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. nDix
    Jul 30, 2022
    10
    Total masterpiece, one of the most revolutionary games ever, totally marked the rest of FPS of the decade. There is quite a bit of HL2 in every modern shooter
  2. yepitslap
    Aug 8, 2022
    10
    A masterpiece in all of the meanings of this word. You wouldn't believe how many boundaries the game broke when it came out, not only in its genre, but in the game industry as a whole. There's a reason why, as of writing this review, it has a "Must-play" badge on the website. If you told me, back in the day, that the second Half-Life would be even cooler than the first one, which I wasA masterpiece in all of the meanings of this word. You wouldn't believe how many boundaries the game broke when it came out, not only in its genre, but in the game industry as a whole. There's a reason why, as of writing this review, it has a "Must-play" badge on the website. If you told me, back in the day, that the second Half-Life would be even cooler than the first one, which I was already quite the fan of, I'd be pleasantly surprised. I'd even go as far as to say that the Half-Life universe as a whole changed my personality in some ways. So give it a try if you weren't able to in its peek popularity.… Expand
  3. christyguy
    Aug 9, 2022
    9
    Amazing game that shaped the entirety of my imagination, and moulded and influenced my entertainment interests for years.
  4. Umami_
    Aug 14, 2022
    10
    This game is the best of all time, my favorite out of the COUNTLESS I mean COUNTLESS Games I've played and even that is an understatement I love this game so much. I have beaten it about 40 times and have over 300 hours on it. Here's a shortened list of reasons why I love it 1. Story: The story in this game is so extensive, deep, and interesting Its great 2. Gameplay: This game is a comboThis game is the best of all time, my favorite out of the COUNTLESS I mean COUNTLESS Games I've played and even that is an understatement I love this game so much. I have beaten it about 40 times and have over 300 hours on it. Here's a shortened list of reasons why I love it 1. Story: The story in this game is so extensive, deep, and interesting Its great 2. Gameplay: This game is a combo of Satisfying, and Fun Gameplay. This Game has stood up for so many years if I could rate it 20/10 I would… Expand
  5. zeromapping
    Aug 17, 2022
    10
    The best sequel, among other universes and continuations of original stories. Thanks to this game, even more mods and other games have appeared.
    It's still nice to make mods and multiplayer maps for this game.
  6. MagnusWolfX
    Aug 25, 2022
    8
    Very good game sticking back to its origins, superb gameplay. Characters and story also next level.
  7. ingari
    Aug 26, 2022
    10
    The epitome of narrative FPS. It is a masterpiece of the century. The most commendable part of Half-Life 2 is that it's play-only, with no cutscenes.
  8. VirtualAK
    Aug 27, 2022
    10
    This one game already deserves a 10 without me explaining why. But I am going to anyway. About 4 years ago, I finally got the chance to play Half-Life 2 after being introduced to every other major game/franchise made by Valve when I started my Steam account and the game is really good. After I played through the game, I started noticing how a lot of games take influence from not onlyThis one game already deserves a 10 without me explaining why. But I am going to anyway. About 4 years ago, I finally got the chance to play Half-Life 2 after being introduced to every other major game/franchise made by Valve when I started my Steam account and the game is really good. After I played through the game, I started noticing how a lot of games take influence from not only Half-Life 2 but the game engine made for it, the Source engine. Legit, almost every single thing in modern gaming can be traced back to this game and it's influence it made back when it was released (okay, maybe not the microtransactions but everything else, yeah). I recently played through the game again and I felt the same enjoyment I felt 4 years ago. Sometimes I didn't even need to actually play the game to feel enjoyment, I could just stand around doing nothing and still feel a sense of happiness. Overall, I think this game has withstood the test of time and will continue for years to come. The game does have some issues but for a 1st attempt at a sandbox action game like this, I appreciate what the game sets out to accomplish. In terms of the DLC (or Expansions if you wanna call it that), I think they are good as well. I just wish they didn't cancel the expanded storyline they had setup. Deathmatch and Lost Coast were a bit fun to explore but nothing else to really say. Once you play 5 minutes of both, you'll know everything these two side games have to offer. And I actually went back to play the original Half-Life and that too has some good things going for it (but to be honest I prefer Black Mesa, the unofficial remake of Half-Life but you can still buy it on Steam for $19.99). So yeah, play Half-Life 2 when you get a chance as it will not only serve as a welcome introduction into Steam but also a lot of video games. Anyways, thanks for reading. Peace out.… Expand
  9. Chemiker
    Sep 4, 2022
    10
    Просто моё почтение 2004 год был хм 17 лет назад, как по мне хорошая графика даже сейчас!, сюжет (ну тут без возражений думаю) Было приятно переиграть вспомнить, осмыслить то что не понимал будучи ребенком (рейвенхольм как был неприятным и пугающем местом так и прошел проверку временем ( как и игра кстати) так таким и остался)
    В завершении думаю и в 2030 будут играть и превозносить шедевр    Просто моё почтение 2004 год был хм 17 лет назад, как по мне хорошая графика даже сейчас!, сюжет (ну тут без возражений думаю) Было приятно переиграть вспомнить, осмыслить то что не понимал будучи ребенком (рейвенхольм как был неприятным и пугающем местом так и прошел проверку временем ( как и игра кстати) так таким и остался)
    В завершении думаю и в 2030 будут играть и превозносить шедевр на века так сказать!
    А где халва 3? Да и не виар а на PC, и чтоб запомнился еще на 50 лет? Valve? Терпим и ждем!    … Expand
  10. Stitch_Ha
    Sep 8, 2022
    9
    Эту игру знают все и у нее все в порядке со всем)
  11. m-tugkan
    Sep 11, 2022
    10
    The best FPS game in the world, the physics engine, the AI, the action of the game, even the simple puzzles make this game unique in every field. It is a game that can be played even after years.
  12. KRChief
    Sep 19, 2022
    10
    The physics, musics, graohics, ambience, story and characters... man there is nothing bad in this game and sector breaking fps story game
  13. SCK_HZBLH
    Sep 24, 2022
    10
    This is the best game I've ever played. This game really fits in the Source Engine. Half-Life 2 has a great story. This game has a lot of great mods too such as Entropy Zero 2.
  14. waifuviolenta
    Sep 25, 2022
    9
    If only all single player shooters could be this great. HL2 is the shining gold example of storytelling and game play all fused into the perfect package.
  15. AdskyiyDrochila
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    I met the game as a student, then I had a weak PC and I missed all the new items that came out for obvious reasons. Well, one day a friend calls me and says "Man, I started playing Half Life 2 yesterday, it was just something to play I assure you you won’t regret it” then I already knew about this game, but my hands didn’t reach to play because of sessions, lessons and so on. But still II met the game as a student, then I had a weak PC and I missed all the new items that came out for obvious reasons. Well, one day a friend calls me and says "Man, I started playing Half Life 2 yesterday, it was just something to play I assure you you won’t regret it” then I already knew about this game, but my hands didn’t reach to play because of sessions, lessons and so on. But still I found time to play it and what do you think is right I was delighted. First of all, the facial animation of the facial expressions of the character is well done in the game, how they move their bodies during the dialogue, how they are sad, happy, experiencing it all done at a good level even after 18 years it looks great. Also, what I really liked was the atmosphere, all these abandoned houses, mines, cities, it all looks very scary. It is especially well shown in the city of Ravenholm, where only zombies and Father Grigory remained from the townspeople. In general, these are all the pluses that are right for me I liked it, yes, I didn’t tell about the plot and weapons for the reason that, firstly, go through the game yourself, and secondly, I have nothing to say about weapons, it’s just good, no more, no less, let’s say the base. In general, I advise everyone to play this game as you like and download it wherever you want, you will not regret it. All the best :)… Expand
  16. brutforce1337
    Oct 7, 2022
    10
    Genre-defining game. The greatest mix of story telling, shooter and exploring. Great physics and AI, graphics for the 2004 was extremely stunning and looking normal even now. Soundtrack is greatly complements the gameplay. Fantastic video game, thank u Valve.
  17. WastedTitanium
    Oct 15, 2022
    10
    Great game. Very long story. Some of the puzzles can be a bit tedious, like the cinder block seesaw, but this can easily be overlooked with how awesome the story and overall shooting throughout the game.
  18. coso132
    Oct 16, 2022
    10
    its like half life 1 but more, more of everything, the impact and influence of this game is too big, the number of things it influenced and created in itself make this saga in general the grandfather of all of pc gaming
  19. Rocket04
    Nov 19, 2022
    10
    This physics based wonder is a great squeal to the 1998 original, and it's expansions. it's story isn't anything to special, but it keeps the great game-play, and with some new stuff added by the, at the time brand new Source Engine. it's combat has it's faults, mostly with the hit scanning combine, but overall this game lives up to the original FPS masterpiece, and still holds up today in 2022.
  20. PrototypeXD8
    Nov 17, 2022
    10
    The. Best. FPS. Ever.
    Go to the Steam Store and buy it, immediately! This is masterpiece and it's cheap!
  21. france2787
    Nov 20, 2022
    10
    Лучшая игра всех времен
    Я только что переиграл Half-Life 2 еще раз около месяца назад. Даже в 2022 году, спустя 16 лет после первого релиза, мне все еще напоминают, почему Half-Life 2 является одним из величайших шутеров от первого лица всех времен. Не самый лучший, но определенно один из них.    Лучшая игра всех времен
    Я только что переиграл Half-Life 2 еще раз около месяца назад. Даже в 2022 году, спустя 16 лет после первого релиза, мне все еще напоминают, почему Half-Life 2 является одним из величайших шутеров от первого лица всех времен. Не самый лучший, но определенно один из них.
  22. ChiruBhai
    Nov 21, 2022
    10
    One of the best fps games I had ever played like even after more that 15 years it still holds up very well. The gameplay, the puzzles, the story, the characters everything is so god damn good. It still holds up very well to this day. Worth your while if you haven't played it still
  23. Hyperfailure
    Nov 27, 2022
    10
    (╯°□°）╯︵ ┻━┻
    ┻━┻ ︵ ヽ(°□°ヽ)

    ┻━┻ ︵ ＼( °□° )／ ︵ ┻━┻

    ┬─┬ノ( º _ ºノ)

    (ﾉಥ益ಥ）ﾉ ┻━┻

    ┬──┬ ¯_(ツ)

    ┻━┻ ︵ヽ(`Д´)ﾉ︵ ┻━┻

    ┻━┻ ︵ ¯(ツ)/¯ ︵ ┻━┻

    (╯°Д°）╯︵ /(.□ . )

    ʕノ•ᴥ•ʔノ ︵ ┻━┻
  24. IniciusV
    Feb 4, 2023
    0
    FPS É UMA MERDA, SHOOTER É UMA MERDA, PRIMEIRA PESSOA É UMA MERDA, SÓ TEM FPS/SHOOTER/PRIMEIRA PESSOA NESSA MERDA
  25. CptnKR4KEN
    Sep 7, 2023
    10
    Simply the best game I have ever played. The world and atmosphere that Valve as created here is unbelievably unique and remarkably timeless - even today, nearly 2 decades after its release.

    The ripple effects that this game has had on the gaming industry as a whole cannot be understated. Everything from its physics systems, cinematic in-game storytelling, grand-scale set-pieces,    Simply the best game I have ever played. The world and atmosphere that Valve as created here is unbelievably unique and remarkably timeless - even today, nearly 2 decades after its release.

    The ripple effects that this game has had on the gaming industry as a whole cannot be understated. Everything from its physics systems, cinematic in-game storytelling, grand-scale set-pieces, gunplay, etc. have been copied throughout the years - but never surpassed.

    An absolute masterpiece.    … Expand
  26. Tommy
    Jun 9, 2006
    10
    Just the best first person shooter ever created! It got graphics, action, killing and a really good engine!! Worth every penny!
  27. MitchO.
    Aug 8, 2006
    10
    This game roxorz my boxorz... to say the least. I thoroughly enjoyed playing this game and took breaks frequently to get food and beverage and say to myself, "This game is incredible." Can't wait to play Lost Coast and Episode One.
  28. EthanL.
    Sep 7, 2006
    10
    Best FPS I have ever played without a doubt. No one pay attention to the poor reviews that involve people hating Steam. They say it requires such a high end pc, but mine is definately not that and I can run Steam with ease. I guess they must have aweful computers. The only downside is for gamers who don't have internet (which is about 1 out of 1242567 gamers) since you can only run Best FPS I have ever played without a doubt. No one pay attention to the poor reviews that involve people hating Steam. They say it requires such a high end pc, but mine is definately not that and I can run Steam with ease. I guess they must have aweful computers. The only downside is for gamers who don't have internet (which is about 1 out of 1242567 gamers) since you can only run Steam with internet. Some reviews also complain about bugs, and I have encountered absolutely no bugs that were so bad they ruined the experience, and again, my computer is still nothing special. The multilpayer is awesome with HL2: DM and Counter-Strike and the few mods that are out (and the endless list of mods yet to come). The story is actually quite good (if you can figure out the things that were left out) and the ending, although many might disagree, I think is good. Or at least decent. It ended pretty abrubtly which was disapointing but was made up for from a mysterious speech by the G-Man. The ending, for sure, also falls under the catagory of suspenseful. The somewhat dissapoiting ending is made up for in Half-life 2: Episode 1 though, which you must buy after beating this game. In the end this game is great for any FPS fan and the sequals will probably just get better.… Expand
  29. ReisenbichlerE.
    Jan 20, 2007
    8
    This could be one of the greatest Egoshooters ever created, but Valve had the great Idea to punish the gamers (= buyers) with Steam. The Installation took me AGES and I dont get why I couldnt play a singleplayershooter without internetconnection. If it wasnt Half Life 2, I would NEVER pay for a Game that uses Steam and I will not do it again. Why Steam? For gods sake, someone explain this to me!
  30. TeodorIkonomov
    Jun 10, 2007
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  31. JulianM.
    Jun 20, 2007
    7
    Well.... 96%?? Excuse me? Maybe it's graphically good and has good physical engine. But remember- it appeared in November. And what appeared in march the same year? Far Cry. And it got only 89 %, while it's much better better than HL2 and makes it look funny.
  32. BorisG.
    Aug 5, 2007
    10
    Ok, I read all the people who voted zero and I have come to a conclusions. The main reasons people this game is horrible is A. They cant figure out how to install a simple program. B. They cant read the box and see that Internet Connection is required. C. They somehow think a FPS GTA such as Far Cry and a story driven FPS are two games that should be compared. D. They turn off automatic Ok, I read all the people who voted zero and I have come to a conclusions. The main reasons people this game is horrible is A. They cant figure out how to install a simple program. B. They cant read the box and see that Internet Connection is required. C. They somehow think a FPS GTA such as Far Cry and a story driven FPS are two games that should be compared. D. They turn off automatic updating and the complain about why there is bugs with stuttering. E. A popular game being liked is now its main cause for being horrid, if you like a game and its popular - then you're wrong. But if no one cares about an averagely rated and you somehow think its godly - well then you got the best game ever. Go ahead and read all the people who voted 0, there is no different reason as to what I already listed. I'm not including the unrealistic physics arguments because that is just an all around lie, and the AI? Heh, yeah I guess it is horrible that they throw grenades back at you? Last but not least, the people complaining about the story are just not trying hard enough. No - this isn't a pop out book where the story is all laid out for you, but is rather a puzzle where you have to actually look into it and find out stuff for yourself. The only reason I can think that it doesn't appeal to you is that you have no imagination at all.… Expand
  33. BrianA.
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    This game was absolutely addicting. Wonderful game play, gripping story, lots of intense fun!
  34. MattiL.
    Jun 12, 2008
    9
    Almost as good as the one and only.
  35. Menschke
    Jun 6, 2008
    10
    Nice singleplayer game. So nice.
  36. AnonymousMC
    Jul 1, 2008
    10
    This is a really awesome game! even after playing it a bunch of times there are still things that i havent seen.... if you rated it 0 just because of steam taking forever etc etc then your internet sucks = and people complaining about Gordon being a silent hero.... retards.... like saying its stupid that master chief never shows his face.
  37. IvanM.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    This game good.No its not good..its amazing.For 2004 year its looking very good,good physics and revolution engine with good graph.What else need to enjoy best game of 2004?
  38. SamS
    Dec 8, 2009
    10
    A pure technological advancement in both physics and AI. The story uses a drip feed system so don't expect answers from the plot straight away. Although getting a bit old now half life 2 can still give the latest games a run for their money. Suggest you buy this as part of the orange box and purchase the latest garrt's mod if you want more.
  39. BernhardF
    Aug 25, 2009
    9
    I thought HL2 was a fantastic game, and that the water was especially impressive, although for some totally inexplicable reason they forgot to add any displacement physics, meaning that stuff put into the water mysteriously contains water even if its solid. I really enjoyed the Nova Prospekt level too. Ravenholm was tolerable, but after a while, the fun of beating headcrabs with a crowbar I thought HL2 was a fantastic game, and that the water was especially impressive, although for some totally inexplicable reason they forgot to add any displacement physics, meaning that stuff put into the water mysteriously contains water even if its solid. I really enjoyed the Nova Prospekt level too. Ravenholm was tolerable, but after a while, the fun of beating headcrabs with a crowbar kinda wears off. Four things missing from this game: 1) Displacement physics in the Source engine 2) A dual-wield weapon/item hold system- anyone else remember the chair-pistol wield from Return to Castle Wolfenstein? I liked that. Also, wielding 2 pistols in Route Kanal would be fun. 3) The sniper rifle. There is actually code for one there somewhere, honest, but its not a usable weapon as there are no models. 4) Flyable vehicles. Okay, so we have a boat level, a car level, a foot level... why not stick a chopper on the roof of that building by the citadel and fly through C17 strafing the striders? Finally, I have had no problems with Steam, in fact, I love it. It makes it so much easier to have a combined game browser (all my non-steam games have shortcuts there), and a chat feature which shows the game you are playing and if it is a multiplayer game, a join the server feature. Finally a reliable game organisation and multiplayer co-ordination system that works. And yes, I've tried most of them. GameSpy is adequate. GameShadow is a waste of space. HyperLobby is tolerable. But Steam? For me, it is great. No problems ever.… Expand
  40. scottd
    Jan 1, 2010
    9
    actual health and armour instead of regen health? check more then two weappons carried at a time? check old fasioned guns a blazeing action instead of cover and kiss your a$$ goodbye borefest? chec half-life to is real retro gamers paradise bringing back everything that older gamers loved about fps while keeping the story telling and graphics on par with more modern fps styles, it actual health and armour instead of regen health? check more then two weappons carried at a time? check old fasioned guns a blazeing action instead of cover and kiss your a$$ goodbye borefest? chec half-life to is real retro gamers paradise bringing back everything that older gamers loved about fps while keeping the story telling and graphics on par with more modern fps styles, it deserves it's criticle acclaim.… Expand
  41. TravisG
    Jan 20, 2010
    10
    Absolutely one of the most detailed game universes I ever had the privilege to exist in. The silent hero Gordon Freeman will live on forever in my mind.
  42. AndrewM.
    Jan 4, 2010
    7
    A good FPS game that is fun, but its creative effort can't compete with the previous game.
  43. TomP
    Jan 9, 2010
    10
    This is one of the BEST games I've ever played. It is in a very nice graphic, a great gameplay and is full of nice music perfect matching to the happening. The game is its money worth. I only can tell whoever think Half Life 2 sucks have never played it.
  44. KodyB
    Mar 16, 2010
    10
    Why 10/10? I had heard hype about this game and bought it in the orange box. I was shocked to see that it is true, it lives up to everything. the graphics are arguably better than some titles released today, the game play is excellent, even though it is linear you will never get sick of walking off the train into city 17. Its a shame i got it 4 years too late.
  45. Jon
    Jan 1, 2005
    7
    While playing through this game I kept waiting for the awesome moments I had been hearing about for the past month from my friends. Driving under the docks and knocking out the supports, Ravenholm being scarier than Doom 3, the GG being able to pick up anything and hurtling it... etc. The fact is I played this game and didn't feel that electricity and near ecstacy that other people While playing through this game I kept waiting for the awesome moments I had been hearing about for the past month from my friends. Driving under the docks and knocking out the supports, Ravenholm being scarier than Doom 3, the GG being able to pick up anything and hurtling it... etc. The fact is I played this game and didn't feel that electricity and near ecstacy that other people felt. For most of the game I felt like I was being advertised to for this great new engine Valve has created. Instead of "OMG THAT WAS AN AWESOME MOMENT!" it was "alright- i solved your puzzle using your engine... now what?" The most fantastic moments I had during this game had nothing to do with the engine. Commanding a group of aliens and attacking a Combine base, throwing a grenade behind a wall and watching bodies go flying just before whipping out my shotgun and blasting my way through a group of enemies. Half Life 2 does nothing new in the genre- it is simply an improvement on the physics games like UT2k4 have given us while giving us some awesome action. This is definitely not the "end all" that gamers were promised, but somehow the PC hype machine managed to make it so. Summary: HL2 is a very fun game that doesn't do anything new and markets a physics engine to other developers.… Expand
  46. WillP.
    Jan 21, 2005
    10
    The Ability of the user to affect almost everything around him, when mixed with the imaginative and stunning weaponry make for pure excellence. The in-game water effects are simply stellar.
  47. MichaelR.
    Jan 30, 2005
    10
    This really is one of the finest games I've played in a while, and is amazing scalable. I can play it just fine at 1024x768 on a Radeon 9600SE.
  48. F.for
    Feb 28, 2005
    10
    Wtf stop bitching here, everyone knows pros and cons, not everyone has money to buy all games and appreciate it, so they buy and play hype games like this and I can see many ppl enjoy HL2. I am one of them. There is no use bitching. Who knows how difficult to build an engine and create models with a limiting budget? How much can a game return? as much as blockbuster? HL2 sacrifice some ofWtf stop bitching here, everyone knows pros and cons, not everyone has money to buy all games and appreciate it, so they buy and play hype games like this and I can see many ppl enjoy HL2. I am one of them. There is no use bitching. Who knows how difficult to build an engine and create models with a limiting budget? How much can a game return? as much as blockbuster? HL2 sacrifice some of good features it had in HL1 for better graphic and physics engine. Anyway they managed to do meet its hype though there are many ways they can do it better. Halo 2 beat HL2 commercially, but if u look at what Halo 2 did after 3 years of making and Valve building their own engine from scratches in nearly 5-6 years, u can see clearly the passion behind the valve. Yup Steam sucks, it is mostly because they got hacked once.… Expand
  49. J.Riekkinen
    Apr 8, 2005
    9
    Truly a great game. The atmospere is stunning, voices and music are nice, storyline's fascinating, graphics are amazing and the physichs best ever seen, and they're used well to bring us some logical puzzles. But it has some flaws. The long loading pauses are bigger problem than you might think - they split the gaming into too small pieces. Also, though most weapons are great, Truly a great game. The atmospere is stunning, voices and music are nice, storyline's fascinating, graphics are amazing and the physichs best ever seen, and they're used well to bring us some logical puzzles. But it has some flaws. The long loading pauses are bigger problem than you might think - they split the gaming into too small pieces. Also, though most weapons are great, some, for example the Overwatch Pulse Rifle, aren't that good.… Expand
  50. G.Miller
    May 10, 2005
    10
    A response to Mr. Hideto, who claims this game is no good, and that all evaluators of this game are somehow stupid and/or mindless clones who cannot make up their own minds: your "intellectual" smugness is entirely annoying. Please don't preach to us about human nature: there is more human nature in Half-Life 2 than your entire diatribe. Your philosophy that "it doesn' t make A response to Mr. Hideto, who claims this game is no good, and that all evaluators of this game are somehow stupid and/or mindless clones who cannot make up their own minds: your "intellectual" smugness is entirely annoying. Please don't preach to us about human nature: there is more human nature in Half-Life 2 than your entire diatribe. Your philosophy that "it doesn' t make sense that everyone agrees on something, does it now," is entirely idiotic, for not everyone agrees. And I really doubt that game-playing critics must go to other magazines for their own scorings. Thank you for your dumb post. Oh, by the way, everyone else: buy the game. It is excellent.… Expand
  51. Jonny
    Jul 2, 2005
    10
    This game has great physics and everything. best game in the world!
  52. MayankB.
    Jul 27, 2005
    10
    It's a great game and it has all the things a good game requires.
  53. DylanC.
    Aug 25, 2005
    9
    This game would get a 10 from me, but for a few things. The ending is one of the worst I've seen in a game. It does nothing that endings are supposed to do (wrap the story up, answer an unanswered question or two, etc). The gameplay, while fun, is quite linear. If you're looking for something like Fallout (or even the GTA line), you won't find it here. The AI is pretty poor This game would get a 10 from me, but for a few things. The ending is one of the worst I've seen in a game. It does nothing that endings are supposed to do (wrap the story up, answer an unanswered question or two, etc). The gameplay, while fun, is quite linear. If you're looking for something like Fallout (or even the GTA line), you won't find it here. The AI is pretty poor as well. Friendlies will pretty much either follow you, or charge the enemy, which means they are either in your way, or dead. Having worked with the mapping software a bit, I can see the enemy AI is only decent if you have a fairly linear level (you know where the player is coming from), and you take plenty of time to set up "cover points" and such. If you don't specify where the NPCs can find cover, they pretty much operate on the same AI level as the friendly NPCs. As for the good parts, there are a good number. As I said, the gameplay, though linear, is very fun. There are a number of weapons that will fit most players' playing styles. The graphics are the peak of current generation games, along with great implementation. The game also works fine on a wide variety of systems. It will run decent on a 5 year old computer, yet can make full use of a new powerhouse computer. As a last note, one of the best parts of the Source (and previously the Half-life) engine is its modability. Through these mods, developers can create a single or multiplayer experience that fixes all the gripes I have about the game, besides the storyline. Overall, I would recommend this game as a "must-buy", as what the game doesn't have out of the box, others can do for it.… Expand
  54. DavidK.
    Mar 30, 2006
    10
    The most innovative, beautiful, immersive, fun, thought-provoking, useful, creative, and awesome game EVER. Graphics are as good as they get, and yet still seem to run playably on relatively old machines. The plot is very realistic, and you're much more involved with full facial animations. I felt that was something all games were missing. Not only do all the characters move with the The most innovative, beautiful, immersive, fun, thought-provoking, useful, creative, and awesome game EVER. Graphics are as good as they get, and yet still seem to run playably on relatively old machines. The plot is very realistic, and you're much more involved with full facial animations. I felt that was something all games were missing. Not only do all the characters move with the full range of emotions that almost makes the game like a movie, but you can make your own animations too! And I've seen some that kicked ass, no less. And physics...DON'T GET ME STARTED! Physics not only make all the gunshots and explosions so much cooler to watch, but it actually brings up a whole slew of new ways to attack enemies. An expert may look down at a new player and say "You just left that splintered piece of wood BEHIND???" Garry's Mod is a game in itself, with enough extra visuals and creative methods that bring the engine's physics to their full extent and back around again. Just go to facepunchstudios.com and see what wonders have been made. When I played Halo, I noticed something - you get lost a lot. A lot of rooms are similar, and I have never ever memorized any portion of a halo level. But Half-Life 2...take just about any screenshot of a level and even someone who only played the game once will look and say "Oh yeah! I remember that part!" Every little room has something in it that's memorable. As for the prequel, let's just say graphics is probably the smallest of the things they improved.… Expand
  55. JohnS.
    Apr 6, 2006
    10
    In my opinion FPS is the best genre, and in my opinion this is the best FPS, so in my opinion this must be the best game ever.
  56. SeanT.
    May 10, 2006
    10
    This game rocks.
  57. EdwardMolyneux-Roberts
    May 6, 2006
    10
    Half-Life 2 is awsome! Such detail, such a setting, such a storyline! The only games that could rival it are it's expansions and Half-Life 3 (when it arrives some time in the future, maybe 2012). I love the super gravity gun, the ultimate weapon, even though it arrives much later in the game.
  58. SamN.
    May 6, 2006
    10
    Wow.
  59. TeodorIkonomov
    May 6, 2006
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  60. PeterC.
    May 6, 2006
    10
    This is one of the best games i ever have tried.
  61. YvesB
    May 6, 2006
    10
    The best game ever created, you arent a true gamer if you havent played this game!!!
  62. BPsycho
    May 7, 2006
    10
    Fantastic game! Played on hard the AI is not nearly as bad (There is a BIG difference between Normal and Hard). For those touting Far Cry's AI, a sniper shooting you from a mile away through jungle foliage is NOT good AI, and the soldiers were more twitchy than Quake 3 players - not to mention psychic. As far as steam goes, it's come a long way, and is one of the first -or only- Fantastic game! Played on hard the AI is not nearly as bad (There is a BIG difference between Normal and Hard). For those touting Far Cry's AI, a sniper shooting you from a mile away through jungle foliage is NOT good AI, and the soldiers were more twitchy than Quake 3 players - not to mention psychic. As far as steam goes, it's come a long way, and is one of the first -or only- online game distribution systems. At least it's not WON.… Expand
  63. JamesM.
    May 7, 2006
    10
    A sequal that lives up to the original, so much more depth, graphics better than anything I have seen, even a year and half after it's release it still looks better than 99% of all games out today. The traditional gameplay of the original half life is still here, some original weapons are still here and a few new ones thrown in which make the game a whole load of fun. the pace of the A sequal that lives up to the original, so much more depth, graphics better than anything I have seen, even a year and half after it's release it still looks better than 99% of all games out today. The traditional gameplay of the original half life is still here, some original weapons are still here and a few new ones thrown in which make the game a whole load of fun. the pace of the game moves fluidly and realisticly. This game is a pleasure to play, I think I might go fire it up right now!… Expand
  64. ??????????????
    May 7, 2006
    10
    ????? ??????? ????! ???????, ???? ????????? ???????? ????, ??? ???????? ??????, ?? ??? ?????????? ????????, ? ??????? ??????? ?????2 (!) ????? ??????? ? ??????... ????? ? ?????? ????????? ????? machinima, ??? g-man ???? ???????, ? ???? ???? ????? ?? ??????? - ??? ?????????? ????????... ??????? VALVE, ?? ??, ??? ??????? ???????????? ???? ????????? ? ?????? :) ??? ?? ??????????, ??? ? ????? ??????? ????! ???????, ???? ????????? ???????? ????, ??? ???????? ??????, ?? ??? ?????????? ????????, ? ??????? ??????? ?????2 (!) ????? ??????? ? ??????... ????? ? ?????? ????????? ????? machinima, ??? g-man ???? ???????, ? ???? ???? ????? ?? ??????? - ??? ?????????? ????????... ??????? VALVE, ?? ??, ??? ??????? ???????????? ???? ????????? ? ?????? :) ??? ?? ??????????, ??? ? ??????? ??????? ? ????????? ?????? ????, ?? ?????(????? ??? ????) ????? ???????????? ?????? ? ?????? ?? ??????, ? ????? ??? ??? - ????? ?????? ???? ????-????2 =) ????? ???? ?????????? ?????????? ????????????? ???????, ???????????? ?? ???? ????...… Expand
  65. jeanbernard
    May 7, 2006
    10
    Exelent
  66. IlyaO
    May 7, 2006
    10
    This game defines sequel. I love the plot, the characters, the graphics especially. Every single thing about this game I love. I want to give it a 100 out of 10.
  67. TimoS.
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    New level of fps playing. Story, the World, sounds, figures, etc: everything is in it's own class. I've been playing Valve's games since they have been available and never dissapointed. Still this is something much more than I could have ever expected or imagined even in my wildest dreams or hopes! This goes far beyond normal gaming experience: this is a journey, it is the New level of fps playing. Story, the World, sounds, figures, etc: everything is in it's own class. I've been playing Valve's games since they have been available and never dissapointed. Still this is something much more than I could have ever expected or imagined even in my wildest dreams or hopes! This goes far beyond normal gaming experience: this is a journey, it is the half-life.… Expand
  68. JackHander
    Jun 11, 2006
    10
    Maybe this is the best game ever. The story is so nice, like the gameplay too. Great game!
  69. SamJ.
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    LOVE it!
  70. SteveL.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    I love this game.
  71. LukeM.
    Jun 2, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  72. eXperionHL2.
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    I like this game very much, the AI could be better, but so far i just like it so much. and it was a bit annoying with steam, but smart thinking... But Doom 3 has the stuff in .pk4 files, but Half-Life 2 doesn't but the load time is alot faster. This game owns, its even playing in 2006 ! I am happy with that.
  73. PaulB.
    Jun 3, 2006
    8
    This game was amazing. I hear all of the complaints about Steam; I had trouble with it myself until I looked around the forums enough. The physics are excellent, but, unfortunately, there isn't much the physics are used FOR. And I have heard the complaints about loading times; I have a Dell XPS 400, and the loading times do not interrupt the game badly at all, although slower This game was amazing. I hear all of the complaints about Steam; I had trouble with it myself until I looked around the forums enough. The physics are excellent, but, unfortunately, there isn't much the physics are used FOR. And I have heard the complaints about loading times; I have a Dell XPS 400, and the loading times do not interrupt the game badly at all, although slower computers I can understand. The graphics are good, as are the facial expressions. And everyone's problem with a linear game: what's wrong with it? I felt like I was playing in a movie. Also, the fact that one doesn't see oneself in cutscenes is great, because it makes the player seem as he is the character, rather than some random watching entity. True, the Allied AI does indeed suck. You can send your squad elsewhere, whoop-de-do. However, the enemy AI is amazing, on hard mode. There have been several times when I thought I was safe, but not even my trusty crowbar could save me. The enemy AI runs like soldiers, covering eachother while moving and throwing grenades just for the stun effect. Why can't the Allied AI be that great? Actually, there is a good reason. The Allies are just civilians with guns and stuff, they aren't trained soldiers like the Combine.… Expand
  74. StevenP.
    Jun 5, 2006
    10
    how can you not give this game a ten? great graphics, gameplay, physics, voice overs, enemies, weapons, controlls, etc. half life is the best FPS series ever, and anyone who isnt buying it because of the price should know it is worth every penny!
  75. JohnV.
    Jun 7, 2006
    8
    The game looks pretty nice, plays well, but the story isn't deep at all. there is basically no story, just random missions on a list. Took me 10 minutes to install and play, so im not complaining about that. Weapons were very unoriginal, and AI was very stupid.Game play is Awesome, and Ravenholm rocks more then Doom (at some parts). Not as good as Far Cry or Half life 1, but The game looks pretty nice, plays well, but the story isn't deep at all. there is basically no story, just random missions on a list. Took me 10 minutes to install and play, so im not complaining about that. Weapons were very unoriginal, and AI was very stupid.Game play is Awesome, and Ravenholm rocks more then Doom (at some parts). Not as good as Far Cry or Half life 1, but definitely better then games like CoD2.… Expand
  76. LukeM.
    Jul 10, 2006
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  77. AnonymousMC
    Jul 21, 2006
    10
    Steam aside (evil software), the actual game itself is insane. The facial details of the opening cutscene blew me away before I even fired a shot. The plot is brilliant and easily a worthy sucessor to HL1. My only concern is that HL3 will need the Pentagon's mainfraim to work.

    If your computer is less than 1 year old, play it. If not, buy a new machine (levels can take weeks to    Steam aside (evil software), the actual game itself is insane. The facial details of the opening cutscene blew me away before I even fired a shot. The plot is brilliant and easily a worthy sucessor to HL1. My only concern is that HL3 will need the Pentagon's mainfraim to work.

    If your computer is less than 1 year old, play it. If not, buy a new machine (levels can take weeks to load, but they are worth it).    … Expand
  78. Paul
    Jul 21, 2006
    10
    Not only does it have awesome graphics, and amazing visuals, but it continues to be a very playable game that puts you in many different types of scenarios and not one part of the game feels like a previous part.
  79. ArthurFreda
    Jul 5, 2006
    9
    The graphix are out of this world. The only one ever bad thing is the long ass loading. But all in all the game is the SHIT! I love all the cool things u can do on it. Like along with it u get a sample of counter strike scource with u can play online with tonsof people. But the bottem line is if u like first person scince fiction games this is the one for u!!!
  80. DmitriyS.
    Jul 6, 2006
    10
    Best of the games!!!
  81. AndreasK.
    Jul 7, 2006
    10
    I've finished it tree times and it just doesnt ever get boring! This is the best fps game i hav EVER seen! Though i wish there was a sniper rifle too.
  82. GarrettD.
    Jul 7, 2006
    10
    Holy Crap! Tihs game is great, completley smooth game play with 3.4 GHz Processor and 2 GB RAM. If you have this game I hate you! Episode 1 is just as good!
  83. RodigG.
    Aug 10, 2006
    9
    Very good game. A little bit too short ^^ but very nice =)
  84. TeodorIkonomov
    Aug 22, 2006
    10
    The Best Game Ever
  85. WillF.
    Aug 29, 2006
    10
    Great, fun to play, intresting story line and amazing graphics.
  86. mattbearcroft
    Sep 30, 2006
    10
    its awesome
  87. ChristofferL.
    Oct 12, 2007
    10
    What I like with the game, you can play with the physics in the world. Because of HL2, other thirdpartysoftwares has created awesome games, like Gmod 9 and 10, Sourceforts and much other. This game also includes episode 1 and 2 to extend the games history. And the first time I played HL2 it really looks great when NPCs die. Ravenholm and the Citadel is my favorite part. But still there is What I like with the game, you can play with the physics in the world. Because of HL2, other thirdpartysoftwares has created awesome games, like Gmod 9 and 10, Sourceforts and much other. This game also includes episode 1 and 2 to extend the games history. And the first time I played HL2 it really looks great when NPCs die. Ravenholm and the Citadel is my favorite part. But still there is more of this game that scares me: The ocean. First time I would try to swim over to the end of the map I meet up with carnivorous leeches! I thought that I would hit an invisible wall instead. This is the best game ever made. But still there is many that hates this game because they mean there is more action on CS:S than HL2. I hope there will be a HL2EP3! :D… Expand
  88. ChickenHorse
    Oct 24, 2007
    10
    By far the best Sci-fi FPS I have played! Physics are amazing Graphics look amazing and very good story line!
  89. AndreasH.
    Oct 4, 2007
    10
    bought orange box (first time of getting half life 2) about a fortnight ago and have to say even now in 2007 it is still a brillant game. It should still be in games top tens i hope episode 1 and 2 are just as good
  90. JohnnyC.
    Jan 4, 2007
    8
    I think this game is brilliant, but I think HL1 was better. The new driving bits were extremely boring sometimes repetitive. The AI of your followers were quite bad but the enemy AI excelled. The addition of the gravity gun was excellent. It allowed me to do so much more and use my world as a weapon. Great game overall
  91. SHaneH.
    Oct 7, 2007
    10
    HL2 3 years after purchasing still takes all for Fps Story and Fps Multiplayer mainly due to a rediculously high replay value!!! Bar None one of the best games of all time!!!!! Insaine Innovation Valve KEEP IT UP !!!!!!
  92. JeffC.
    Oct 7, 2007
    10
    As with the original half-life, a giant leap forward, creating the benchmark against all contemporary games must measure themsleves. All praise to the team. Anxiously awaiting the mext chapter.
  93. AravindaP.
    Oct 8, 2007
    10
    The best game I've ever seen! VALVE has done the best job ever to make this game come to life. The scripting is revolutionary. If only other games were like this...
  94. DenisN.
    Oct 9, 2007
    10
    This is a greate game with super graphics and very interesting story line!!! Keep it up !!! Hope Episode Two would be as good as Half-lefe 2 or even better!!!
  95. LukeM.
    Feb 16, 2007
    10
    Best Game Ever!!!!
  96. AnonymousMC
    Mar 22, 2007
    10
    Para my el hl2 es el mejor juego kon grafica espectacular asta es mejor kel finalfantasi XIII , es 100 veces mejor pok tiene muxa acion violencia etc... y Lord C es un pelele k no tiene ni idea de juegos del siglo 21. Si kereis mas in formacion my steam is COPEGI .
  97. R.Rodriguez
    Mar 22, 2007
    9
    I wasn't disappointed playing this game. I used the easy level on the first go around and still it was difficult. Having the girl show up after I had gone through hell to finish a level and in the end was the biggest irritant. I did feel the game was a too short.
  98. PutinVladimir
    May 6, 2007
    10
    COOL!!!
  99. AlexH.
    May 7, 2007
    7
    The game was quite sweet, but I think they could have made more out of it... When I play, I don't feel like Gordon nor I am really depressed of the atmosphere... (...and I guess I actually should be ;) )
  100. AnonymousMC
    Jun 8, 2007
    10
    Another paradigm shifting game under Valve's belt. The characters are very colorful compared to your typically boring game personalities. The inclusion of the boat and buggy driving adds some well needed gameplay diversity. The only gripe I have is that aside from the barnicles, vortigons and crabs, we don't see any of our aliens from the first games. Still, a great game!
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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 »