relates to the player's expeirence. I have gone thought the game and have listened to all the creators comments in the game and I was amazed at how much though that the makers of ep2 put into the game. In my opinion HL2 ep2 surpasses my expectations and turned out to be a Great gaming expierence.… Expand
  18. TimL.
    Oct 14, 2007
    10
    Fantastic addition to the Halflife Life canon. Adds to and improves the story telling aspect, and a MUCH better experience than Ep1.
  19. JasonFarbo
    Oct 14, 2007
    9
    I was moved to tears by the emotional impact of this act in the continuing battle of Dr. Freeman against the evil alien Combine. I cannot wait until I can play the next act. Rest in peace, Eli. I will savor your vengeance. And as for the creature who may bring "Unforseen consequenses", I wish him my early condolences... May broadswords and bullets be his undoing. Freeman Forever!
  20. AlexC.
    Oct 14, 2007
    10
    It's amazing how you can also use your head in a shooter and how have to be strategic! i love that!
  21. MalteB.
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    Just finished HL2:EP2 ... no words to describe this great 2nd addon to HL2 ... so perfect, so beautiful, so immersive. Can't wait for EP3!
  22. JeremyN.
    Oct 15, 2007
    10
    An Amazing chapter to the already amazing story of Half-Life 2. Better then the First Episode although I wish there was a trailer for the 3rd.
  23. ThaTyger
    Nov 5, 2007
    9
    Episode Two is a great new adventure, full of interesting plot changes. After the somewhat disappointing Episode 1 (great story, but in less then 2 hours I beat it on hard) it makes up to all the promises and more! The game looks plain awesome, even on my 4 year old game pc (I can still run HDR lightning and AA ^_^)!! The new maps are large, and the locations are variated. The only Episode Two is a great new adventure, full of interesting plot changes. After the somewhat disappointing Episode 1 (great story, but in less then 2 hours I beat it on hard) it makes up to all the promises and more! The game looks plain awesome, even on my 4 year old game pc (I can still run HDR lightning and AA ^_^)!! The new maps are large, and the locations are variated. The only negative point would be that I'd like to see some new weapons, and maybe some more "boss fight" kind of things (like an advisor battle). This game is by far the best game of 2007 however!… Expand
  24. EggertM.
    Nov 5, 2007
    8
    Little short but great game, can't wait for Episode 3
  25. ChaseS.
    Oct 16, 2007
    8
    Awesome game, but its so damn noob friendly..... and i thought this was supposed to focus on "non linear" gameplay , its pretty much still linear maybe not so as much with the huge maps but still. i also have some problems with the ai. like the ai is rlly smart whern your fighting them, they take cover n stuff, but the enemies always seems to know where you are, which is just retarded, i Awesome game, but its so damn noob friendly..... and i thought this was supposed to focus on "non linear" gameplay , its pretty much still linear maybe not so as much with the huge maps but still. i also have some problems with the ai. like the ai is rlly smart whern your fighting them, they take cover n stuff, but the enemies always seems to know where you are, which is just retarded, i want the ai to be like fear, where they search the area for you and u can sneak up on them and stuff that adds a whole new level of tension.… Expand
  26. Mark
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Excellent. As part of the Orange Box this is an exceptional value. Episode Two picks up right where Ep 1 left off. No new real weapons, but the story really moves in this chapter, as does the character development. While not a sappy love story, the connection between Gordon and Alex grows, but never does the action completely stop. Final battle will make you heave a sigh of relief when Excellent. As part of the Orange Box this is an exceptional value. Episode Two picks up right where Ep 1 left off. No new real weapons, but the story really moves in this chapter, as does the character development. While not a sappy love story, the connection between Gordon and Alex grows, but never does the action completely stop. Final battle will make you heave a sigh of relief when you finish it. Anyone that plays this through can only think one thing; "Bring on Episode 3".… Expand
  27. AlexD.
    Oct 19, 2007
    9
    One of the most compelling and driving stories i have played in an FPS In a long, long time.
  28. MalK.
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    Had everything, scenery, fast cars,emotion, striders, striders, striders.
  29. ArjanK.
    Oct 23, 2007
    10
    I have bought Half Life 2 Ep 2 last weekend, and have been playing it ever since. And everything, the graphics, the scenery, the enemy's, the action, just everything is so awesome, it doesn't deserve less than a 10 in my opion.
  30. ChrisH.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    A sublime game introducing some great and difficult new enemies. Replayability from the achievements. This game is a visual treat - you have to have a good look around, when the action lets you, to see what a delight the graphics are. Bring on Episode 3 and quickly.
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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

All reviews »
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.
    Read full review
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