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. Cory
    Jun 10, 2007
    9
    Steam is still tedious, as many others have pointed out. The physics engine, however, is probably one of the best futures of this game. Gordon's low capacity of ammo serves a nice challenge, since the weapons tear through bullets faster than a squirrel through trees. The ending was a bit of a let down, though.
  2. TeodorIkonomov
    Jun 10, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  3. HughM.
    Jun 9, 2007
    10
    This is the best game I have ever played.
  4. AnonymousMC
    Jun 8, 2007
    10
    Another paradigm shifting game under Valve's belt. The characters are very colorful compared to your typically boring game personalities. The inclusion of the boat and buggy driving adds some well needed gameplay diversity. The only gripe I have is that aside from the barnicles, vortigons and crabs, we don't see any of our aliens from the first games. Still, a great game!
  5. Aaron
    Jun 7, 2007
    10
    If you could only play one game, this is probably the one you should play.
  6. MattL.
    Jun 7, 2007
    10
    This has to be the greatest game ever made. I have never seen such a great game in my entire experience as a gamer. I can't believe the idiots who gave this a 0 or less than a 7. This game deserves better than a ten, because the AI is NOT stupid, the phyiscs pwn any other engine, and the ingame cinematics just top off the icing. I don't understand how this game can be so This has to be the greatest game ever made. I have never seen such a great game in my entire experience as a gamer. I can't believe the idiots who gave this a 0 or less than a 7. This game deserves better than a ten, because the AI is NOT stupid, the phyiscs pwn any other engine, and the ingame cinematics just top off the icing. I don't understand how this game can be so horrible. I downloaded and played this in less than 15 minutes and beat it within a day. I loved the ending by the way. I can't wait to get Episode One.… Expand
  7. JohnY.
    Jun 7, 2007
    10
    An absolute classic... again. The first Half Life game introduced us to so many new aspects in FPS, and HL2 takes it to a new level with wonderful graphics, that may I say run extremely smoothly due to the ever wonderful Source engine, insane gameplay, realistic appearances, a really hot lead female character (Alyx Vance), and amazing AI. Although controlling your team is a little bit An absolute classic... again. The first Half Life game introduced us to so many new aspects in FPS, and HL2 takes it to a new level with wonderful graphics, that may I say run extremely smoothly due to the ever wonderful Source engine, insane gameplay, realistic appearances, a really hot lead female character (Alyx Vance), and amazing AI. Although controlling your team is a little bit hard. Oh, and not to mention the absolutely gripping storyline. EPISODE 2 SOON!!! :D… Expand
  8. RobR.
    Jun 6, 2007
    10
    This game is hands down the greatest game of all times. The storyline follows a traditional path. You as the hero of all time, is thrown into a mysterious (and may I say beautiful) world where you must learn about what has happened. The voice-acting for the characters was top-notch, and they were all beautifully designed. The main difference from Half-Life 1 has got to be the characters. This game is hands down the greatest game of all times. The storyline follows a traditional path. You as the hero of all time, is thrown into a mysterious (and may I say beautiful) world where you must learn about what has happened. The voice-acting for the characters was top-notch, and they were all beautifully designed. The main difference from Half-Life 1 has got to be the characters. With the new upcoming "episodes" you're eager to see the characters develop, to see what happens to them. I'm reading all these comments and ratings left by people that have stormed on here after getting a little frustrated with Steam, have their panties in a bunch, and simply decide to wail on this great game because of it. I have one thing to say, GET OVER IT! These comments are about the game, not steam. The weapons you use are diverse and incredibly interesting to use. LIke said in a previous review, I cried, I laughed, I screamed, I sat in awe, I came close to wetting my pants. Also, the ending is by far the best of any game, with its true epicness. What a great game.… Expand
  9. KevinM.F.
    Jun 5, 2007
    10
    I got this game when it first came out. It exceeded my expectations and the graphics were beyond what I expected. I didn't write until now because of spare time and that I didn't really cared to leave a comment until now. But with more episodes comeing out and with new graphic cards and DX10 becoming the next gen standard. It is apparent that this game will still rock the boat, I got this game when it first came out. It exceeded my expectations and the graphics were beyond what I expected. I didn't write until now because of spare time and that I didn't really cared to leave a comment until now. But with more episodes comeing out and with new graphic cards and DX10 becoming the next gen standard. It is apparent that this game will still rock the boat, and expeal peole expectations onward.… Expand
  10. DaveK.
    Jun 1, 2007
    7
    Honestly, aside from the physics engine, it's nothing revolutionary. Grav gun is fun, but underutilized. The game progresses very linearly compared with some modern shooters like Far Cry, but is still a very entertaining experience. A solid followup to one of the top 5 games released at this point. A cliffhanger ending opens up for episodic content well. Of course, CSS makes this Honestly, aside from the physics engine, it's nothing revolutionary. Grav gun is fun, but underutilized. The game progresses very linearly compared with some modern shooters like Far Cry, but is still a very entertaining experience. A solid followup to one of the top 5 games released at this point. A cliffhanger ending opens up for episodic content well. Of course, CSS makes this worth buying 10x over.… Expand
  11. DanB.
    Jun 1, 2007
    10
    After so many months from the original release still the best multi and single player game. I was playing Half Life from his first release a few years ago and I think I will play all the future versions.
  12. AnonymousMC
    May 30, 2007
    10
    Definitely sets a benchmark for gaming. Underneath the questionable AI and less-than satisfying ending, beats the cold, hard, kickass heart of an incredibly game. Gameplay is amazing, while the puzzles leave you puzzled. Pun definitely intended. It makes you feel good about yourself when beating the crap out of the combine, yet it doesn't make you feel like you're fightingDefinitely sets a benchmark for gaming. Underneath the questionable AI and less-than satisfying ending, beats the cold, hard, kickass heart of an incredibly game. Gameplay is amazing, while the puzzles leave you puzzled. Pun definitely intended. It makes you feel good about yourself when beating the crap out of the combine, yet it doesn't make you feel like you're fighting lifeless husks. Bravo valve! Keep crankin' em out!… Expand
  13. LukeM.
    May 28, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  14. KristianK.
    May 27, 2007
    10
    It is the best game in the WORLD :P
  15. AnonymousMC
    May 24, 2007
    9
    Possibaly one of the best shooters ever. keeps to the same shabaz as half life one yet still makes you feel your playing something completly new. Also has to be one of the best ending in any game ever. There are still some flaws though. Even though i am a die hard half life fan im not afraid to mention its major flaws. First the teammate AI is preety bad. The will take out 1 or 2 guys andPossibaly one of the best shooters ever. keeps to the same shabaz as half life one yet still makes you feel your playing something completly new. Also has to be one of the best ending in any game ever. There are still some flaws though. Even though i am a die hard half life fan im not afraid to mention its major flaws. First the teammate AI is preety bad. The will take out 1 or 2 guys and leave you with 10.; Finnaly my biggest problem is the installation time is out the door. I know i dont have the best computer but almost a full day to install thats crazy. But end the end it was all worth it beacuse Half Life 2 is a great game. I highly Recomend it.… Expand
  16. ThomasC.
    May 23, 2007
    10
    Good game but it loads 2 much the Grafics and gameplay are great and the story is amazing.
  17. RobH.
    May 22, 2007
    10
    This is my all time favorite single player game I have ever played. I have played episode 1 and liked it, and cannot wait until episode 2 comes out!
  18. AnonymousMC
    May 21, 2007
    10
    There is absolutley nothing wrong with this game, no flaws, no mistakes, perfect in every way. huge variety in enemies, weapons, and methods on how to play it. Phyisics are real life and the guns are geat, but marlon brando is to the godfather as Gravity gun is to this.
  19. Bobbobbo
    May 21, 2007
    10
    The best game I have ever played.
  20. NickM.
    May 21, 2007
    10
    Best game ever! Awesome Graphics! Awesome Physics! And Gravity Gun is the best weapon ever!
  21. PeterM.
    May 20, 2007
    6
    Carrot-on-a-stick gameplay is unsatisfying. In-game physics detract from the game with trivial "puzzles" that only waste your time. Vastly overrated.
  22. AnonymousMC
    May 18, 2007
    10
    Simply put, this is the best game I have ever played. The real world physics coupled with the breathtaking graphics has surplanted every other game i have made. Going back and playing with the gravity gun and on the vehicle levels is some of the most fun I've ever had in a video game.
  23. LoganR.
    May 17, 2007
    10
    One of the most thrilling games I have played in a long time.
  24. LukeM.
    May 15, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  25. OriZ.
    May 15, 2007
    10
    Great physics , great game , great story i loved it!
  26. NorrecV.
    May 14, 2007
    10
    Second Best Game On PC! (First... Fallout ;] )
  27. JackP.
    May 13, 2007
    10
    Wonderful! Great story and memorable gameplay. Amazing graphics overhaul and physics. Online ins't bad either.
  28. DavidQ.
    May 10, 2007
    3
    A made it up as they went along storyline coupled with absent artificial intelligence, a gimmicky physics engine license and the most linear level design ever does not justify the price tag of this overdue sequel.
  29. JoshG.
    May 9, 2007
    10
    With the power of source Half-Life2 is is easily the best game ever made. The physics puzzels were something I have never seen in any other game and I loved them. The charcater AI was great and so were the facial graphics, the best I've ever seen. You were also never doing the same thing over and over again which made it playable for hours.
  30. AlexH.
    May 7, 2007
    7
    The game was quite sweet, but I think they could have made more out of it... When I play, I don't feel like Gordon nor I am really depressed of the atmosphere... (...and I guess I actually should be ;) )
  31. PutinVladimir
    May 6, 2007
    10
    COOL!!!
  32. calvinMiller
    May 6, 2007
    9
    Great fun game. Excelent Graphics.Addicting.
  33. jeremyw.
    May 4, 2007
    9
    Practically perfect game in every point. Graphics are excellent, story is ok, which takes a part of the score off. Otherwise every point in the game is beautiful including the gameplay and the weapons you can have.
  34. MrRogers
    Apr 28, 2007
    10
    This is the best game ever created. Period. The graphics are amazing, the sounds a perfect and the storyline is what the game is about. Buy HL1 first though (not HL1:Source - its the same but slower) or you will understand less. People have been complaining of problems with steam, bugs ect. Most of them are sorted out and the game works on all good pcs from about 2005. Basically it all This is the best game ever created. Period. The graphics are amazing, the sounds a perfect and the storyline is what the game is about. Buy HL1 first though (not HL1:Source - its the same but slower) or you will understand less. People have been complaining of problems with steam, bugs ect. Most of them are sorted out and the game works on all good pcs from about 2005. Basically it all works now so download it or buy it on dvd. The best thing by far is the mods. Hundreds of free mods have allowed me to extend the already massively long playing time so that im still plying today. Garry's Mod 10 is particually good. As well as buying hl2, you should also buy Episode 1 and the others Episodes when they come out. Counter Strike:Source and Day of Defeat:Source are also amazing; you can buy them all very cheaply in the source premier pack deal.… Expand
  35. AnonymousMC
    Apr 24, 2007
    10
    One of the most brilliant games ever created. Almost ,what ,four years ago?, and it still is visually stunning. New games boasting "great physics" are still pitiful in comparison to HL2. And you get the most out of your money considering that it is only ten dollars on Steam. Only setback is that the ending is abrupt and makes you want to rush out and buy the next episodes, but on a scaleOne of the most brilliant games ever created. Almost ,what ,four years ago?, and it still is visually stunning. New games boasting "great physics" are still pitiful in comparison to HL2. And you get the most out of your money considering that it is only ten dollars on Steam. Only setback is that the ending is abrupt and makes you want to rush out and buy the next episodes, but on a scale of one to ten, it gets an eleven.… Expand
  36. JasonT.
    Apr 20, 2007
    7
    I like Half-Life 2. It's a pretty good game, but there are just a couple little things about it that irk me. I'm not talking about long load times, stuttering, bugs, etc. Most of those have been updated out of existence by now and were probably due to my comp being strictly middle of the road anyway. No, I'm talking about this sequels storyline being almost completely I like Half-Life 2. It's a pretty good game, but there are just a couple little things about it that irk me. I'm not talking about long load times, stuttering, bugs, etc. Most of those have been updated out of existence by now and were probably due to my comp being strictly middle of the road anyway. No, I'm talking about this sequels storyline being almost completely disjointed from the original, and the way the game keeps rubbing the physics engine in your face (BTW Max Payne 2 had Havok Physics as well and IMO utilized it better.) First off, I'm a huge fan of HL1 and kept looking for some explanation of what happened to Xen, these Combine guys raise a whole new slew of questions and leave the old ones completly unanswered. We aren't even given much of a hint as to how all the supporting cast of HL1 made it to City 17 from Black Mesa. When I first played, it made my head spin. It's like they took the characters from the 1st and dropped them into a completely different storyline. And yes, the 1st time they gave me a physics based puzzle I thought "wow, cool!" when every other puzzle turned out to be a variation on this theme, I started to get a little peeved. That said, the story is still enjoyable, the graphics very impressive, the combats fun, and for those of you worried about the A.I. it does get better when you turn up the difficulty. Still a little annoying that they don't start off on the level of the marines from HL1 though. It's definitely worth your time and money, just...well...do yourself a favor and pick up the 1st one too. It's still what I spend most of my time on.… Expand
  37. JonathanA.
    Apr 15, 2007
    10
    This is one of the best games ever.Its AI is by far the best and the graphics and sound are brilliant. The game itself is very original and it has none of its predecessor's problems, Yet there were two things i liked most:a)when the music starts up you know why this is the best game ever and b) the game's story is subtle, it rewards those who pay attention to the clues, also This is one of the best games ever.Its AI is by far the best and the graphics and sound are brilliant. The game itself is very original and it has none of its predecessor's problems, Yet there were two things i liked most:a)when the music starts up you know why this is the best game ever and b) the game's story is subtle, it rewards those who pay attention to the clues, also it's worth saying that this game is an allegory.… Expand
  38. SimS.
    Apr 10, 2007
    0
    The games takes too much time to load and Steam is the worst platform i ever saw. Also the producer states that it works with all directx 9 and above video card but i tried the game with many pc and definitively works only with ati powered pc at best and not in all cases. Suppor inexistent. A real waste of money if you do not have a system configuration wich likes the game.
  39. GNUGamer
    Apr 9, 2007
    3
    Great game, gripping storyline, excellent graphics and just all around fun, the reason I'm giving it such a low score is no cross platform support. Linux and Mac are viable desktop alternatives to windows for gamers Epic Games took notice and so did ID software so why haven't the creators of this game? Seems like money lost to me.
  40. JohnR.
    Apr 8, 2007
    10
    I can't call it perfect, but it comes pretty close. Every problem I had with the original half life was fixed in this new one. The game play is fun, the choice of weapons is good, and the game time is pretty decent. Most games I can finish in 1 day. This one takes several, even if I spend all day on it. It's still fun to play even after you've completed it several times. I can't call it perfect, but it comes pretty close. Every problem I had with the original half life was fixed in this new one. The game play is fun, the choice of weapons is good, and the game time is pretty decent. Most games I can finish in 1 day. This one takes several, even if I spend all day on it. It's still fun to play even after you've completed it several times. Some of the levels, like Ravenholm and Nova Prospekt, brought out the part of the original game that everyone loved the most.… Expand
  41. Anonymous
    Apr 7, 2007
    9
    With me believing on rating a game as a game I`d have to say Half Life 2 is brilliant. Of the many comments involving (Half Life 2 is jerky and slow on my pc) the simple answer is : Don`t play it on a rubbish computer then. Half Life 2 is a grerat looki ng game with cracking framerates (on decent computers) and a great storyline. And the A.I. I found that the enemies on my game were With me believing on rating a game as a game I`d have to say Half Life 2 is brilliant. Of the many comments involving (Half Life 2 is jerky and slow on my pc) the simple answer is : Don`t play it on a rubbish computer then. Half Life 2 is a grerat looki ng game with cracking framerates (on decent computers) and a great storyline. And the A.I. I found that the enemies on my game were constantly hiding for cover and helping each other get to me. The only downer is that the first level just slaps you in a level and leaves you to figure it out. I didn`t find Steam to be a problem as I was up and playing within 25 minuites of getting home and popping the disc in. Seriously folks you can`t say a game is bad because your PC and internet can`t handle it. Nuff Said… Expand
  42. PolyesterBrown
    Apr 6, 2007
    5
    A visually stunning game, but I found the gameplay to be lacking at times. Urban combat sequences are at the best that I've played, but some of the problem-solving features designed to be challenging were simply tedious and frustrating, stealing the enjoyment of gameplay. Some of the combat situations also bordered on the absurb in their degree of difficulty, and I had to refer to an A visually stunning game, but I found the gameplay to be lacking at times. Urban combat sequences are at the best that I've played, but some of the problem-solving features designed to be challenging were simply tedious and frustrating, stealing the enjoyment of gameplay. Some of the combat situations also bordered on the absurb in their degree of difficulty, and I had to refer to an online walkthrough on a handful of occasions to determine what it was that I was meant to do to progress. I don't discourage people from buying it, but Half-Life 2 made me want to play FarCry again pretty badly.… Expand
  43. MinOh
    Apr 1, 2007
    1
    It was awesome!!!
  44. AnonymousMC
    Mar 31, 2007
    10
    I thoroughly enjoyed this game and played through it a few times and lost many hours of sleep in just a few weeks. The graphics were purely stunning, the game play was really fun and really intense, and the puzzles that went along with the gravity gun added a lot to the game.
    Along with all the positive parts of the game, I never encountered something that inherently irked me or even    I thoroughly enjoyed this game and played through it a few times and lost many hours of sleep in just a few weeks. The graphics were purely stunning, the game play was really fun and really intense, and the puzzles that went along with the gravity gun added a lot to the game.
    Along with all the positive parts of the game, I never encountered something that inherently irked me or even made me think, "C'mon, why would the developers do that?"

    Overall it was an amazing game and this puny description of how much I liked it cannot fully convey my overall enjoyment of the game.    … Expand
  45. LukeM.
    Mar 29, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  46. R.Rodriguez
    Mar 22, 2007
    9
    I wasn't disappointed playing this game. I used the easy level on the first go around and still it was difficult. Having the girl show up after I had gone through hell to finish a level and in the end was the biggest irritant. I did feel the game was a too short.
  47. AnonymousMC
    Mar 22, 2007
    10
    Para my el hl2 es el mejor juego kon grafica espectacular asta es mejor kel finalfantasi XIII , es 100 veces mejor pok tiene muxa acion violencia etc... y Lord C es un pelele k no tiene ni idea de juegos del siglo 21. Si kereis mas in formacion my steam is COPEGI .
  48. TeodorIkonomov
    Mar 21, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  49. NathanS.
    Mar 20, 2007
    10
    One of the best games Ive ever played
  50. TerranceH.
    Mar 16, 2007
    10
    Great game, loved it so much, I finished it 3 times. Now for Episode 1, 2 and 3.
  51. ChrisK.
    Mar 16, 2007
    8
    It's the best game I ever played but if you have the wrong graphics driver it crashes and the fun ends.
  52. Matt
    Mar 15, 2007
    10
    Honestly the best game I ever played. Valve continuously releases patches, fixing any bugs as new hardware comes out.
  53. LordC.
    Mar 15, 2007
    1
    A bug riddled average game with problems still outstanding from its release date. Support is poor at best and Steam is beyond irritating.
  54. PerroL.
    Mar 14, 2007
    10
    This is hands down the single best computer game I have ever played. The potential for customizing is awesome. Even after repeated gameplay I keep coming back for more... and more... gimme more!
  55. JulienS.
    Mar 11, 2007
    10
    One of the most breathtaking games I have ever played. At times you almost wonder if you are still playing a game or if what is happening in front of you is real. All around surely this is the game of the year.
  56. BoyanT.
    Mar 11, 2007
    10
    The Game is the best I have ever seen, is not just beautiful graphics, you can't stop play it until it end.
  57. JoshuaW.
    Mar 7, 2007
    10
    This really is "the best game ever". It never ceases to amaze me how much work was put into this game. People complain about release delays but with Valve quality is paramount.
  58. MitchelM.
    Mar 4, 2007
    10
    Possibly one of the best first-person shooters ever made. Simply amazing Graphics, physics, AI, and game play. Valve set the bar higher, as it always will.
  59. AlbertG.
    Mar 2, 2007
    10
    Best fictional first person shooter out there. Blows Halo off the map.
  60. AnonymousMC
    Mar 1, 2007
    5
    i loved the game even though the load times and the vehical parts got annoying fast but what i really hated bad was STUPID STEAM this i think killed the game because i had to wait to get an internet connection on my new pc to even play the single player, this i found really anoying and i hope that the next games wont have steam
  61. ChristopherS.
    Feb 25, 2007
    0
    Half Life 2 is a marvelous technological achievement. It is beautiful to look at and for the most part enjoyable to play. So why the lousy rating? In one word: Steam. This service is without a doubt the worst thing to ever happen to computer gaming. Implemented as a tool in the war on piracy and as a means of efficient game distribution and praised by such magazines as PC Gamer, Steam is Half Life 2 is a marvelous technological achievement. It is beautiful to look at and for the most part enjoyable to play. So why the lousy rating? In one word: Steam. This service is without a doubt the worst thing to ever happen to computer gaming. Implemented as a tool in the war on piracy and as a means of efficient game distribution and praised by such magazines as PC Gamer, Steam is in reality a bloated, poorly conceived and overly intrusive internet portal whose required installation is used for updating and registering games. If you don't have a broadband connection you can literally spend 4 to 6 hours waiting for this ridiculous process to conclude. Even with broadband the hit or miss nature of the overly complex and unreliable installation procedure may require repeated downloading of large files and that can be particularly painful for those of us with limited bandwith usage restrictions. As a result I no longer buy games made by Valve or ones that use the Steam service for activation purposes. In my opinion this is just another example of corporate insensitivity to its customers and a cynical means by which to maximize its profits.… Expand
  62. TomC.
    Feb 25, 2007
    10
    One of the best shooters I've ever played. Immersive, interactive and entertaining from beginning to end. HL2 is a series of cult moments that will leave you craving for more in an alarming way.
  63. Goldfritter
    Feb 25, 2007
    10
    Awesome. Technically, no other words are needed, but I like talking, so: Graphics are pretty good, if not perfect. This adds to the game: no-one wanted, expected or needed a beautiful game. It helps create the dark feeling of discomfort. The fact that it seemed linear was totally canceled out by the ingenious story. It enthralls you, it captivates you. You ALWAYS want to know what comes Awesome. Technically, no other words are needed, but I like talking, so: Graphics are pretty good, if not perfect. This adds to the game: no-one wanted, expected or needed a beautiful game. It helps create the dark feeling of discomfort. The fact that it seemed linear was totally canceled out by the ingenious story. It enthralls you, it captivates you. You ALWAYS want to know what comes next, even if you know it'll scare the pants off you. AI is a bit easy to exploit, but can get entertaining, and is usually up to scratch. Physics and Gravity Gun are a great enhancement, without becoming too obvious or repetitive. You can realy manipulate the environment to your advantage. Steam, as annoying as it is, helps ensure that you get the optimal experience - and what an experience. An absolute masterpiece.… Expand
  64. YuraT.
    Feb 25, 2007
    10
    No comment
  65. BryanH.
    Feb 22, 2007
    10
    What can I say I absolutely played the hell out of the first episode. And all the runoff extensions like Counter Strike, Blue Shift. Now i am really excited about HL 2. The graphics are out of this world, There is not to many other game companies that even come close. You do have to have a kick ass computer to get true quality game play and add all the awesome updates and maps. But hey What can I say I absolutely played the hell out of the first episode. And all the runoff extensions like Counter Strike, Blue Shift. Now i am really excited about HL 2. The graphics are out of this world, There is not to many other game companies that even come close. You do have to have a kick ass computer to get true quality game play and add all the awesome updates and maps. But hey thats what I do! I build the most kick ass computers. And then play Half Life 2 on them. I'm a true GEEK that loves good quality gaming.… Expand
  66. Mark
    Feb 21, 2007
    8
    Half life 2 was a great game. The graphics, the little details such as eyes following you, turning heads and things like that. Also, the download was not "like 6 hours". I had a 10 minute download, and everything worked fine. Steam has no problems, and i dont understand how you cannot get it to work. Anyways, what makes me give it an 8, is because the last level GLITCH, and ending. I had Half life 2 was a great game. The graphics, the little details such as eyes following you, turning heads and things like that. Also, the download was not "like 6 hours". I had a 10 minute download, and everything worked fine. Steam has no problems, and i dont understand how you cannot get it to work. Anyways, what makes me give it an 8, is because the last level GLITCH, and ending. I had to start back a few minutes until the last level worked correctly. The part where you get your guns taken away. Your supposed to get the New grav gun, but i had to reload the game about 15 times to get it to work. Also, the ending is terrible. *sorry* It was like the halo2 ending. Other then that, i still play, use the mods steam released, and have fun with it. Good game… Expand
  67. LukeM.
    Feb 16, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  68. JasonP.
    Feb 15, 2007
    10
    Mainly the ONLY reason I upgraded my PC from the dinosaur that it was. I wish I'd upgraded much, much sooner. The gravity gun is just awesome! Currently playing Episode 1. When is Episode 2 comming? A few ideas perhaps. BlueShift 2? Episode 2. Play as Alyx? ( She's more nimble than the venerable Dr Freeman. Maybe an interesting slant on the game perhaps?
  69. AlfredG.
    Feb 14, 2007
    10
    Truly the best game I have ever played. If you have never played Half-Life 2 you have been living under a rock.
  70. ChristianZ.
    Feb 13, 2007
    10
    Fantastic game play with even better graphics and sound. The ultimate Game experience!
  71. SeanT.
    Feb 12, 2007
    10
    This game rocks.
  72. BillyS.
    Feb 11, 2007
    10
    The best game yet to come out of the crafty thinkers at Valve utilizing every advancement to put together a fun addicting game.
  73. JonathanK.
    Feb 8, 2007
    10
    Wonderful story and gameplay. Beautiful graphics. Valve's commitment to keep the game current with updates and chapters is awesome.
  74. AlexM.
    Feb 6, 2007
    10
    I can't believe I neglected to buy this outstanding game for so long, Its hard to decide which is the best game of all time, until now, I was debating The battlefield series and Halo, but now that I have played HL2 and its expansion, my thoughts have been wavered.
  75. AnonymousMC
    Feb 6, 2007
    10
    i love this game know matter how many times i play it i never get tired of it the only thing that i think that the people who made this game could make better is the end i would like to do more at the very end of the game
  76. FrankT.
    Feb 4, 2007
    10
    Amazing game. great story, great graphics, great audio. In fact, great EVERYTHING. The only thing I disliked was steam, but that was alright.
  77. LeeD.
    Feb 3, 2007
    10
    A very good game from valve....the kind of shake up the gaming industry needs.... A worthy purchase indeed....if you don't already have it you should!
  78. ConspiracyTheorist
    Feb 1, 2007
    10
    Great game.
  79. JBW.
    Jan 29, 2007
    10
    This is the perfect game, in every way. First, anyone who has a problem with Steam should not be downgrading half-life 2, because you are rating the game, not anything else (although I do admit that it does not make sense that you have to be on the internet to play a single player game). The graphics are amazing, better than F.E.A.R., better than PREY better than DOOM 3, better than This is the perfect game, in every way. First, anyone who has a problem with Steam should not be downgrading half-life 2, because you are rating the game, not anything else (although I do admit that it does not make sense that you have to be on the internet to play a single player game). The graphics are amazing, better than F.E.A.R., better than PREY better than DOOM 3, better than Resistance, better than any thing I have ever seen.EVER. because the environments are beautiful, technology-wise and artistic-wise. Nothing feels over shiny, and they do not use any cheap texture tricks (DOOM 3). Everything is just as gritty or as polished as you would expect it to be. The gameplay is amazing..........absolutely amazing. It ranges from just curiosity of discovering phun with physics in City 17, to intense and gripping gameplay in Ravenholm, to running away franticly from a strider in the later levels, to OH MY GOD the gravity gun is now freaking awsome in the last chapter.The weapons are not necessarily diverse, most from the first game, but with the gravity gun, you don't really need many more diverse weapons.(although the little antlion food thing is cool too.) The enemys can be soldiers, helicopters, bugs, or even 3 story tall STRIDERS. And they all interact well with you and the environment. Few games make you feel for the characters like this one, especially with excellent voice acting. Last I would like to say that I just don't get how people could give this game a 1, i mean, we are all entitled to our opinion, but a 1, on a game like this, come on, do you have a grudge? are you a halo fan that doesn't want any game to steal its flare. i mean be fair, if you think that some movie knockoff deserves a 3 or a 4 how can you seriously say that Half-Life 2 deserves a 0? There, I put that out there I'm done, I hope you at least found this review to be fair, because I tried my hardest not to go crazy and verbally punch you guys.… Expand
  80. Jan
    Jan 29, 2007
    10
    The ostensive emptyness and silentness in this well created and good looking half life 2 universe boosts the atmosphere of this "end of the world scenario" to a new level in a very cunning and reliable way. I just love the way how this Game works and how it is played. Clear 10/10 for me.
  81. PhoneBooth
    Jan 28, 2007
    10
    This game looks just about as good as anything out there. Gameplay will leave you longing for more even after you have finished the very delivering, long game. An instant classic that is just as great as half-life 1(but not better :) ). The multiplayer, C:SS is one of the most played games and is considered by many "The #1 action online game". Sound and graphics are done with such care This game looks just about as good as anything out there. Gameplay will leave you longing for more even after you have finished the very delivering, long game. An instant classic that is just as great as half-life 1(but not better :) ). The multiplayer, C:SS is one of the most played games and is considered by many "The #1 action online game". Sound and graphics are done with such care and accuracy that you could think you are there, and thank god the voice acting is good!… Expand
  82. Bobbobbo
    Jan 28, 2007
    10
    The best game I have ever played.
  83. NathanS.
    Jan 28, 2007
    10
    One of the best games Ive ever played
  84. AnonymousMC
    Jan 25, 2007
    0
    This game will not perform well at all on my computer. 1.4G Pentium Processor with 1.2G of Ram. I wouldn't waste another dollar on anything this company makes. The steam engine is a joke. If I wanted another browser on my computer I would have downloaded a new one. The steam engine is a resource hog and very unnecessary. Just provide updates for games at your damn website, we willThis game will not perform well at all on my computer. 1.4G Pentium Processor with 1.2G of Ram. I wouldn't waste another dollar on anything this company makes. The steam engine is a joke. If I wanted another browser on my computer I would have downloaded a new one. The steam engine is a resource hog and very unnecessary. Just provide updates for games at your damn website, we will go get them if we want them. Just like the media today, once again we are spoon-fed everything someone else thinks we need. Socialism disguised as Democracy.… Expand
  85. JD
    Jan 24, 2007
    2
    Game play is pretty good, graphics are what i would expect of a game this long in the making. but my biggest gripe is Steam. I hate this program with a passion. It tells me when I can and can't play my own games, it makes me sign in to play my games and if my internet connection is down then I cannot play anything at all! Whoever concocted this idea should be shot. Period.
  86. DanO.
    Jan 22, 2007
    10
    Heart pounding from start to finish, amazing story and AI.
  87. DanielW.
    Jan 21, 2007
    10
    Great game, special effects, enviroments, etc. Downside: it's a bit short, it took me only 5 hours.
  88. MattT.
    Jan 20, 2007
    10
    Great game, great graphics, great story line...everything is awsome about this game.
  89. ShinsFortress
    Jan 20, 2007
    3
    It's good, but not great, and certainly not enough of an evolution from one that is purported to be.
  90. ReisenbichlerE.
    Jan 20, 2007
    8
    This could be one of the greatest Egoshooters ever created, but Valve had the great Idea to punish the gamers (= buyers) with Steam. The Installation took me AGES and I dont get why I couldnt play a singleplayershooter without internetconnection. If it wasnt Half Life 2, I would NEVER pay for a Game that uses Steam and I will not do it again. Why Steam? For gods sake, someone explain this to me!
  91. RobM.
    Jan 19, 2007
    10
    Very good physics and lighting. I have no complaints, except that the enemy AI is actually pretty smart.
  92. EdD.
    Jan 18, 2007
    10
    Outclasses every other game in this category by a country mile, simply outstanding.
  93. BenF.
    Jan 17, 2007
    10
    Really really good game. The best I have ever played. The gameplay is amazing and the graphics are very good.
  94. BobS.
    Jan 16, 2007
    10
    Amazing game. Great graphics, smooth gameplay, and that gravity gun is the best gun I've ever played with in a FPS.
  95. PhilipM.
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    Though this game did receive a 10 from me, I am going to start by stating the very obvious: STEAM was a terrible idea. The requirement of an Internet connection to play a game that one has no intention of playing over the Internet is a monumentally stupid idea. I am, however, rating the GAME and not the method by which it is played. When I first played Half-Life 2, I was completely blown Though this game did receive a 10 from me, I am going to start by stating the very obvious: STEAM was a terrible idea. The requirement of an Internet connection to play a game that one has no intention of playing over the Internet is a monumentally stupid idea. I am, however, rating the GAME and not the method by which it is played. When I first played Half-Life 2, I was completely blown away by not only the graphics and physics engine, but I was also captivated by it's enthralling story line and by how much one actually feels like they're experiencing something, rather than playing it. The in-game cinematics lent a seamless quality to the game. Though the game exhibits long load times, it is a work of art and worth the wait. If you have a way to play it without STEAM, do so. If not, oh well.… Expand
  96. AnonymousMC
    Jan 15, 2007
    8
    The Game is ok. Second Place in my Favorite List. First goes to Far Cry. Good Graphics on average systems. That is very good. I played the german version and i have to say that the german syncro is one of the badest i have ever heard. Next time please spend more money for professional german synco-talkers.

    And I hate your Steam-System. I have payed for the Game and i want to play it on    The Game is ok. Second Place in my Favorite List. First goes to Far Cry. Good Graphics on average systems. That is very good. I played the german version and i have to say that the german syncro is one of the badest i have ever heard. Next time please spend more money for professional german synco-talkers.

    And I hate your Steam-System. I have payed for the Game and i want to play it on my computer without steam!    … Expand
  97. PhilipW.
    Jan 14, 2007
    9
    One step closer to the perfect game: Plenty of freedom to play with the environment! The ending was rather a let-down, but everything leading up to it was top-notch.
  98. JoséA.
    Jan 14, 2007
    10
    The best game I'am Played When we finished, we get moore very good graphics, best story, and better surprises...jumps in the chair.
  99. AnonymousMC
    Jan 14, 2007
    10
    I just can't understand why some people rate this 8- ... 1:"STEAM" is great 2:long loading times etc A)get more RAM B)Get rid of your viruses 3:Ok so the last guy is easy that can't bring it down more than 1 point 4: (specificly meant for "Victor") you do know there ain't much RPG ammo around?
    5:AI is bad? lemme pause to laugh *LOL*
    6:Bad ending ey? they're obviously    I just can't understand why some people rate this 8- ... 1:"STEAM" is great 2:long loading times etc A)get more RAM B)Get rid of your viruses 3:Ok so the last guy is easy that can't bring it down more than 1 point 4: (specificly meant for "Victor") you do know there ain't much RPG ammo around?
    5:AI is bad? lemme pause to laugh *LOL*
    6:Bad ending ey? they're obviously gonna make a sequel
    7:Bad story my ass
    8:Imma stop now    … Expand
  100. MikeC.
    Jan 11, 2007
    10
    A masterwork of stunning proportions. Still looks good today beside next-gen fare, plays like a dream and invokes all the nostalgia of Half-Life 1 while incorporating the thrills of a fully physics-based world. If you miss this game, you will be missing one of the major landmarks of gaming.
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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 »