Oh Valve, How You Steal My Heart -- Half-Life 2

Half-Life 2

Following one of the best video games to ever be made with a sequel seems like a near impossible challenge, especially with the rules changed so much. What I mean by this is that back in 1998 there were only a handful of games that tried to follow a narrative. This was partially due to a lack of technology, and partially due the immaturity of the industry. When it came to Half-Life 2, a little of the ridiculous was shaved off the edges of the Half-Life formula. Gone were the random teleportation sequences or errand platforming missions. Half-Life 2 seemed, from the beginning, to take itself much more seriously.


It makes sense to change the formula, what is another alien shooter with military baddies in a world populated with Halo and other war games. The feeling is immediate that the world is not without order, on the contrary, order in being mandated rather heavily. Upon starting the game you are almost immediately introduced to this scenario as you are forced to witness abuse by the authority with no ability to help or save the victim. You feel powerless as you start to move through the gates and are herded wherever the Combine soldiers feel like sending you.

As it turns out, you are immediately introduced to the idea that this isn't a run and gun game. Sometimes it's best to find a way around. You are also introduced to the idea that you alone cannot succeed and will need the help of your allies. This game is a must play for any fans of adventure, puzzle, shooting, and platforming games. I think it's time for a <ul>.

• New array of weapons
• Clearer enemy
• Great use of Havok
• Transition to character driven story
• Huge adventure elements
• New methods of transportation
• A clear goal
• Oh, and of course, Alyx Vance

So, as Gordon Freeman, you progress through some of the most elaborate environments I've ever seen in a game just to get back to your friends. Really, if you think about it, the whole [spoiler spoiler spoiler] leading up to the final [spoiler] with Breen, was only to get back to Eli after the disaster that sent you to Ravenholm.

Turns out, someone at Valve figured out how to make awesome AI for both enemies and allies. It's actually preferable to work as a team in this game. Remember Nova Prospekt? Pretend you weren't sad when Alyx left your side. Anyways, Gordon becomes the big hero of the day finishing the game by wielding one of the most amazing weapons ever conceived. After beating the game the first time, I started it over. That's just the kind of game it is.

Lists are fun you say? Let us <li> about my top five favorite things about Half-Life 2 to finish up.

1. The zero point energy field manipulator
2. Physics gameplay
3. Alyx Vance
4. Ravenholm
5. First Level

Alyx image from Half-Life 2: Episode 1 Steam page. Box picture from Wikipedia Half-Lfie 2 page.