Portal

 PC
User Score
9.1

Universal acclaim- based on 6390 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 5,896 out of 6390
  2. Mixed: 369 out of 6390
  3. Negative: 125 out of 6390
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  1. Feck
    Oct 10, 2013
    10
    Portal is a state of the art game. People who complain about it don't actually know how to play it. The concept about everything is awesome. There are some achievements really difficult to get it, but nothing impossible.
  2. TailGunnner
    Jul 21, 2013
    9
    The game is realy thoughtful. The best puzzle game you can buy, and lots of easter eggs to discover. The story is great after all. One game that showed how Fps games doesn' t nead to be "kill everyone" Simple logical hard puzzle.The how ever the game is 9 out of 10 to me becouse the idea, is not orginal. They buyed the license. The first game that used this logic was "Narbacular Drop"The game is realy thoughtful. The best puzzle game you can buy, and lots of easter eggs to discover. The story is great after all. One game that showed how Fps games doesn' t nead to be "kill everyone" Simple logical hard puzzle.The how ever the game is 9 out of 10 to me becouse the idea, is not orginal. They buyed the license. The first game that used this logic was "Narbacular Drop" Still the game is prety awesome.… Expand
  3. videogamefan
    Jul 23, 2013
    10
    An amazing puzzle game it is short but the time you will have with it is amazing.the dialogue is really smart too. Glados will remain one of my favourite characters in video games
  4. Vas
    Jun 29, 2014
    9
    You have many hours of puzzle solving fun, can also play around and ignore the robot telling you what to do for a while. The game gets pretty exciting towards the end as well. After you have played through it once or twice though, you find that there is not much more you can do and it gets super easy, so this particular game isn't replayable that much. I'd almost rate 10, but it was tooYou have many hours of puzzle solving fun, can also play around and ignore the robot telling you what to do for a while. The game gets pretty exciting towards the end as well. After you have played through it once or twice though, you find that there is not much more you can do and it gets super easy, so this particular game isn't replayable that much. I'd almost rate 10, but it was too short for me and replayability is a thing for me.… Expand
  5. urisvesk
    Aug 13, 2013
    9
    Its a puzzle game with great story and fun jokes! Great gameplay! Simple and fun! Kinda too short though.... But you can add custom maps =-p. Try to not get spoilers cause your gameplay may be even shorter... just take your time... you will get it!
  6. Phack
    Aug 5, 2013
    8
    This game is really short but....this game is really good. Portal is so unique. The gamplay is awesome. Its one of the most unique game i've ever played.
  7. Frowney
    Aug 10, 2013
    9
    Really engaging game, witty lines and great antagonist. The puzzles can be pretty hard and it is required to think about it for a while. The game is great in almost all aspects, but it was a little short in my opinion, but perhaps that's just I just enjoyed it so much that I really wanted more.
  8. TheDarkKnight22
    Sep 5, 2014
    9
    From the silly humor to the great puzzles, i recommend this game to anyone who has a computer. this is probably one of the best puzzle games to come out so far. The game is good at teaching you all of the mechanics to the game through the first few levels. The game is definitely short but the short amount of time you get with this game is enjoyable. The game has a large replay value andFrom the silly humor to the great puzzles, i recommend this game to anyone who has a computer. this is probably one of the best puzzle games to come out so far. The game is good at teaching you all of the mechanics to the game through the first few levels. The game is definitely short but the short amount of time you get with this game is enjoyable. The game has a large replay value and the light amount of story and lore is fairly interesting.… Expand
  9. d3m0n1q_733rz
    Sep 25, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It was short and I beat it twice in one night. However, it has replay value to achieve different things and complete different challenges. For example, you need to beat the game once to unlock an achievement to find hidden radios throughout the game. Each radio will play either morse code or a SSTV sound to receive a message (a dial-up Portal server with special information). Another challenge is to find and destroy all cameras hidden throughout the game with portals.
    It's a fun game to share and play with friends.    … Expand
  10. Idiocracy
    Sep 30, 2013
    10
    Great game, perfectly executes everything that it attempts, its not artificial stretched out, its the perfect length, some some padded that is longer due to inane tactics. Yet some people still hate it just because other people like it, hmmmmm what are those people called, you know the ones that no one likes, oh thats right, coqhead hipsters
  11. JQLeitch
    Mar 23, 2016
    9
    Fantastic puzzle game with (at the time) innovative game mechanics. The story is also intricate and ambiguous.

    It's a very short game, but it's the absolute perfect length for this game, this is what IMO Portal 2 got wrong, it was far too long for the type of game it is, although considering the initial price of Portal 2 it's understandable why it's longer than an experimental game to    Fantastic puzzle game with (at the time) innovative game mechanics. The story is also intricate and ambiguous.

    It's a very short game, but it's the absolute perfect length for this game, this is what IMO Portal 2 got wrong, it was far too long for the type of game it is, although considering the initial price of Portal 2 it's understandable why it's longer than an experimental game to The Orange Box collection (Portal 1).

    The pacing is superb and ends up leaving you very satisfied.    … Expand
  12. karlohrabar
    Oct 5, 2013
    10
    A puzzle game that will get your brain working. Wrapped in a first-person shooter, this game provides excellent and clever puzzles along with a great story.
  13. midway23
    Nov 6, 2014
    9
    Although short, "Portal" is a gaming experience unlike any other. Mind bending puzzles, clean style, innovative portal mechanics and one of the best antagonist in a video game, this game will strike your heart and make you beg for more. Good news is, the sequel is even better.

    For the full review, check out "BathroomGamers" on YouTube :)
  14. MichMart
    Mar 1, 2014
    9
    Portal is for me the best puzzle game I've ever played! The atmosphere is really great and if you play it the first time, it's interesting to find out who the voice really is, what she exactly wants and how she looks like. My only issue is the short gameplay.
  15. DonutSquirrel
    Nov 9, 2013
    9
    This is a great game. The puzzles and the humor are really nice. Especially the lines spoken by Glados. I would recommend this game to anyone, or the Orange Box.
  16. Diddlethumb
    Oct 15, 2013
    8
    Short, but fun. It's really only a 2 hour game, but what the hell do you expect from a game stapled on to a bundle with larger games? It's a tad bit over priced if you consider how long the game is, but is definitely a great piece of Valve history. After all, it made one of the best games in our generation, Portal 2! Again, it's really the nostalgia and ingenious topic and concept thatShort, but fun. It's really only a 2 hour game, but what the hell do you expect from a game stapled on to a bundle with larger games? It's a tad bit over priced if you consider how long the game is, but is definitely a great piece of Valve history. After all, it made one of the best games in our generation, Portal 2! Again, it's really the nostalgia and ingenious topic and concept that saves this game from my iron foot of mixed reviews, as this game is short and fairly easy do not expect to play this game for longer than say, 12 hours, even with the challenge missions, but do expect to have a blast portaling while playing it! Once you finish it, definitely buy the sequel, with a much larger storyline as well as more complex and less easy challenges.… Expand
  17. jaroldo
    Oct 19, 2013
    10
    There are very few games out there where every single element is integral to the game. Portal is an amazing (albeit short) masterpiece of a puzzle game. Everything about this game is great, the gameplay, the visuals, the writing, the puzzles, the humour. If anything were taken away or changed it would cheapen the game and make it less than perfect.
  18. popisju
    Nov 27, 2013
    10
    The game is amazing. It is a perfect length and has the perfect gameplay. Its a fun puzzle game and a fun Portal FPS. I strongly recommend getting it.
  19. InfinityDJ
    Oct 29, 2013
    9
    Despite the length, it packs a good deal of every aspect to make a game great. The gameplay as a start is unique with portals and no guns used (by the main character). Being a puzzle game, it tests your mind and skill. Combine this with the sarcastic and hilarious directions of GLaDOS, and you get a solid gameplay. Yes, the puzzles may be simple but it mainly shows the basics and mechanicsDespite the length, it packs a good deal of every aspect to make a game great. The gameplay as a start is unique with portals and no guns used (by the main character). Being a puzzle game, it tests your mind and skill. Combine this with the sarcastic and hilarious directions of GLaDOS, and you get a solid gameplay. Yes, the puzzles may be simple but it mainly shows the basics and mechanics to the game.

    At the start, you might think that this is merely a puzzle game with little to no story, but close to the end you'll find a splash of story to follow up to the entire game. Other than GLaDOS, the game gave us some of the most memorable moments and characters in gaming. Not to mention that it gave us some of the funniest memes on the internet. If you are looking for a unique puzzler experience, and can forgive the length, pick up Portal from the Steam store. To rephrase that, get The Orange Box, with Portal and two other Valve hits, Half-Life 2, its expansions and Team Fortress 2 (gives you a premium account).    … Expand
  20. matheus_hk
    Oct 31, 2013
    10
    Awesome game. Unique concept and they really explored its potential. Thinking with portals is fun. Challenges your intellect and coordination.

    However, it may also be quite challenging for your guts (literally... especially when falling or flipping screen). So I'd also recommend following the regular breaks policy strictly when playing it. I bet 3 cents you'll either hear GLaDOS    Awesome game. Unique concept and they really explored its potential. Thinking with portals is fun. Challenges your intellect and coordination.

    However, it may also be quite challenging for your guts (literally... especially when falling or flipping screen). So I'd also recommend following the regular breaks policy strictly when playing it.

    I bet 3 cents you'll either hear GLaDOS voice or see "The cake is a lie" written on walls in your dreams for a while after clearing the game.    … Expand
  21. everin
    Oct 1, 2015
    8
    Tier 2
    + Obviously unique and compelling puzzle gameplay for its time
    + Marries gameplay and narrative expertly from start to finish
    ? Suffers somewhat from the weight of its own greatness when played years later, particularly due to a narrative and theme that insists upon itself so heavily
  22. JeRfY
    Nov 9, 2013
    10
    I love Portal! It's a great single player experience that will feel like no game you've played before. You're not shooting bad guys or trying to take down a helicopter like in a lot of other games. In Portal, you test your meddle in logic and some 3D platforming. Absolute must play for any person looking for a great single player experience.
  23. DominikCZE
    Nov 9, 2013
    9
    This must be the most original FPS/puzzle game ever created. Extremely fun puzzle solving of an unusual kind. All accompanied by a compelling story and the voice of a sarcastic super computer.
  24. fateappointed
    Feb 3, 2014
    9
    Story: 7 out of 10, Graphics: 8 out of 10, Fun: 9 out of 10, Controls: 8 out of 10, Ease to Learn: 6 out of 10, Length: 7 out of 10, Re-play: 3 out of 10, Value: 8 out of 10
  25. DeusXCom
    Jul 30, 2014
    9
    A lesson in effectivity in game design. Very short, but memorable, brain engaging, funny, atmospheric and in my opinion much better than Portal 2. 9/10
  26. DoUEvnLft
    Sep 30, 2014
    10
    One of the two only games I consider to be 'perfect'. This game is absolutely stunning. I cannot muster up the words to describe this masterpiece of game design.
  27. Nickolababaiko
    Oct 1, 2021
    9
    Отличная игра головоломка с видом так сказать из глаз)) Интересная идея....интересные задачи...интересная главная злодейка(веселила всю игру) Советую.
  28. AbstractWB
    Jan 15, 2014
    9
    Ah, Portal. A game of logic and puzzles. It's all about you, the portal gun and the levels. Nothing more. But, a bad thing of the game is that is VERY short. I think Portal 2 is bigger.
  29. Darth24
    Nov 4, 2015
    8
    Portal is a very unique, interesting and fun game that challenges you in many different ways and is one of the best puzzle game series of all time. The only real problem with this game is its short length, but to be fair it is pretty cheap to buy, so its not that big a deal, so I would still recommend this game to anyone looking for a new, unique and fun time.
  30. ItsMeInnit
    Jan 26, 2014
    10
    Challenging and puzzling but at the same time not painstakingly boring. If I had the option to change anything about this game, I don't think I would change anything, right down from the pacing to the level design.
  31. dyspeptic
    Sep 17, 2014
    8
    Last Played: May 2014

    PROS: + GLADOS is actually really funny + Looks good, even after 6 years CONS: - Really short and really easy - Neither revolutionary nor evolutionary REVIEW: If we are being honest, Portal is not a puzzle game, despite many claims to the contrary. It is a "puzzle-ish" game for people who like shooters. I liked that it was difficult to die, since it made it    Last Played: May 2014

    PROS: + GLADOS is actually really funny + Looks good, even after 6 years

    CONS: - Really short and really easy - Neither revolutionary nor evolutionary

    REVIEW: If we are being honest, Portal is not a puzzle game, despite many claims to the contrary. It is a "puzzle-ish" game for people who like shooters. I liked that it was difficult to die, since it made it easier to focus on finding solutions to the "puzzles", but even with easy deaths the hard part about this game isn't figuring out what to do, it is doing it with somewhat fiddly controls (played using an XBOX 360 controller). Still, if the game disappoints on puzzle satisfaction, it really delivers on dry humor. Your handler, GLADOS is very funny and when she sings the credits song you can't help but grin. The graphics are still shiny (some texture mapping looks bad, but doesn't detract too badly) even after 6 years, which is no small feat as games start to age. As others have said, the level of difficulty will probably see you finishing the base game in less than 3 hours, even if you get stuck-a disadvantage since it significantly boosts your $ cost per hour of entertainment. This also hurts a decision to buy because Portal introduced no really new elements to physics puzzlers nor did it do them especially better, it seems to owe its current popularity to previously high reviews (much like Angry Birds).

    Still, one of the best measures of a game is whether you'll remember it after you're done, and I have to say I will remember Portal. Just don't spend more than $5 on it.

    POST EDIT: I never expected to get a response to a review, but it seems some people don't agree that Portal may have been somewhat unoriginal in using a FPP on a puzzle game. Here's the thing: "Real Myst" (which implemented the developers original intention to allow a player to walk freely about the puzzle environments) was released in 2000 (i.e. much earlier than "Portal"), so you can't claim freedom of movement as revolutionary in a puzzle game (even if you did, there are zillions of node-based games I still consider to have done FPP puzzle first). Does slapping a "puzzle-gun" in your hands justify a "revolutionary" epithet? I think not.    … Expand
  32. ReviewScope
    Jan 19, 2015
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. ........................cake

    Pros:
    Cake
    Excellent level design
    Cake
    Humorous and perfect dialogue
    Cake
    Portal Mechanic is flawless
    CAKE
    Companion Cube
    CAKE!!!!!
    Still Alive
    CAAAAAAAAAAAAAKKKKKKKKKEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

    Cons:
    The cake is a lie :(

    A timeless c*ake*lassic*ake*

    10/10    … Expand
  33. Wolfestade
    May 5, 2014
    10
    Simply one of the most epic game of the past 10 years, only one defect,too short,maybe at your first play it can be hard ,but essentially the lack of longevity of the title is the only flaw, apart from that.
    this time the VALVE made ​​the point
  34. k_9
    Sep 24, 2014
    10
    Excellent game. Recommendable for gamers of all ages. Hilarious and full of fun. The only thing that I disliked is that it was too short! I also loved the ending song "Still Alive". 10/10 blindfold ;)
  35. PublicNuisance
    Apr 4, 2022
    9
    I give Portal a lot of praise because it manages to take a genre I don’t normally like, puzzle games, and make it highly enjoyable for me. Part of that is it’s humour, which is fantastic, but it also take’s what is a very basic concept and makes it complex without being annoying. At it’s core you make up to two portals, but it’s up to you to figure out where to put them and how to use themI give Portal a lot of praise because it manages to take a genre I don’t normally like, puzzle games, and make it highly enjoyable for me. Part of that is it’s humour, which is fantastic, but it also take’s what is a very basic concept and makes it complex without being annoying. At it’s core you make up to two portals, but it’s up to you to figure out where to put them and how to use them to get to the end of a room. What I loved most was that for most of Portal it was very logical, it didn’t feel cheap or trying to be overly difficult for no reason. While a few times I felt stumped for a bit I always was able to figure things out because the game wasn’t being cheap in any way. The voice acting for Glados was some of the best I have seen and really made what would have been a great game into a classic. The end credits still make me smile to this day. The graphics were decent for it’s time, neither mind blowing or an eye sore. They have a very clean look to them for much of the time until near the end where you get into the bowels of the facility. The clean looking rooms were nice although the more dingy parts later showed the age of the engine more. The game does a great job of dropping hints about the lore as well as tying it into the Valve universe with Half-Life.

    I played Portal on Linux. It never crashed and I didn’t notice any bugs. There are nine graphics settings; four AA settings; six AF settings; a v-sync toggle and an FOV slider that goes from 75-110. Alt-tab didn’t work. You can manually save whenever you want. Performance was fantastic which wasn’t shocking given the age of the game.

    Game Engine: Source
    Graphics API: OpenGL
    Disk Space Used: 3.88 GB

    Graphics Settings Used: 8xAA; 16x AF; 100 FOV; v-sync on; all settings at highest except blur off
    GPU Usage: 17-60 %
    VRAM Usage: 1009-1448 MB
    CPU Usage: 3-11 %
    RAM Usage: 3.1-4.2 GB
    Frame Rate: 132-144 FPS

    Portal is a game that many will enjoy and still holds up today. It was a lot of fun and combines great game play with voice acting and presentation. It also does a great job of not overdoing it and not overstaying it’s welcome. Anyone should at least try the demo to Portal. I finished it in two hours and thirty one minutes. I paid $49.99 CAD for it as part of the Orange Box years ago and it is easily worth it’s current price tag of $11.49 CAD.

    My Score: 9/10

    My System:

    AMD Ryzen 5 2600X | 16GB DDR4-3000 CL15 | MSI RX 580 8GB Gaming X | Mesa 22.0.0 | Samsung 970 Evo Plus 500GB | Garuda Soaring White-tailed-eagle | Mate 1.26.0 | Kernel 5.17.1-zen1-1-zen | AOC G2460P 1920*1080 @ 144hz    … Expand
  36. TaraDarveaux
    Jun 5, 2014
    10
    It's short and sweet. One of my favorite games. It's so much more than a creative puzzle game. The story is fantastic, so don't you dare play without the sound.
  37. Tomle1202
    Jun 14, 2022
    9
    Portal is a how a game should be made: with innovation and a hell lot of humor.
  38. carlosgtardon
    Jun 10, 2014
    10
    Uno de los juegos imprescindibles en cualquier colección. Una mecánica sencilla que lleva a niveles de emergencia y de resolución de problemas nunca vistos antes, además de ser muy divertido para experimentar locuras con las físicas.
  39. Twirkkhu
    Jun 11, 2014
    10
    This game gives me shivers every time I talk about it. It's so good! The mechanics in this game are amazing, and jumping in and out of portals just never gets old. Even though it's short, it clearly is a phenomenal game that will be remembered for years.
  40. jojopeterjohn
    Jun 15, 2014
    10
    This game is amazing. It's snappy and smart, And has a great concept! It's a very unique game, And I can (And have) played it over and over. Most definitely worth the $10!
  41. Ecresis
    Jun 25, 2014
    9
    Everything has already been said on that game. It's a genius idea, it's funny as hell, it's relaxing. I got it for free and bought Portal 2 at full price to thank the creators of this game. Short lifespan but really worth it !
  42. runner
    Jan 23, 2016
    9
    Portal!!
    After the game's got so much critical acclaim, seems like there's not much to add, only to ask myself how didn't I play it sooner.
    I would start then with a very short list of the things that DID bother me, First, well, the length of course. Nothing new here. I do believe it simply wasn't meant to be too long in the first place but more like a side content to The Orange Box    Portal!!
    After the game's got so much critical acclaim, seems like there's not much to add, only to ask myself how didn't I play it sooner.

    I would start then with a very short list of the things that DID bother me,
    First, well, the length of course. Nothing new here. I do believe it simply wasn't meant to be too long in the first place but more like a side content to The Orange Box back in the day, but still.
    Also, soundtrack was a little disappointing in my opinion.
    And, before completing the main game, I've seen that there are "challenges" and "advanced maps", and imagined that they would add more content to the game, but figured out later that these are merely a revisions of the original maps from the campaign.

    So, just let me confess here, that Portal didn't completely live up to my expectations. (~Hiding myself from possibly thrown objects~)
    As this game is so positively accepted I did expect something more.
    Being so short and the lack of additional content in the base game didn't help much.
    It was fun but ended too soon, and the story just felt... meeeh.
    And the challenges started to feel too crazy for me as soon as they started depending on trial and error or some luck, facts which I don't like!

    I did grow a lot fonder of Portal as I played through the developers commentary.
    Hearing their thoughts and the game-making process made me appreciate everything much more, somehow.
    I even liked better that "Still Alive" song which at first seemed bizarre and weird to me.

    Anyway, I'm not going to fully review this game and describe all of it's good aspects, because you probably know them already, and if not (!?) then you should experience it yourself, even by trying the demo.
    Just wanted to share my little story of falling in love with the game.

    Portal is without a doubt a very extraordinary puzzle game, brilliantly original, and I doubt we'll ever see any other game of the kind. Many other games tried to follow Portal's lead and so far I didn't encounter much success among these attempts.

    It goes constantly on sale, and it's actually worth the full price of 10$ as well.
    If you didn't already, it's time to play!    … Expand
  43. robomartion
    Oct 22, 2019
    9
    Never mind the fantastically innovative gameplay or the mind boggling puzzles that will keep you stuck for longer than you might care to admit, what makes Portal shine is its worldbuilding and its twisting and turning plot. Its a short experience but will stay with you for years to come.
  44. ShockyPie42
    Jul 18, 2014
    10
    One word perfect,this game was perfection in a nutshell,if you haven't got this game go out and get it straightaway it was fantastic,supercalifragilisticexpialadoshus if you will
  45. Ydun79
    Feb 11, 2019
    9
    This game is so much fun. Amazing gameplay and funny. It doesn't take too long and you are bound to want to play it again.
  46. smilzoboboz
    Oct 4, 2014
    10
    Just buy it, full stop.

    Great scenarios, great plot, great graphics, perfect bgm.
    Also, after you clear game story-line (which I have to say it's actually really short, like 3 hours) you have access to challenges and bonus maps to test yourself and it's awesome.

    I think this is my first 10/10, rarely fully enjoyed myself like with this one.
  47. soylinda21
    Aug 27, 2014
    9
    An extremely smart, witty game that is satisfying in every possible way. The puzzles are quite challenging, but you rarely get stuck because the solutions are intuitive. Loved the puzzles, loved the sinister A.I.'s deadpan humor, and absolutely adored the end song Still Alive.
  48. gloriouspotato
    Oct 3, 2014
    9
    Portal is one of those games you should start and finish in one sitting, so you can experience it all without interruption. It's a short game for sure, but for a puzzle game like this, a shorter length somehow feels appropriate so that it doesn't overstay its welcome.

    The puzzles were fairly standard during the earlier levels, and it wasn't until later where more complex thinking was    Portal is one of those games you should start and finish in one sitting, so you can experience it all without interruption. It's a short game for sure, but for a puzzle game like this, a shorter length somehow feels appropriate so that it doesn't overstay its welcome.

    The puzzles were fairly standard during the earlier levels, and it wasn't until later where more complex thinking was required. But for me, it's not the puzzles that make Portal good, but rather the whole atmosphere and setting of the game. I found myself not really looking forward to the puzzles as I was looking forward to the next piece of voice acting that would showcase Portal's brilliant dark humour. But dig a little deeper and you notice that behind the humorous facade, is a rather disturbing and sad story. Finding the Ratman dens adds a layer of suspense and the ambient soundtrack emphasises the sense of loneliness and isolation. None of this is explicitly told either, rather you're guided to make these conclusions by more subtle hints.

    I'm also impressed that the game successfully made me feel sorry for my Companion Cube, despite it being an inanimate object. Love the credits song too.

    Overall rating - 8.6/10    … Expand
  49. LighGaiden
    Oct 2, 2014
    10
    Portal as a start was just an experiment solely for the physics heavy portal mechanic that a small team in Valve got to work on, this meant that they didn't have a big budget and had to cut corners, which lead to what made the game so good. They had to cut all the unnecessary fat from it leaving us a short game where everything that was in it needed to be there making a short but great experience.
  50. headspacej
    Dec 20, 2016
    10
    There's not much to say about this one that hasn't already been said. And yes, I know I'm nearly a decade behind the times, but I finally got this in 2016 and loved it just as much now as I would have when it released. I generally hate first-person games, but this one hooked me hard and didn't let go, mostly through the writing, humour and ingenious puzzles. A masterpiece.
  51. NoofenLP
    Aug 25, 2014
    8
    Portal is a great game, that can frustrate you sometimes, and it is short. Once you trained, the game ends. I must recommend this to anybody. Without the frustration and the length, portal is a Perfect game.
  52. PlayGreatGame
    Sep 4, 2014
    10
    10/10 Just play it. you won't regret it. 150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150150
  53. thryce3
    Nov 28, 2022
    10
    One of the greatest of all time. Makes you laugh while it makes your brain hurt.
  54. honzah70
    Oct 11, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game have got all - great mechanics, g. story, g. soundtrack, g. graphics and g. community. Of course, it's made by Valve. Only bad thing is short story. And the cake is not a lie.… Expand
  55. Loughdough
    Sep 28, 2014
    8
    Amazing story with a great puzzle system. Portal features test chambers, with a very dark secret. You play as Chell, a test subject, with a grudge against the evil mastermind of the facility, GLaDOS.
  56. Kaprawiec
    Aug 11, 2017
    10
    This game is just perfect. I cant recommend it enough. I still listen to the end game track in my car which is absolutely gorgeous and fun and I also use it as a wake up ringtone - it always makes me smile even if im still sleepy im still alive ;)
  57. Machine1211
    Nov 17, 2015
    9
    Hell of a fun game! A perfect example for the case when a very simple idea can work just very fine if the context is well done. The game doesn't need a specific story, not even a very varied game play, still the great humour and the well crafted puzzles make it adorable.
  58. cononda
    Jul 10, 2023
    10
    Beste KI seit HAL 9000 und SHODAN. Nicht zu lang, nicht zu schwer, so geht Spielpass.
  59. root_
    Nov 15, 2014
    9
    The puzzles available in the game are great but still they are easy,but the more you get into the game, it takes a hold on you and that one thing the "ULTIMATE ANSWER " with the famous tag lines all over the wall the "Cake is a lie" and you have to get along with some easy-to-go instructions from the cruel GLaDOS !
    overall the game is fun , the part when GLaDOS actually wants to end the    The puzzles available in the game are great but still they are easy,but the more you get into the game, it takes a hold on you and that one thing the "ULTIMATE ANSWER " with the famous tag lines all over the wall the "Cake is a lie" and you have to get along with some easy-to-go instructions from the cruel GLaDOS !
    overall the game is fun , the part when GLaDOS actually wants to end the protagonist and how things go after that till the very end till that song "Still Alive"( was at the moment very creepy)

    great game again by the :Valve Corporation that depicts the world how humans follow artificial intelligence

    looking forward to play Portal 2    … Expand
  60. augus1990
    Nov 16, 2014
    10
    Portal is the perfect combination between puzzle, 3D graphics and good physics simulation. Also it has a touch of dark humour given by the trainer computer called GLaDOS that will follow your training FOREVER.
  61. Odogreviews
    Dec 3, 2014
    10
    Portal series by far is the best puzzle game franchise out there. The original Portal revolutionized gaming. The controls are easy and simple. The dialogue and story is spot on. Definitely a must play game.
  62. mcaakgun
    Jan 10, 2015
    10
    It is one of my favorite games. It can be short however, it has got great graphics and sounds for 2007. It needs lot strategy and logic to finish the chambers.
  63. Sandweech
    Mar 9, 2015
    10
    Everything that you've heard about 'Portal' is true. Well, if you've heard nothing but great things about it, that is. Because this is easily one of the greatest puzzle games to ever be created. Hell, it may even be one of the greatest games created, period. It's like 'Half Life 2' but on crack! You thought crack was bad for you, didn't you? Well it turns out that crack is good whenEverything that you've heard about 'Portal' is true. Well, if you've heard nothing but great things about it, that is. Because this is easily one of the greatest puzzle games to ever be created. Hell, it may even be one of the greatest games created, period. It's like 'Half Life 2' but on crack! You thought crack was bad for you, didn't you? Well it turns out that crack is good when combined with elements of puzzle solving and first person shooters. 'Portal' may be short, but it's pretty damn cheap too. And when you take into consideration the difficulty of the added challenges after you've completed the story, it should take a decent amount of time to complete. Nevertheless, it's refreshing to see a first person 'shooter' without bullets and if you haven't picked this game up, along with the rest of the 'Orange Box', that's something that you should probably be doing right about now.… Expand
  64. BaganLeleo
    Jul 14, 2015
    10
    This game is amazing, great graphics, great music, great humor, great gameplay, great everything, while it can get difficult at times, and it is short, this game is still a masterpiece.
  65. Pharamo
    Apr 12, 2015
    10
    Before this game came out, I'd never have thought that a game which sole focus of game-play would be puzzling could be an actual AAA-like quality game. Well, Valve has proved me wrong. While undeniably short, the small amount of time you do invest in this game is priceless. This is a truly unique game, one that inspires the future industry and will give rise to even greater game-playBefore this game came out, I'd never have thought that a game which sole focus of game-play would be puzzling could be an actual AAA-like quality game. Well, Valve has proved me wrong. While undeniably short, the small amount of time you do invest in this game is priceless. This is a truly unique game, one that inspires the future industry and will give rise to even greater game-play mechanisms. Aside from the game-play, the atmosphere provided by the characters and story are amazing. That clinical feeling, where everything is so white and bright like a hospital that it is suspicious of hiding its darkness and reddened of blood walls. Glados, who is hands down, one of the most memorable characters ever, acting like a mother so caring that she is suspicious of hiding her psychopathy. The humor adds to it as well and wraps up the game in a nice package that can more easily be delivered to whatever person that doesn't dislike the concept of fun. The puzzles were quite easy though, but that makes it more enjoyable for a broader audience. You can recommend this game to nearly everybody which makes it even more genius.… Expand
  66. JuanLuisGG14
    Aug 2, 2017
    8
    Beautiful, sweet like a cake (you see what i mean if you played it) but too short
    Yeah, it is excepcionally short, and that is its biggest flaw
    Concept and level design are amazing though
    8/10
  67. breakbacon
    Oct 5, 2015
    10
    The only thing that is not perfect about this game is that it is not Portal 2, that being said it is still almost just as good, just a little lighter on the story.
  68. Nuker
    Jun 27, 2015
    9
    - Good: Story, Writing, Gameplay, Concept, Puzzles, Humour
    - Mixed: ---
    - Bad: ---

    Fantastic game with fresh gameplay and hard enough puzzles. Very entertaining.
  69. arasion
    Jan 14, 2016
    9
    i give it a nine out of 10 even though portal 2 is the real success portal is much better in a game play perspective i loved the puzzles but what annoys me is how short the game is i payed 15 dollars and i finished the game in 7 hours but still i cant say too much about the narrative but i guess it good because there is cake of course but still if you like gameplay this is for you and ii give it a nine out of 10 even though portal 2 is the real success portal is much better in a game play perspective i loved the puzzles but what annoys me is how short the game is i payed 15 dollars and i finished the game in 7 hours but still i cant say too much about the narrative but i guess it good because there is cake of course but still if you like gameplay this is for you and i never faced any technical issues and the ending song is awesome .… Expand
  70. Cmmcfreire
    May 12, 2020
    8
    Story - n/a
    Gameplay - 9/10
    Graphics - 8/10
    Soundtrack - 8/10
    Levels - 7/10
    Replay value - 8/10
  71. Kopter
    Oct 23, 2015
    9
    Una obra maestra, no es un 10 por la segunda parte. Hay que jugar los dos Portal si es que te gustan los videojuegos lo más mínimo. Indispensable. Queremos el 3.
  72. janosbiro
    Oct 27, 2015
    10
    Portal is a contemporary version of Chaplin’s Modern Times. The main character is a woman stuck in the machine, but the contemporary machine is no longer constraining the individual through repetitive body movements in order to produce material goods. The contemporary machine plays with our emotions in order to create science. What kind of science? It is probably neuroscience. GLaDOS isPortal is a contemporary version of Chaplin’s Modern Times. The main character is a woman stuck in the machine, but the contemporary machine is no longer constraining the individual through repetitive body movements in order to produce material goods. The contemporary machine plays with our emotions in order to create science. What kind of science? It is probably neuroscience. GLaDOS is not really testing a gun that makes portals. It is testing Chell’s emotional reactions. GLaDOS is fascinated by the human mind the same fashion a taxidermist is fascinated with animals. Portal 2 even explains this obsession. A lot more could be said, but not without spoilers, so play this game if you haven’t already.… Expand
  73. Erik7013
    Nov 28, 2015
    10
    One of the best games ever made! The atmosphere is so mysterious and "it felt like someone was watching you all the time" in the whole game. The dark humor is perfect!
  74. Wiebe
    Feb 26, 2020
    9
    Original, fun, simple but deep, the best puzzle game out there, what more is there to say?
  75. gennaroRonnega
    Nov 16, 2015
    9
    they managed to pack some sort of narrative in a 3D puzzle game with original puzzles mechanics. nearly perfect game that you wish to replay, it can't get old.
  76. 4y4
    Feb 15, 2020
    10
    Portal games are just awesome! Best puzzle solving games out there. Everyone should play it!
  77. SrPepe
    Nov 28, 2017
    9
    Un juego que pasa a la historia. Es divertido y no paras de jugar hasta que lo terminas. Cortito pero innovador con un concepto genial y bien manejado. Una excelente villana.
  78. IshaanChaudhary
    Jun 5, 2016
    10
    Short but one of the game of its own type... Could have some story-line for better involvement. Though the concept is unique and yes, it;s still 9/10 in my point of view. Must play game.
  79. j0sete
    Jun 8, 2016
    9
    Juego que me impresionó totalmente, pocos juegos me impresionan hoy día.
    La primera vez que escuché de él fue porque steam lo regalaba tras la salida de su segunda parte, el caso que me lo bajé para echarle un vistazo y vay, me tiré tooodo el dia y la noche delante del PC hasta que me lo acabé jajaja eso si que fue un vicio.
    Los puzzles que te plantea resolver me encantaron y hoy días    Juego que me impresionó totalmente, pocos juegos me impresionan hoy día.
    La primera vez que escuché de él fue porque steam lo regalaba tras la salida de su segunda parte, el caso que me lo bajé para echarle un vistazo y vay, me tiré tooodo el dia y la noche delante del PC hasta que me lo acabé jajaja eso si que fue un vicio.
    Los puzzles que te plantea resolver me encantaron y hoy días los sigo disfrutando. Es el ejemplo de como un juego no tiene por que ser violento para entretener y como en un par de minutos se puede enganchar a un jugador.    … Expand
  80. RoboElle
    Jun 23, 2016
    9
    I hadn't played a video game IN YEARS before I picked up Portal, so I was pretty blown. And despite not having played in so long, it was easy to familiarise with the gameplay as it nods to classic puzzle games. The story is simplistic perfection, and it's an all-women cast. The game itself is brilliant, all the little twists and surprises are well-worth it. I recommend this to beginners,I hadn't played a video game IN YEARS before I picked up Portal, so I was pretty blown. And despite not having played in so long, it was easy to familiarise with the gameplay as it nods to classic puzzle games. The story is simplistic perfection, and it's an all-women cast. The game itself is brilliant, all the little twists and surprises are well-worth it. I recommend this to beginners, hardcore gamers -heck! I'd recommend it to my parents.… Expand
  81. FilemonBR
    Aug 19, 2016
    9
    Um jogo diferente e inovador, muito bem feito, voce tem que sair de um jogo sadico de um computador, cheio de puzzles e alguns inimigos, mas o mais legal do jogo é como voce usa a sua arma
  82. Ishi123
    Mar 10, 2017
    9
    Portal is one of those rare games that comes along that manages to be both unique and incredibly successful. Released basically as a stocking stuffer and an apology for he long wait between Half-Life Episodes 1 and 2, Portal managed to become something entirely of its own caliber. It is an incredibly well-done experimental physics-based puzzle game that has become one of gaming'sPortal is one of those rare games that comes along that manages to be both unique and incredibly successful. Released basically as a stocking stuffer and an apology for he long wait between Half-Life Episodes 1 and 2, Portal managed to become something entirely of its own caliber. It is an incredibly well-done experimental physics-based puzzle game that has become one of gaming's centerpiece masterworks.

    The game does exactly what it advertises: you go through some well thought-out and intuitive portal-based puzzles through a very short, but memorable campaign. Added with some witty and dark humor, provided by your instructor, GLaDOS, the game is incredibly well done, with a tight focus and nothing wasted. GLaDOS herself has become one of gaming's icons due to her excellent dialogue that makes her so lovable despite the fact that she puts you through life-threatening situations constantly and then outright tries to kill you, with the credits theme becoming so well known that people who don't even play video games can recognize it.

    In the game, you use your "Aperture Science Handheld Portal Device", or just the Portal Gun, to shoot portals onto surfaces that connect one point to another. The concept is used to its fullest, with just a handful of mechanics going a very long way with multiple iterations on the same concept that never feel stale. Through the use of portals you'll use momentum to launch yourself across chasms, redirect energy balls into receptacles on the other side of the room, drop cubes onto buttons from the far end of the area, drop cubes onto sentry turrets to knock them over, and a bunch of other things that will test your mind and your resourcefulness, the later levels especially requiring some thinking and a lot of times quick reflexes. The concept is so simple, yet is used in so many varying ways that it's just a blast to figure out all the puzzles that always incorporate iterations of things you've already learned. Though there is a somewhat harsh difficulty curve towards the later end of the game, it's certainly not insurmountable if you've got the wits and the perseverance for it (looking at you, Chamber 18).

    The game is damn brilliant and there's nothing else like it... well, except for Portal 2, but even then, Portal itself stands as a very compelling and experimental little project that is fun and charming while also testing your mind and patience with some of the more difficult puzzles the game has to offer. Though a small game, and while some may lament this fact, I personally think the length is perfect for what it is. Portal is definitely one of those games that everyone should play at least once, because chances are nothing like it will come out ever again.    … Expand
  83. Gamesearcher1
    Dec 21, 2018
    8
    I wasn’t a person who enjoyed puzzle games much, due to there not being enough innovation in any of them. Then I played Portal and I was truly blown away. Yes, the game’s length is something that should be considered, even being completable in one or two sittings, taking only three hours. But its what it does in that time that really seals the deal. The portal gun is an incrediblyI wasn’t a person who enjoyed puzzle games much, due to there not being enough innovation in any of them. Then I played Portal and I was truly blown away. Yes, the game’s length is something that should be considered, even being completable in one or two sittings, taking only three hours. But its what it does in that time that really seals the deal. The portal gun is an incredibly well-designed and very interesting concept, and you’ll be hard-pressed to not muck around it at least once in the campaign. Throughout the game, new concepts such as turrets are added in to make more a challenge. The humour is great, with GLADoS’ dialogue being written nice, but the game also knows where to stop itself, a large reason why the game is so hilarious. The game looks pretty good for a 2007 game. It’s not bad looking by any stretch of the imagination, and you shouldn’t be playing this game for its visuals. To rap things up, Portal is a must-play due to its unique take on the first-person shooter genre, and while you might be scared of its short length, picking it up in the Orange Box is a brilliant idea.… Expand
  84. frederik1478
    Jan 31, 2023
    10
    It feels like a horror game with the music being so quiet and the voice acting being so cold you can almost feel as a kind of cold hate coming from it. the portals are so fun to play It's amazing that they even make this game 2007. It's truly is the highlight of the Orange Box.

    In the later half of the game they make you use your brain a lot more when you can't use the normal porto    It feels like a horror game with the music being so quiet and the voice acting being so cold you can almost feel as a kind of cold hate coming from it. the portals are so fun to play It's amazing that they even make this game 2007. It's truly is the highlight of the Orange Box.

    In the later half of the game they make you use your brain a lot more when you can't use the normal porto sit-ups and it feels like a jungle of metal you are pushing through.

    The song in the games credit is the most adorable I had heard.

    Please play this game. It's one of the best you can use 2 Hours on and you will be satisfied. Only sad thing is there is only 2 hours of it, but there's a sequel that is not as good but can satisfy you if you need more of the game puzzles.    … Expand
  85. MaxEagle
    Feb 23, 2017
    10
    After watching Portal's 2 walkthrough on the Youtube I can say with all the sureness. There shouldn't be any sequels. Portal is a very innovative game. It's very well balanced in case of duration and entertainment. I've beated this game on a single breath. Yeah, the Portal 2 is far more complicated and deep, especially in dialogues and plot, but it doesn't give such a pleasent andAfter watching Portal's 2 walkthrough on the Youtube I can say with all the sureness. There shouldn't be any sequels. Portal is a very innovative game. It's very well balanced in case of duration and entertainment. I've beated this game on a single breath. Yeah, the Portal 2 is far more complicated and deep, especially in dialogues and plot, but it doesn't give such a pleasent and innovative experience as the original game.
    My word is 10 of 10    … Expand
  86. xRabia
    Apr 18, 2020
    9
    Metacritic forces me to write a seventy-five character review so that I can have my notes listed without searching game by game.
  87. PizzaW0lf
    Nov 22, 2021
    8
    Portal is a first-person puzzle game made by valve and released in 2007. It combines the brilliance of the portal gun and the source engine to provide satisfying puzzles to solve.

    - Story The story of portal is fairly simple with a lot of undertones and lore for the player to interpret. You start off in a test chamber and are filled with the duty to run the experiment. As it turns    Portal is a first-person puzzle game made by valve and released in 2007. It combines the brilliance of the portal gun and the source engine to provide satisfying puzzles to solve.

    -
    Story

    The story of portal is fairly simple with a lot of undertones and lore for the player to interpret. You start off in a test chamber and are filled with the duty to run the experiment. As it turns out, While the base story is very simple it serves the purpose to motivate the player enough to get to the end. However, if you look into the lore it provides a much deeper context to the game. Small tidbit, the portal universe actually takes place in the same universe as half-life and there's a rivalry going on between aperture labs and black mesa. Another point towards the story is the subtle storytelling through the game art and walls. Kinda like Metroid and Legend of Zelda: Breath of the wild.

    -
    Gameplay
    The gameplay is where this game really shines through like a hidden gem. It makes use of the brilliantly made portal gun to solve puzzles on the next level. You can use it for various situations like using momentum to launch yourself higher or transport other objects like a companion cube. You really have to play it to know it but overall the gameplay serves its purpose well for this type of game.

    -
    Presentation
    I'm not much of a graphics guy so i'll keep this segment short. The graphics in this game are well done. And by 2007 standards this game makes great use of the source engine. It's not Crysis but it does look good and runs really well.

    -
    Conclusion
    While I feel this game is slightly over-hyped it really does a great job immersing you into the world of portal and has really great level design akin to a Nintendo game. I would highly recommend picking it up especially on a sale.    … Expand
  88. wpatri04
    Mar 12, 2017
    9
    This game preys on our feelings of uncertainty, unease, speculative and cynical curiosity. The driving force of the game is a computer named "Glados" who guides you through a series of test chambers to test your critical thinking using Portals. Is Glados a force of good, a force of evil, or a purely neutral force who relies on mystery and the unknown? The mood that her voice creates isThis game preys on our feelings of uncertainty, unease, speculative and cynical curiosity. The driving force of the game is a computer named "Glados" who guides you through a series of test chambers to test your critical thinking using Portals. Is Glados a force of good, a force of evil, or a purely neutral force who relies on mystery and the unknown? The mood that her voice creates is more atmospheric than some atmospheric games try to achieve with music, visuals and story. Her monologue writing is top-notch. The game length is quite short, but very rewarding and packed with more mystery than a mystery novel or film. Be prepared to USE YOUR BRAIN, and to start "thinking with Portals."… Expand
  89. maciappula
    Jul 11, 2020
    8
    One of the best puzzle game i've ever played in my life.

    Loved it from the beginning.
  90. Diegochocho
    Jul 5, 2018
    8
    Me sorprendió lo profundo que fue este juego, tiene rompecabezas entretenido, y una gran historia.
    La música de los créditos me hizo llorar :'(
  91. bdurmaz
    May 8, 2017
    9
    The puzzles are really well-designed. They are neither too hard that you lose the incentive to play, nor too easy that you don't enjoy them that much.

    The humour, on the other hand, is where Portal excels. Very well-written dialogues and the tension overall is what makes it maybe the best puzzle game ever.

    A true classic.
  92. CowDude121
    Jun 2, 2017
    9
    It may be only 2 hours, but it's a modern video game classic everyone should try.With a collection of puzzles, humorous dialogue, memorable final boss and great story to back up to Portal 2.
  93. Nixinova
    Aug 7, 2017
    10
    Portal is one of the best games. I played it after I played Portal 2, and the 10-year-old graphics were surprisingly not that bad. The game concept sold me, and I have now played quite a few Portal 1 & 2 mods. I would definitely recommend this game for people who want a simple puzzle game experience.
  94. auditbadger
    Jul 30, 2017
    10
    I think that this is truly a unique game and I would recommend that if you are a fan of this type of genre then I think you should give this game a try.
  95. Shawndroid
    Feb 26, 2018
    10
    A really fun first-person ray-gun based puzzle game. Best one I've played so far.
  96. Shivipivi
    Mar 7, 2020
    10
    Portal and its sequel are the best puzzle games ever made. Portal has incredible level design, gameplay, aesthetics, story and voice attacking, and even though the game is short there is more to do once you finish.
  97. aditya1101
    Oct 5, 2017
    8
    Easily one of the most well known and innovative PC games of all time. GLaDOS is an incredible villain, and really does an incredible job selling the atmosphere of this game. Just a treat to play.
  98. Axilley
    Jul 22, 2021
    9
    good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good goodgood good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good good… Expand
  99. RagingPoet
    Dec 2, 2017
    10
    "This was a triumph, I'm making a note here, huge success"

    I think Portal is the best game to recommend someone who was into video games before. Not really hard, but not insultingly easy too, interesting concept, decent visuals, amazing main antagonist, good sense of humor, but almost 0 replay value. It can be finished in one evening and that is probably the best way to play it. Also    "This was a triumph, I'm making a note here, huge success"

    I think Portal is the best game to recommend someone who was into video games before. Not really hard, but not insultingly easy too, interesting concept, decent visuals, amazing main antagonist, good sense of humor, but almost 0 replay value. It can be finished in one evening and that is probably the best way to play it.
    Also arguably the best end credits in video game, the song is stuck in my head for 10 years already.    … Expand
  100. Interphaser
    Nov 22, 2017
    8
    This was a triumph. Im making a note here, huge success. A really good puzzle game. Its as exciting as puzzle games can get. But lets be real. Its still a PUZZLE game. 8/10
Page:

Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best PC Game of 2007
2
#2 Most Discussed PC Game of 2007
9
#9 Most Shared PC Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
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. IGN
    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.
    Read full review
  2. PC Gamer UK
    92
    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.
    Read full review
  3. Eurogamer
    90
    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.
    Read full review
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