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. martinp
    Nov 3, 2009
    10
    I love HALF-LIFE games! I have played Half-Life 1, its mods, Half-Life 2, Portal,Episode 1,Episode 2 many times, and I just cant wait to start playing Episode 3!
  2. frankd
    Nov 1, 2009
    10
    This game is very well thought out, smooth, and well curved design. it revolutionizes the gaming industry with the gameplay, physics, and graphics
  3. GabrielR
    Oct 31, 2009
    10
    This is easily my favourite game ever. Even 5 years after it's release the game is still thrilling, beautiful and engaging... A true masterpiece, a game to be remembered forever.
  4. UberGamer101
    Oct 25, 2009
    0
    This game was ok at best, however i may have just got it and yet it is already beaten, this game may have had alright graphics when it first came out but now it deserves to be knocked down a peg because it should not have a score higher than such games as left 4 dead and team fortress 2 because it is unimaginable boring and has a long storyline which may keep you distracted from the This game was ok at best, however i may have just got it and yet it is already beaten, this game may have had alright graphics when it first came out but now it deserves to be knocked down a peg because it should not have a score higher than such games as left 4 dead and team fortress 2 because it is unimaginable boring and has a long storyline which may keep you distracted from the lacking interface department..… Expand
  5. clarkbrookover
    Oct 22, 2009
    10
    this is one of the many favorite games i have. and i don't have many. if anyone wants a good game i would recommend this to them first. great puzzles and game play. story line amazing!
  6. pm
    Oct 19, 2009
    10
    Plot and action are in many ways still untouched. Few modifications would have to be made for this game to appear almost completely up to date, even after half a decade.
  7. AnonymousMC
    Oct 18, 2009
    10
    Best game ever made. SECOND TO NONE!
    I remember playing Half-Life. Thinking that it was the best game ever created and that no game company would ever surpass it. Then Half-Life 2 came out. HOLY CRAP!!
    If you haven't played this game, then you do not deserve to be called "hardcore" or a "gamer, or any combination thereof. The entire Half-Life series crushes any other game on the    Best game ever made. SECOND TO NONE!
    I remember playing Half-Life. Thinking that it was the best game ever created and that no game company would ever surpass it. Then Half-Life 2 came out. HOLY CRAP!!
    If you haven't played this game, then you do not deserve to be called "hardcore" or a "gamer, or any combination thereof.
    The entire Half-Life series crushes any other game on the market and most likely any game to be introduced to the video game market for quite a while. Even Halo, which is quite overrated to be honest.
    Buy it. It's like what, $10 at most? Oh and get Half-Life 1 as well, and the expansion packs: Opposing Force, and Blue Shift; and get Episode 1 & 2 for HL2. Oh, and get Team Fortress 2 and Left 4 Dead, and...
    Okay, okay, just make sure to get the WHOLE Half-life series for maximum enjoyment!    … Expand
  8. Hiliomar|Iced|
    Oct 14, 2009
    10
    Quite simply an amazing game, i do not agree with mikael who gave it a 6 and said the team ai was weak, it was simply good enough to want to finish the game. Althrough the game the most fun weapon was of course the gravity gun. picking up things and throwing them around was very enjoying and throwing explosives barrels at the enemy was fantastic. Thanks Valve For making such an fantastic game.
  9. elliotw
    Oct 11, 2009
    9
    Half life 2 review Half life 2 is undoubtedly one of the greatest fps
  10. LukeM.
    Oct 8, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  11. HughM.
    Oct 7, 2009
    10
    This is the best game I have ever played.
  12. AnonymousMC
    Oct 6, 2009
    10
    This game is the gratest I ever played, it tells a wonderfull story full of action and feelins, not all creatures are real, but it's very realistic. Besides that it gives you a lot of weapons and all the stuff to fight, u just can pic up a glas-bottle and throw it with the gravitrax so hard it flys som 100 meters, other than, it also gives ya houndreds of cars and boats and busses orThis game is the gratest I ever played, it tells a wonderfull story full of action and feelins, not all creatures are real, but it's very realistic. Besides that it gives you a lot of weapons and all the stuff to fight, u just can pic up a glas-bottle and throw it with the gravitrax so hard it flys som 100 meters, other than, it also gives ya houndreds of cars and boats and busses or trains you can drive mwith. ITS REALLY GREAT!!!!… Expand
  13. FernandoF.
    Sep 8, 2009
    10
    brilliant.
  14. AnonymousMC
    Aug 31, 2009
    10
    This game is what I call a masterpiece, good graphics for a 04' game, the best story line I've seen. I personally I love the havok engine, the way you have a enviroment where you can interact with almoust anything is great! You feel a lot more involved and free in the level, and thats why this game deserves a ten!
  15. AnonymousMC
    Aug 30, 2009
    10
    Half-Life 2 is just one amazing game. I played the original Half-Life when it came out, and after I beat it, I eagerly awaited the second. Fast-forwarding 9 years, I hear about Half-Life 2 coming out, and I am so amazed I can hardly contain myself.
    They did Half-Life justice. I consider this the best FPS story-wise and just an all around amazing game.
    Who is the G-Man? Who does he work    Half-Life 2 is just one amazing game. I played the original Half-Life when it came out, and after I beat it, I eagerly awaited the second. Fast-forwarding 9 years, I hear about Half-Life 2 coming out, and I am so amazed I can hardly contain myself.
    They did Half-Life justice. I consider this the best FPS story-wise and just an all around amazing game.
    Who is the G-Man? Who does he work for? Why Gorden Freeman?
    In the Future, I hope to have these questioned answered!    … Expand
  16. AnonymousMC
    Aug 27, 2009
    10
    Half Life 2 is an amazing game. It combines (no pun intended) strategic combat with puzzles and difficulty. As you escape from city 17 you can feel the adrenaline kicking in, with the music and sound effects creating this scary mood. It is a relatively old game, but has tons better graphics and gameplay than Call of Duty 4. The game has so much to think about that you are immediatelyHalf Life 2 is an amazing game. It combines (no pun intended) strategic combat with puzzles and difficulty. As you escape from city 17 you can feel the adrenaline kicking in, with the music and sound effects creating this scary mood. It is a relatively old game, but has tons better graphics and gameplay than Call of Duty 4. The game has so much to think about that you are immediately immersed in Gordon Freeman's life. Half Life is one of the few games that is a classic.… Expand
  17. BernhardF
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    I thought HL2 was a fantastic game, and that the water was especially impressive, although for some totally inexplicable reason they forgot to add any displacement physics, meaning that stuff put into the water mysteriously contains water even if its solid. I really enjoyed the Nova Prospekt level too. Ravenholm was tolerable, but after a while, the fun of beating headcrabs with a crowbar I thought HL2 was a fantastic game, and that the water was especially impressive, although for some totally inexplicable reason they forgot to add any displacement physics, meaning that stuff put into the water mysteriously contains water even if its solid. I really enjoyed the Nova Prospekt level too. Ravenholm was tolerable, but after a while, the fun of beating headcrabs with a crowbar kinda wears off. Four things missing from this game: 1) Displacement physics in the Source engine 2) A dual-wield weapon/item hold system- anyone else remember the chair-pistol wield from Return to Castle Wolfenstein? I liked that. Also, wielding 2 pistols in Route Kanal would be fun. 3) The sniper rifle. There is actually code for one there somewhere, honest, but its not a usable weapon as there are no models. 4) Flyable vehicles. Okay, so we have a boat level, a car level, a foot level... why not stick a chopper on the roof of that building by the citadel and fly through C17 strafing the striders? Finally, I have had no problems with Steam, in fact, I love it. It makes it so much easier to have a combined game browser (all my non-steam games have shortcuts there), and a chat feature which shows the game you are playing and if it is a multiplayer game, a join the server feature. Finally a reliable game organisation and multiplayer co-ordination system that works. And yes, I've tried most of them. GameSpy is adequate. GameShadow is a waste of space. HyperLobby is tolerable. But Steam? For me, it is great. No problems ever.… Expand
  18. AnonymousMC
    Aug 22, 2009
    10
    Best game ever. period.
  19. AnonymousMC
    Aug 22, 2009
    8
    When i played the demo i was like WOW i need the orange box.When i got the orange box i was like this isnt the best.its just a normal fps game but great idea of story but just after chapter 8 you are bored.but the game is fine because you can play synergy dystopia and lots more if you have hl2
  20. AnonymousMC
    Aug 20, 2009
    10
    I rarely give anything a 10, but Half-Life is really the only game I know that perfects almost every aspect of FPS gaming, and of which I can say is in an entire league of it's own. I can play it over and over again and not get tired of anything but the lack of things to criticize. Great story, clean gameplay, and fantastic visuals and atmosphere- It's a legend.
  21. MarkO.
    Aug 12, 2009
    10
    BEST PC GAME EVER.
  22. LukeM.
    Aug 11, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  23. BobB
    Aug 9, 2009
    10
    This game still exceeds every wannabe first-person shooter game made after it and most likely still will for years to come. Half-Life 2 has horror, action, comedy, puzzle, and sci-fi woven into it brilliantly and beautifully around every corner. It combines every aspect a gamer could possibly want in video game. The breathtaking graphics and wonderful personality of every character make This game still exceeds every wannabe first-person shooter game made after it and most likely still will for years to come. Half-Life 2 has horror, action, comedy, puzzle, and sci-fi woven into it brilliantly and beautifully around every corner. It combines every aspect a gamer could possibly want in video game. The breathtaking graphics and wonderful personality of every character make this game historical,not only for FPS standards, but for any sort of game available.… Expand
  24. AnonymousMC
    Aug 4, 2009
    9
    I played the first Half-Life, I do have to say the first Half-Life was much more challenging. However, Half-Life 2 has a better first person shooting system (I don't die in 2 seconds). Graphics are great even for its' time. I think the reason why this game really gets a nine is because the story is amazing. 9 out of 10.
  25. AnonymousMC
    Aug 4, 2009
    10
    best game ever. every second is heart pounding. i found myself hating the citadel as much as i hate hitler. the soldiers and graphics are amazing. its a complete view of what a futuristic holocaust would be like. the machines are so scary and you find yourself wanting to save your fellow rebels and wanting to kill every solider that has anything to do with Dr. greene.
  26. AnonymousMC
    Aug 2, 2009
    10
    Sure it's boring when you complete it but the first time I played it in 2005 I thought it was really nice, the graphics aren't to bad. I don't recommend this for new gamers though since it needs some more time to think etc.

    The AI Rebels helping you isn't so good but who cares. The face posing is really nice, what more could you want? Valve has done a great job!
  27. SamN.
    Aug 1, 2009
    10
    Wow.
  28. HelpU
    Jul 19, 2009
    7
    I consider 7 to be average. I mean compared to the first half of half-life the puzzles and enemies of half-life 2 are laughable and unimaginative. The only good qualities of this game is that it has good graphics and sound but that is a flaw in trying to make a lasting impression because, in the future( I can't believe it either) graphics and sound will be better than this, thus, in I consider 7 to be average. I mean compared to the first half of half-life the puzzles and enemies of half-life 2 are laughable and unimaginative. The only good qualities of this game is that it has good graphics and sound but that is a flaw in trying to make a lasting impression because, in the future( I can't believe it either) graphics and sound will be better than this, thus, in essence, this game is no more than a technological demonstration because its not really that imaginative.… Expand
  29. JoshS
    Jul 13, 2009
    10
    I remember the first day I played this on Christmas Day in 2004. I was absolutely amazed by the game, and I nearly fainted when I saw the Gman's face in the opening sequence. Truly a game to remember.
  30. TBear
    Jul 5, 2009
    10
    Half-Life 2 is one of those games which will stay top rated throughout the history of gaming. Great graphics, unique soundsetting, creative ideas and variation of game play. This game has everything a true gamer must desire.
  31. AnonymousMC
    Jul 2, 2009
    10
    Very good game people giving it 1 either it didnt work for them or it was two hard i think the game is challenging sometimes annoying but hands down for its time its the best game in 2003 04 and 05 i think nothing was comparing to half life in those days so 10 nice job valve i love your games keep it up
  32. DigitalDevil
    Jun 30, 2009
    10
    Get it now!
  33. AnonymousMC
    Jun 26, 2009
    10
    Okay im not going to say THIS GAME IS FUCKING GREAT... well it is byt thats not for me to decide... thats for you. but if you were to ask me... this game has amazing graphics and phisyics from sorce and the gameplay and story line is just finominal...
    10/10 valve... you did it again.
  34. Mikael
    Jun 20, 2009
    6
    Good game, good graphics and good sound. However its plagued with weak team AI in your so called team mates makes part of the game more frustrating than fun. They are in the way, the trigger traps and then stand in the way when you try to avoid what they set off. Are they all double agents for the opposing side ?
  35. MattZ
    Jun 14, 2009
    10
    I've been following valves games for years and definitely Half-LIfe 2 Rates among the top games I have ever played! The horror aspect had me at the edge of my seat and constantly jumping in fright. While the Character Aspect leaves you feeling as if you are really in the game. Great Job Valve.
  36. AkseliP
    Jun 5, 2009
    3
    Okay. I'm giving game rating 3 because enemies could be harder, AI was doing crazy things sometimes , zombies weren't scary and story wasn't always told well. Few good things were actors, rare fighting spots and it was fun to find G-man.
  37. AlexW
    May 31, 2009
    8
    Although visuals are wonderful, gameplay feels unrealistic. I know it did a lot to revolutionize FPS's, but somehow the engine doesn't feel right. It works for TF2, just not this game. Also, AI is rediculous and moves unrealistically. Instead of crouching behing cover and firing, they walk back and forth, which nobody would do in a real fight.
  38. Kamikun
    May 30, 2009
    10
    Despite Steam's often mentioned tendancy to drive many to homicidal urges, this game is worth all that and is great in every sense of the word. The story is gripping and dramatic, the setting is breathtaking and each location is incredibly different. The "silent hero" aspect of the game allows for even more relation to the character than if he had a voice (this is added to by the Despite Steam's often mentioned tendancy to drive many to homicidal urges, this game is worth all that and is great in every sense of the word. The story is gripping and dramatic, the setting is breathtaking and each location is incredibly different. The "silent hero" aspect of the game allows for even more relation to the character than if he had a voice (this is added to by the fact that the game's perspective never leaves Gordon Freeman's eyes) The combat is brutal, the weapons feel responsive, and the vehicle-driven sections are spectacular. You'll never find yourself doing the same thing twice, from an urban sprawl fighting against the sinister combine troops in squad based combat, to a lonesome trek through a zombie infested town, and even a relaxing drive across coastal roads in a buggy whilst being pursued by giant insects - Half-Life 2 has it all, and is a must buy for any PC Gamer.… Expand
  39. HI
    May 30, 2009
    10
    This game is a classic and its awesomeness is phenomenal. All you "What the f*** is Steam?," "I don't know what internet explorer is," "What's a driver," "This game is bad, because the puzzles are hard" and "What's a D... V... D...?" should learn a little about using a computer, reading and using their brains instead of just giving a lousy score. And all you people who This game is a classic and its awesomeness is phenomenal. All you "What the f*** is Steam?," "I don't know what internet explorer is," "What's a driver," "This game is bad, because the puzzles are hard" and "What's a D... V... D...?" should learn a little about using a computer, reading and using their brains instead of just giving a lousy score. And all you people who thinks the ending is bad should ask themselves "Hmm... what could Half-Life 2 Episode One possibly be?"… Expand
  40. ChristianB
    May 26, 2009
    10
    AWSOME game valves bet game yet i love how it jumps from walking on a bridge peacefully to having a whole bunch of cops and zombies after you. its the best game ever. out of growing plants and sims and all that junk. I give it a ten because who could beat hl2, name one game better exept other HL games.
  41. paulv
    May 26, 2009
    10
    Very good story a game that you must have played before dieing (:P) I also played episode 1 and 2 and now I can't sleep till I have half life 3.
  42. chris
    May 5, 2009
    10
    OK, to all you people who gave HL2 a horrible score because of steam...I agree. Steam sucks. But this is rating the actual game, not the retarded platform Valve decided to throw in there with it. HL2 was an AMAZING game, excellent gameplay, great characters and some of the best graphics I've ever seen made it one of my favorite games ever.
  43. Brian
    Apr 27, 2009
    8
    The graphics are up there, the gameplay is up there. However, this game is sometimes, if not usually, more of a puzzle game than an actual action shooter. There are times where you spend up to 20 minutes trying to figure out how the hell to get out of a room with 40 foot walls, given nothing but barrels. Granted, you feel a sense of accomplishment when you figure it out, but I want to be The graphics are up there, the gameplay is up there. However, this game is sometimes, if not usually, more of a puzzle game than an actual action shooter. There are times where you spend up to 20 minutes trying to figure out how the hell to get out of a room with 40 foot walls, given nothing but barrels. Granted, you feel a sense of accomplishment when you figure it out, but I want to be doing some progressive.. not sitting around trying to place barrels on top of barrels. I had high hopes for this game, and it just wasnt overall that great.… Expand
  44. LukeM.
    Apr 25, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  45. LeriO
    Apr 20, 2009
    6
    This game has a really nice motor physic which give him a lot of interest. But the game is too short while "interactive" cinematcis are too long. The Ai is random and sometime stupid and the puzzles are just here to spend your time. There is also nothing much told us about the history in the game and, the fact that internet is needed to play a single-player game is quite annoying. This game has a really nice motor physic which give him a lot of interest. But the game is too short while "interactive" cinematcis are too long. The Ai is random and sometime stupid and the puzzles are just here to spend your time. There is also nothing much told us about the history in the game and, the fact that internet is needed to play a single-player game is quite annoying. Eventually, it could be a lot better if they were more adds like a new Ai, more chapters and more weapons.… Expand
  46. ShockK
    Apr 7, 2009
    10
    As revolutionary as the first. All games should be based off the steam physics engine. The only reason people would give this a bad rating is because Steam is second only to AOL as the worst product ever created, which is unfair to the actual game. When my friend first started playing, he had hours of fun just throwing trash at the metro police. I can only imagine how much fun he'll As revolutionary as the first. All games should be based off the steam physics engine. The only reason people would give this a bad rating is because Steam is second only to AOL as the worst product ever created, which is unfair to the actual game. When my friend first started playing, he had hours of fun just throwing trash at the metro police. I can only imagine how much fun he'll have when he get's the gravity gun.… Expand
  47. JuggaloR.
    Mar 25, 2009
    10
    I like the Half-life 2 series. I played the game demo and I thught half-life 2 was a horror game (because I thought c17 was built to protect the people from zombies, and that the "metropolice" arent evil just "over protective.) I thought this because I did the first level (on the demo) then it skipped a;; the way to the 6th (ravenholm) level so I thought it was a horror-only game. Then I I like the Half-life 2 series. I played the game demo and I thught half-life 2 was a horror game (because I thought c17 was built to protect the people from zombies, and that the "metropolice" arent evil just "over protective.) I thought this because I did the first level (on the demo) then it skipped a;; the way to the 6th (ravenholm) level so I thought it was a horror-only game. Then I bought the game for xbox (I don't belive in buying computer games, music videos eta unless I'm getting a solid disc)I thught the game was good but it also sucked because i couldn't NOCLIP WTF IS THEIR FUCKING PROBLEM ON MAKING CONSOLE GAMES (xbox PS3 eta) HAVING FUCKING NOCLIP AND "console" COMMANDS WTF. so I continued having fun with the demo spawning zombies every where whith AWESOME PC CHEATS. Then I was browsing the internet and I found out you can hack steam (games for free). I only wanted to play hl2 with NOCLIP so I did the hack. I got the full version of HL2 and HL2 Deathmatch (also should be induced on the consoles). I played the game agin but not to beat it but to explore and spawned enemies/allies every where. Though I cant stand hammer editor (confusing) the doom 3 editor is my favorite map creator. The "Hammer" editor requires confusing set-up before you can even use it. Later I was looking for cheats and I saw some comands like "give weapon_molotov" and "give weapon_hopwire" WTF Then I tried it and it didn't work then I went back on the website and it sied :these are only codes for the beta version of the game" WTF? so I search on how to get this "beta" version (takes me forever to find and it was apparently "leaked" so I download it. then I lean that you have to do console commands to start the beta game. Then I think WOW! LOOK,,,!,,, at all of this deleted content now I;m saying Half-life 2 retail SUX DONKEY DICK... BUT....half-life 2 beta SUX HOT GIRLS TITS.Now I play the beta (giving it a "10") I no longer play the retail (except for mods) If only I could do a review on the beta. Also for you peaple who don't like VALVe's steam the beta is not for steam (it's also not a hacked stand alone) it was originaly going to be a game with out steam. I plan to be a vidio game maker and I will sell/give away the beta version(s) of my game(s) because every one wants the beta, as long as I write something like "warning this version of the game is the beta and may crash a lot) or something before you buy it.… Expand
  48. LukeM.
    Mar 24, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  49. AnonymousMC
    Mar 19, 2009
    3
    HL1/HL2 marked a time when masses were just catching up on the joys of PC gaming. The ratings entirely reflect this. Put into perspective from having played most of the notable FPS before these two came out, they both were at most an 8 at the time of release. Now I'm giving 3 just to make this point visible in the crowd of undeserved 10's.
  50. JoachimE
    Mar 13, 2009
    10
    This is one of the best games ever made.
  51. LukeM.
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  52. PhaseL
    Mar 4, 2009
    10
    This game is perhaps the greatest game of the past decade, if not all time. The gameplay is simple and fluid, without getting boring, the graphics hold up even to our standards five years later, and the story is compelling enough to keep it at the top. Most people who have given this game low scores did so thanks to Steam. Half-Life 2 is what needs to be appraised here, not Steam.
  53. AnonymousMC
    Feb 21, 2009
    2
    When I first bought this game, Steam bit me. It locked me out of the game after install, and Valve was so swamped with support complaints and fixes that I was forgotten for almost 2 weeks. After finding out another recent purchase was "Steamed," I had to re-install Steam. I figured I'd give it another go, as they're supposed to have worked the bugs out of Steam by now.When I first bought this game, Steam bit me. It locked me out of the game after install, and Valve was so swamped with support complaints and fixes that I was forgotten for almost 2 weeks. After finding out another recent purchase was "Steamed," I had to re-install Steam. I figured I'd give it another go, as they're supposed to have worked the bugs out of Steam by now. Nope. Locked out again. As I legally purchased the game via retail, I shouldn't have to ask, and await permission from Valve's support team to play the game.… Expand
  54. AnonymousMC
    Feb 16, 2009
    10
    Excellent revolutionary game and anyone who says something else is either retarded/stupid or a total noob in PC gaming. Also, for the ones who say the opposite, Steam is a great platform that enables you to buy games online, download them on any PC and it also offers you automatic updates and great online gaming.

    This is one of the best games ever.
  55. LanzerM
    Feb 12, 2009
    10
    Okay, the game is awesome in all aspects, and I want to make this fast. If you're going to review Half Life 2 for the Xbox, do that all you want, but just remember that the computer version is 10x better in pretty much every aspect. So if you're going to review the game because of the Xbox's cons, might as well be reviewing a different game alltogether.
  56. DavidK
    Feb 10, 2009
    9
    The overall novelty value that the game has is fantastic. The ragdoll addition to gaming is great, but I found this game to be to say the least "unusual". The ending is atrocious but then they would not have had the Episode Expansions that they did. The environment is topnotch. And if you like a good fps this game is for you.
  57. DavidL
    Feb 5, 2009
    10
    Half-Life2 Have a good Story like Half-Life1. very good game play and Grafic. The map diesing is very good. it give just one think wich one can be better The grafic and game play from cars and ship.
  58. SeanR
    Feb 4, 2009
    10
    I think this is one of the BEST games ever made! I just wanna thank Valve for maken it. I got in to the game and the episodes real well. The game is so cool and you cant get board with it. I can't wait for more. I love the other games that Valve made too. Last thing is im happy Gabe newell thougt up this game, hes a special person!!! bye. :)
  59. Tyler
    Jan 28, 2009
    10
    Yo bitches.The Combines are all owning the humans on the earth. and then Gordon Freeman comes in like IMA USIN MAH CROWBAR!!! and he kils all the combine with it. and then they go to a prison, and the rebels get owned but he gets the black guy and hot chick out. then they have to fight through some city t oa giant tower in the middle. and then the STRYDERS come and hes all like IMA FIRIN Yo bitches.The Combines are all owning the humans on the earth. and then Gordon Freeman comes in like IMA USIN MAH CROWBAR!!! and he kils all the combine with it. and then they go to a prison, and the rebels get owned but he gets the black guy and hot chick out. then they have to fight through some city t oa giant tower in the middle. and then the STRYDERS come and hes all like IMA FIRIN MAH ROCKETS and he kills all of the Stryders. and he gets to the big tower and the old white guy captures him. but he escapes and this is the most coolest part. where the tower blows the hell up like ZapplE DapplE DooM!!!!!!! And thats it.… Expand
  60. TeodorIkonomov
    Jan 27, 2009
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  61. BennettM
    Jan 26, 2009
    10
    Amazing game. I thought half-life 1 was great when I played it, and now you bring me something that amazes me even more! I have played it at least 5 times, and I am still not bored of it. The graphics are amazing, the physics amazing, character expressions amazing, and the story line is amazing as well! The best game I've played in 2007.
  62. PutinVladimir
    Jan 25, 2009
    10
    COOL!!!
  63. AndrewW.
    Jan 17, 2009
    10
    Simply the best FPS I've every played. But I hate to pigeonhole such a masterpiece as the HL2 series is so much more than just an FPS. Engaging narrative style, almost perfect pacing, ingenious level design, addictive "gamefeel", and the atmosphere in and around City 17 is simply stunning. It's feels like a first person movie and the gameplay requires thinking but will never Simply the best FPS I've every played. But I hate to pigeonhole such a masterpiece as the HL2 series is so much more than just an FPS. Engaging narrative style, almost perfect pacing, ingenious level design, addictive "gamefeel", and the atmosphere in and around City 17 is simply stunning. It's feels like a first person movie and the gameplay requires thinking but will never stump you. I simply love this game.… Expand
  64. AnonymousMC
    Jan 16, 2009
    10
    A Brilliant entry into a brilliant series. On an engine that looks great when compared to some of the modern games, it's no wonder why this was such an eye popper when it first came out. That, and the system requirements are incredibly low. Buy it, if not for the game, for the story and the ever so atmospheric levels.
  65. AnonymousMC
    Jan 6, 2009
    10
    From start to finish, Half-Life 2 is an amazing ride. Stunningly beautiful graphics and fluid gameplay make for a smooth play through an epic plot. The characters are great, the source engine shines from start to finish and nothing beats the thrill of beating the tar out of zombies with a crowbar when you're on 20 health and you've run out of ammo.

    All in all, Half-Life 2 gets    From start to finish, Half-Life 2 is an amazing ride. Stunningly beautiful graphics and fluid gameplay make for a smooth play through an epic plot. The characters are great, the source engine shines from start to finish and nothing beats the thrill of beating the tar out of zombies with a crowbar when you're on 20 health and you've run out of ammo.

    All in all, Half-Life 2 gets a straight up 10 from me.    … Expand
  66. TimothyK.
    Dec 29, 2008
    10
    This is Valve's masterpiece, a game that will live on in gaming history forever, along with their original Half-Life. The graphics are still stunning, even from four years ago. The characters are amazing, the puzzles are intriguing (although not as good as Half-Life's), the gravity gun is the most innovative weapon I've seen in any FPS ever, and the story keeps you gripped This is Valve's masterpiece, a game that will live on in gaming history forever, along with their original Half-Life. The graphics are still stunning, even from four years ago. The characters are amazing, the puzzles are intriguing (although not as good as Half-Life's), the gravity gun is the most innovative weapon I've seen in any FPS ever, and the story keeps you gripped as you discover what the world around you as become. The Combine is the epitome of evil and the style of their buildings is extremely well done. First class, must-own, amazing game. Buy The Orange Box to get two other amazing games.… Expand
  67. LukeM.
    Dec 25, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  68. SeanT.
    Dec 10, 2008
    9
    This game rocks.
  69. AnonymousMC
    Dec 10, 2008
    10
    The game is just awesome. The Graph, the texture, the effects, the fysics! And all this can be runned with high settings and good resolution with even a crappy computer (compared these days). Other developers of games around the world should make note about this game, -> how to run great graphics, and still not be a power eater. And act acordingly. Even dispite the fact that the game isThe game is just awesome. The Graph, the texture, the effects, the fysics! And all this can be runned with high settings and good resolution with even a crappy computer (compared these days). Other developers of games around the world should make note about this game, -> how to run great graphics, and still not be a power eater. And act acordingly. Even dispite the fact that the game is all about solo action. Just doesent matter. Its just so awesome.… Expand
  70. Quinn
    Dec 9, 2008
    10
    My god, this game is absolutely perfect. It completely gives you the experience that everybody needs. While it gives you that cool adrenaline rush that many action games give you, it also gives you the perfect amount of time to take a break. Basically, it's not too complex, yet it's not easy to beat for the first time. It makes you have that feeling of "Woah, that was f***ing My god, this game is absolutely perfect. It completely gives you the experience that everybody needs. While it gives you that cool adrenaline rush that many action games give you, it also gives you the perfect amount of time to take a break. Basically, it's not too complex, yet it's not easy to beat for the first time. It makes you have that feeling of "Woah, that was f***ing awesome," and after playing five minutes of it, you cannot stop playing it, you just can't. This is definitely a game for both players who like massive explosions and gore and for players who like to see beauty in a game. I have read so many reviews that said this was only a 7 or a 6 and I could not analyze why they would give this game such a vague rating. This game absolutely deserves to be played. I can't find anything that needs to be changed about it.… Expand
  71. AnonymousMC
    Nov 30, 2008
    10
    Released in late '04, this game was a triumph of graphical achievement. Even today, the source engine stands up incredibly well and is one of the least demanding of your system. The game itself was amazing, mind blowing, and altogether almost perfect. Those folks at Valve know how to pump out quality software.
  72. AnonymousMC
    Nov 29, 2008
    1
    i dont agree with this game because the rebels(team) just look the same the graohics are good thats all the only good wep is ar2 and i just dont get how you get so much blood out of one body its like resi2 but much worse cutting people in half its more like a horror game then anything and im not even gonna talk about ravenholm the loading in game takes to long luckily my pc didnt freeze :(i dont agree with this game because the rebels(team) just look the same the graohics are good thats all the only good wep is ar2 and i just dont get how you get so much blood out of one body its like resi2 but much worse cutting people in half its more like a horror game then anything and im not even gonna talk about ravenholm the loading in game takes to long luckily my pc didnt freeze :( im rating 1 because its utter crap… Expand
  73. AnonymousMC
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    brilliant game completed it 4 times but the graphics are nice so are models althouth through the game you see replica team mates that anoys me otherwise all is great i could complete the game in about 4 hours its all about having a good puzzle and action mind valve has really pushed its self forward from half-life 1
  74. LukeM.
    Nov 21, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  75. PaulW
    Nov 16, 2008
    7
    How odd that people talk about being emotionally moved by a game that, whilst leaving you to your own defences like Metroid Prime in parts, doesn't have the moments of stunning beauty, accentuated by a beautiful score, such as when you walk into Phenandra Drifts. Half Life 2's best parts are Route Kanal and We don't go to Ravenholme which is a brilliant reminder of overall How odd that people talk about being emotionally moved by a game that, whilst leaving you to your own defences like Metroid Prime in parts, doesn't have the moments of stunning beauty, accentuated by a beautiful score, such as when you walk into Phenandra Drifts. Half Life 2's best parts are Route Kanal and We don't go to Ravenholme which is a brilliant reminder of overall better games with an almost surreal film noir feel (like Max Payne 2) crossed with the survival horror of Resident Evil and Silent Hill. To its credit, this game has more moments of bleak surrealness such as disengaging from a hovercraft, after a very lonely trek, only to find yourself in a camp of headcrabs. If the game had been marketed and regarded as a surreal masterpiece rather than as just one all about AI, physics or character expressions, records that it could only hope to keep for a short time (it never had the best character expressions- the Gamecube Resident Evil remake did by far) then I would have scored it a bit higher. Apart from the sections I have mentioned, the game's graphics never seemed impressive to me on the Xbox and seem relatively prehistoric now. The hyperbole about this game is ludicrous- I had much more fun and emotional investment in playing Metroid Prime, Resident Evil (the remake), and Uncharted- Drake's Fortune.… Expand
  76. Neil
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    It's all been said before...beautiful graphics, excellent storyline, puzzles, the facial expressions, the fact that it's not "level1, cutscene, level 2, cutscene...." just constant story..... I could go on and on. I hate fast zombies. Thank God for the rightclick on the shotgun. I think the problem the tiny minority of people who've given this bad reviews is that they were It's all been said before...beautiful graphics, excellent storyline, puzzles, the facial expressions, the fact that it's not "level1, cutscene, level 2, cutscene...." just constant story..... I could go on and on. I hate fast zombies. Thank God for the rightclick on the shotgun. I think the problem the tiny minority of people who've given this bad reviews is that they were looking for a FPS, which this is, but it's so much more than just running about shooting baddies. Which apparently is a bad thing to some people. (!?) Episode 1&2 are both also excellent and I'm currently wettign ymself with anticipation over Episode 3!… Expand
  77. FelixE.
    Nov 15, 2008
    10
    This game is absolutely the best game I have ever played. Now I'm not saying I've played all the games in the world, but I've played quite a lot and still nothing has been able to surpass this game. The physics and graphics are great even after 4 years, the scenery is tremendous but the best part is with no doubt the story. Nothing can surpass this touching story. If you This game is absolutely the best game I have ever played. Now I'm not saying I've played all the games in the world, but I've played quite a lot and still nothing has been able to surpass this game. The physics and graphics are great even after 4 years, the scenery is tremendous but the best part is with no doubt the story. Nothing can surpass this touching story. If you want to play the best game in the world, this is it.… Expand
  78. VoodooJD
    Nov 13, 2008
    10
    HL2 Set a bar to which all FPS game should aspire to achieve. Its mix of problem solving and action with a great plot driven story makes this title unmisable. HL2 was my 1st game after a long break in PC gaming for me, I had been playing console games solo for since I got my master system. This game works so well on so many levels I just couldn't believe I had neglated PC gaming for HL2 Set a bar to which all FPS game should aspire to achieve. Its mix of problem solving and action with a great plot driven story makes this title unmisable. HL2 was my 1st game after a long break in PC gaming for me, I had been playing console games solo for since I got my master system. This game works so well on so many levels I just couldn't believe I had neglated PC gaming for so many years. I was never a great fan of FPS games on the console format but some how HL2 ws able to offer a much more engrossing game that I just found hard to put down. This game has stood the test of time to as if you look at other games from the same year its quality and attention to detail still look crisp to many games being produced now. All in all a classic that everyone should own in my view.… Expand
  79. LukeM.
    Nov 10, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  80. AnonymousMC
    Oct 30, 2008
    10
    Believe me, i would rate this 20/10 if i could. Utterly excellent game - i have played the series around 5 times now and i have not stopped. I can hardly find anything bad about it; it was just so immersive, something i have found many, many other games lack. Favourite bit: killing hordes of headcrabs with only a crowbar. I would probably rate this either best or second best game i haveBelieve me, i would rate this 20/10 if i could. Utterly excellent game - i have played the series around 5 times now and i have not stopped. I can hardly find anything bad about it; it was just so immersive, something i have found many, many other games lack. Favourite bit: killing hordes of headcrabs with only a crowbar. I would probably rate this either best or second best game i have ever played. Fantastic!… Expand
  81. JeffG.
    Oct 26, 2008
    10
    Half-Life 2 is the reason I play FPS games. It puts Halo and Gears of War to shame. When you finish this game, you'll be crying. That's how good it is. This game has revolutionized not just FPS games, but games in general. Half-life 2 is the standard in which all FPS games are compared against. My only complaint the puzzles in the game are rather lame. But everything else makes Half-Life 2 is the reason I play FPS games. It puts Halo and Gears of War to shame. When you finish this game, you'll be crying. That's how good it is. This game has revolutionized not just FPS games, but games in general. Half-life 2 is the standard in which all FPS games are compared against. My only complaint the puzzles in the game are rather lame. But everything else makes up for it and then some. Valve has outdone themselves again.… Expand
  82. DanH.
    Oct 25, 2008
    10
    I believe Halflife 2 is possibly the greatest FPS ever created, the havok system and all its litte inner workings have revolutionised the way we play games today. on a scale of one to ten this game deserves way above ten as its immense story and gameplay really keep the player submerged in a completely different world. im quite happy to play this game over and over again until i cause I believe Halflife 2 is possibly the greatest FPS ever created, the havok system and all its litte inner workings have revolutionised the way we play games today. on a scale of one to ten this game deserves way above ten as its immense story and gameplay really keep the player submerged in a completely different world. im quite happy to play this game over and over again until i cause myself major eye damage or RSI! WAY TO GO Valve on your sheer brilliance, i cant wait until the episode 3 you have me hangin on the edge of my seat.… Expand
  83. WorldBearer
    Oct 25, 2008
    9
    Excellent game. Gameplay is fun and interesting, puzzles don't hinder the storyline, which is in itself very absorbing. Textures and Models look nice, and the stages and environments are varied and interesting. Enemy AI is fairly good, though its reactions to different situations become fairly predictable halfway through. Only other problem is the team AI, which becomes fairly Excellent game. Gameplay is fun and interesting, puzzles don't hinder the storyline, which is in itself very absorbing. Textures and Models look nice, and the stages and environments are varied and interesting. Enemy AI is fairly good, though its reactions to different situations become fairly predictable halfway through. Only other problem is the team AI, which becomes fairly annoying when trying to navigate tight passageways or attack a group of enemies. All in all however, brilliant game.… Expand
  84. ManuB.
    Oct 24, 2008
    5
    Great game, incredibly polished and great story line but several flaws that stopped it being as fun as it's predecessor. 1) Weapons - Grav gun is great, the rest... disappointing. SMG is sooo inaccurate not worth having. 3-4 charger the WHOLE game for the assault rifle. Guns in HL1 were sooo much better. 2) Enemies - Ravensholm was great, fighting the aliens is really fun. Great game, incredibly polished and great story line but several flaws that stopped it being as fun as it's predecessor. 1) Weapons - Grav gun is great, the rest... disappointing. SMG is sooo inaccurate not worth having. 3-4 charger the WHOLE game for the assault rifle. Guns in HL1 were sooo much better. 2) Enemies - Ravensholm was great, fighting the aliens is really fun. Unfortunalatly there was way less divercity in aliens then in HL1 and you spend most of the rest of the game fighting the same generic soldier again and again and...… Expand
  85. LukeM.
    Oct 17, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  86. Whocares?
    Oct 15, 2008
    6
    I can't understand why people like this so much, yes the physics are nice and all, but I get puzzle after puzzle forced on me, and they're not even interesting, they're just, use generic artificial gravity this, throw switch that, it's just not fun, expressions on faces are nice, but nowhere near perfect.
  87. rarrghgarble
    Oct 15, 2008
    0
    Game is annoying. Starting out with people shooting at you from far away and being given no direction whatsoever as to where to go, only to be on a time limit in areas that are difficult to navigate is annoying. Puzzles within a first-person shooter meant to be a shooter are annoying. Enemies that are killing you from outside of the area where you have to go is annoying. Nothing about Game is annoying. Starting out with people shooting at you from far away and being given no direction whatsoever as to where to go, only to be on a time limit in areas that are difficult to navigate is annoying. Puzzles within a first-person shooter meant to be a shooter are annoying. Enemies that are killing you from outside of the area where you have to go is annoying. Nothing about this game is fun. Leave it on the shelves… Expand
  88. SimonP.
    Oct 12, 2008
    10
    This is really the best game ever made, the graphics, the gameplay, the way your view of the weapon changes when you turn around, the story, the lead charcters expresions when they talk and of course G-MAN!!!! :) the only thing i can think of that is a little bit bad is the music. It sounds good enough but the first time you will play game it wont last long enough and the next then it This is really the best game ever made, the graphics, the gameplay, the way your view of the weapon changes when you turn around, the story, the lead charcters expresions when they talk and of course G-MAN!!!! :) the only thing i can think of that is a little bit bad is the music. It sounds good enough but the first time you will play game it wont last long enough and the next then it almost cant before the game needs to load again. im not saying that the game is'nt challenging the second time, its mostly because you know were you need to go to. But what the hell chould Valve do about that??… Expand
  89. NunoP.
    Oct 10, 2008
    10
    Very very deep gameplay, awesome plot, incredible situations (like the bridge level with awesome envirnoment)... Simply the best game i have ever played hands down. Congratulations Valve.
  90. TomislavN.
    Oct 7, 2008
    10
    This game is a revolution both in the world of Fps, and generally the whole Pc gaming community. The game has great graphical and story elements, excellent lip-synching, and something that makes you play over and over again. The music, and general sound affects are very nicely made, and perfectly combine with the story, or some game events. Characters are not only modeled by 3d, but also This game is a revolution both in the world of Fps, and generally the whole Pc gaming community. The game has great graphical and story elements, excellent lip-synching, and something that makes you play over and over again. The music, and general sound affects are very nicely made, and perfectly combine with the story, or some game events. Characters are not only modeled by 3d, but also from inside, it's like you get a completely different connection to the character you are playing, and the one who is talking to you. This is an excellent Single Player, and you won't regret the money you invest in it. The only problem is that there is no multiplayer component, but the single player component clears everything away. The game is simply amazing, classic, and totally new in the gaming industry. If you didn't buy it by now, you should.… Expand
  91. RyanL
    Oct 1, 2008
    4
    How this game got a good score? no really how? this is prob one of my least favourate games ever made. the bad guys cant shoot u even if they were standing next 2 u and the weapons in it suck. what were they thinking.
  92. Bobbobbo
    Sep 24, 2008
    10
    The best game I have ever played.
  93. MikeM.
    Sep 23, 2008
    9
    Gameplay: 10 The gameplay in Half-Life 2 is simply amazing. If you aren't completely used to the controls of PC First-Person Shooter controls, don't worry. This game manages to make a first level without any weapons fun! It lets you get accustom to the controls and experience the amazing physics engine this game has to offer. While I was playing through this game for the first I Gameplay: 10 The gameplay in Half-Life 2 is simply amazing. If you aren't completely used to the controls of PC First-Person Shooter controls, don't worry. This game manages to make a first level without any weapons fun! It lets you get accustom to the controls and experience the amazing physics engine this game has to offer. While I was playing through this game for the first I was simply stunned, just by the fact that you could actually pick up objects in the game. The only other time I was ever able to do this in a game was when I played a demo of Deus Ex 2 (for Xbox) at my local Play N' Trade. As for the level design, it just simply blows my mind. I actually felt as if I was Gordon Freeman (protgonist of Half-Life 2). The whole game felt like an interactive movie, mainly because of the fact that you never leave the view of the main character (this means that there were no cutscenes). Graphics: 8 The graphics in this game are nothing special, pretty much average. Although the rare polygonal shapes (such as valves or steering wheels) can tend to be an eyesore at times. There can also be annoying glitches, such as getting stuck on an object while playing. But the great thing about the graphics is that when people talk, it looks realistic, making the game even more enjoyable than before. Audio: 9 The audio in Half-Life 2 actually feels believable. I found myself looking over my shoulder from time to time when playing through Ravenholm, to make sure there were no zombies behind me. Also, when you are stuck in the middle of an ambush and are shooting blindly at you're enemies, how can you be sure that you've killed one? Half-Life 2 fixed this problem. Whenever an enemie is killed a certain sound is made, such as a squeel or beeping sound, this way you know if the coast is clear. Replay Value:9 I have completed this game at least 20 times, and enjoyed it every single time. My two favorite missions had to be Ravenholm and Highway 17. Also, if you get bored with the singleplayer campaign, why not try the multiplayer component of Half-Life 2, Half-Life 2: Deathmatch. This delivers hours of solid multiplayer fun, with the gameplay and weaponry of the original game we know and love. Overall: 9 out of 10 Half-Life 2 is a great game, you should buy this game if you get the chance.… Expand
  94. Food_Mongol
    Sep 21, 2008
    9
    This has got to be the best FPS I have ever played in my life, right next to HL1 and the original DOOM. Though by no way perfect, it sure hits close to the dot with the immerse storyline and amazing interactivity. The puzzles and challenges are everywhere, and by no way can you get bored with every one. I've never seen to much character be put into a simple NPC. I mean, A random guy This has got to be the best FPS I have ever played in my life, right next to HL1 and the original DOOM. Though by no way perfect, it sure hits close to the dot with the immerse storyline and amazing interactivity. The puzzles and challenges are everywhere, and by no way can you get bored with every one. I've never seen to much character be put into a simple NPC. I mean, A random guy feels like he's real, not some two-dimensional dude who likes to pick his nose. However its the main characters who really carry it, with character development I've never seen in a game before. Its almost like an interactive book, and when you go to Episode One and Two right after you beat this, its even better. The gameplay is extraordinary, and I felt that I could just jump into it in a snap. I didn't have to look at controls or anything, and I was hauling ass! As a given, the physics is amazing, and to add to that, the Gravity Gun adds more excitement in randomness. I recommend this game to everyone, hardcore or newbie casual. This is one you want in your collection.… Expand
  95. TomR.
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    Re-invented first person shooters just like the original. Re-playable, provocative...just stunning physics! 11/10.
  96. NicolaeB.
    Sep 18, 2008
    10
    One of my favorite stories of all time for a first person shooter. They should make this game into a movie!!!
  97. BenJohnson
    Sep 16, 2008
    10
    This game is spectacular the graphic are amazing best game ever.
  98. CallumM.
    Sep 16, 2008
    6
    Quit sucking dick. Looking back on it now, the game is mediocre at best. The only innovative thing about this game is its implementation of physics. The only time I've seen good AI is when characters have retreated to cover. Then again, not a fair example, considering 90% of the enemies are zombies/monsters and behave as they should, even if they are retarded.
  99. AnonymousMC
    Sep 15, 2008
    5
    Would Give It 8 Or 9 But You Have To Go Through All Of The Steam Stufff Which Sucks! This Game Won't Even Let You Play Singleplayer Mode Unless You're Connected To The Net. If Steam Goes Bellyup Or You Don't Have Internet You Have Nothing The Game Is Worthless ,Think?? About It
  100. RoyD.
    Sep 13, 2008
    10
    Half-Life 2 was a truly enjoyable experience from beginning to end. It was long, but never boring, like a good movie. I loved the new gravity gun which in many cases added a truly remarkable element to the game.
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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 »