Half-Life: Alyx

 PC
User Score
9.2

Universal acclaim- based on 2812 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,575 out of 2812
  2. Mixed: 58 out of 2812
  3. Negative: 179 out of 2812

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  1. Stranding_Chick
    Jan 3, 2021
    10
    Undoubtedly the very BEST VR HORROR SURVIVAL GAME of 2020 if not EVER! The Valve Team delivered us a masterpiece story, and completely immersive game. This game is so much fun, the characters & voice acting real. Wait till you immerse yourself in this horror world of City 17. Using your witt's to defeat the zombies, humans that have been ravaged and controlled by the nasty Headcrabs thatUndoubtedly the very BEST VR HORROR SURVIVAL GAME of 2020 if not EVER! The Valve Team delivered us a masterpiece story, and completely immersive game. This game is so much fun, the characters & voice acting real. Wait till you immerse yourself in this horror world of City 17. Using your witt's to defeat the zombies, humans that have been ravaged and controlled by the nasty Headcrabs that have infested the game's community. Love it!… Expand
  2. Bendy52
    Jan 2, 2021
    10
    Wow dude... after 13 years... Wow just wow.
    Now i know its VR but i dont want a normal half life gamed anymore tbh. just give us hl 3 and i think finish the story with it. dont make it a milking series like assasins creed and such.
  3. SamLang
    Dec 25, 2020
    3
    Half-Life: Alyx – In Review
    “This game… It insists upon itself.”
    Un-immersive. From all I have heard about how immersive this game is I was disappointed when I got the gravity gloves & a gun, you press a button & open a two-dimensional menu to switch between them. There are only a few guns & a multitool, these could easily be fitted to your hips & back (like many VR games do) for a    Half-Life: Alyx – In Review
    “This game… It insists upon itself.”

    Un-immersive.
    From all I have heard about how immersive this game is I was disappointed when I got the gravity gloves & a gun, you press a button & open a two-dimensional menu to switch between them. There are only a few guns & a multitool, these could easily be fitted to your hips & back (like many VR games do) for a more immersive experience.

    Interact with everything or just don’t.
    Many think this game is revolutionary because you can “interact with everything” but it’s totally pointless. The only things you really interact with are weapons, healing items & a multitool. Everything else is set dressing & has no use apart from the occasional object you need to move out of the way of a door.

    Early in the game I had to pull a pipe out of a door to get through it, after picking up the pipe I came upon an enemy & tried to hit them with it… Nope. You can’t even swat away head crabs when they jump at you, your only option is to move (teleport) out the way or get head grabbed.

    At least 80% of the time that I interact with anything I become unable to turn for a few seconds, this is one of the most annoying (of the many) bugs in the game & as you can imagine it's great in combat or when you're navigating near deadly drops.

    Painful Traversal.
    This must be the only VR game I have played where I can move faster by physically walking in my play space than I can by using the control stick in the game. I have heard some say the developers implemented this to make it more immersive, if this is true how come you can still teleport in an un-immersive way?

    You still need to teleport all the time to jump or drop down & anything that is not walking. It got to the point where I was using smooth walking only in small areas after teleporting or just to back away from enemies.

    Un-immersive AI.
    The AI in this game is annoying & stupid, they just run at you using no tactics or intelligence. They know where you are all the time even before they have seen you & will try to shoot at you through walls. They don’t see doors & push themselves partly through them to hit you, I had one occasion where a head crab zombie was pushing through a door so I shot it & the head crab that he had pushed through the door was still alive & attacked me on the other side of the door.

    Dark but not in a spooky way.
    You get to a dark area & must find a torch to get through it, they tell you “it will turn on automatically in dark areas”. This is a lie, what they mean is that it will turn on when the developers want it to. Most of the time you will be left in the dark wishing you had a [working] torch. On more than one occasion I was grabbed by a barnacle that I could not see at all because it was too dark & I couldn’t even shoot it to defend myself while it sucked me up because It was hidden in complete darkness.

    Retro Crashing.
    One of the many bugs in this over nine-months-old game will cause your headset screens to flash rapidly & asynchronously whilst freezing your pc to the point where you need to press the reset button on the pc itself. I have not had crashing like this since the original half-life! To fix it you must go into the game’s files in app data & delete them.

    Things I Like.
    This is the best glass smashing simulator I have ever played, glass breaks in a very realistic way & it’s very satisfying, the most fun I had in this game.
    You can place helmets, traffic cones, buckets & all sorts of things on your head! As a bonus if you walk under a barnacle you haven’t spotted, instead of grabbing your head they will take what’s on it instead.

    Summary.
    This game is a below par retro first-person shooter with some highly pretentious, non-useful or impactful interaction gimmicks crowbarred into it. Anything outside of picking up random useless scenery objects is handled in a completely non-immersive (& often glitchy) way. The graphics are pretty if you can run them but I would rather play something that is more immersive & fun.

    Three out of ten.    … Expand
  4. MerioDude
    Dec 22, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Great game. it takes a while to get really started but the Story is amazing. It has plenty of believable horror aspects that will leave you shaking. A lot of the review bombs are from people who don't own a VR headset and are triggered by the lack of WASD (btw there are mods for this! but I don't recommend it because it ruins some parts of the games) Although it is a prequal it is incredibly important to the story of half-life and isn't really a prequal. Some people complain that the FPS is generic but they haven't really played for very long and near the end it gets really exciting and once you start fighting with the combine it gets even better and that's in the middle of the game. Also the reason that you have been disappointed that it wasn't half-life 3 is that you would be disappointed if it WAS half-life 3 as Mark Laid law spilled all the beans for the story and now there is no excitement for half-life 3. Half-life Alyx fixes this and even paves the way for a sequel to HL:2 Ep 2.

    also ignore the Russian guy hes complaining because it does come out on disc.    … Expand
  5. Marceloo25
    Dec 22, 2020
    10
    I never played an Half-Life game but now I know Valve knows how to make **** Of all the VR games I've played, this is definetly on the top #1
  6. Yusufbro23
    Dec 21, 2020
    10
    Half life Alyx it is good game but game is vr im sad but nothing i love half life series
  7. TheTechGuy
    Dec 20, 2020
    5
    With all the hype I expected too much. Didn’t help that I’m not used to playing long with the VR set. I see why it was not released without VR support though. Nice touches. Too bad more people will not play though.
  8. RASKALOF
    Dec 20, 2020
    10
    Best VR game, its cant be described by words how awesome this game and how beautifull it is. It have all: story, puzzles (even too much by my opinion), shooting, horror parts, stealth parts and its look like complete solid game and not like tech demo or separated levels. Its awesome, games like this is a revolution and by them game industry getting better. Thanx valve
  9. Rstiles7
    Dec 19, 2020
    10
    For the longest time, I have not been on board with virtual reality. The majority of VR games that i've played have either been pretty mediocre or did nothing to convince me that this is a quality way to experience video games. But with that being said, Half-Life Alyx has singled-handedly changed my entire view on VR, as I now see that it can be an incredible way to experience interactiveFor the longest time, I have not been on board with virtual reality. The majority of VR games that i've played have either been pretty mediocre or did nothing to convince me that this is a quality way to experience video games. But with that being said, Half-Life Alyx has singled-handedly changed my entire view on VR, as I now see that it can be an incredible way to experience interactive entertainment.

    From the very beginning, this game blew me away with its gameplay and combat. The way through which the game immerses you within its gunplay is something no other game has accomplished, as it not only feels realistic but also never stops feeling satisfying. In addition, the fact that the game allows you to force any object toward you (as if you are using the "Force") takes the experience to a whole new level, because it truly makes you feel as if you are an unstoppable being. Finally, all the little secrets the levels hide within them made it so exploration was never a chore, while at the same time rewarding players with even more tools to use at their disposal. In terms of pure gameplay, Half-Life Alyx is practically flawless.

    In terms of the game's narrative, I was pleasantly surprised with it. The dialogue always found ways to be entertaining, and the actual story elements felt very memorable. But what I really appreciated was how the gameplay was never interrupted by the dialogue, as the characters simply talk while you make your way through the levels. There are cutscenes here and there, but they never felt overly long and included enough spectacles to make them fun to watch. Also, the ending blew my mind, which only made my entire journey even more memorable. Overall, I would the story is great both for how it is presented and how amazing its elements ended up being.

    One of the other aspects of this game that I loved was the weapons and the upgrades. Throughout the game, you are given three different guns, which may seem small from the outside. Thankfully, the game makes up for this by having each gun be something completely different and allowing them to be upgraded in very meaningful ways. These upgrades include adding a better scope, automatically refilling the magazine, and giving a gun rapid fire. As for the rest of the game, the other great aspects would be the beautifully detailed levels, amazing level of freedom with fighting enemies, and the intuitive puzzle design. In terms of negative aspects, the only ones I could honestly think of would more so be issues with VR in general rather than the game itself. If I did give one complaint, it would be that occasionally the controls will not respond properly when trying to reload a gun, which may end up getting you killed during a critical moment. This is a very small complaint, but it is likely it will happen from time to time.

    At the end of the day, Half-Life Alyx is one of the most incredible experiences I've ever had with a video game. The masterful immersion and mind-blowing gameplay that it provides is something I've never gotten from any other game. Believe me when I say that it is worth buying a VR Headset just to play this game, as it is just that good. Half-Life Alyx is a truly unforgettable experience, which is why I have no problem calling this game a masterpiece.    … Expand
  10. snowman27
    Dec 16, 2020
    10
    Valve has taken things to the next level with this game.

    I've been playing video games since the Atari and NES, and have had some excellent gaming experiences, but this game is fantastic! I played this game using an HP Reverb G2. My system is an i7-10700k OC, 32gb Ram, NVME SSD, and RTX 3090. Getting the game to run 90hz at full settings and full resolution on the G2 was a challenge    Valve has taken things to the next level with this game.

    I've been playing video games since the Atari and NES, and have had some excellent gaming experiences, but this game is fantastic! I played this game using an HP Reverb G2. My system is an i7-10700k OC, 32gb Ram, NVME SSD, and RTX 3090. Getting the game to run 90hz at full settings and full resolution on the G2 was a challenge even on my beefy setup, but it looks and feels fantastic.

    I really enjoyed all of the ways the game immerses you into the half-life world. I felt like I was have a brand new gaming experience multiple times during my playthrough. I was very sad when the game ended, but I am hoping that they make a VR sequel. Valve has definitely set the bar for what VR can achieve, I just hope other companies can create similar experiences, so far nothing comes close.

    It may be a bit expensive to get the full experience in this game, but if you can afford it, you owe it to yourself to get the setup just for this game.    … Expand
  11. Rafi2299
    Dec 16, 2020
    10
    The Game offers a really immersive gameplay, accompanied with the Best Graphics i have seen in any video Game, audio design is one of the best i have heard, a truly amazing experience and a must play for half life fans and players that are going to play a half life game for the First time.
  12. Cebs
    Dec 14, 2020
    10
    Greatest game of the year and an absolutely unforgettable gaming experience... it must be played to be believed
  13. Zpaa
    Dec 13, 2020
    10
    Great story and a lot of humor. Super scary at some points, which is not my thing, but I still loved it!
  14. FEAN0R
    Dec 12, 2020
    10
    There is even nothing to say, another masterpiece from the Valve company! 10 out of 10 !
  15. GamesGodMaster
    Dec 11, 2020
    10
    Best VR game, I play a lot of VR games on my Valve Index or Oculus Quest. This game have everythings to be best of every VR apps.
  16. ruimilk
    Dec 9, 2020
    10
    When I started playing this game I thought I was about to play one of the best VR games ever made.
    I was completely wrong.
    I was about to play one of the best games ever, period
  17. sambartle
    Dec 7, 2020
    9
    I bought a VR headset (Q2) specifically to play Alyx. Do I regret doing that? No I do not.

    Its a visually stunning, new look at the Half Life world. Its got everything half life had in terms of storytelling, and the VR is done really well. Maybe lay off (or improve on the VR hologram puzzles) Please can we have some more Mr Gabe. Soon. Like not 3 years. Or maybe portal 3 VR. Yes.. Do    I bought a VR headset (Q2) specifically to play Alyx. Do I regret doing that? No I do not.

    Its a visually stunning, new look at the Half Life world. Its got everything half life had in terms of storytelling, and the VR is done really well. Maybe lay off (or improve on the VR hologram puzzles)

    Please can we have some more Mr Gabe. Soon. Like not 3 years. Or maybe portal 3 VR. Yes.. Do that. NOW    … Expand
  18. smikbore
    Dec 5, 2020
    10
    this happened to my buddy eric. really unfortunate how he keeps getting into this situations honestly.
  19. PaulStone
    Dec 4, 2020
    10
    One of the best games I played in the last decade. Its full of creativity, ingenuity and immersion. I had the most intense fights ever in later parts of the game. Putting ammunition into your weapons while sprinting behind a wall for cover. You crouch, you turn, you gasp and I was amazed by the high quality textures in VR.
    Yes, you need a setup worth about 3000$ to get the full    One of the best games I played in the last decade. Its full of creativity, ingenuity and immersion. I had the most intense fights ever in later parts of the game. Putting ammunition into your weapons while sprinting behind a wall for cover. You crouch, you turn, you gasp and I was amazed by the high quality textures in VR.
    Yes, you need a setup worth about 3000$ to get the full experience, but it will also give you an unforgettable joyful gaming experience.

    (Setup: Valve Index + RTX3070)    … Expand
  20. jonezypls
    Dec 4, 2020
    10
    One of the most enjoyable games I have played in last 10 years of titles. Worth the price of admission on its own; anything else I get out of a VR headset is a bonus at this point. I full-on had a food critic from Ratatouille moment for the whole game.
  21. Hellstaff9510
    Nov 30, 2020
    10
    First game in VR that is not just a gimmick but is actually a proper game great gameplay and storyline. game of the eon hands down. Valve did it again, and I hope they actually make more this time. This is one of the best experiences I've have on a videogame.
  22. Whitesnake79
    Nov 23, 2020
    10
    El verdadero GOTY del 2020, muy pero que muy por encima de todos los demás. Una de las experiencias jugables más increíbles de toda mi vida.
  23. NIILISMO
    Nov 22, 2020
    10
    Um clássico instantâneo, Half Life Alix é um jogo bem inovador e um dos melhores jogos da atualidade
  24. MagicKingDino
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    the best vr game and best best best best best best best best best best best game
  25. Davudusss
    Nov 18, 2020
    10
    Лучшая игра в плане физики в VR. Посоревноваться может только Boneworks, опять же только по физике.
  26. turbosnail
    Nov 13, 2020
    10
    The best VR game. ever. Period.
    However, it's that scary that you must have some pretty big balls in order to finish it; I didn't.
    It's super realistic. It's a showcase of what future games should look like. It's more immersive than any other game. This is the future.
  27. Faviokurisu
    Nov 11, 2020
    10
    A pesar de todo el tiempo que pasamos esperando por algo relacionado a Half-Life, ha válido totalmente la pena.
  28. Azzanation
    Nov 11, 2020
    10
    At first, i was angry that i had to buy into VR to play a Half Life game. In the end, this not only turned out to be the best VR game ever made, but one of my favorite games of all time. Absolutely loved the game from start to finish and worth the VR purchase. Highly recommended.
  29. paveltroshenkov
    Nov 1, 2020
    10
    It is just a perfect revolutionary game. I remember playing half life 2 at school. Many year have gone and the dream came back. Thank you Valve
  30. Chubac
    Oct 28, 2020
    10
    Best VR title EVER and I bet it still will be 10+ years later too. Also that ending is just insane!
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best PC Game of 2020
9
#9 Most Discussed PC Game of 2020

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
93

Universal acclaim - based on 69 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 67 out of 69
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 69
  3. Negative: 0 out of 69
  1. Areajugones
    Dec 21, 2020
    95
    Half-Life Alyx is proof that Valve is still at its best creatively. This emblematic franchise has been brought to virtual reality; in Alyx we enjoy an immersion never seen before, with comfortable and intuitive mechanics as well as excellent visuals and atmosphere that accompany this interesting adventure within the iconic saga.
    Read full review
  2. Game World Navigator Magazine
    May 21, 2020
    92
    It’s a good thing that Valve didn’t add a digit to the title: from Half-Life 3 we expect nothing short of revolution, while Alyx is “merely” an amazing game. [Issue#245, p.50]
  3. Screen Rant
    May 15, 2020
    100
    A special mention should be made of the game's dialog, mainly consisting of Alyx herself and Russel, a scientist who Alex remains in constant communication with throughout the game. Their relationship feels genuine, the conversations between them are enjoyable, and almost all of the intended comedic moments land perfectly, which is something most video games seem to have trouble with.
    Read full review
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