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. MarcO.
    Jun 7, 2006
    10
    The fact that HL2 can have mods attach to it gives it a big boost. This is the greatest game in history.
  2. TaylorB.
    Jun 7, 2006
    10
    Excellent game. I've seen all these few negative reviews saying that the story sucks and the a.i. is horrible. You people dont know what youre talking about. The a.i. is the best out there, and i have yet to find a better story or better interaction with the characters. it has the best physics of any game out there, and while the weapons arent the best, the gravity gun is fun. as for Excellent game. I've seen all these few negative reviews saying that the story sucks and the a.i. is horrible. You people dont know what youre talking about. The a.i. is the best out there, and i have yet to find a better story or better interaction with the characters. it has the best physics of any game out there, and while the weapons arent the best, the gravity gun is fun. as for steam, i dont have a problem with it. True fans of half-life 1 will givei it at least a 9.… Expand
  3. willmaster510
    Jul 10, 2006
    10
    this is the best 1st person shooter on PC I ever played .this game is way better than halo or gta its sweest damn game I ever played way to go velve And sierra.
  4. LukeM.
    Jul 13, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  5. RobertA.
    Jul 13, 2006
    10
    Best game to date. The engine is amazing.
  6. TomJ.
    Jul 19, 2006
    10
    This game is great; it twists in both amazing graphics with amazing gameplay. Something many other games fail to accomplish.
  7. BenD.
    Jul 26, 2006
    10
    One of the best games i have ever played. i am now on my forth play throught of the game an still loving it. the one thing that severly ruins the whole experience is STEAM.
  8. RetR.
    Jul 4, 2006
    10
    Amazing.
  9. KrestenM.
    Jul 5, 2006
    10
    One of the best games ever made. Genious gameplay, super stunning graphics, great sounds, and good multiplayer games afterwards. Totally a masterpiece!
  10. AnsonG.
    Jul 6, 2006
    10
    HL2 is the best 1st person shooter on PC i ever played. The graphics and display was amazing and gameplay was well-designed. Come on, why not like this game? This game was a famous they ever created. For those who gave below 3 u just moaning because u havent play Half-Life(1998) or u have a crap computer. So why u guys judged already? Do u know what is the story happened at previous HL2 is the best 1st person shooter on PC i ever played. The graphics and display was amazing and gameplay was well-designed. Come on, why not like this game? This game was a famous they ever created. For those who gave below 3 u just moaning because u havent play Half-Life(1998) or u have a crap computer. So why u guys judged already? Do u know what is the story happened at previous Half-Life(1998)? Do u know how many weapons? And do u know what happened to the ending? So please STOP moaning. This game is probably is a best and should buy this one.… Expand
  11. CalebH.
    Aug 11, 2006
    10
    Outstanding graphics, good plot line. solid atmosphere.
  12. CorpseFactory
    Aug 10, 2006
    10
    A must have. The graphics are spectacular and and the unrivaled physics make this truly immersive. Add in a gripping storyline with loads of cool moments (using a crane to pick up a truck and drop it on your enemies) and you have a masterpiece
  13. Cr0ssCr0ss
    Aug 14, 2006
    10
    This is the best game of the world!
  14. CodyM.
    Aug 15, 2006
    10
    half-life 2 is the single most entertaing exelerating amazing cool wowing 100% perfect game out there it is my best and favorite game i own.
  15. KenB.
    Aug 17, 2006
    10
    Excellent thriller. The game captures the player's attention right from the beginning and the thrill factor stays at 10 throughout the game. The makers have taken ideas from film and combined them with the very realistic physics to produce the best game yet.
  16. ThomasD.
    Aug 17, 2006
    10
    An amazin FPS game + the story is wicked right down the core.
  17. SolO.
    Aug 20, 2006
    10
    Despite a story line that may seem a bit trite, this game definitely takes the gaming experience to the next level of realism, suspense, and action. A must have for anyone who likes fun.
  18. MalcolmD.
    Aug 22, 2006
    10
    My personal opinion is that this is in truth the greatest game ever made. I feel this way because it is the 'full package'. Half Life 2 has some of the most fast paced and intense fighting of any FPS, and I think some (emphasize some) of the NPCs are very intelligent. It also has some vehicle senarios (if not the best in the world) which on the whole offer a welcome, and My personal opinion is that this is in truth the greatest game ever made. I feel this way because it is the 'full package'. Half Life 2 has some of the most fast paced and intense fighting of any FPS, and I think some (emphasize some) of the NPCs are very intelligent. It also has some vehicle senarios (if not the best in the world) which on the whole offer a welcome, and enjoyable, change of pace. It also has a good amount of fairly trick puzzles, some of which took me quite some time and some of which were very easy. Also I think it has a quality over looked in many FPSs that makes it really stand out, a plot. The plot of Half Life 2 is quite deep complete with betrayal and lots of other fun twists. Also it is undeniably one of the most beautiful games ever; from the skylines to the textures on the walls to the wrinkles in people's faces. I am proud to give this game a 10/10 and hope that every body plays this game.… Expand
  19. LukeM.
    Aug 25, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  20. LukasL.
    Aug 3, 2006
    10
    Half-Life 2 once again revolutionized the FPS genre. The story is great, plus you have endless hours of play with Deathmatch, especially appealing thanks to the gravity gun - best gun ever.
  21. Doomthing
    Aug 3, 2006
    10
    This game is really good. Though steam sucks, I was able to get around it. I saw zeros in this pile of reviews, and most of them were people complaining about steam. Try reviewing HL2 instead of steam. The reviews on this page are for HL2....NOT steam. Now back to my review. I dont care about graphics at all.....i just focus on gameplay. But i was STILL blown away by the grapchics and This game is really good. Though steam sucks, I was able to get around it. I saw zeros in this pile of reviews, and most of them were people complaining about steam. Try reviewing HL2 instead of steam. The reviews on this page are for HL2....NOT steam. Now back to my review. I dont care about graphics at all.....i just focus on gameplay. But i was STILL blown away by the grapchics and physics. The A.I. could have been made better.....but that doesnt effect my score (also love the story line)… Expand
  22. BrettB.
    Aug 6, 2006
    10
    one of the best games i have ever played and i have played a lot of games.
  23. CarlosJ.
    Sep 1, 2006
    10
    Probably the best fps ever made. Classics such as Goldeneye and Perfect Dark sit along side it, but this game is revolutionary in the way as a large step foward for video games. Valve raise the bar once again.
  24. EgonB.
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    HL2 is a fantastic first person shooter which not only delivers most ashtonishing visuals, and near-perfect physics, but also brings incredibly action - all combined with an intriguing and unique science fiction-story.
  25. JamesW.
    Sep 16, 2006
    10
    Words cannot describe the all encompassing genius of this game.
  26. BlaineM.
    Sep 17, 2006
    10
    Absolutely fantastic, I've never seen a game so amazingly thought out. The AI is phenominal, absolutely phenominal. Everything was so intregueing and the graphics, oh, the graphics. I can't even put the graphics into words. Valve, I envy you.
  27. PatrickS.
    Sep 17, 2006
    10
    If I've ever had to rate a more perfect game, I'd be dead. I love it, and the ending is great, and the physics are great too. Personally, I see this game really as a console for gravity/physics that Valve decided to make into a game, with a storyline added. Great game. I LOVED the end. Except for the almost continuous TV-screen taunting. When will Breen learn?
  28. Wdntulk2no
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    Dude what can i say. I STILL haven't found anything with better game play since it came out!
  29. JeffW.
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    Sweet. Looks even better boosted to a 60 Plasma.
  30. KristianK.
    Sep 8, 2006
    10
    It is the best game in the WORLD :P
  31. RobinW.
    Oct 11, 2007
    10
    The original HalfLife took First Person Shooting with puzzles to a new level. It didn't do anything wildly new, but it did everything brilliantly. Characterisation, Plot exposition, Set pieces, Atmosphere, Humour - all were carried off to perfection. How could they improve on this? 2 excellent expansion packs, and many years later, Halflife 2 was their answer - and boy, was it worth The original HalfLife took First Person Shooting with puzzles to a new level. It didn't do anything wildly new, but it did everything brilliantly. Characterisation, Plot exposition, Set pieces, Atmosphere, Humour - all were carried off to perfection. How could they improve on this? 2 excellent expansion packs, and many years later, Halflife 2 was their answer - and boy, was it worth waiting for. This time, Valve weren't content with just doing all the things you'd expect from a modern FPS, and doing them well - they reinvented them all. Each level of the game conveys a different style of playing; whether it be solo, pair or team based combat, full out battles or cunning stealth, HalfLife 2 delivers. The biggest shock to the system is how well the physics model works - far from being a gimmick as it could so easily have been, it immerses you completely with the game world, and becomes another tool to use in solving the puzzles and fighting the enemies. HalfLife2 is a masterpiece. If you haven't played it, you've missed out massively.… Expand
  32. Joseph
    Oct 10, 2007
    10
    Half-Life 2 includes many kinds of gameplay, and mixes them together rather well in this first person adventure
  33. JamieH.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    absolutely incredible best game of the year =]
  34. AaronG.m
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    A truly amazing experience.
  35. KoKel.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    I always look for plot, and there is alot here. Awesome graphic detail, and the weapons are just too sweet.
  36. 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.
  37. 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
  38. mikel.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    great game , only one game to me better ..... Tribes vengeance is the only game better.
  39. Nerevar
    Jan 10, 2007
    10
    I played a lot of fps, but half-life 2 - according to me - is one of the most complete experiences of the world of videogames. Gordon Freeman is back and he did it with the best shooter of 2004.
  40. EdD.
    Jan 18, 2007
    10
    Outclasses every other game in this category by a country mile, simply outstanding.
  41. NickG.
    Nov 8, 2007
    10
    It is much better than Half Life 1. I like the plot and duration.
  42. HaraldR.
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    This is the greatest game ever made!! The guys behind this game has an extreme wild fantasy that makes Half-Life 2 to a werry impressive game. Half-Life 2 has altso a brethbreaking good action.
  43. Spiker
    Oct 21, 2007
    10
    The fact that it's still being compared to other games today (even in the graphics department) is a feat that amazes me. An incredible ride, one that should not be missed by anyone.
  44. FernandoF.
    Oct 22, 2007
    10
    brilliant.
  45. MattT.
    Jan 20, 2007
    10
    Great game, great graphics, great story line...everything is awsome about this game.
  46. NovalR.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    I have played it a lot of times now, and it never gets boring. It's just the best game i've ever seen.
  47. RemcoV.
    Oct 27, 2007
    10
    Excelent game with a great story, good weapons and i simply loved it.
  48. Dude
    Oct 27, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever MADE!! Its So Real And Is Long And Fun. The Best Graphics I've Ever Seen So Far.
  49. 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.
  50. pieman
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    This game rules,next to Halo it's my favorite game.There's plenty of mods for it such as Counter-Strike,Garry's Mod 10,The Ship and many more.This game has beautiful graphics and very tence at times.I remember Half-Life 2 coming out like it was yesterday,people still want it!Although Half-Life 1 was a big success i think Half-Life 2 is a bigger success.Lets hope for another This game rules,next to Halo it's my favorite game.There's plenty of mods for it such as Counter-Strike,Garry's Mod 10,The Ship and many more.This game has beautiful graphics and very tence at times.I remember Half-Life 2 coming out like it was yesterday,people still want it!Although Half-Life 1 was a big success i think Half-Life 2 is a bigger success.Lets hope for another Half-Life!… Expand
  51. jACOB
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    This is the best game ever made for it's time it's revolutionary and is still in the top 3 best fps shooters ever next to bioshock and the classic doom =P but this is the best physics ever that I have seen and is absolutely amazing.Definitley worth the current 20$ or get in O.B(Orange box) not to mention gmod 9 or 10(10 bucks) witch requires this.
  52. FranciscoS.
    Oct 6, 2007
    10
    The best game of all times, I'm waiting the Orange Box of Valve, that will be the best of bests. Cuando llegue la Caja Naranja el vicio va a ser tan poderoso que voy a viciarme hasta pasar todo el HL2 de nuevo.
  53. lastRebel
    Oct 9, 2007
    10
    This is indeed an FPS which remains leaps and bounds ahead of its competition, even still in late 2007. Having played many, many games of this genre, this is still one of the best. While everyone was talking about Halo, I proudly represented HL2. This game was definitely ahead of its time, and still perseveres.
  54. 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
  55. YuraT.
    Feb 25, 2007
    10
    No comment
  56. 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.
  57. 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!
  58. 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.
  59. 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
  60. 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!
  61. TeodorIkonomov
    Mar 21, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  62. 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
  63. 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
  64. LoganR.
    May 17, 2007
    10
    One of the most thrilling games I have played in a long time.
  65. NickM.
    May 21, 2007
    10
    Best game ever! Awesome Graphics! Awesome Physics! And Gravity Gun is the best weapon ever!
  66. 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
  67. 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.
  68. AlstonB.
    Jun 11, 2007
    10
    Awesome game, I love it, can't wait for HL2 E2, just wish I knew when to expect it.
  69. 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.
  70. SamJ.
    Jun 28, 2007
    10
    LOVE it!
  71. NableS.
    Jun 30, 2007
    10
    Awsome! Linear, but the best programming of any game I've played. It always changes just before you get tired of it.
  72. MikkoA-F.
    Jun 30, 2007
    10
    Half-Life rocked when it came out, now Half-Life 2 rocks, bigger, cooler and better. Good going Valve!
  73. 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
  74. ThorbjørnW.
    Jul 15, 2007
    10
    Stunning graphics and an brilliant storyline - I love this game!
  75. JayR.
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    This majestic work of art should be played by gamers the world over, as it is THE gaming mastermind of not only 2004, but 2005, 2006, and even today, in 2007, it is still the best game I have ever played, and most likely will ever play. And just when I thought I was finally done, had finished it for good, it called me back once again to give it another play. And to my joy, there are now This majestic work of art should be played by gamers the world over, as it is THE gaming mastermind of not only 2004, but 2005, 2006, and even today, in 2007, it is still the best game I have ever played, and most likely will ever play. And just when I thought I was finally done, had finished it for good, it called me back once again to give it another play. And to my joy, there are now many more mods out than there were last year, and I'm having a ball testing them out. My current favorite is SMOD Tactical: Delta 4. If you're like me and have bashed the shit out of the combine in every way possible, give Tactical a try, it's a definite wake-up call for all gamers. You think Half-Life 2 was hard on Hard? Please, try beating SMOD Tactical: Delta 4 on Easy, you'll be sorely mistaken if you think it'll be a walk in the park. Back to regular ol' HL2, though, I don't think there will ever be a game to best it. I've never played anything better. The graphics are stunning, and it's an absolute joy to play it maxed out. You become immersed in the story, dug into the battles, and enthralled with the characters. The sounds are resounding, I still get chills up and down my spine when I hear the howl of a leaper echo through the level. I dare you, no, I challenge you to find a game that can suck you in as much as this one can. I haven't found one, not even Halo, or Halo 2 can even come close to this. I love this game, I love the characters, and I love the story. My heart races, eagerly awaiting the release of Episode 2, so that I may see the next chapter in the story of Half-Life.… Expand
  76. BierW.
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    This is the best game, I've ever played. The physics engine is plain unbelivable. it out scores HalfLife 1 big time! The end is a bit awkward though, but due to HL1 this seems to be normal.
  77. DieterS.
    Jul 22, 2007
    10
    Very nice Game, Animations and Grafics.
  78. IsaiD.
    Jul 31, 2007
    10
    This is one of the most awesome game i have ever played... excelent!
  79. AdamR.
    Jul 7, 2007
    10
    Brilliant game, one of the best i've ever played, and reaches into the region of best game ever made.
  80. NortonD.
    Jul 8, 2007
    10
    This game is simply amazing. What they were able to do with the engine of this game and the graphics set a new new high for this style of gaming. Hopfully you have a computer that can run smoothly this all settings maxed for this game because then you will be in "awwwww" the whole time playing and the steam alone is just a brillant program.
  81. CharlieB.
    Jul 9, 2007
    10
    Beautiful visuals, a polished interface, flawless physics, intelligent AI, immersive storyline, and audio that would make a deaf man sell his soul to hear. What more could anyone ask for?
  82. AlanL.
    Aug 11, 2007
    10
    Absolutely fantastic, superb attention to detail, amazing in game physics and excellent story, can't wait for further installments
  83. TeodorIkonomov
    Aug 17, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  84. LukeM.
    Aug 19, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  85. je
    Aug 29, 2007
    10
    Half-Life 2 was great. The graphics were awesome. They never ceased to amaze me throughout the game. The music, when played, boosted your morale. And, finally, the story line was good.
  86. JamesB.
    Aug 9, 2007
    10
    Awsome Game,I loved it! I got the Steam version and the people that say they are haveing problems with it need a new brain lol. There is a way to play the game with out the internet,just take some to read up on it instead of being so lazy. The graphics are Awsome,The Gameplay was awsome,not sure about music i always turn off music in any game i play,it frees up resorces. The ones that Awsome Game,I loved it! I got the Steam version and the people that say they are haveing problems with it need a new brain lol. There is a way to play the game with out the internet,just take some to read up on it instead of being so lazy. The graphics are Awsome,The Gameplay was awsome,not sure about music i always turn off music in any game i play,it frees up resorces. The ones that gave this game a score of 7 and below really have no taste at all.… Expand
  87. AuldS.
    Sep 30, 2007
    10
    Half Life 2 serves to remind everyone just how far computer gaming has come. I've been a gamer since the days of the Amiga. Never in all those years did I dream that one day games would be this good. As for the use of steam, Valve have every right to protect themselves from piracy.
  88. DannyM.
    Jan 1, 2008
    10
    Incredible. Theres honestly not much more a game should have. Stunning graphics, incredible game play, and amazing events.
  89. markB
    Jan 1, 2008
    10
    This is proof that a game with a good story is going to sell well. It has great graphics, but the story was even better. That is why this game will not be touched for a long time.
  90. 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
  91. 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
  92. DustinG.
    Jan 25, 2008
    10
    Been playing games since I was a little kid on the first Doom. The Half-Life series is the first to introduce such an intriguing story line, and amazing game play. HL2 tops it off with badass physics and awesome AI.
  93. 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
  94. DominikK.
    Jan 27, 2008
    10
    Like always, beauty of game, magnificient style, interesting like hell, addicting to everyone.... i want some more! ;) waiting to continue... like always.
  95. ZacharyM.
    Jan 29, 2008
    10
    Very excellently made game, I haven't even beaten it and I think it deserves perfect. Nice job Valve!
  96. 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
  97. AnonymousMC
    Jan 5, 2008
    10
    After reading some user comments (usually with a score of 6 and below) I noticed that many people say that this game is highly over-rated...

    This forced me to play Half-Life 2 again and I had a hell of a good time. The game play is not much to complain about, although the game is somewhat very linear, but that doesn't count too much. Enemy AI is somewhat iffy but it is at least    After reading some user comments (usually with a score of 6 and below) I noticed that many people say that this game is highly over-rated...

    This forced me to play Half-Life 2 again and I had a hell of a good time. The game play is not much to complain about, although the game is somewhat very linear, but that doesn't count too much. Enemy AI is somewhat iffy but it is at least challenging. Also the friendly AI is somewhat annoying for me (they can get in your way a little bit). The story was interesting in my opinion to keep me attached to my computer to play it.
    The graphics for that time were damn good-looking. The sound is impressive (especially in voice acting) and in some occasions it doesn't.

    And back on the topic of over-rated games. Over-rated games are those who get advertised to much and in the end they are nothing more than just normal FPS without nothing new to show, much like the Halo series, I suspect that the people that post their low scores can be Halo fanboys or people who think that this game doesn't suit their taste, which makes me to wonder why the hell did they picked it up in the first place. Buying a game without looking it first is a terrible idea...

    People are perfectly entitled to their opinions, I respect that, like the former people I mentioned (not fanboys). But the only reason I'm posting this is because people say many times that this game is highly over-rated...

    People who are giving this game a low score can be a little annoying (not for me) but be fair, this game is an excellent piece of game design and manufacture.

    And no, it is not perfect. No game is. It IS, however, a milestone in the development of the genre whether you like it or not.

    You people (or Halo fanboys) don't like the game? Wonderful, good for you. You guys have your reasons, which are, as far as I can tell, that you don't care for the setting and production design. This doesn't make it a bad game, nor over-rated. That simply means you guys don't like it.    … Expand
  98. RetR.
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    Amazing.
  99. MichaelU.
    Feb 21, 2008
    10
    One of the best shooters of all time. I'm not normally a huge geek when it comes to graphics, but the graphics in HL2 are simply amazing. Everything, from the facial animations to the the guns, look amazing. One of the best things about it is the level design. You almost never see the same thing twice, with mind bending puzzles, well placed objects, and times where you only have time One of the best shooters of all time. I'm not normally a huge geek when it comes to graphics, but the graphics in HL2 are simply amazing. Everything, from the facial animations to the the guns, look amazing. One of the best things about it is the level design. You almost never see the same thing twice, with mind bending puzzles, well placed objects, and times where you only have time to think about escaping. Just when your getting bored of something, it moves right on to another great part. The story is also very well done. Everything about Half-life 2 seems lovingly crafted, and altogether it feels like your in a movie. Its basically a game and a movie all in one. Valve managed to rekindle the orginal half-life while still adding something new. This will remain one of the greatest shooters ever for a long time. And for all of you who say its too easy, turn up the difficulty. Its harder to aim, enemies are smarter, and health packs are less powerful and frequent. This is one of the best games ever.… Expand
  100. KevinY.
    Feb 24, 2008
    10
    This is by far the most amazing game I have ever experienced.
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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 »