Half-Life 2

 PC
User Score
9.2

Universal acclaim- based on 12734 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11,541 out of 12734
  2. Mixed: 635 out of 12734
  3. Negative: 558 out of 12734
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  1. Pelu
    Jan 6, 2011
    7
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's only a well-made shooter. It lasts for over 20 hours, but it has only 4 or 5 real plot twists, and all the other twists are related to the action! (like ravenholm). It seems good at the train station, but soon you'll discover the city isn't real. It's just a lot of combine soldiers. And then you'll have to kill 100 people and 20 monsters to get to the other level, where you'll drive a boat and kill another 100 people and this time 30 monsters. Then someone comes to you and says hey, I'm your father! And then you're like "Noooo!", and kill a couple hundred more. The plot can be written this short:
    - Gordon joins resistance
    - Eli is captured
    - Mossman is a traitor
    - Alyx is captured too
    - Mossman is a traitor again, so prisoners are freed
    - they blow **** up

    So what kind of plot is that?? But anyway, it's nice to play in the parts where it's well made and not too repetitive. For example the lighthouse, turret defense and driving parts I liked.

    After all, a well made linear FPS is always better than a non-linear game gone wrong. For example Far Cry 2 tries to create a free world, but it fails miserably.    … Expand
  2. MentalCritic
    Jan 4, 2011
    10
    Actually I overgrown most of the games, but I still love HL2.. It has a unique art. A cool mix of technology, urban culture and a lot more that other games just don't have. A very strong visual identity.

    Environment - whether you are on the street, alien outpost or sewer system seem unbelievably real and you feel present. It's not just realistic graphics and textures, it's the spontaneus    Actually I overgrown most of the games, but I still love HL2.. It has a unique art. A cool mix of technology, urban culture and a lot more that other games just don't have. A very strong visual identity.

    Environment - whether you are on the street, alien outpost or sewer system seem unbelievably real and you feel present. It's not just realistic graphics and textures, it's the spontaneus architecture.

    Usual shooter gameplay is spiced up with gravity gun (oh, the stuff u can do with it :D ) .. and versatility of enemies that demand a different approach.

    I feel this is just too big part of pop culture to miss.. like the big movies, series or music.    … Expand
  3. creptor
    Jan 2, 2011
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is a great game and I absolutely love it! The combine are great to kill. And I found it amusing to make the guards angry in the first level. I love the new zombies and the new poison head crabs and zombies are awesome! There are also the funny yet annoying fast zombies! Overall A masterpiece… Expand
  4. robinjam
    Jan 2, 2011
    10
    It's quite simply impossible for me to find fault with this game. The story is thoroughly engrossing, the level design is superb, the gameplay is varied and interesting, and it's available at an insanely cheap price point. This is, and probably always will be, my favourite PC game of all time.
  5. BrainGamer
    Jan 1, 2011
    10
    Playing this still makes me speechless, regardless of the graphics "being too outdated" or what-not Half Life 2 has an amazing storyline and the characters actually have an effect on people and arent cheesy.Eitherway, this game made history.
  6. Skeptikal
    Dec 27, 2010
    10
    Simply amazing...Seeing is believeing. I myslef had heard of half life through the grapevine but had never got around to playing it as I was formally on a console. Well since seeing the light and switching to the pc I started looking into epic pc titles and within the first few minutes of my internet search quickly saw how revered Valve's Half Life series was. I jumped right into Half LifeSimply amazing...Seeing is believeing. I myslef had heard of half life through the grapevine but had never got around to playing it as I was formally on a console. Well since seeing the light and switching to the pc I started looking into epic pc titles and within the first few minutes of my internet search quickly saw how revered Valve's Half Life series was. I jumped right into Half Life 2 for 10 bucks on Amazon and let me tell you it has changed my expectations of games completely. Even though the game is dated as of 2010, the well thought out game play coupled with the superb plot, facial animations, and voice acting goes to show that graphics is NOT the be all end all. If by chance you are reading this and have not played Half Life- please, treat yourself and give it 5 minutes-you won't look back.… Expand
  7. VALVEgameslover
    Dec 27, 2010
    10
    This game is art truly amazing. half life 1 was great but this is awesome!!! i have always been a fan of valve but this brings them to a all new level,and i love the felling of bashing heads with crowbars.every time you play it, it gets better and better and better!!
  8. Roeyl
    Dec 26, 2010
    10
    Half-Life 2 is so much more than a game, because you end up forgetting it's a game. You just keep playing it again and again starving for some more. HL2 is not just about mindless shooting and killing... VALVe offers you one of the most diverse gameplay: each chapter has its own mechanics and new weapons, real NEW weapons: they're not just more powerful, they're really different (as theHalf-Life 2 is so much more than a game, because you end up forgetting it's a game. You just keep playing it again and again starving for some more. HL2 is not just about mindless shooting and killing... VALVe offers you one of the most diverse gameplay: each chapter has its own mechanics and new weapons, real NEW weapons: they're not just more powerful, they're really different (as the gravity gun). The story is great and very immersing: you know who you are, what you must do and why you do it... It isn't like: "Hey! that's the story! keep doing whatever you were doing! (mindless killing in most cases)". The AI isn't great, that's agreed, but it's somehow acceptable because it's not at the center of the game. The graphics are getting old too but it's very well done (I still play the first Half-Life: it doesn't matter) and the physics are still great, actually it's really the only game where you have a real interactivity with the physics.… Expand
  9. DragonsInSpace
    Dec 24, 2010
    7
    A pretty okay game that makes up for a mediocre shooter model by containing an incredible amount of variety. I'd doubt it's actually a shooter at all, but rather an action adventure game, considering the content. You're never doing the same thing for more than an hour throughout the entire game. The story is run-of-the-mill and characters are put in only to say your name and praise youA pretty okay game that makes up for a mediocre shooter model by containing an incredible amount of variety. I'd doubt it's actually a shooter at all, but rather an action adventure game, considering the content. You're never doing the same thing for more than an hour throughout the entire game. The story is run-of-the-mill and characters are put in only to say your name and praise you like you're Jesus, but the way it's told, mainly through allusion and details in the environment, is brilliant.… Expand
  10. El_Burrito
    Dec 4, 2010
    10
    Valve must be in my brain, because they know exactly what I want. This game couldn't have been better unless it came with a free hooker.
    If you have played the first Half Life, then you will definitely want to buy to this to carry on the story and find out what happens to Freeman after G-man "hires" him. If you haven't played Half Life before, then you should still play through this at    Valve must be in my brain, because they know exactly what I want. This game couldn't have been better unless it came with a free hooker.
    If you have played the first Half Life, then you will definitely want to buy to this to carry on the story and find out what happens to Freeman after G-man "hires" him. If you haven't played Half Life before, then you should still play through this at least once. It is an amazing game with an amazing story.    … Expand
  11. KulakxRatings
    Nov 26, 2010
    6
    Its a fun game, but it is nothing like Half life 1, the first half life game was probably the best game of its genre, but half life 2 is just a generic fps. It has realy stellar graphics and engine. It has decent acting, but its story falls flat on just shooting combine and running away from combine, but the gameplay was realy well made, i want to give this game a lower rating but theyIts a fun game, but it is nothing like Half life 1, the first half life game was probably the best game of its genre, but half life 2 is just a generic fps. It has realy stellar graphics and engine. It has decent acting, but its story falls flat on just shooting combine and running away from combine, but the gameplay was realy well made, i want to give this game a lower rating but they just nailed it off to be a regular game, it is nothing special.… Expand
  12. GhettoGarden1
    Nov 26, 2010
    10
    Alright, i am responding to most of the negative reviewers out there. i have read them. Half of them are about steam. in 2004. These days, steam has improved and is now usable, along with a built in social network. Dont blame the installation. Blame the game. Now i agree... The graphics are aged a bit... but, you dont complain about a fine wine being aged, do you? Now you know thatAlright, i am responding to most of the negative reviewers out there. i have read them. Half of them are about steam. in 2004. These days, steam has improved and is now usable, along with a built in social network. Dont blame the installation. Blame the game. Now i agree... The graphics are aged a bit... but, you dont complain about a fine wine being aged, do you? Now you know that the game works on middle-high range computers. Being overrated and overadverstised...i dont see any commercials for it, or for when it came out. WoW? Yes, i most certainly did. Physics, no bullet penetration...thats real life...items that fall to the ground depending on weight and gravity...thats real life too! You cant say that about most other modern games. Also, these days, modern games are shipped out in a few generic catagories; Warfare(MW2,Bad Company,Black Ops) WWII(CoD, RUSE)Sci-Fi(Starcraft, Star Wars),Attemped survival horror(Doom3)And Low Budget(Big Rigs OTRR). Half life is a step above because of its individualism. it also has elements from some of those catagories. Its a shooter with warfare scifi elements. Also, FEAR was good, but Far Cry was a peice of Sh*t, and Half Life is the only game ive played that doesnt feel the same as every other game ive played.… Expand
  13. thelegitdreamer
    Nov 11, 2010
    10
    This game is awesome. it is one of the best FPS's of all time. with an amazing storyline, fun weapons, and the source engine, this game will hook you from the first chapter. i highly recomend this to any gamer.
  14. arkangel
    Nov 5, 2010
    10
    This was the game that got me into FPSs - although of course it's far more than that. Half-Life 2 was the first game in which I experienced 'real' physics. Completely absorbing from start to finish. Brilliant!
  15. Raz0r
    Oct 30, 2010
    9
    My personal favourite First Person Shooter and probably also the best of all time. It is what FPS game should contain: great plot, amazing graphics, hell lot of tools to use (weapons mostly :D ) and what is the most important thing - amazing game-play. Despite what we could thought when the game was at building stage, we have been given amazing product that miss nothing and aims very highMy personal favourite First Person Shooter and probably also the best of all time. It is what FPS game should contain: great plot, amazing graphics, hell lot of tools to use (weapons mostly :D ) and what is the most important thing - amazing game-play. Despite what we could thought when the game was at building stage, we have been given amazing product that miss nothing and aims very high for whole genre of PC games. You should buy this game - it really out stands 99% of FPS games. This must play of all PC games!… Expand
  16. barry2680
    Oct 26, 2010
    10
    A good game done well in every way, I honestly can't think of any critism for the game, Don't read this play it now!
  17. theshonen8899
    Oct 25, 2010
    10
    The best FPS the world has ever come to witness. Half-Life 2 brings you through a torrent of different settings, enemies, and events that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Nothing too much should be said as no game of this caliber should need an introduction, but it is suffice to say that if you are a fan of FPS, this is not a game to be missed in your entire life.
  18. sasfish
    Oct 25, 2010
    10
    I love it, end of story. The story keeps going and changing. When you think you got it something changes and keeps you in the game. Graphics are great and the story is compelling. I cant wait for the next installment.
  19. Danielscar
    Oct 18, 2010
    10
    When I played HL2, I remember it was like being in a strange dream that seems so real. The design, graphics and sound is epic. What a masterpiece of art. It's simply the best game I have ever played.
  20. Ccx55
    Oct 18, 2010
    10
    Simply incredible. Half-Life 2 throws you out into action and never lets back. Graphics, physics and character animations are absolutely incredible for a game that was released in 2009.
    This game being released in 2004 just makes that even more unbelievable.
  21. Tubie
    Oct 9, 2010
    10
    This game is one of my all time favorites and I've been playing games for a while. I am not a big pro FPS player but I've always enjoyed them and this game was incredible and even playing it again for the 12th time this day it feels great and to this day not many games can come up to it's level.
  22. Frostbite
    Oct 9, 2010
    10
    Think about your favorite FPS. Now look at this game. Half Life 2 is seriously, no joke, one of the best games ever created. The story is a masterpiece, showing you a world held hostage by the powerful Combine, an alien race who came to Earth after the events of the first game and all but enslaved us. Remember the physics of the first game? Half Life 2 has cranked those up to 11, withThink about your favorite FPS. Now look at this game. Half Life 2 is seriously, no joke, one of the best games ever created. The story is a masterpiece, showing you a world held hostage by the powerful Combine, an alien race who came to Earth after the events of the first game and all but enslaved us. Remember the physics of the first game? Half Life 2 has cranked those up to 11, with beautiful flames that will have you standing by fires and realistic crows that take off when you approach. And then there's the combat. Like the first game, it is executed perfectly, but I noticed that many of the guns are almost exactly the same. You get the standard pistol, the crowbar, the shotgun, the smg, the rpg, the grenades, and the crossbow. The only weapons that seemed new were the assault rifle and the gravity gun. Oh man, the gravity gun. I could write an entire review just about that, how you can pick up and push items, solve puzzles, etc. Throughout the game you'll visit a number of locales, from the Antlion-infested beaches to the city of Ravenholm, which is positively crawling with zombies. If you like to play video games, then you must play Half Life 2.… Expand
  23. BrenLeahey
    Oct 8, 2010
    10
    I've played through this game ten times by now. Every time I do, it's like the first time all over again. The gravity gun makes some of the greatest kills you can have (especially in Ravenholm.) Its graphics are still very impressive when compared to modern games (except Crysis.) Great story, better than solid gameplay, great graphics, and the coolest weapon ever created ever. If it wasI've played through this game ten times by now. Every time I do, it's like the first time all over again. The gravity gun makes some of the greatest kills you can have (especially in Ravenholm.) Its graphics are still very impressive when compared to modern games (except Crysis.) Great story, better than solid gameplay, great graphics, and the coolest weapon ever created ever. If it was possible, I would sleep with this game all day, every day.… Expand
  24. marqpas
    Oct 3, 2010
    10
    .....................Still the only game in history (yet) worthy of a 10................................. Bravo Valve...................................
  25. loler1979
    Sep 27, 2010
    10
    Been playing this game since 2004, and after 6 years, I still have a blast playing. I love how interactive the enviorment is. If you are debating weather to buy this game, do it! You wont be disappointed!
  26. Tyhcus
    Sep 23, 2010
    9
    Half-Life 2 was a masterpiece for its time. High points of the game included gravity manipulation, the NPC companion (so far unsurpassed in the pure FPS genre) and the sense of scale. The source engine is still going strong though user mods never really seemed to live up to the creativity and diversity of original Half Life ones.
  27. Prettin
    Sep 10, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This one of my all time game favorites. Started many years ago with Half-Life, which was one of my first games. The game was the kick-off for the Source Engine, that would be used for many other great games. The game provides a new storyline for the Half-Life-series and a total new environment. For the first time wondering around in the outside world (Eastern-Europe?) experiencing the consequences of the events that happened in the Black Mesa laboratories.

    The first game ended with the mysterious Gman and this game starts with him, dropping Gordon Freeman off in City 17. Directly meeting the Combine confronts you with the earlier mentioned consequences. The Combine conquered the world after the aliens landed first via the events of the first game. As a survivor of the "Black Mesa-incident" your trying to find out whats going on and what needs to be done. Overall the game has different great atmospheres. The developers used the look of Eastern European buildings from the Cold War as a decor in urban maps, but also has many other rural scenes. (9.0)    … Expand
  28. Acid
    Aug 23, 2010
    10
    Half Life 2 is the very first FPS that I've played. It has probably been the best game that i have ever played in a long time. I started playing platform games, so Half Life 2 took some practice, but it was the best game since Super Mario World. The level design is perfect, the enemies are balanced, and it is long. This game will definitly keep you busy.
  29. MegaGamer37
    Aug 19, 2010
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An amazingly well built sequel for the groundbreaking Half Life, I was very excited and was disappointed that Half Life 2 didn't meet my expectations...... IT COMPLETELY SURPASSED THEM IN EVERY WAY POSSIBLE. Valve has made a complete masterpiece with this game. The enemy AI, while not as amazing as Half Life's, is still top notch. The game is very realistic. I was thrown headfirst into this world and I must say that I was completely immersed in it. The graphics are extremely good and the level design is still amazing. The water effects blew me away! The characters have very good lip syncing and extremely life like emotions with great voice acting. Every location, from the urban City 17, to the extremely creepy Ravenholm are designed very well. I think that many might say that Valve spent a long time on it and will complain but I will just say how I think all that time making it shows. If I could make it so, i would give this an 11.… Expand
  30. CC
    Jul 1, 2010
    4
    Good start and much potential. Needs some balance tweaking, but overall is very fun. Minor issues are dwarfed by moments of brilliance. If you like GTA, and wished, "Hey, I wish I could play this online with my friends with an MMO twist (leveling, gear, etc..)" then you will be very pleased!
  31. BenF
    Apr 20, 2010
    10
    This game is FPS at its best! No matter how many times you play it, youll either crap your pants or have your mind explode out of the sheer awesomeness of this game!! Incredible puzzles, Frightful and disgusting enemies, superb dialogue, and best of all a gun like no other that allows you to turn every day items to super destructive items of terror!!! I dont care if you're the This game is FPS at its best! No matter how many times you play it, youll either crap your pants or have your mind explode out of the sheer awesomeness of this game!! Incredible puzzles, Frightful and disgusting enemies, superb dialogue, and best of all a gun like no other that allows you to turn every day items to super destructive items of terror!!! I dont care if you're the world's greatest gamer, if you havnt played this game...you havnt lived yet.… Expand
  32. LukeM.
    Apr 19, 2010
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  33. tonik
    Apr 18, 2010
    10
    The best SP game ive ever played along with MAFIA, the world that is created, with the physics and graphics the best in the world (i play it with CM 10.30), you feel like in a movie like World of war, such an intense atmosphere and very different styles of levels.
  34. CraigC
    Apr 17, 2010
    4
    Very overrated game. Was a glorified tech demo when it first came out, now its just an incredibly mediocre game. It did nothing all that well, story wasn't really there, gameplay consisted of very bland FPS play and gratuitous physics puzzles. I still can't understand to this day why so many hold it so high when it's really nothing special, and an insult to the first which Very overrated game. Was a glorified tech demo when it first came out, now its just an incredibly mediocre game. It did nothing all that well, story wasn't really there, gameplay consisted of very bland FPS play and gratuitous physics puzzles. I still can't understand to this day why so many hold it so high when it's really nothing special, and an insult to the first which was a great game.… Expand
  35. MatNot
    Apr 14, 2010
    10
    When the PC is considered not good for games, well.... this game is a game changer of platforms! Incredible game play, lastability, emersivness and I could go on. This was the top oscar winning game in terms of entertainment of all time, and in most ways still is. I can't wait till the next install ment to bring the game graphics, etc, to the new level with the HL tradition of When the PC is considered not good for games, well.... this game is a game changer of platforms! Incredible game play, lastability, emersivness and I could go on. This was the top oscar winning game in terms of entertainment of all time, and in most ways still is. I can't wait till the next install ment to bring the game graphics, etc, to the new level with the HL tradition of setting a new banch mark from which every game after is compared.… Expand
  36. ElrikJ.
    Apr 12, 2010
    10
    This game is one of the most revolutionary games out there. It combines fear action and a brilliant story to boot. this game deserves a 10 due to its spectaculare play style and feel. You get sucked into the character of gordern freeman and start to see this universe as a real awsome place. This game is superb and i suggest it to anyone wanting a Epicly brilliant pc game to play.
  37. PyryJ.
    Apr 9, 2010
    8
    Liked the game. Looking at the other comments and ratings I could say that there is too many people rating it 10 and too many people just trolling amongst them. The AI is bad, levels are intresting but linear(but I didnt expect anything else from a FPS), the story is good, the graphics are good for the time (go to hell grapics whores!), and the game play was fun for most of the time.
  38. Nicholas
    Apr 4, 2010
    10
    The single greatest game of all time (stfu MW 2 fanboys, it's a great game but hardly the best ever) I must disagree with the person calling themselves Uber Gamer 101 because the HL2 single player is OVER 10 HOURS! so are you trying to tell me that you got the game, installed it and played non-stop for 14 hours? This game surpassed another big game of the time *cough* DooM 3 *cough* The single greatest game of all time (stfu MW 2 fanboys, it's a great game but hardly the best ever) I must disagree with the person calling themselves Uber Gamer 101 because the HL2 single player is OVER 10 HOURS! so are you trying to tell me that you got the game, installed it and played non-stop for 14 hours? This game surpassed another big game of the time *cough* DooM 3 *cough* and, unlike said game was more then a remake of a game before it. Graphics:10 (for the time) Gameplay:11 Mods:9 Replayability:8 Overall:10 (why does this rating system only go to ten?) What I would have put as the overall:11… Expand
  39. FilippoS
    Apr 4, 2010
    10
    An absolute masterpiece, everything about this game has been perfected in some way, the physics, the lighting, the story, the game-play and most of all the sheer amount of fun you get from this amazing experience. A game truly worthy of a 10 and equally as good and fresh as its predecessor.
  40. mattbearcroft
    Mar 27, 2010
    10
    its awesome
  41. VeraF
    Mar 22, 2010
    0
    My brother in law recommended this game, unfortunately I thought the main of the point of the game, to tell a story and immerse you in it failed miserably due to disatrous story telling. The pacing is flawed, the gameplay looses grip soon. The experience, just isn't the experience everyone thought it to be. I played Uncharted 2 recently and I think that game will be forgotten soon My brother in law recommended this game, unfortunately I thought the main of the point of the game, to tell a story and immerse you in it failed miserably due to disatrous story telling. The pacing is flawed, the gameplay looses grip soon. The experience, just isn't the experience everyone thought it to be. I played Uncharted 2 recently and I think that game will be forgotten soon once graphics become better. Half Life 2 is technically stunning, painfully a bore. I was happy to see Alyx Vance represented so well, too bad the rest of the cast and the storytelling ruins it all.… Expand
  42. ChrisZ
    Mar 22, 2010
    10
    The story is cliche and terribly told. Vance is ok, but overall the poor implementation of the aliens is laughable to the story. It's almost as the developers just included them last minute. The design is interesting, but ultimately this game falls flat trying to remove the flaws especially the quick novelty of puzzles and the gravity gun wearing off too soon, and the terrible AI The story is cliche and terribly told. Vance is ok, but overall the poor implementation of the aliens is laughable to the story. It's almost as the developers just included them last minute. The design is interesting, but ultimately this game falls flat trying to remove the flaws especially the quick novelty of puzzles and the gravity gun wearing off too soon, and the terrible AI with graphics. Immersive, not so much, gameplay is boring, the experience is as cliche as can be.… Expand
  43. YoM.
    Mar 17, 2010
    8
    OK Valve, I get it, you like zombies. Oh and soldiers. You like soldiers too. What happened to all the space aliens!!! All we get is antlions and headcrabs (which lead to.. yes... more zombies). One of the best things about half life was the aliens - really well designed, alien looking aliens, not just humans in suits. And a cool top secret government base to explore. In HL2 all we have OK Valve, I get it, you like zombies. Oh and soldiers. You like soldiers too. What happened to all the space aliens!!! All we get is antlions and headcrabs (which lead to.. yes... more zombies). One of the best things about half life was the aliens - really well designed, alien looking aliens, not just humans in suits. And a cool top secret government base to explore. In HL2 all we have is zombies and soldiers, zombies and soldiers, in lots and lots of ruined buildings. HL2 is great in lots of ways.The graphics and facial expressions still look good 6 years later. The plot is sci fi ham but it fits together great and is really immersive. The gravity gun is lots of fun and the combine biotech, striders, gunships etc is cool. But while HL1 left me genuinely apprehensive and scared about what I would see around the next corner, HL2 didn't because I knew what was coming: a ruined cityscape full of zombies and soldiers. Again, and again, and again. Would it have hurt to make the enemies a little more varied? It's a good game, but it is no way better than HL1, not even close.… Expand
  44. CarrolC.
    Mar 16, 2010
    10
    Possibly the best FPS of the decade. Unbelievable graphics. Awesome gameplay. Great story. Wonderful soundtrack. Everything you ever wanted in a FPS. LONG LIVE GORDON FREEMAN!
  45. KodyB
    Mar 16, 2010
    10
    Why 10/10? I had heard hype about this game and bought it in the orange box. I was shocked to see that it is true, it lives up to everything. the graphics are arguably better than some titles released today, the game play is excellent, even though it is linear you will never get sick of walking off the train into city 17. Its a shame i got it 4 years too late.
  46. JakubM.
    Mar 13, 2010
    10
    Next to Halo, probably one of the best games and game series of all time. Yes, it does lack the multiplayer and every single vehicle isn't at your disposal, like halo, but if you are looking to buy this game, buy it. The AI is amazing, and the digital actors have won many awards, from their in-game expressions and pin-point accurate lip syncing. This game is also on the 2nd game of Next to Halo, probably one of the best games and game series of all time. Yes, it does lack the multiplayer and every single vehicle isn't at your disposal, like halo, but if you are looking to buy this game, buy it. The AI is amazing, and the digital actors have won many awards, from their in-game expressions and pin-point accurate lip syncing. This game is also on the 2nd game of all time, i belive, and is the best selling action game franchise of all time. The Half-Life saga also has more, with in my view, even better games Episode 1 and Episode 2, both for the low prices of $20 (now probably even at discount prices). BUY IT!… Expand
  47. ViliL.
    Mar 12, 2010
    0
    This game is even worse than Rogue Warrior, theres no plot and theres no aim down the sights as in call of duty series. And discusting ai and no game music at all. I can honestly say that this game is a very biggest flop in the game industry. Valve isnt good game developer and their games are all such a crap (no tf2). I always laugh when i check page of game that valve is developed and This game is even worse than Rogue Warrior, theres no plot and theres no aim down the sights as in call of duty series. And discusting ai and no game music at all. I can honestly say that this game is a very biggest flop in the game industry. Valve isnt good game developer and their games are all such a crap (no tf2). I always laugh when i check page of game that valve is developed and theres a text what says HDR support. It is old tech ya know about 5 years old and they are fancy about that their game uses that tech. Losers i say, overrated and bad company.… Expand
  48. SamJ.
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    LOVE it!
  49. LukeM.
    Feb 1, 2010
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  50. CrajanovschiA.
    Jan 27, 2010
    10
    The Most ....ever ,I can't express my words.This game is really the utopia of all games till now and the most emancipated game ever made .Its beautiful in every way and thrilling.Gordon Freeman,the best hero,and Half Life 2 Game of the Decade.This game ,for whoever hates it ,misses an experience never before seen and well ,haters ,be haters.
  51. JeffH
    Jan 24, 2010
    10
    One of the greatest games i've ever seen. Everything everyone liked from the first game, just some extremely enhanced graphics, interface, sound and everything else. One thing I can't stress enough are the graphics, the people at Valve are truly wizards with the Source Enginge making the grphics look equivalent to a top-of-the-line game of 2009!
  52. GabrielU
    Jan 24, 2010
    8
    This is one piece of good fps. Interesting story and awesome characters too. Few dull moments, when I could hit the PC of the deck. That's H-F2 in few words.
  53. JoeC
    Jan 23, 2010
    9
    Do not trust dsgv edvadt's comment as it lacks both truth and proper spelling. Instead believe that this game has an incredibly immersive plot, a wide range of graphics settings and excellent first-person gameplay.
  54. NelsonJ
    Jan 22, 2010
    9
    A fantastic game. It stimulates both my twitch reflex and my spatial awareness. In fact, it's so immersive that I get nauseous if I play it for too long.
  55. BrandonJ
    Jan 21, 2010
    10
    for everyone freaking out about how good codmw2's graphics are, this is better and it came out over five years earlier.
  56. TravisG
    Jan 20, 2010
    10
    Absolutely one of the most detailed game universes I ever had the privilege to exist in. The silent hero Gordon Freeman will live on forever in my mind.
  57. AustinF
    Jan 19, 2010
    10
    This game without a doubt deserves a 10. It's epic strategy and very cool puzzles are exceptional and very fun to do. It has good graphics, and thats without accounting the date it was created. The storyline is one of the best parts, and the soundtrack is plain incredible. This is worth the money, and doesn't cost that much.
  58. dsgvedvadt
    Jan 19, 2010
    0
    Awful, disgusting game,without somefing new.This is not a real komputer game,only a simulation.
  59. AllanD
    Jan 17, 2010
    9
    A game that keeps you glued to the screen finding ways to complete your task as well as killing.. Cool game.. Always enjoyed it and still do now in 2010!!
  60. NatP
    Jan 15, 2010
    9
    Immersive gameplay, Good voice acting, Revolutionary, Awesome visuals for its time. AI could've used a little polish though. Hands down one of the best FPS I've ever played!
  61. BejuGS
    Jan 15, 2010
    10
    It's an wonderfull game, i love this type of games, i really do but the most of them need too much graphical resources sow the conclusions are: 1. Play the game if you havent before 2. Rate this game with 10
  62. KillingM.
    Jan 15, 2010
    10
    HL2 is the best game I've never played.
  63. DannyC
    Jan 14, 2010
    9
    This game was great and epic...immersing story line i think the first use rating from Biosaber B is a bunch of crap. hes the kind of person that likes to play games that dont challenge you
  64. LudoS
    Jan 14, 2010
    10
    First of all I would like to disapprove of the comment below this one. He doesn't have to agree that this is an epic game, but this comment is way out of line. Now for the fun part. This game is epic, the whole thing with everything that surrounds it is epic. Can't wait for part 3!
  65. HUMANHUMAN
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    Game did almost everything well. graphics,gameplay, physics, story, characters, sounds. but there are some minor probs. like friendly NPC AI. some guns sound neutered like pistol and gravity gun. but there are so many good parts that i cant list them all. story is very interesting, soundtrack very good, characters loveable, and enemys... well not loveable. well, if you love fps games or Game did almost everything well. graphics,gameplay, physics, story, characters, sounds. but there are some minor probs. like friendly NPC AI. some guns sound neutered like pistol and gravity gun. but there are so many good parts that i cant list them all. story is very interesting, soundtrack very good, characters loveable, and enemys... well not loveable. well, if you love fps games or sci-fi games. or fps sci-fi game, this is one of those must have games. if you like halo, i can bet that you are gonna like this… Expand
  66. OziR
    Jan 11, 2010
    10
    Definitely cannot compare to the first game but it was a 15/10, this without a doubt deserves all it can get
  67. Sirklick
    Jan 11, 2010
    5
    I really wanted to like the single player because I enjoyed playing multiplayer deathmatch so much. The games engine is quite impressive -especially for its day- but the single player is a lackluster experience overall. Linear plot, little character development, no moral delemas or ambiguities, zero interaction with the story... the list of basic story-telling tenants that are lacking in I really wanted to like the single player because I enjoyed playing multiplayer deathmatch so much. The games engine is quite impressive -especially for its day- but the single player is a lackluster experience overall. Linear plot, little character development, no moral delemas or ambiguities, zero interaction with the story... the list of basic story-telling tenants that are lacking in this game is quite lengthy. The game did nothing to keep me interested but randomly throw stuff in my path for me to shoot. Level design and feel is unimaginative and dull. The various "levels" do not look or feel like they belong in the same world. To progress through the levels you complete boring and completely out of place physics puzzles (if you can even call them that) that ruin the pace of the game and doing nothing for the story or player immersion. This games single player was developed for the headcrab controlled zombie audiance. Remove the crab, it is ok to have expectations!… Expand
  68. JihwanJ
    Jan 10, 2010
    10
    Really great. Characters also interact with is actually dialog and physics engine seems to be really good.
  69. TomP
    Jan 9, 2010
    10
    This is one of the BEST games I've ever played. It is in a very nice graphic, a great gameplay and is full of nice music perfect matching to the happening. The game is its money worth. I only can tell whoever think Half Life 2 sucks have never played it.
  70. JohanG
    Jan 8, 2010
    2
    Overate and boring. Stupid game. Its like lets buy the valve rate team. So we can pwnd all other games. This game is bugged like shit unbalance and you can cheat.
  71. BiosaberB
    Jan 4, 2010
    3
    Overrated garbage, the most boring and depressing game i've played in my entire life. The environments such as city 17 (boring), ravenholm (disgusting village), highway 17 (ugly ass beach), and nova prospekt (nothing but corridors) are just depressing and horrible. The main character is...well, there is no main character, just a floating crowbar, gun, gravity gun named gordan. The Overrated garbage, the most boring and depressing game i've played in my entire life. The environments such as city 17 (boring), ravenholm (disgusting village), highway 17 (ugly ass beach), and nova prospekt (nothing but corridors) are just depressing and horrible. The main character is...well, there is no main character, just a floating crowbar, gun, gravity gun named gordan. The ONLY good thing valve ever did was make left 4 dead 1 & 2, every other game they made sucked major balls, ecept portal which is average at most). Critics only gave this game good scores because of the gravity gun and the storyline, which is slightly above average. Besides, normal and casual gamers don't play games like these: a game for computer nerds or pc geeks: the only ppl who obsess, or even like this game, or think it's the best, which is NOT. This game is below average, average at the most. It would be an ok game if the environments didn't blow ass. The character development was pretty good though (especially Eli and Dr. Mossman, which were the most likeable characters). The only good part about this game is near the end, in the Citadel. Overall, this game is below average, avoid it and play epic games like San Andreas, Max Payne series, Kingdom Hearts 1 & 2, Metal Gear Solid series, Halo 3, Modern Warfare series. Just not this, unless ur an obsessive nerd. That's why there were a lot of copes sold, because there are so many nerds that want an alien hunting game with science themes.… Expand
  72. AndrewM.
    Jan 4, 2010
    7
    A good FPS game that is fun, but its creative effort can't compete with the previous game.
  73. ByonH
    Jan 1, 2010
    9
    I was amazed with the context throughout the storyline in the first parts of the game. One thing I disliked was the limited amount of weapons, but other then that, the game is worth the time, and is on my list for replay
  74. scottd
    Jan 1, 2010
    9
    actual health and armour instead of regen health? check more then two weappons carried at a time? check old fasioned guns a blazeing action instead of cover and kiss your a$$ goodbye borefest? chec half-life to is real retro gamers paradise bringing back everything that older gamers loved about fps while keeping the story telling and graphics on par with more modern fps styles, it actual health and armour instead of regen health? check more then two weappons carried at a time? check old fasioned guns a blazeing action instead of cover and kiss your a$$ goodbye borefest? chec half-life to is real retro gamers paradise bringing back everything that older gamers loved about fps while keeping the story telling and graphics on par with more modern fps styles, it deserves it's criticle acclaim.… Expand
  75. AnonymousOne
    Dec 31, 2009
    10
    Absolutely fantastic gaming experience! Great story in a familiar setting. This franchise has had me anticipating new content year after year.
  76. PaulC
    Dec 30, 2009
    10
    Still Replay this game every so often and I have only found one game I like more!
  77. CianP
    Dec 30, 2009
    10
    A must have FPS, amazing story, great characters and overall greatness. Well worth the money!
  78. jamesr
    Dec 28, 2009
    7
    Its a good game, but not the best of all. I dont understand why that much people rate it with 10... A lot of games are better than this
  79. RyanM
    Dec 27, 2009
    10
    Anyone complaining about the dumb ai remember that 90 percent of the game is fighting zombies... they arent supposed to be smart. This game revolutionized physics development and the implementation of the gravity gun
  80. MattL
    Dec 23, 2009
    10
    This game still stands up to shooters of today.
  81. PataC
    Dec 21, 2009
    3
    Even though it was six years ago that this game was released, it is still as much crap as it was back then. Definitely not a worthy sequel to the mighty Half-Life.
  82. SimonH
    Dec 15, 2009
    10
    The history was good, nice about not getting too stuck cause of the one-way build-up, but a bit boring at some few egdes I belive episode three could be perfect :)
  83. FrancescoB
    Dec 12, 2009
    10
    An absolute masterpiece. Everyone should enjoy it and join this amazing experience!
  84. StefanK
    Dec 11, 2009
    9
    The claim Game of the Year should be awarded more than once for this game. It´s a well thought through game with interesting dialoges and an awesome storyline! Cant get enough of this and the episodes!
  85. SamS
    Dec 8, 2009
    10
    A pure technological advancement in both physics and AI. The story uses a drip feed system so don't expect answers from the plot straight away. Although getting a bit old now half life 2 can still give the latest games a run for their money. Suggest you buy this as part of the orange box and purchase the latest garrt's mod if you want more.
  86. MarkW
    Dec 5, 2009
    10
    I was amazed the first time I played Half Life 2. I still find myself going back to replay the gamer years later.
  87. Nastyguard
    Dec 5, 2009
    10
    By far the best game of 2004, and is still one of my favorite games ever! The game is great overall, it has polish through the roof! Even though VALVE today is known for amazingly polished games The gameplay is amazing! Shooting enemies is very satisfying, and since there are many enemies to shoot - you'll be neither frustrated by the combat nor will you be bored without it, since By far the best game of 2004, and is still one of my favorite games ever! The game is great overall, it has polish through the roof! Even though VALVE today is known for amazingly polished games The gameplay is amazing! Shooting enemies is very satisfying, and since there are many enemies to shoot - you'll be neither frustrated by the combat nor will you be bored without it, since times without enemies are very rare. But when there are no enemies to fight, the game presents you with a variety of puzzles, mostly physics based. The physics of the Source Engine are one of the best out there, and considering this game is pretty old - it's kind of surprising. Although there are 2 complaints I have about the gameplay: 1) There aren't enough guns. Considering HL1 had so many of them, this one falls pretty short. The addition of the Gravity-Gun basically makes up for it. 2) The Teammate AI is pretty poor. The enemies handle great by taking cover, throwing grenades, working in teams to defeat you. Considering that, it's kind of surprising your teammates are so dumb. They rarely hit enemies, often get stuck somewhere and they do some other things, that you wouldn't want your teammates doing. The graphics are also a marvel to look at, even 5 years after its initial release. You play in huge, beautiful landscapes with great detail. Models are also beautiful, especially thanks to the incredible facial animation VALVE managed to put in their game. I have 0 complaints with the graphics. The sound is also great, featuring a pretty good soundtrack (although rarely heard), great sound effects (people who were making them probably had the hardest job ever, since the items you shoot from the gravity gun against other items make a sound varying depending on which items you shoot at which, so they had to make a hellish amount of combinations) and an amazing voice crew, with every single character talking in a very believable manner, which along with the realistic facial animation make for a pretty great atmosphere. The game is pretty long, lasting about 10 hours through your first playing, and for some reason - I keep wanting to replay it again and again over time. And I also forgot to mention the story. The story unfolds in a near flawless fashion. It's weird that Gordon never speaks (again), but it can be easily forgotten. You'll be hooked by the storytelling and drawn into the action naturally. A story that even beats HL1, in my opinion. I had very little to none complaints about this game, and I think it deserves a 10. The complaints I did have, however, are really minor and you'll barely even notice them while playing this amazing gaming experience. If you still haven't played the game - what the hell are you waiting for? BUY IT NOW! I suggest getting the Orange Box, since it comes with HL2 and both of the episodes, Portal - which is an amazing puzzle game that you'll find very unique and fun to play, and Team Fortress 2 - which is an amazing/cartoony Online MultiPlayer shooter, that'll have you hooked. Story - 10 (8 if you haven't played HL1) Gameplay - 9 Sound - 9 Graphics - 10 Lasting appeal - 10 Overall (average score) - 9.6 ~ 10.… Expand
  88. LysanderS
    Dec 2, 2009
    7
    I really don't understand what all the fuss is/was about, i mean it's a mediocre shooter, with a below average storyline. The only parts which stand out are the physics puzzles. It's probably worth your time, and like i said, the physics can be fun, but aside from that, it's just another FPS.
  89. DanR
    Nov 26, 2009
    10
    Valve set the bar with this game. Between the involving problems, the charisma of the silent hero, and the captivating storyline; this game has to be one of the best of all time.
  90. Bobbobbo
    Nov 23, 2009
    10
    The best game I have ever played.
  91. rajg
    Nov 22, 2009
    10
    This game exceeds every FPS ever made, including newer ones like Halo and COD, in every way, shape, and form. It crushed the competition, crushed previous standards, and set the bar so high that I the only game to possibly have reached it is Portal, which, of course, is another Valve game. In conclusion, Half Life is the best game series ever created, Valve is the best game This game exceeds every FPS ever made, including newer ones like Halo and COD, in every way, shape, and form. It crushed the competition, crushed previous standards, and set the bar so high that I the only game to possibly have reached it is Portal, which, of course, is another Valve game. In conclusion, Half Life is the best game series ever created, Valve is the best game developer/publisher in existance, and anyone who has not played half life, or at the very least a Valve game does not deserve the title of gamer or hardcore. GG.… Expand
  92. WillC
    Nov 22, 2009
    10
    The best FPS ever made. Not just from a gameplay standpoint, but because of its story, characters, setting and great immersion. The gravity gun is the most inventive weapon in gaming and the games set pieces are nothing short of action-packed extravaganza's.
  93. Marek
    Nov 18, 2009
    9
    Great game with great physics, good story, good difficulty. Still, it has some bugs and I don;t want to play it again. 9/10.
  94. TooTHPik
    Nov 15, 2009
    10
    Absolutly the greatest game ever made!!! Immersive and truly riviting story. Halo Cannot compare... Mass effect can't nudge... nor can bioshock stray the awesomeness that is gordon freeman and Half life 2!!!! YOu cant be a hardcore gamer and never play half life 2.
  95. EmersonB
    Nov 13, 2009
    10
    Just another really good game that should be played by anyone. If you like a good storyline this is the game for you, you always want to know what is going to happen next. But to every good thing there is a bad thing, the AI are bad. They are so easy to kill, they just stand in one spot shooting at you
  96. PeriklisS
    Nov 13, 2009
    10
    This game is amazing in nearly every single. It took my breath away from the very begining. For a five year old game, it is graphically stupendous, and from a narative standpoint, it is the best. In the words of G Man, "This is where I get off..."
  97. StevenH
    Nov 7, 2009
    6
    Most overrated game on this site. Still no story, setting is a mishmash of sci-fi cliches, the whole thing is one scripted event and linear box canyon, and there was no multiplayer until terrible multiplayer was patched in.
  98. ChristopherNa
    Nov 4, 2009
    10
    Man, oh man if you never played half-life than you never experience pc gaming. Half life 1 was not only a shooter game but a thinking game as well. So as said for Half-Life 2. When the game came out I was just like OMFG! NO F$%^ING WAY! The graphics are just fantastic and the AI is okay (I don't know why people complain about the AI?). The story line is just perfect, and the physics Man, oh man if you never played half-life than you never experience pc gaming. Half life 1 was not only a shooter game but a thinking game as well. So as said for Half-Life 2. When the game came out I was just like OMFG! NO F$%^ING WAY! The graphics are just fantastic and the AI is okay (I don't know why people complain about the AI?). The story line is just perfect, and the physics engine is just outstanding. Ex: Throwing a can at a combine head is just the most realistic (and funny) thing that ever happen in my life. The game play focuses on fps, AND thinking skills. It will take you time and patience to figure out a way pass secruity measures and barnacles. The zombies are just scarrier than ever and much more eneimes from HL1. Those who played Half life 1 must play this no matter what it is. At least renting it would just be darn good than a demo. It's a shame that the price is a little too high. But hey I still went to a internet/gaming cafe to try the heck out of it. And man was it worth every penny. To bad I won't be seeing Adrien Shepard I mean he was okay but who cares. All half life fans Gorden freeman has risen his crowbar. Those who are not fans join us!… Expand
  99. ChristianD
    Nov 4, 2009
    10
    I got this game with the Orange Box, more caring about Portal and TF2. I had no idea that I got a masterpiece of a game until I played it.
  100. FPSverylongtime
    Nov 4, 2009
    3
    Moves too slow (game engine + your character) Weapon repload too slow weapon damage too poor weapon switching is to slow the weapons are rubbish ID Software do it faster better and more hectic valve do it slow paced and lame
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PC Game of 2004
1
#1 Most Discussed PC Game of 2004
1
#1 Most Shared PC Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
96

Universal acclaim - based on 81 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 81 out of 81
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 81
  3. Negative: 0 out of 81
  1. CPUGamer
    100
    Nothing less than a revolution in the gaming industry that will keep gamers busy for years to come, just as the original did.
    Read full review
  2. Play.tm
    95
    An ephemeral and controversial ending, along with the few issues described above, means that for me, Half-Life 2, while a compelling and highly enjoyable game, falls short of the size of impact that the first title had on the gaming world.
    Read full review
  3. Playboy
    100
    A graphics overhaul delivers detailed facial animations and sophisticated physics that leave battle zones strewn with debris after intense shootouts with shuffling corpses, overfed curstaceans and other assorted foes. [October, p.37]
See all critic reviews »