User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 6390 Ratings

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  1. Kent
    Apr 25, 2008
    10
    This is possibly one of the most innovative games ever created. It is a great idea that is beautifully executed. It's an awesome puzzle game, and it's even pretty funny. Although there is a lack of texture, it A) fits with the concept and B) is not so boring that you get tired of it. Interesting story and an awesome engine that is great fun to play around with (see a hundred This is possibly one of the most innovative games ever created. It is a great idea that is beautifully executed. It's an awesome puzzle game, and it's even pretty funny. Although there is a lack of texture, it A) fits with the concept and B) is not so boring that you get tired of it. Interesting story and an awesome engine that is great fun to play around with (see a hundred versions of yourself, awesome!). Anyone who reviewed this badly has either done it because they think it needs enemies in it (please explain how that would work...please) its a puzzle game for goodness sake, not a shooter. The rest of the bad reviews are based around the fact that it is too short, firstly it is about half the price of a normal game (and with the orange box it is even less) and secondly things like the achievements and challenges add to the replay value. it is a great game, that explores a really interesting concept. Expand
  2. ArdithM.
    Apr 29, 2008
    10
    I have a very short attention span- it usually takes me days, even *months* to finish a single game. I played Portal in one sitting. got dinner. started again. Thank goodness for a game that finally really made think.
  3. NikkiroxH.
    Apr 30, 2008
    10
    Its the first game I've actually finished on PC. I usually get bored of games during game play, but not this one. It was short, but it was incredibly funny. Cracked me up when she was singing at the end. I like cake.
  4. GeorgeT.
    Apr 7, 2008
    10
    The best and most addictive game I've ever played. And the Credit Song is phenomenal.
  5. ShaginjiT.
    Apr 7, 2008
    10
    This game must be one of my favorites, funny from beginning to end, intelligent, and how you must understand physics and puzzles or in other words be more cynical and intelligent to know what your doing. True you do not have to be that cynical and intelligent but its nice to see a game that at least has that element. I give this a 10, and it has made my favorite games list.
  6. LucasS.
    May 9, 2008
    10
    It's the best game I've ever played! I hope that Valve make more levels for this game..!!! WoW!!!
  7. CurtP.
    Jul 1, 2008
    10
    Too short, but awesome gameplay.
  8. TomG.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    Short, but a damn fun game from beginning to end. If you don't think your PC can run it, you need 256MB of RAM instead of 512. I ran the game at low detail and the levels load within eight seconds.
  9. DaveR
    Jul 7, 2008
    10
    Great game. Good puzzles, funny running commentary. I loved the computer taunting you once you go "off-course".
  10. SteveE.
    Aug 15, 2008
    10
    Awesome game!!!! anyone looking for a fun puzzle game look no futrher!!
  11. GregG.
    Aug 30, 2008
    10
    Portal is one of the best puzzle games of all time, and because it runs off of Source, you know the physics are as real as they are going to get. Simply put, when you reach the last level, you will want to play the game all over again. Say "Hi" to GLADoS for me while your in there.
  12. AlexisP
    Aug 6, 2008
    10
    Funny, surprising, artistic. One of my best digital adventures.
  13. KikB.
    Sep 5, 2008
    10
    Portal is an amazing game! It was fun! I was really satisfied when I finished the game. Now a lot would say that the main problem with Portal is it's length. I thought the length was just right, because if it was longer, it would get repetitive. My only gripe with Portal is that I found a few glitches, but that's just it. So Portal is one of my favourite games that I've Portal is an amazing game! It was fun! I was really satisfied when I finished the game. Now a lot would say that the main problem with Portal is it's length. I thought the length was just right, because if it was longer, it would get repetitive. My only gripe with Portal is that I found a few glitches, but that's just it. So Portal is one of my favourite games that I've played. Now they should make sequel, if they have the time. Expand
  14. AndrewA
    Jan 21, 2010
    10
    Portal is an excellent example of fun with no strings attached. It's enjoyable and compelling without the the need of the "ZOMG I kill big boss zombie thing, I is win" factor. It may be short and simple but that just adds to the charm of the game, making it not too demanding on the player whilst still expecting a certain amount of creative imput. Being very clever with both the level Portal is an excellent example of fun with no strings attached. It's enjoyable and compelling without the the need of the "ZOMG I kill big boss zombie thing, I is win" factor. It may be short and simple but that just adds to the charm of the game, making it not too demanding on the player whilst still expecting a certain amount of creative imput. Being very clever with both the level designs and the witty, dark humored dialoge of GLaDOS, It's a game you can play a million times and still want to play it a million more. Expand
  15. BaileyB
    Jan 3, 2010
    10
    this is a very original game; it's not very often that one can play through a game again and again, knowing how everything goes, and still love it.
  16. HaraldW
    Jan 3, 2010
    10
    Portal is a lot of fun , bought this game instantly after passing the demo and see it as a worth while game. Not a shooter but a puzzle game with backwards thinking needed. Play the demo if you are unsure :) Maybe they make a Portal 2 ? I would definitly approve.
  17. JohnG
    Mar 11, 2010
    10
    I don't know if I have ever played a better computer game in my life. Combining elements from Half Life 2 and other Sci-Fi fantasys this should be the first computer game or the ONLY computer game you ever buy. This is one of the only games that combines your ability to solve problems in an action packed game without getting killed by a sinister robot that lures you in with cake, no I don't know if I have ever played a better computer game in my life. Combining elements from Half Life 2 and other Sci-Fi fantasys this should be the first computer game or the ONLY computer game you ever buy. This is one of the only games that combines your ability to solve problems in an action packed game without getting killed by a sinister robot that lures you in with cake, no joke. I dont know if you could ever think other of Valves incredible game. Expand
  18. BadgerBadger
    Oct 12, 2007
    9
    As everyone says, it's short, but God is it memorable. It's slick, it's smart, and its developers clearly put painstaking thought into every little detail. You just have to be impressed by developers that can make an inanimate object into a beloved character.
  19. RobinW.
    Oct 12, 2007
    9
    Polished and Slick, with a twisted computer voiceover. Fairly short, but fabulously entertaining. Limited replay value though I suspect, but it's exactly the kind of game where fan created content will rule.
  20. AlexL.
    Nov 25, 2007
    10
    Fabulous game, with innovative gameplay and challenging level design. Worth the 50
  21. ConnorC.
    Nov 2, 2007
    8
    I am only giving this an eight because my total play time, through this game is two hours. Thoroughly dissapointed. Some of the level designs advertised were not even included. TF2 was the best buy in the Orange Box.
  22. MalteB.
    Nov 4, 2007
    10
    Awesome physics and logic-gaming with a funny computer-voice and a weighted companion cube ;).
  23. MortenWeber
    Oct 15, 2007
    9
    Really enjoyed gaming this one! Gamestyle is different than normal games, its unique!
    A Real good game for who enjoy Puzzle games! The only Point of disagreing for full 10Points is that the Story is a bit short... hopefully the SDK will be released soon, so the community map editing can begin!

    May Blessing of Akatosh upon you!
  24. GregM.
    Nov 5, 2007
    10
    Simply put... what a game should be.... Somewhat short storyline... but the extras (Should you choose to attempt them) will keep you busy for many days to come. One of the best gaming experiences I have ever had... It has all the love and work into it that a homemade apple pie has! It does not seem like just another game out of the assembly line like so much of what we play today! It is Simply put... what a game should be.... Somewhat short storyline... but the extras (Should you choose to attempt them) will keep you busy for many days to come. One of the best gaming experiences I have ever had... It has all the love and work into it that a homemade apple pie has! It does not seem like just another game out of the assembly line like so much of what we play today! It is in its own league! Expand
  25. JosephC.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Quirky and strange - more games need passive/aggressive synthesized robot females villains. Pure quality - Who cares if it's short?
  26. RamsesIICP
    Nov 6, 2007
    10
    Spectacular. Strikes fast and hard, and then wraps it all up in time for tea. Bonus puzzles provide much needed difficulty factor without dragging down the solo game under too much repitition. Portal II when are you?
  27. TomT.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Probably one of the best games I've ever played. It's funny, smart and makes you think. I could go on and on, listing a wide varity of topics, however the only way to truely understand and enjoy this game is to play it, no review or score can do it justice, you cannot grasp the greatness of this game from second hand information, if you want to know why I'm giving it a 10, Probably one of the best games I've ever played. It's funny, smart and makes you think. I could go on and on, listing a wide varity of topics, however the only way to truely understand and enjoy this game is to play it, no review or score can do it justice, you cannot grasp the greatness of this game from second hand information, if you want to know why I'm giving it a 10, go play it. Expand
  28. WesW.
    Oct 16, 2007
    10
    Portal is amazing. You will definitely want to play through the whole story mode on one sitting. It is that much fun. One play-through isn't enough though and you will definitely keep thinking about it and come back for more. The bonus "Advanced" puzzles and challenges are also fun. I wish there was more!
  29. Manny
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    This game is unlike any of it's kind. Absolutely great work. It is literally a "Game IQ Test" that is extremely fun to play. The first thing that I thought was impossible to accomplish was taking only 10 steps to finish Level 13 on the challenge maps. Ten steps means a gold medal, and I freaked out when I actually got it =D One of the most satisfying times I've ever had in a game.
  30. KorosuI.
    Oct 18, 2007
    10
    The funnier game I've ever played. And that's a point. Everything in Portal is brilliant. Great game, I just can't wait until Valve release some more of Portal.
  31. MB
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    Entertaining story and top notch gameplay. This is not just a puzzle game, its fun and funny, and even a little creepy. The concept is great and it is a new idea in a genre that needs some fresh air.
  32. DaiH.
    Oct 19, 2007
    10
    Something that people cant grasp, is that its a puzzle game. Its not about killing anything, but trying to succeed in passing the test. It has extensive replayability in the advanced levels and the Portal/Time/Step limited levels, and passing each one gives you a warm fuzzy feeling inside. Now lets hope for some custom puzzles to be released :D.
  33. NicholasJ.
    Nov 9, 2007
    9
    This a very excellent game. It looks like its way beyond excellent for level design, gameplay, and humour. But total play-time is a dissapointment.
  34. DavidJ.
    Dec 21, 2007
    10
    There are a lot of "eight" ratings out there that sound like they'd have been a 10 if the game were longer. Weighing in from the "been a gamer since Pong" demographic, with a job that leaves little time for gaming, I am absolutely thrilled for an outstanding, innovating, SHORT experience. Perfect value for $20. The best game I've played in 2 years.
  35. K.S.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    The first and most likely last game I will rate a game here, but I was so impressed with it I just had to push up the user score a bit more (like it needs it pfff). Portal is a breath of fresh air, after years of the same old (FPS type) re-done over hyped (Halo3 *clears throat*) crap they re-release over and over again. I'm happy to say to anyone and everyone that will listen, Portal The first and most likely last game I will rate a game here, but I was so impressed with it I just had to push up the user score a bit more (like it needs it pfff). Portal is a breath of fresh air, after years of the same old (FPS type) re-done over hyped (Halo3 *clears throat*) crap they re-release over and over again. I'm happy to say to anyone and everyone that will listen, Portal is a must have game. Buy it now! Expand
  36. LoveM.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Wonderful humor and well executed puzzles. My best gaming experience in a long time.
  37. JenniferR.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    Portal is, I think, simply the best thing Valve has yet produced. It is overly short, but perfect in the time it offers. What it needs most is an utterly user-friendly, simple and easy puzzle level creator. With that, it would shine like a nova.
  38. DouglasA.
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    One of the best & most addictive games i've ever played, lots of fun good to have a game that is fun, scary and has lots of puzzles without going around killing everyone.
  39. AndrewM.
    Oct 25, 2007
    9
    This is a very entertaining game, although short it is a releaf from the more standard first person shooter. Humorous and worth playing more than once.
  40. LucL.
    Oct 25, 2007
    10
    Best puzzle game ever. Best of both gaming world (Puzzles and FPS).
  41. DavidF.
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Excellent, Wonderful! My only complaint is the lack of additional maps and levels of play. I look forward to the future posabilities!
  42. NickR.
    Dec 6, 2007
    10
    Its about time someone realized humor, originality, and fresh gameplay is needed and executed it.
  43. Daggers
    Oct 20, 2007
    10
    An awesome puzzle game that keeps you thinking from start to finish, a great sense of humour in the game and a great addition to The Orange Box.
  44. Alex
    Dec 8, 2007
    10
    My only complaint about portal is that it's too short ... but only if you don't try doing the challenges and trying to get all the acheivements. Easily one of the most fun games I have ever played.
  45. SamuelL.
    Oct 29, 2007
    10
    Portal is a conceptual heaven with the most innovative use of the FPS genre ever seen. The gameplay is ever enhanced by the seemingly innocent yet malevolent computer AI constantly broadcasting its views to the player. Best play of the year!
  46. ToryN.
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    How can anyone not rate this a 10? It's the most inventive and intense puzzle game ever, and if you don't think so and you're crying about how it's not another shooter (yes, they are fun, but each one doesn't expand superbly on the next) then go die.
  47. SteveT.
    Oct 30, 2007
    10
    What a refreshing, intelligent and fun concept. I have completed the game in a few hours and can't wait to see how they'll develope this game further. Keep up the great work!
  48. PatrickP.
    Oct 30, 2007
    9
    Nearly flawless game. AMAZING concept, executed extremely well. A subtle amount of story is hidden beneath the game. Epic credits song, and a couple of other cool tracks as well. Graphics are top-notch. The second section of the game is a great atmosphere change. User-created content is already up and running, giving a nearly infinite replayability factor. All in all, an excellent Nearly flawless game. AMAZING concept, executed extremely well. A subtle amount of story is hidden beneath the game. Epic credits song, and a couple of other cool tracks as well. Graphics are top-notch. The second section of the game is a great atmosphere change. User-created content is already up and running, giving a nearly infinite replayability factor. All in all, an excellent experience for a gamer looking for something other than a traditional FPS. Expand
  49. JohnH.
    Jan 10, 2008
    10
    Seriously, this is quite possibly the most entertaining three hours I have had in years of video game playing.
  50. AndrejL.
    Jan 20, 2008
    10
    If you asked me what's my best game before this game came out I couldn't be able to give you straight anwser... After playing Portal it became by far the best game I have ever played (sorry HL). The whole experiance of playing through this game was amazing. Trully an epic classic!
  51. AaronY.
    Jan 27, 2008
    10
    Paired down to a short blazing game, every second is great puzzle sleuthing and hillarious GLaDOS dialouge. I doubt there will be another game this phenomenally good for many years. I do hope that Valve continues to connect the "Aperture Science," and "Black Mesa," worlds. Their sum would be greater than their parts.
  52. melindawyers
    Jan 27, 2008
    10
    The Orange Box should have been labeled "Portal and Friends"
  53. DanielY.
    Jan 3, 2008
    10
    This is the single greatest PC game of 2007. It is creative and original. The commentary alone would be a great game. If I didn't get to look at what was happening on screen the game would rate higher than 90% of the rehashed garbage of 2007. In an industry which promotes money-making as priority one and entertainment as a bi-product of a standardized game Portal makes a statement. This is the single greatest PC game of 2007. It is creative and original. The commentary alone would be a great game. If I didn't get to look at what was happening on screen the game would rate higher than 90% of the rehashed garbage of 2007. In an industry which promotes money-making as priority one and entertainment as a bi-product of a standardized game Portal makes a statement. It dares to be bold and different, do not let the length of the game dismay you. It's long enough to keep you entertained for a few hours and as a part of an essential game package (orange box) is a definite must have. Expand
  54. HenrikH.
    Jan 30, 2008
    10
    Fantastic game. First is the innovative gameplay, Portal is the first game in over a decay that actually delivers a new kind of gameplay to game. Second is the humor, GLaDOS sarcastic, ironic lies about cake is well placed through the hole game and it gets better by the time. A little minus is the lenght but the overall game is fantastic.
  55. JoshU.
    Jan 3, 2008
    10
    A refreshing break from the hardcore, mindless violence of most other titles, Portal manages to create a deep and believable world with only a short amount of gameplay. In-game characters like the android turrets and faithful companion cube, although they play relatively small parts in gameplay, are nonetheless among the most memorable of all game characters from this year. The ending A refreshing break from the hardcore, mindless violence of most other titles, Portal manages to create a deep and believable world with only a short amount of gameplay. In-game characters like the android turrets and faithful companion cube, although they play relatively small parts in gameplay, are nonetheless among the most memorable of all game characters from this year. The ending credits took me completely off guard, but cemented the fact that this game was very deliberately and perfectly made. Expand
  56. JamesT.
    Feb 11, 2008
    10
    I think this game was beautiful every class was great as well as it makes you properly use teamwork to win on big servers. I just loved it.
  57. MaximC.
    Feb 17, 2008
    10
    Oh, yes! It's really the Best Game!
  58. LordW.
    Feb 22, 2008
    10
    Fooking brilliant game. Perfect down to the exit song! Shame it wasn't longer. How about combining Half-Life with Portal? You could make the enemy shoot at themselves. You could sneak up behind the enemy and twat them. Could be interesting, no?
  59. KitrinaY.
    Feb 24, 2008
    10
    Way too short, but for the intensity of the puzzles and being forced to think outside of the box.. brilliant! Simply brilliant! I'd love it more if it had a sequel.
  60. RyanS>
    Feb 3, 2008
    10
    Portal is a great game. It's challenging in the later levels, but do-able. Yes, the main game may be quite short, but while it is there, its brilliant. Some of the challenges seem almost stupidly difficult, i.e the step limit, but there's so much satisfaction from getting the vanilla crazy cake at the end of the 6th advanced map. Best thing is, my lousy graphics card can run it Portal is a great game. It's challenging in the later levels, but do-able. Yes, the main game may be quite short, but while it is there, its brilliant. Some of the challenges seem almost stupidly difficult, i.e the step limit, but there's so much satisfaction from getting the vanilla crazy cake at the end of the 6th advanced map. Best thing is, my lousy graphics card can run it on high! So pretty. Expand
  61. MRBunny
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    So scared were we all that the fps genre would die away, because of a lot of repetitiveness. Valve has proven even us greatest critics all wrong. Good on them i say, good on them. Best game I have played in a long time. Though short, a major challenge. 11/10 From MR Bunny
  62. JaredG.
    Feb 7, 2008
    10
    This game proves you can have fun in a FPS without actually shooting anybody.
  63. DougV.
    Feb 8, 2008
    10
    Can't wait for Portal 2, although it's hard to imagine what could be done to maintain the atmosphere of the first offering.
  64. ChrisJ.
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    Whilst this game is relatively short, it is probably one of the most important games ever made. The puzzles are sublime and the script often had me in tears of laughter. I only wish it was longer.
  65. FranciscoS.
    Feb 9, 2008
    10
    An excellent game, full of mystery and action but with the use of your brains too. My favorite single player game.
  66. JarettE.
    Mar 1, 2008
    9
    I hear the gameplay is short over and over again. Sure it was short but getting the acheivments takes time and practice. The campaign type thing was tight but it didn't take that long to compleate. It's worth compleating though, and the advanced maps and challenges take up the biggest part of the game really. I would say it's worth buying if you like things that are trippy I hear the gameplay is short over and over again. Sure it was short but getting the acheivments takes time and practice. The campaign type thing was tight but it didn't take that long to compleate. It's worth compleating though, and the advanced maps and challenges take up the biggest part of the game really. I would say it's worth buying if you like things that are trippy and just plain weird. The challenges are a bit annoying though because the steps one is really hard. Expand
  67. LanceM.
    Mar 18, 2008
    10
    This game is genius! I've never played a game that made me laugh as much and made me think as much. Every level I thought was more and more impossible, but when I stopped to think about it, the solution was there waiting for me. The sense of humor from the computer interaction with the player had me in tears laughing. I'm only sorry I finished it so quick.
  68. EmilF.
    Mar 19, 2008
    10
    I like the game because it are so realistics and the sound is so real. Ps the game is very fun and you can sit a complete the game again and again whitout be bored.
  69. SimonL.
    Mar 20, 2008
    10
    Its a challenge to the mind... Really hard sometimes but i finnished it at a day.
  70. AlexanderG.
    Mar 3, 2008
    10
    It is a long loong time i have ever played a more entertaining and suprising game. Love it!
  71. KR.
    Mar 8, 2008
    10
    This game is among the most brilliant games ever made, and anyone who denies that isn't thinking properly. Nobody ever listen to IGN or AceGamez ever again. Or Ally D. Also, I have some unprintable things to say about Play (Poland)'s review of this game.
  72. DylanF
    Apr 1, 2008
    10
    This game is a breath of fresh air in an industry where practically every FPS is a ripoff of Quake, Halo, or Half Life. It's been a long time since a game has been so successfully original. The story and gameplay are sublime, and not to mention hilarious. At times you'll be laughing out loud listening to GLaDOS. There is some excellent writing done here and it really shows. The This game is a breath of fresh air in an industry where practically every FPS is a ripoff of Quake, Halo, or Half Life. It's been a long time since a game has been so successfully original. The story and gameplay are sublime, and not to mention hilarious. At times you'll be laughing out loud listening to GLaDOS. There is some excellent writing done here and it really shows. The main gripe people have about it is that it's short, which is true; you'll probably finish it in 2-4 hours. But it's short and sweet, the level of enjoyment will only increase the further you progress goes out with a bang. Absolutely stunning from start to finish and you'll love every second of it, I know I did. Expand
  73. TimothyO.
    Apr 11, 2008
    10
    While Portal is short, it's perfectly so, as it draws you in, and keeps you occupied for the perfect amount of time. Plus, any game that has me thinking for over 15 minutes on a specific puzzle has to get my vote. Remember, the cake is a Lie.....
  74. JoeL.
    Apr 8, 2008
    10
    Very entertaining game, I can honestly say I enjoyed every challenge in Portal. The gameplay was unique and I wish there was more to it after the end. Amazing game.
  75. BrandenH.
    Apr 9, 2008
    9
    I agree with CE. This is an amazing game. Especally if you enjoyed the "mini puzzles" from Half Life 2. This is one of the most inovative games of the year, and i would give it a 10. The only problem is that it is a little short. I am only taking off one point because how long can you expect a puzzle game to be? Anyway this is a great game and I highly recommend picking it up next time I agree with CE. This is an amazing game. Especally if you enjoyed the "mini puzzles" from Half Life 2. This is one of the most inovative games of the year, and i would give it a 10. The only problem is that it is a little short. I am only taking off one point because how long can you expect a puzzle game to be? Anyway this is a great game and I highly recommend picking it up next time you see it. Its a great deal with the rest of the orange box! Expand
  76. SageR.
    May 1, 2008
    10
    One of the best, if not THE best game on the market today, You absolutely have to try this!
  77. MatthewB.
    May 5, 2008
    10
    A genius game that has a revolutionary concept (for mainstream, so ignoring Narbacular Drop), mystery and intrigue, twists and turns and cake. Or not. This is a game that does not outstay its welcome, but rather achieves what it sets out to achieve with great effect in a short time frame. Buy it now.
  78. JonathanF.
    May 8, 2008
    10
    This is by far the best game I've ever played. Everything about it was well done, and there's not a single thing I can think to complain about.
  79. CharlieG
    Jun 12, 2008
    10
    Innovative, original and witty.
  80. ChrisP
    Jun 19, 2008
    10
    The best,shortest,funniest, game ever made.
  81. JubalB.
    Jun 21, 2008
    10
    Immediately after Portal's release, I played it all the way through five times before I played anything else. It's actually that good. And the ending song cracks me up. This game and its developers certainly deserve all the awards they gathered from Portal.
  82. Jack
    Jul 16, 2008
    10
    While the advanced bonus levels were too frustrating for me, this game was dizzyingly fun and fantastic providing me with hours of enjoyment. I HIGHLY recommend it. Considering the price, I doubt you'll regret it.
  83. DanN.
    Jul 21, 2008
    10
    Anyone who gave this game anything less then 8 is stupid and just trying to put a good game down.
  84. MariusG.
    Jul 6, 2008
    10
    Best game Valve has ever made! lets just hope A sequel is coming.
  85. KenS.
    Jul 9, 2008
    9
    Crazy revolutionary game that will you bind to your computer seat. Ive got just a single Approach: its to short. (sry 4 eventually bad English).
  86. JimmyG
    Aug 30, 2008
    10
    Awesome game. Finally a game that involves more thinking than just shooting (not that I don't like shooting...), but it is good to get a little variety. Great game, loads of fun to play, and of course, the voice over the PA is really funny.
  87. DH
    Aug 3, 2008
    10
    this is the best game i have ever played in my life. Makes you think very hard at points, and always requires you to think outside the box. The voice acting is excellent and if you listen to what is said you will undoubtedly be laughing from start to finish, but you will still be aware that the game has an aire of seriousness. The game flows very well and keeps you enthralled for all of this is the best game i have ever played in my life. Makes you think very hard at points, and always requires you to think outside the box. The voice acting is excellent and if you listen to what is said you will undoubtedly be laughing from start to finish, but you will still be aware that the game has an aire of seriousness. The game flows very well and keeps you enthralled for all of the 2-4 hours you will be playing this. As i said, 2-4 hours, this game is very very short compared to other valve games, and even compared to the vast majority of other games made, but this is a brilliant move by valve, because you can, in one sitting, whether you are a hardcore or casual gamer, finish this game, meaning everything about it is still clear in your mind and you remained immersed. Immersion is a thing that can make or break any game, but if the game keeps you thinking you are that person and in that situation, then chances are, its a hit. Portal does this brilliantly and the only thing that brings you back to your senses is the trademark valve loading screen. The 'point and shoot' element that is in it is a brilliant innovation, destroying things, manipulating the environment and destroying a boss (in one of the best and most unpredicted boss fights to fall in any game) with a very very clever but non-violent weapon. This makes the idea that you have to think a lot, and enforces that you have to think a lot to complete this, very much stronger. This is one of the simplest games every made, but as i have said many times in this review, requires you to think outside the box greatly. Although the game is very simple to play, hardcore gamers who want a challenge have it, as portal has achievements you must get (anyone who can keep the radio from start to finish deserves a medal and the money they paid for the game back, never mind an achievement). These vary from fairly simple things, such as complete a section of the game, to difficult ones such as complete an area in a set amount of time or with a maximum number of portals, to the downright insane, such as the radio one i said before and falling 500ft, and as there are no 500ft drops in the game, valve are, once again, making you think very hard about how to do this I wish i could give this masterpiece 100000 out of 10, but as that isn't aloud, I'll just have to live with only being able to sing it nowhere near enough praise. Every gamer of every age from everywhere must play this game as it is a truly unique experience, and with portal 2 just around the corner, seems like we will be in for a treat once again. Truly top notch gaming. Expand
  88. PoRTalfReAk
    Sep 4, 2008
    10
    Anyone who says it has no story must either be a personal friend of Hillary Clinton or have no ears. In case you didn't notice, GladOs is an insane computer that wants to be free, and due to the fact that she was designed to not be able to shut herself down, the only way to do that is to torture you with tests so you eventually get hacked off enough at her (it was really painful to Anyone who says it has no story must either be a personal friend of Hillary Clinton or have no ears. In case you didn't notice, GladOs is an insane computer that wants to be free, and due to the fact that she was designed to not be able to shut herself down, the only way to do that is to torture you with tests so you eventually get hacked off enough at her (it was really painful to have to kill the Companion Cube) to try and kill her. And you can tell how dissapointed she is that her plan failed (she cleary states in the ending song that she "is happy to be still alive" and, but she is a lying bowl of sarcasm, which she states herself after revealing that the cake "is a lie".) So you guys who think it has no story or give it a zero, you must either be deaf, or play way too much GTA and Halo, where the story is so obvious that you need no intellengence to play it. Unfortunatley for you, Portal requires that you be smart. Once again, Valve has outdone themselves. Expand
  89. NikitaM
    Dec 13, 2009
    10
    Most amazing game i have ever played in. The campaign is so unic. And I wish there could be an online game of portal.
  90. AlejandroF.
    May 10, 2009
    10
    Portal concep idea is great, the idea of a innocent machine gun and main computer watching you is great, sound effects and graphics great, many option to resolve puzzles great... in resume GREAT GAME!!! Congratulations Guys.
  91. GabeT
    May 6, 2009
    10
    One of the best games I have ever played. Short, but shows off a wonderful mechanic, and has amusing, albiet nearly invisible characters.
  92. EzraB
    Jun 3, 2009
    10
    This is an awesome game, but remember that if you find it too short, or too easy, try out the Source SDK and make a mod to keep you busy. But is it really worth complaining? You decided to spend your money, and you're the one who beat it. It's not like you didn't get to play. This game is officially one of the best I've seen, and I've seen a lot of games. Also, This is an awesome game, but remember that if you find it too short, or too easy, try out the Source SDK and make a mod to keep you busy. But is it really worth complaining? You decided to spend your money, and you're the one who beat it. It's not like you didn't get to play. This game is officially one of the best I've seen, and I've seen a lot of games. Also, don't use the excuse "I don't know how to use Source SDK" because the internet is an infinite resource. Expand
  93. AlexC.
    Jul 2, 2009
    10
    People giving this game a 1 should read the title you morons its called "Portal" thats the game so you should of read the title before paying 20 bucks i personally beat it 3 hours its a good game kind of hard but dont just give it a 0 cause its easy we know that it was supposed to be an introducter to a new game there making so i hate h8ters PS.READ THE TITLE.
  94. AnthonyP
    Jul 30, 2009
    10
    Great game, really tests your problem solving. I love how with source SDK, you can make your own maps, and its hilarious. love the computer that talks to you. "companion cube" "you will be baked, and then there will be cake".
  95. JoeM
    Jan 21, 2010
    10
    Quick, fun, and challenging at times, Portal is a game that is hard not to notice. With an encouraging overseer the first-person, large scale puzzles make for an inovative and brain stimulating experience.
  96. ChrisM
    Jan 7, 2010
    10
    I've beaten it countless times, and even though it doesn't have as much replay value as a multiplayer game, it will always be my favorite game.
  97. EthanT.
    Apr 5, 2010
    10
    I thought this game had an amazing concept and I wouldn't recommend buying it separately for $20 instead I would buy it with the orange box for $20. And for all you ney sayers who say its to short and easy its because valve were worried that people woudent like it so they made it short and put it safely in the orange box with games you knew like half life 2. And so portal was(and I thought this game had an amazing concept and I wouldn't recommend buying it separately for $20 instead I would buy it with the orange box for $20. And for all you ney sayers who say its to short and easy its because valve were worried that people woudent like it so they made it short and put it safely in the orange box with games you knew like half life 2. And so portal was(and still is)the best game EVER!!!!!! Expand
  98. TomH.
    Nov 10, 2007
    10
    Beautifully well-judged, original and engaging. Offbeat slightly spooky, slightly humourous world - like 2001 or Dark Star. Challenging. Stylish. Self-contained. Short but sweet. Whether you are a regular gamer, or someone who normally prefers TV or movies, you should try Portal. It's different, in a good way.
  99. JustinM.
    Nov 15, 2007
    10
    Portal is a spectacular game with tons of features and a great idea. I loved the entire game, especially the computer's voice and dialogue. The plot and the game itself blew me away. I liked this game more than all the other games in the Orange Box package.
  100. CarsenK.
    Nov 16, 2007
    10
    This game has got to be at least one of the top unique games of 2007! Very unique game play and is certainly a top competitor.
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 27 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 27 out of 27
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 27
  3. Negative: 0 out of 27
  1. 82
    The idea behind Portal ends up being more brilliant than Portal itself. Regardless, we definitely had a lot of fun with what is there and appreciate the level of polish and thought that went into the presentation.
  2. Portal is a magnificent puzzle game. The titillating wrongness of every solution and the wonky thinking required to get there make you feel like a space-folding genius, and yet you'll almost never get stuck.
  3. One of the most interesting and delightful things Valve's ever done, but also one of its least fulfilling. If only we had our own portal gun to bridge the gap to the first infusion of new content, perhaps we could forget it.