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. DanC.
    Aug 25, 2006
    10
    Always been a huge fan of Valves. Their work is Industry Changing.
  2. AlexS.
    Aug 26, 2006
    10
    Nothing short of amazing. Half-Life 2 is by far the best computer game -- nay, the best game, period -- to date.
  3. BartekX.
    Aug 26, 2006
    10
    Just great! :D I love it! Great Physics, gravity gun and all :D For me - Best FPP!
  4. ChaseM.
    Aug 6, 2006
    10
    One of the best games i've ever played! On par with the original, the original has some points that are better, and the new one does, which pretty much evens both games out to 10/10. I'm sick of hearing people bitch about steam, aside from waiting for loading times on Steam which i didn't mind becuase I'd do somthing else anyways, there was no problem with tihs game. One of the best games i've ever played! On par with the original, the original has some points that are better, and the new one does, which pretty much evens both games out to 10/10. I'm sick of hearing people bitch about steam, aside from waiting for loading times on Steam which i didn't mind becuase I'd do somthing else anyways, there was no problem with tihs game. I'm not sure how people can say "THE AI SUCKS" when their simply too retarded to change the difficulty from easy to hard mode like the rest of us who actually enjoyed this game. those of you who say its not "challenging"... try turning your difficulty up. and the storyline does not suck, and people who are saying you go into tower and gravity gun dangles people and end of game..… Expand
  5. HarryM.
    Aug 6, 2006
    10
    Loved it amazing cant belive how good it was and is.
  6. MattA.
    Aug 7, 2006
    9
    Great game, Looks amazing if you have a good computer.
  7. MikeP.
    Aug 8, 2006
    10
    An absolutely wonderful game created by Valve, in has a nearly fully interactive environment. I definitely would reccomend it to any fan of the series, or to anyone who wants to play a hyper realistic game.
  8. RyanC.
    Sep 1, 2006
    10
    Very Very Very great game. Awesome graphics, interesting story, long lasting game. Just plain awesome. Worth every penny.
  9. DennisC.
    Sep 14, 2006
    9
    WOW, I played it and the physics were great, also the graphic, but I think, that one little thing is of an importance and not to neglect: The game is to linear sometimes and it has some bugs/faults ! Otherwise excellent!
  10. RodrigoA.
    Sep 19, 2006
    10
    It's the best game in the world, I can't wait to play the Episodes 1 and 2.
  11. LukeM.
    Sep 21, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  12. LukeM.
    Sep 22, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  13. TelmoC.
    Sep 26, 2006
    10
    The best game in the world.
  14. KevinR.
    Sep 26, 2006
    10
    Best Half-Life game to come out since the original. This one takes everything 10 steps forward into the now of technology in advanced computer gaming capabilities, and shows game developers how to keep an ever evolving, rich storyline in the mix of all the battle and survival of that which is Half-Life!
  15. BrianM.
    Sep 29, 2006
    10
    Best FPS game I've ever played, and I've played 90% of them! Great job Valve! PS: Keep the additional content coming.
  16. RhysS.
    Sep 30, 2006
    10
    Does not get any better than this, what other game do you know that for a resonable price you get a full amazing game with state of the art effects and gameplay, a mod as in counter strike totally free that is a whole new game in itself and totally addictive, plus the kind of support that would put a wonder bra to shame. If you haven't got it, get it. If you have got it you going to heaven.
  17. StephenK.
    Sep 30, 2006
    10
    This game is just awesome, never get tired of playing it over and over, and the Episodic episodes make it even better.
  18. JoeB.
    Sep 4, 2006
    10
    Probably the best first-person shooter I have ever played. A variety of weapons keeps the player interested, and the storyline, while straightforward, is very well thought out. Missions vary, rather than the classic go here shoot this and go here shoot that. Overall, and excellent game.
  19. NathanC.
    Sep 9, 2006
    10
    This is the greatest game I've ever played because the action is constant, it requires thinking and not just shooting, it has constant surprises, you can take many different paths durring the game and have an incredible amount of freedom, the guns are unmatched, the graphics are impecable, and the reality of the game is unbeleivable in terms of gravity and physics! I could go on and This is the greatest game I've ever played because the action is constant, it requires thinking and not just shooting, it has constant surprises, you can take many different paths durring the game and have an incredible amount of freedom, the guns are unmatched, the graphics are impecable, and the reality of the game is unbeleivable in terms of gravity and physics! I could go on and on about how great this game is. This is a masterpiece!… Expand
  20. TeodorIkonomov
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  21. MathewP
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    This is the best game that played for years, it just impacted me, it is so damned funny.
  22. 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.
  23. GuiguiL.
    Nov 13, 2007
    10
    The best game ! With Episode One and two, the saga is the best VideoGame Saga ever created !
  24. GeorgeB.
    Oct 11, 2007
    10
    One of the best games out there. Lots of action without overdoing it. THUMBS-UP Guys!!!
  25. AndréB.
    Oct 10, 2007
    10
    No comments for tis game! I can't even describe it! Play and see with your own eyes!
  26. RaulL.
    Nov 1, 2007
    9
    Why are all enemis alike (example: all zombies have same clothes).
  27. RobertD.
    Oct 11, 2007
    10
    Great history, great adventure, great game! :)
  28. RaymondA.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Fast, Great team work needed to win, I love the Piro.
  29. Bombero
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Excellent game, there were some bugs on the first release back in 2004 that frustrated me, but the gameplay, graphics and AI were excellent. One of my favourite games, I highly recommend it to anyone interested in PC gaming.
  30. TiberiuC.
    Nov 22, 2007
    10
    Revolutionary engine that still delivers in 2007. The game itself is like a good movie, only much better. Perfectly crafted and a worthy successor to Half-Life.
  31. Mr.F.
    Nov 24, 2007
    8
    Well, first let me dispell all of the zeroes below. Number one, this is most certainly not a Quake engine modification. Even if it were, the Quake engine is a very powerful one (see games like Nexuiz). Number two, the AI is rather low scale, but nothing like the crappy AI seen in Doom or Counter-Strike: Condition Zero. The storyline is linear, yeah, but so are Portal's (clearly so), Well, first let me dispell all of the zeroes below. Number one, this is most certainly not a Quake engine modification. Even if it were, the Quake engine is a very powerful one (see games like Nexuiz). Number two, the AI is rather low scale, but nothing like the crappy AI seen in Doom or Counter-Strike: Condition Zero. The storyline is linear, yeah, but so are Portal's (clearly so), Halo's and Dark Messiah of Might and Magic's plotlines. And they are still amazing games. The Source engine is probablyone of the most complex physics engines I've ever seen. Sim S.'s turn: Mabye gat a new computer, because Half-Life 2 loaded in under a minute on mine. I have an nVidia GeForce 7300 GT that runs C-S:S, Portal and HL2 with no problem. And if you are going to use a computer for gaming, at least make sure it fits the requirements. Christopher S.: Steam is one of the greatest gaming platforms I ever saw (Microsoft's Games for Windows -- LIVE is an utter piece of crap) and since I really don't have the space for CD's, it's convenient that I can just download my games after my annual system reformat.Trust me, playing the game at minimum graphics settings is not fun. If you have a load time of upwards of 2 minutes it's time to get a new computer, or at least upgrade your old, crappy Windows 2000 and/or Windows ME boxes with 128 megs of RAM and a *gasp* Pentuim III. GNU Gamer: get WINE, Cedega or VMware Fusion. Steam is Windows-only. Windows is, so far, the best and most widely-used platform on Earth. Want to make money? Either you overprice it and market it towards the "Alternitaves" (Mac) or make it a reasonable price and market it towards everyone else (Windows). Lord C.: UPDATE. 'Nuff said. AI S: Mabye you should have looked at the small print :MUST HAVE INTERNET CONNECTION TO PLAY GAME. Also, Steam is very widely-known and produced by Valve. Not third-party at all. Stop whining like a pussy and just do it already. You can even load Steam up in Offline mode to play the Single Player version offline. Take a little time to actually look at the Steam software. Madeline V.: Cheating is absolutlely unpreventable. Period. Even the VAC can't help that. It's what the VAC is for. If a server admin reports the person, then they get banned from playing Steam games online (they can still play 1P, but no MP for them). Look up the server admin's contact information and let them know. Kevin T.: All I have to say is, Portal and Counter-Srike: Source have to be a couple of the best games I've ever played. And they're both HL2 mods. Thomas G.: It's an FPS. It's hard to balance action witn puzzles (see the other end of the spectrum - Portal), so give Valve a break. Republican Skillz: HL2:E1 was incredible. Don't judge a game before it's even released, it makes you look like an idiot. Yves B.: Just... utter fail right there. That review didn't even have any actual, you know, review in it. Carmine R.: COD3 can't even begin to compare with this game. Ian F.: How old are you? For the target audience (16-year-old males) this game is incredible. If you think a game with killing is boring, then you need to see a psychologist. Sean War: Doom 3 didn't have the Source engine. The Steam engine takes up more hardware requirements, and you probably lowered your Video options. HL2 has far superior graphics to Doom 3 (like Quake had to Doom 1). Jim F.: New computer. Stop trying to install it on your crappy HP Pavillion (or whatever you have, obviously it's not working). Also, what is the point in even buying a game if you're only going to play it for three days, then mabye once every few monhs for a hour? Just wrong. Why, oh why does everyone compare this game to Far Cry?? All the CryENGINE has on Source is the damn plants! I mean, come on. The CryENGINE was made as a demo for the GeForce 3. It's old as hell.… Expand
  32. BrettD.
    Nov 28, 2007
    9
    Incredibly smart. Fascinating in it's ability to influence those around the character. Bone chilling twists of fate. The storyline is superb. The game is a must have for any gamers portfolio!
  33. Edgar
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Episode two was flawless but for its length. If there was ever any doubt about the versatility of the Source engine, it has been washed away by the many mods and successful games that have been made with it, not to mention the constant forward momentum of its evolution as features are added. If valve plays their cards right, they can ride source into the next decade of the interactive Episode two was flawless but for its length. If there was ever any doubt about the versatility of the Source engine, it has been washed away by the many mods and successful games that have been made with it, not to mention the constant forward momentum of its evolution as features are added. If valve plays their cards right, they can ride source into the next decade of the interactive business without losing pace or falling behind in the relentless rat race of of graphical evolution. However, even when that line is crossed, and when the Source engine has exhausted all of its capabilities, it will undoubtedly go down into history as one of the most ingenious gaming engines ever developed.… Expand
  34. EricB.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    Absolutely Brilliant, the best game I have ever had the pleasure to play. the puzzles and game play in Half-Life 1 was astounding as it was a few years ago, but with the advanced graphics and physics emulation Half-Life 2 has to offer, along with the traditional game play and the genius maps and environments Valve's team has so skillfully created, Half-Life 2 will most definitely Absolutely Brilliant, the best game I have ever had the pleasure to play. the puzzles and game play in Half-Life 1 was astounding as it was a few years ago, but with the advanced graphics and physics emulation Half-Life 2 has to offer, along with the traditional game play and the genius maps and environments Valve's team has so skillfully created, Half-Life 2 will most definitely blow any gamer right off his or her feet.… Expand
  35. LucasF.
    Nov 28, 2007
    10
    Half-Life 2 is the base of new age of games. Half-Life history is perfect.
  36. TheChad
    Oct 13, 2007
    10
    This game is absolutely awesome!! I recommend Half Life 2 and Episode 1 and 2 to everyone I know.
  37. 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.
  38. 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
  39. 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
  40. TravisO.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Amazing, Valve did it again. If you would have asked me before if they could have made a better game then the first Half Life I wouldn't have thought so but HL2 has surpassed all my expectations, they have truly out done themselves this time. so to the team at Valve I say, Bravo!.
  41. JonH.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Amazing game. Good story, good action, great all-around play.
  42. StuartW
    Nov 6, 2007
    10
    Astoundingly good. The story, characters, and game play interact into an incredibly engrossing whole.
  43. vidman
    Oct 17, 2007
    7
    The most overrated game in existence. I give it a 7; everyone else gives it a 10. I bought this game off of Steam and encountered zero problems. I beat this game in 3 sessions. For the first 7 hours, I was pretty happy and couldn't wait for the story to unfold. Then next 5 hours was fast paced and still left me waiting for the story to unfold. It felt like I was only 1/3 to 1/2 way The most overrated game in existence. I give it a 7; everyone else gives it a 10. I bought this game off of Steam and encountered zero problems. I beat this game in 3 sessions. For the first 7 hours, I was pretty happy and couldn't wait for the story to unfold. Then next 5 hours was fast paced and still left me waiting for the story to unfold. It felt like I was only 1/3 to 1/2 way done with the game because so many questions were unanswered. Then finally, the last 3 hours of left me disappointed. It didn… Expand
  44. 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.
  45. LukeM.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  46. FelipeZaghetti
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Because its a Very Very COOL
  47. OlegB.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    Thrilling story, fantastic physics engine, unforgettable combat sequences, great music and voice acting!
  48. JuhaszB.
    Nov 9, 2007
    10
    It's the best game ever. One and only.
  49. sneffd.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    Well what can i say that hasent allredy ben said about this game wait i know all my 10 R belong to this.
  50. AnonymousMC
    Oct 21, 2007
    9
    Just beat it on the Orange Box. Pretty good game, worth playing once or twice, but I didn't find it as amazing as what most people said. I'm sure it's story (while a little disappointing) and its physics were revolutionary, I absolutely hated the driving missions (especially the airboat) and it felt a little repetitive with little variety to the enemies. Mostly striders,Just beat it on the Orange Box. Pretty good game, worth playing once or twice, but I didn't find it as amazing as what most people said. I'm sure it's story (while a little disappointing) and its physics were revolutionary, I absolutely hated the driving missions (especially the airboat) and it felt a little repetitive with little variety to the enemies. Mostly striders, soldiers, antlions and headcrabs. Great game but not the greatest.… Expand
  51. RyukiM.
    Dec 12, 2007
    10
    My opinion on this game: Gameplay: 10- The gameplay is superb,and if you are a persistent gamer you just might get addicted. Storyline: 9- The storyline unlike other games at least has meaning. But scenes of Gman's sudden appearances aren't too understandable. And in this game Gordon is running everywhere to get here and there. Physics: 9- The physics of the game is very My opinion on this game: Gameplay: 10- The gameplay is superb,and if you are a persistent gamer you just might get addicted. Storyline: 9- The storyline unlike other games at least has meaning. But scenes of Gman's sudden appearances aren't too understandable. And in this game Gordon is running everywhere to get here and there. Physics: 9- The physics of the game is very realistic. The only problem is that corpses in the game may pose weirdly. Injuries aren't something in this game either. Game Triggers: 10- The triggers do make sense and must be followed. Weapon Logics: 9- The weapons in the game have realistic movements and fire. But when used by A.I they reload faster: e.g although all ammo used, A.I reloads shotgun with only one bullet. Npc Body Language: 9- The npc's have very well developed movements. But they maybe be twitchy at times of pause. Game Secrets: 10- They are many hidden secrets within the game. Such as the trainyard outside Ravenholm. If you use noclip mode and go through the crashed train at the end of the trainyard, you will see Gman walking towards the back of another train and disappear around the corner. You'd do well to discover all game secrets. A.I: 7- The A.I are very cooperative and persistent, but they can be dumb sometimes. Flame Effects: 6- From front view the flame is very realistic. But if from a bird's eye, the fire is 2D. Even so..Half-Life 2 still is an entertaining game.… Expand
  52. KangS.
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    This is the revolutionary games of the century and to deny it would be naming yourself as one of the people who doesnt know games. This game packs amazing graphic, awsome AI, and every thing is effected by the players presence. Not to mention an awesome storyline that can only be matched by greatest Hollywood blockbusters.
  53. JacobP.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Brilliant game. Excellent story, stunning graphics and many hours of fun.
  54. DanielW.
    Jan 21, 2007
    10
    Great game, special effects, enviroments, etc. Downside: it's a bit short, it took me only 5 hours.
  55. ÖnderB.
    Dec 10, 2007
    10
    This game is the best game that I have ever played. It has a great storyline, great graphics, great technologies, great actions etc. I felt in game myself when I was playing it. I have never seen a pc game like Half-Life 2. Now, I am waiting for Half-Life 3. I hope it will be on my pc in the shortest time.
  56. ScottD.
    Oct 20, 2007
    9
    Awesome, could be longer (larger levels or more of them). Thanks !
  57. samm.
    Dec 21, 2007
    10
    Very, very good. Exciting and addictive, can be difficult in places, good physics.
  58. LukeM.
    Dec 30, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  59. scottm.
    Dec 3, 2007
    10
    easily one of the best games i have ever had the luxury of playing. i do not see why people should rate this game low or not like it, people of (almost) all ages have enjoyed this game. and no matter who is playing it they have had an experience that doesnt occur too often in the video-gaming world today.
  60. AnnemarieBromlewe
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    So much detail,so much action, it's so amazing this game.
  61. PeterB.
    Oct 25, 2007
    10
    Classic. Hours and hours of immersive fun. Original ideas, great graphics, variety - just a brilliant game. My only tiny gripe is that the machine gun is a bit feeble.
  62. RyanW.
    Dec 7, 2007
    10
    If only I could give an 11 out of 10. Come on...this game could have survived on the gravity gun idea alone! The graphics and level design are only added bonuses.
  63. AnonymousMC
    Oct 28, 2007
    10
    This was one of the best games I have ever played. Returning as Gordon Freeman from the action packed Half Life 1. Personally I played Half Life 1 when I was 6 years old. And now as I am older I still love the game. This game started a Pc gaming revolution! Before Halo was even thought of!
  64. 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
  65. NathanS.
    Jan 28, 2007
    10
    One of the best games Ive ever played
  66. 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
  67. DohneB.
    Oct 29, 2007
    9
    I just finished HL2 for the first time (got myself the orange box) - almost exactly 3 years after its' original release and it was a blast - time certainly hasn't hurt this game in any way! solid action with lots of variety! 9 out of 10! Excuse me, now i'm on to EP1 ;).
  68. MichielF.
    Oct 29, 2007
    9
    By far the best game in the series. Better than Episode 1 and much, much better than Episode 2. E2 has way too many problems running on machines that it should run on! ! ! !
  69. DrakH.
    Oct 31, 2007
    10
    This game rules even tho it only takes me 6 hours to play trough :D
  70. bjarkeg.
    Oct 3, 2007
    10
    Half Life 2 have the best story to a action play, ever. And the very nice graviti gun is just so fun.
  71. Strife
    Jan 4, 2007
    10
    I'll admit, when I first played Half-Life 2, it was horrible. But recently I've gone back, and haven't had a problem. Its a shame that games have to be released with problems, and patched later. But thats the gaming world today. Now I understand why Half-Life 2 was game of the year.
  72. AnonymousMC
    Jan 7, 2007
    9
    i'm no expert in game reviewing, but as far as i'm concerned, i'm sad i finished it so fast :) HL2, HL2 LC, HL2 EPO .. anyway, maybe it's not the best game ever, who said that ? but it a game that makes me want more .. realistic too, and it gets better and better .. about the HL1 being better .. not necesarely true .. anyway .. not the best, but one of the best
  73. ErikB.
    Jan 7, 2007
    9
    Just finished it and found it to be a compelling and completly fufilling gaming experience.
  74. EmanuelKumlien
    Jan 8, 2007
    10
    Best game ever. period.
  75. WesF.
    Oct 9, 2007
    10
    All of you who rated this game below a 6 are idiots. You didn't even rate the game, you rated your experience with steam. Complete idiots. If you have a sense of intelligence which most of you do, the game is completely worthy of a 10. This game nears perfection in every way. It was a giant leap forward in graphics, physics, and AI. The only slight issues possibly considered are All of you who rated this game below a 6 are idiots. You didn't even rate the game, you rated your experience with steam. Complete idiots. If you have a sense of intelligence which most of you do, the game is completely worthy of a 10. This game nears perfection in every way. It was a giant leap forward in graphics, physics, and AI. The only slight issues possibly considered are minuscule. Slight bugs with the AI... and depending on your view, the ending may disappoint. Otherwise why would you give a lower score? The Half-Life series has been a revolution in gaming, and the second one as well. Justify your reasons before you make yourself look like an idiot.… Expand
  76. 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.
  77. ConspiracyTheorist
    Feb 1, 2007
    10
    Great game.
  78. ChristianZ.
    Feb 13, 2007
    10
    Fantastic game play with even better graphics and sound. The ultimate Game experience!
  79. 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?
  80. 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
  81. 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
  82. 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.
  83. 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.
  84. Matt
    Mar 15, 2007
    10
    Honestly the best game I ever played. Valve continuously releases patches, fixing any bugs as new hardware comes out.
  85. 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.
  86. NathanS.
    Mar 20, 2007
    10
    One of the best games Ive ever played
  87. AlbertG.
    Mar 2, 2007
    10
    Best fictional first person shooter out there. Blows Halo off the map.
  88. LukeM.
    Mar 29, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  89. 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.
  90. 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.
  91. 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
  92. 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
  93. JackP.
    May 13, 2007
    10
    Wonderful! Great story and memorable gameplay. Amazing graphics overhaul and physics. Online ins't bad either.
  94. NorrecV.
    May 14, 2007
    10
    Second Best Game On PC! (First... Fallout ;] )
  95. OriZ.
    May 15, 2007
    10
    Great physics , great game , great story i loved it!
  96. 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.
  97. 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!
  98. ThomasC.
    May 23, 2007
    10
    Good game but it loads 2 much the Grafics and gameplay are great and the story is amazing.
  99. 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
  100. KristianK.
    May 27, 2007
    10
    It is the best game in the WORLD :P
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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 »