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. LukeM.
    Jun 11, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  2. 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
  3. AcidReign
    Jun 13, 2007
    8
    A fine game. But again, a very linear experience. Once you've played it that's it. Just like watching a film. You can't explore. You always know exactly what's going to happen next.
  4. ChristianS.
    Jun 14, 2007
    9
    Very good game, best action game ever!
  5. GypsyD.
    Jun 19, 2007
    10
    Hard to be as good as Half Life 1, but it made it! The river ride was tremendous fun, even the third time I did it.
  6. AnonymousMC
    Jun 22, 2007
    8
    A great game if you love fps's, but it was a little repettive in some parts. The story was good and I have played Episode 1 and it makes sense where they leave off in this one. To play it i suggest a good comp but it dosen't have to be a dream system just a decnt computer with a good video card. Still if you love fps's and have a decent system it is a must buy. Also buy allA great game if you love fps's, but it was a little repettive in some parts. The story was good and I have played Episode 1 and it makes sense where they leave off in this one. To play it i suggest a good comp but it dosen't have to be a dream system just a decnt computer with a good video card. Still if you love fps's and have a decent system it is a must buy. Also buy all of the episodes because they are a great value for the $20.… Expand
  7. CaleS.
    Jun 26, 2007
    9
    This is a near perfect game, the physics, the graphics, and everything about it is awesome but there are just a few glitches that really draw from the expirence. Like you can pick up a piece of something and jump and all of the sudden you are flying. Something this realistic shouldnt have that big of a glitch.
  8. DillonC.
    Jun 26, 2007
    10
    The game is perfect. To hardcore FarCry fans, accept it. You've been beaten. The engine is best out there, unrivaled. The physics, also the best. Why do you think FarCry has no physics puzzles? Half-Life 2 is by far the best of the best.
  9. RyanG.
    Jun 27, 2007
    10
    I could play this game for days if it was that long. The mods for are some of the best I've ever seen and I cant wait for episode 2!
  10. JoeS.
    Jun 30, 2007
    10
    Only Doom 3 is better, and only in the technical sense.
  11. 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
  12. 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
  13. 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
  14. JulioR.
    Jul 1, 2007
    10
    Gamer who don't play Half Life 2 can't called himself a true gamer.... Is a masterpiece of art of game. Not only is a game is drama that include you to feel you are in the screen.
  15. AlexC.
    Jul 12, 2007
    10
    If you don't like this game there's something wrong with you or your computer. I've heard loadsa gripes about Steam and the long loads and buggy game. My reply is get a better computer and a good connection. For God's sake if you don't read the system requirements it's not the games fault. And those of you who feel that it jusdt isn't a good game. Get If you don't like this game there's something wrong with you or your computer. I've heard loadsa gripes about Steam and the long loads and buggy game. My reply is get a better computer and a good connection. For God's sake if you don't read the system requirements it's not the games fault. And those of you who feel that it jusdt isn't a good game. Get out. Just get out. Now.… Expand
  16. ReidS.
    Jul 13, 2007
    10
    Wow this game is amazing the picture, the storyline, everything is perfect. What more could one ask for?
  17. CharlieK.
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    Best graphics I have ever seen, this game delivers a brilliant story line! Seriously, in my entire life, i have not seen a better FPS than this game! Some parts are frightening, I admit they even scared me a couple of times. But, a lot of the time its pretty funny. Yes, Steam may be a drag, but, HL2 is worth messing with Steam for. A long with the multiplayer version of Half-Life 2 Best graphics I have ever seen, this game delivers a brilliant story line! Seriously, in my entire life, i have not seen a better FPS than this game! Some parts are frightening, I admit they even scared me a couple of times. But, a lot of the time its pretty funny. Yes, Steam may be a drag, but, HL2 is worth messing with Steam for. A long with the multiplayer version of Half-Life 2 Deathmatch, this game is really fun, at the same time scary, and you need a lot of strategy to beat the singleplayer, a long with having some friends battle against you in Deathmatch. Just like the 1st (but way better of course) (and new monsters) The AI system is just perfect. Nothing beats this game. I give it a 100/100 or a 10/10 possibly a 10000/10? Source engine also helps the game, giving it possibly the most realistic graphics you can get in one game. P.S. it is SO worth the money. don't worry.… Expand
  18. ValdeW.
    Jul 18, 2007
    10
    The best game in the woarld, its graphic is one of the best I ever seen, and I love Alyx Vance.
  19. SamN.
    Jul 25, 2007
    10
    Wow.
  20. LukeM.
    Jul 26, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  21. WayneW.
    Jul 28, 2007
    9
    Incredible FPS game in every aspect. I wish the original could be redone with the same quality graphics.
  22. AlexK.
    Jul 28, 2007
    10
    An absolutely fantastic game. the only games that will beat this one in terms of playability and graphics will be the sequels.
  23. desthlfan
    Jul 8, 2007
    10
    Well I really liked this game because it's so "scary" and so "hard", with the "Hard" difficulty level it's very very hard, I really liked the moments I must think and think that what I should do... The problem is when you finish the game , if u wanna play again you don't like because you know what to do. But there is a HalfLife2 Deathmatch that you can enjoy if u want :) Well I really liked this game because it's so "scary" and so "hard", with the "Hard" difficulty level it's very very hard, I really liked the moments I must think and think that what I should do... The problem is when you finish the game , if u wanna play again you don't like because you know what to do. But there is a HalfLife2 Deathmatch that you can enjoy if u want :) Uh, and sorry for my bad english, i'm Spanish. C-Ya!… Expand
  24. RobyZ.
    Aug 10, 2007
    10
    Great game, amazing graphics, great phisics, great AI.
  25. Pete
    Aug 11, 2007
    10
    Awsome on-line experience....I have loved and continue to love every sec. of the game.
  26. xenencore
    Aug 14, 2007
    10
    The story , game play and the concept of single level with real time story telling , i think no other game can achieve this.
  27. MidgeG.
    Aug 17, 2007
    10
    This game is swish. I can't wait for HL3, and I know there will be one. Good things come in 3's!!
  28. MattP.
    Aug 21, 2007
    10
    A truly amazing experience. Beautiful world, both in graphical quality and imaginative design. Lots of fun in various forms; boat, car, gravity gun, lots of shooting. Truly engaging story. Ushers in a new age of story telling. Everyone should have this game on their shelf, even if you don't like the game. The box can just serve as a means to remind you that you're wrong.
  29. MorAvramento
    Aug 23, 2007
    10
    Great game, maybe the best game I played
  30. CapuMagig
    Aug 24, 2007
    9
    Its good, but hey, HL1 was better when comparing with time. But still, Hl2 is good, tho its way too short :S
  31. Johnna
    Aug 24, 2007
    9
    Great game - only thing keeping from a 10 is the lack of none linear play.
  32. seancutt
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    woot
  33. tommitochondria
    Aug 25, 2007
    10
    best damn porno i have ever seen
  34. ChrisWeinand
    Aug 27, 2007
    10
    Still the best game I ever played.
  35. RobbertJonker
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    I have playing the game sinds 3 weeks ago, and now i end the game. Not a great end. I think (i hope) soon part 3 will come! 1 of the best game ever if you ask me.
  36. JoniK_K_K_K
    Aug 28, 2007
    10
    This game is GOOD!!!
  37. OliverM.
    Aug 3, 2007
    7
    im choosing to vote 7 for this, not so much the game, but the engine. Its worth buying the game and putting up with steam jsut to have access to the various mods that have been produced. On my try of the game (after a day installing, no joke, non broadband and various problems calling for reinstillation) i was amazed by the opening sequence in the train and shortly after the station and im choosing to vote 7 for this, not so much the game, but the engine. Its worth buying the game and putting up with steam jsut to have access to the various mods that have been produced. On my try of the game (after a day installing, no joke, non broadband and various problems calling for reinstillation) i was amazed by the opening sequence in the train and shortly after the station and city 17. I didnt want that bit to send, the city so lifelike, the cps bullying you, being able to peep into houses to see peoples gettin beaten up, people talking quietly about their supressors and various scanners looming the town. I carried on playing enjoying the long sojurn of the airboat, being different from the footsloggin before then. Ravenholm was impressive, the atmosphere created was nice, although over use of traps and the ability to get well and truly lost along with at one point a perminant spawning of zomibes. It was at this point where my family lost the internet... no internet, no steam, no halflife 2. So for a long time i went back to games like deus ex (deus ex being my favourite all time game). when my family got broadband i started playing hl2 again, finally realising how to get passed the respawning zombies n out of ravenholm. The mines wernt very impressive, they could have done better and the spinning blade cart at the end is... unusual to be round in a mine. The buggy part was fun being able to stop at place but antlion sandtraps wernt impressive, my pc isnt powerful, i get low fps and its hard for me to control various props, as such i noclipped passed the sandtraps. Nova prospekt fun until the point where over 50 troops attack you... the city 17 fighting was nice, i would have like dit if the citizens helped a lil more tho. The citadel at the end is stupidly easy, it seems more like a kiddys play gorund than a gran finale for such a game, being able to kill entire squads of combine elites in 1 shot isnt fun. Over all throughout the game some areas are lacking finishing touches, making them look bland and pointless (most of the blk mesa place) also throught the game you are constanly forced to comprehend wiht pointsless annoying and trivial physics puzzles, wat makes this worse is that most of them involve cinder blocks which have a habit of either a) sliding nicly off or b) knocking all the other cinder blocks then sliding off. so on my replays i often noclip past the various jumping and physics puzzles. The ai is somewhat dissapointing, from the reviews and teasers i was expecting npcs ot take cover, neil, grenade, supply covering fire and find alternate routes. For some scripted squences this does happen but youll often find in the way of self preservation and npc will stand still for a few seconds then either die of shift slightly sideways out of view, only to come bk into view to die, i mean shoot you. The city at the end was particularly nice, with the striders causing lot sof damage, it can be annoyign when you get lost in the rubble or cant find ammo crates to dispell the multiple striders on your tail. Some points are confusing wiht little differnce between them giving the impression of goign round in circles when really your on the opposite side of the building and while being fun the characters are far and few. I woudl have prefered to see more variation in the npcs behavior, more subplots woven in (like maybe jsut discovering a couple trying to escape), less physics puzzles, less steam and situatiosn where the character cna have an impact on the world instead of the same things happening everytime you play. Conclusion, amazing on first try, quickly looses freshness but some of the mods created are uttly superb (notably garrys mod and insurgency) its also worth triyng out counterstrike source. A warning to any who are interested tho you need constant inernet access better pc than mine and alot of pacience to put up with the evil steam. thnx 4 reading… Expand
  38. CharlieR.
    Aug 6, 2007
    9
    Except for the improved graphics and vehicles, Half-Life (Rating of 10 in my book) was much more fun, more varied, had a better storyline and played much longer. I like to replay it far more than HL2.
  39. timb.
    Sep 12, 2007
    10
    Great graphics, awseome weapons, fantastic enemies, amazing surroundings. it blows other games out of the water.
  40. EmanuelKumlien
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    Best game ever. period.
  41. JonathonH.
    Sep 16, 2007
    10
    Story is amazing. Followed Half-Life greatly. Insane graphics.
  42. SpencerK.
    Sep 17, 2007
    10
    I do belive this is the best game ever, and episode one was a great compliment, and episode 2, TF2, and portals are said to be here Oct. 10th I'M SOO Excited!!!
  43. LukeM.
    Sep 20, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  44. AndrewG
    Sep 2, 2007
    10
    While I went through a CS phase, I never took the time to play either Half-Life or Half-Life 2. Now that I finished HL2, I cannot wait to play Episode 1. HL2 is easily one of three best games I've ever played.
  45. JustinB.
    Sep 24, 2007
    9
    Big fan of Half life great gameplay and story. I thought the tunnle level was kind of boring and the AI was a little weak and steam is a headach for me snice I have a slower internet connection. However the physics graphics plot and gameplay do make up for these minor downsizes.
  46. BenK
    Sep 26, 2007
    9
    Masterpiece. Eric H does not know what he's talking about. What exactly were you promised slick? Badly modified quake engine? That engine was built strictly to develop Half-Life 2. If you think there's no plot than your really not paying attention. It has as much plot as Fahrenheit 451 or a novel of such epic ideas.
  47. AnonymousMC
    Sep 30, 2007
    9
    What can I say, 3 years later, about HL2 that hasn't already been said? Not much, I guess. It gave me great satisfaction to find myself in such an interesting, well-sculpted virtual world. Yeah, it was linear, but the presentation was nothing short of fantastic. Call me strange, but I was so awed when I saw my first, Nazi-like, Orwellian enforcer. As I stopped and stared, all I heardWhat can I say, 3 years later, about HL2 that hasn't already been said? Not much, I guess. It gave me great satisfaction to find myself in such an interesting, well-sculpted virtual world. Yeah, it was linear, but the presentation was nothing short of fantastic. Call me strange, but I was so awed when I saw my first, Nazi-like, Orwellian enforcer. As I stopped and stared, all I heard was the click-click-click of the observer drone and the constant droning of propaganda from the speakers on the wall. I was hooked. Nothing gets me more than an environment that is gripping, believable, and immersive. Not like that cluttered, illogical crap you get from Bioshock and others. HL2 just got better from there. Above average weapon selection. The gravity gun was a pleasure to work with. Interesting enemies to fight. Good story. And all of it so beautifully, visually and sonically, presented. I love the sound of that one later assault rifle (with the bouncing ball as the secondary): it was so satisfying to use (too bad it ran out of ammo so quickly!). Presentation will make or break a game like that. Thank goodness Valve got it right. Cons? Too short. =)… Expand
  48. PatrickA.
    Sep 30, 2007
    10
    Its a great game to all you who havnt played it yet? DO IT KNOW!. its a very nice in game story and graphics.
  49. killtacular
    Sep 30, 2007
    10
    This game deserves nothing less than a ten. notice how all the bad ratings are because of steam not because of the game itself. this game has the best physic engine of any game I've ever seen and awesome graphics even for an aging game (3 years) and the episodic releases only make it more spectacular. Even Halo 3 and all its hype doesn't stand up to this because Half-Life 2 is This game deserves nothing less than a ten. notice how all the bad ratings are because of steam not because of the game itself. this game has the best physic engine of any game I've ever seen and awesome graphics even for an aging game (3 years) and the episodic releases only make it more spectacular. Even Halo 3 and all its hype doesn't stand up to this because Half-Life 2 is only single player and without multiplayer Halo 3 would be a piece of trash compared to HL2. I agree steam is a friggin' pain in the a**. but once you get it working its worth it. And this game should be rated by gameplay, mechanics and graphics. not by steam's irritating problems.… Expand
  50. DoranN.
    Sep 9, 2007
    10
    This game is even more awesome than the first half life and it is something everyone will surely enjoy.
  51. FelixE.
    Nov 15, 2008
    10
    This game is absolutely the best game I have ever played. Now I'm not saying I've played all the games in the world, but I've played quite a lot and still nothing has been able to surpass this game. The physics and graphics are great even after 4 years, the scenery is tremendous but the best part is with no doubt the story. Nothing can surpass this touching story. If you This game is absolutely the best game I have ever played. Now I'm not saying I've played all the games in the world, but I've played quite a lot and still nothing has been able to surpass this game. The physics and graphics are great even after 4 years, the scenery is tremendous but the best part is with no doubt the story. Nothing can surpass this touching story. If you want to play the best game in the world, this is it.… Expand
  52. Neil
    Nov 16, 2008
    10
    It's all been said before...beautiful graphics, excellent storyline, puzzles, the facial expressions, the fact that it's not "level1, cutscene, level 2, cutscene...." just constant story..... I could go on and on. I hate fast zombies. Thank God for the rightclick on the shotgun. I think the problem the tiny minority of people who've given this bad reviews is that they were It's all been said before...beautiful graphics, excellent storyline, puzzles, the facial expressions, the fact that it's not "level1, cutscene, level 2, cutscene...." just constant story..... I could go on and on. I hate fast zombies. Thank God for the rightclick on the shotgun. I think the problem the tiny minority of people who've given this bad reviews is that they were looking for a FPS, which this is, but it's so much more than just running about shooting baddies. Which apparently is a bad thing to some people. (!?) Episode 1&2 are both also excellent and I'm currently wettign ymself with anticipation over Episode 3!… Expand
  53. AnonymousMC
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    brilliant game completed it 4 times but the graphics are nice so are models althouth through the game you see replica team mates that anoys me otherwise all is great i could complete the game in about 4 hours its all about having a good puzzle and action mind valve has really pushed its self forward from half-life 1
  54. AnonymousMC
    Nov 30, 2008
    10
    Released in late '04, this game was a triumph of graphical achievement. Even today, the source engine stands up incredibly well and is one of the least demanding of your system. The game itself was amazing, mind blowing, and altogether almost perfect. Those folks at Valve know how to pump out quality software.
  55. TeodorIkonomov
    Jan 13, 2008
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  56. HNDHND
    Jan 16, 2008
    10
    Lovely game with realy intaligent AI .Grafics is incredible. EXTRA GAME!!!
  57. LukeM.
    Oct 17, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  58. YanoZ.
    Jan 19, 2008
    10
    I was lucky enough to play this game back when it was still beta testing. The source engine amazed me as to the small amount of system resource it used yet to produce such astonishing graphics. Now that more advanced graphics engines that powers COD4 and Crysis are out, I'm looking forward to see the second generation of Source Engine to exceed the CryENGINE2.
  59. andrewh.
    Jan 2, 2008
    10
    This is the best game with the use of physics i have ever seen, action heavy but i can't wait for each puzzle in the game.
  60. TimothyK.
    Dec 29, 2008
    10
    This is Valve's masterpiece, a game that will live on in gaming history forever, along with their original Half-Life. The graphics are still stunning, even from four years ago. The characters are amazing, the puzzles are intriguing (although not as good as Half-Life's), the gravity gun is the most innovative weapon I've seen in any FPS ever, and the story keeps you gripped This is Valve's masterpiece, a game that will live on in gaming history forever, along with their original Half-Life. The graphics are still stunning, even from four years ago. The characters are amazing, the puzzles are intriguing (although not as good as Half-Life's), the gravity gun is the most innovative weapon I've seen in any FPS ever, and the story keeps you gripped as you discover what the world around you as become. The Combine is the epitome of evil and the style of their buildings is extremely well done. First class, must-own, amazing game. Buy The Orange Box to get two other amazing games.… Expand
  61. MikeK.
    Jan 26, 2008
    10
    Simply the best game ever. All game designers should take notes on how to tie up all aspects to gaming perfection.
  62. barb3d
    Jan 3, 2008
    10
    what a Awesome game, never played anything with such nice gameplay and graphics, it all sort of fits together perfectly. i was never really a fan of the half life series until i played this, the story was so interesting, I had no choice but to buy all the previous episodes and complete them, just to see what blackmesa and all the other twists were about, lol. totally gripping storylines, what a Awesome game, never played anything with such nice gameplay and graphics, it all sort of fits together perfectly. i was never really a fan of the half life series until i played this, the story was so interesting, I had no choice but to buy all the previous episodes and complete them, just to see what blackmesa and all the other twists were about, lol. totally gripping storylines, unbelivably addictive gameplay, graphics epic 10 out of 10 in my book. keep up the good work valve.… Expand
  63. EmanuelKumlien
    Jan 3, 2008
    10
    Best game ever. period.
  64. Danto
    Jan 6, 2008
    10
    Amazing FPS game, story was sketchy in places but it owns most storylines, physics are great, gameplay is amazing, the enemy AI is fantastic, although rebel squads are pretty dumb (you could say it says alot about the average human compared to the combine). the only bone i have to pick with it is its horribly cumbersome installation process (3 years ago when i got it it took about 4 hours Amazing FPS game, story was sketchy in places but it owns most storylines, physics are great, gameplay is amazing, the enemy AI is fantastic, although rebel squads are pretty dumb (you could say it says alot about the average human compared to the combine). the only bone i have to pick with it is its horribly cumbersome installation process (3 years ago when i got it it took about 4 hours to install, alot of issues with installing it, even now my steam account is still doing things to piss me off) there are alot of load screens as well but, even with its flaws (of which there are hardly any) it still stands as one of the best singleplayer fps' of all time, to be frank i think it craps all over all halo games in terms of its singleplayer campaign, although each of those have kick ass multiplayer :) even its graphics engine still stands the test of time, sure there are newer and better ones but it still looks amazing, and episode 2 looked incredible as well, as in it was comparable to call of duty 4 (its shadowing system is still a bit average though) overall it truly was, and still is, one of the best games i have ever played… Expand
  65. TomislavN.
    Oct 7, 2008
    10
    This game is a revolution both in the world of Fps, and generally the whole Pc gaming community. The game has great graphical and story elements, excellent lip-synching, and something that makes you play over and over again. The music, and general sound affects are very nicely made, and perfectly combine with the story, or some game events. Characters are not only modeled by 3d, but also This game is a revolution both in the world of Fps, and generally the whole Pc gaming community. The game has great graphical and story elements, excellent lip-synching, and something that makes you play over and over again. The music, and general sound affects are very nicely made, and perfectly combine with the story, or some game events. Characters are not only modeled by 3d, but also from inside, it's like you get a completely different connection to the character you are playing, and the one who is talking to you. This is an excellent Single Player, and you won't regret the money you invest in it. The only problem is that there is no multiplayer component, but the single player component clears everything away. The game is simply amazing, classic, and totally new in the gaming industry. If you didn't buy it by now, you should.… Expand
  66. MichaelH.
    Jan 8, 2008
    10
    This game packs a lethal punch to all other games out there that Are not made with as much skill and exuberance as this one.
  67. NateB.
    Feb 10, 2008
    10
    What a great game! This game truly changed me. It is the most fun thing ever to have a combine throw a grenade at you, and then you switch to the gravity gun and catch it and shoot it back. I loved it. - [Pr0]bobcrampet
  68. EmanuelKumlien
    Feb 13, 2008
    10
    Best game ever. period.
  69. FreemanG.
    Feb 16, 2008
    10
    Boa jogabilidade,bons graficos, o motor source ta exelente, preocuparam-se não so com os graficos mas tambem com a jogabilidade.
  70. AnonymousMC
    Feb 21, 2008
    10
    Having just played through it again three and a half years after it's original release, Half-life 2 remains an absolutely stunning game. Engaging on every level with the ability to shock, terrify, emotionally move you or get your blood pumping. This, if anything, is pure digital art. Name me another game that still seems fresh, exciting and just as good three years on? Go on - I dare you!
  71. AnonymousMC
    Feb 26, 2008
    10
    I loved the game. great graphics, engine etc. adn for everybody that is complaining about the story I really don't see what the problem is. If you didn't play the first game i see how it could get confusing but then play the first game! if you are to lazy to do that just go on the internet and read up on it.
  72. AnonymousMC
    Feb 27, 2008
    10
    It's amazing how this game is great. The graphics are top of the line (for the time) and the sound is very good too. Sometimes a great battle is starting and some techno tunes start to play helping you to get in the mood.
    The caracters are apealling. You really start caring about Alyx, the crazy doc, Barney and your war mates. There's no actually bosses, but the challenges keep    It's amazing how this game is great. The graphics are top of the line (for the time) and the sound is very good too. Sometimes a great battle is starting and some techno tunes start to play helping you to get in the mood.
    The caracters are apealling. You really start caring about Alyx, the crazy doc, Barney and your war mates. There's no actually bosses, but the challenges keep increasing and the monsters keep coming always as good surprises, like the building-tall monsters or even the "crazy blades of doom" that the combine release.
    It's a great playing. When you think you'll get tired of something, the game changes and add some cool new aspect, scenario or gun.
    It's a masterpiece in every little detail.    … Expand
  73. ErikG
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    I just finished the game (like, not even five minutes ago)... and I have to say... I'm exhausted. I always put off playing this game until now, because the original Half-Life scared me, since I was a little kid at the time. Lately, it's been because I wasn't sure if the combat would be as good as more recent FPSes. While I have to say; the combat isn't necessarily I just finished the game (like, not even five minutes ago)... and I have to say... I'm exhausted. I always put off playing this game until now, because the original Half-Life scared me, since I was a little kid at the time. Lately, it's been because I wasn't sure if the combat would be as good as more recent FPSes. While I have to say; the combat isn't necessarily anything new, but it was still completely intense, very rewarding, and great fun. The storyline in this game is... wow. I've been a dedicated LoZ: OoT fanboy since the day I played it, and the first thing that came out of my mouth right after I beat the game was, "Is this better than Ocarina of Time?" Admittedly, I still prefer LoZ: OoT, but this game is definitely the best thing I've played in years. I found myself going through and playing the game, all the while saying to myself, "NOW I understand why this is supposed to be the best PC game ever!" and every time I meant it more, and more. This game managed to tear me from my shell, pit me in a new environment, and take every ounce of my attention until the very second it was over. It is as good a game as it was back when it was released, and, just like LoZ: OoT, every one should give it a try.… Expand
  74. TimDale
    Mar 11, 2008
    10
    Brilliant...Astonishing...no words can desribe this game.
  75. AnonymousMC
    Mar 14, 2008
    10
    why does everyone give this game a bad score because of steam HOW IS STEAM BAD. i just dont get it steam is amazing there is nothig wrong with it. plus so what if it takes a long time to load on your computer, its your computers fault not steam's. 2nd best game in the world next to ratchet and clank
  76. NathanS.
    Mar 16, 2008
    10
    One of the best games Ive ever played
  77. AlessandroS.
    Mar 19, 2008
    10
    As like Half-Life I played this one first a couple of years after the initial release and also like Half-Life its successor flashed me with the whole game design, the genious level architecture, its innovation, emotions, characters and the whole look and feel. Thanks Valve for this jewel and now I'm gonna play Episode 1 & 2.
  78. AllanC.
    Mar 19, 2008
    9
    Crashed a few times, but other then that? SOLID.
  79. BlaineH
    Mar 22, 2008
    10
    I think it was the best, most intertaining fps i have ever played on any platform. I highly recomend for the hardcore gamer but not so much the casual. Also if your computer cant handle the high futuristic graphics, amaizing sorround sound and intense gameplay... you need to blame yourself not the game.
  80. DitmerV.
    Mar 28, 2008
    10
    Its such a nice game I really love it.
  81. Mr.T.
    Mar 29, 2008
    9
    @Mr.A: How about... revolutionay Graphics, Physics + PHYSICAL MIRACLES. Even games after HL2 used Physics just to show its possibilitiy, not to use it as a gaming element.
  82. AJL.
    Mar 5, 2008
    10
    Absolutely superb game. Excellent pacing, enemy AI, graphics, gameplay. Only the vehicle portions can be a bit annoying.
  83. JohnC.
    Apr 1, 2008
    10
    Very good game, worth every penny to be bought.
  84. ThomasH.
    Apr 12, 2008
    9
    Ok, I'm tired of people posting comments saying thins like "steam sucks, physics engine makes things killz u when you touch them WTF" or "engine is good but game to liniar n' boring not enough boomz" In response to the first quote which actually is a lot like the actual review its based on, throw out your 10 year old computer running on windows 98 if you want to continue to play Ok, I'm tired of people posting comments saying thins like "steam sucks, physics engine makes things killz u when you touch them WTF" or "engine is good but game to liniar n' boring not enough boomz" In response to the first quote which actually is a lot like the actual review its based on, throw out your 10 year old computer running on windows 98 if you want to continue to play games. The engine hasn't been as buggy as you stated since the beta, and if objects hit you at 50 km per hour, your gonna get damaged in some way. Its probably your old computer thats making the engine so bad, so for your deity's sake, (and if your an atheist I can see why your so critical) get a computer that can run windows xp (stay away from vista) in response to the later quote, also creepily close to the original review, go play halo. Oh wait is that to liniar for you too? How bout you go play Oblivion, an rpg with no liniar game play, oh wait no explosions... well how bout you go play DOOM 3, I'm sure you will be happy with blowing zombies and demons to bits, and the campy acting as well. Anyways the reason I rate this a 9 is because its a great game overall but the reason I don't rate this a 10 is they could have made it slightly more challenging, and because they took out so much from the original game idea (like awesome weapons) that would have made the game so much better. If they had started out with this and not taken anything away I would have given it a 10, but because it was great but could have been so much better I rate it a 9.… Expand
  85. RetR.
    Apr 15, 2008
    10
    Amazing.
  86. JoachimE
    Apr 23, 2008
    10
    This is one of the best games ever made.
  87. GordanK.
    Apr 26, 2008
    10
    After HL2 all games are just empty.
  88. TimS.
    Apr 28, 2008
    10
    it is the best single shooter I've ever played!!!
  89. CollinM.
    Apr 8, 2008
    10
    Everything is amazing, the graphics for the game coming out in 04 are really nice. The game play seems really original, and the controls are decent.
  90. Cr0ssCr0ss
    May 1, 2008
    10
    This is the best game of the world!
  91. Bobbobbo
    May 16, 2008
    10
    The best game I have ever played.
  92. Maslab
    May 19, 2008
    9
    No game is perfect, but Half Life 2 probably hits the mark closer than most. But poor AI most all around just makes enemies too easy. Its understandable if the enemies are zombies or Antlions, but armored, trained soldiers should be able to figure out what a grenade is, and to properly use cover. Awesome graphics, no fault there, and controls are easy, and what can I say about the grav No game is perfect, but Half Life 2 probably hits the mark closer than most. But poor AI most all around just makes enemies too easy. Its understandable if the enemies are zombies or Antlions, but armored, trained soldiers should be able to figure out what a grenade is, and to properly use cover. Awesome graphics, no fault there, and controls are easy, and what can I say about the grav gun that hasn't been said before? Its just amazing.… Expand
  93. JCortez
    May 31, 2008
    10
    Years of work by valve, anticipation, and it all paid off!! A Classic for YEARS to come!!
  94. DanielP.
    May 3, 2008
    10
    Forget the imitations; it is the Half-Life series that gives serious credibility to the first person shooter genre.
  95. LukeM.
    May 9, 2008
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  96. Markus
    Jun 11, 2008
    10
    This was the most entertaining games i've ever played, i give this 10 without a doubt.
  97. CraigF.
    Jun 20, 2008
    10
    One of the genre defining games, that fans must play!
  98. AshleyM.
    Jun 22, 2008
    10
    Best ever game made besides Half-Life 1.
  99. AnthonyR.
    Jun 24, 2008
    10
    Excellent game all around. Great graphics, very good as one of the first "next gen" games. Incredible story and game play. Perfect for Oldschool half-life fans like myself and also for newcomers who have never played. Great sound quality. Insanely fun to play on and offline.
  100. FreeScience
    Jun 29, 2008
    10
    Best Story, best Gameplay, best Graphics, best Physics ever !!!
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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 »