Half-Life 2 is absolutely stunning. I’ve only played a little of it, and I’m not about to add my review to the hundreds already appearing on the net, suffice to say it’s not like anything we’ve seen before.
Initially you want to slow down and look around at the incredible environment (an oppressive City 17 is the location), but you’re too busy running. It’s not the sort of game where you can pick off the bad guys until they’re all dead and then you can move on. The gameplay is engrossing and believable. For the first part of the game you just have to run and shoot, taking advantage of cover and following your instincts as to which is the best way to run. Even Kim said, “Wow that looks so real” when she appeared in the room to find out what I was up to.
Thanks Valve, the wait WAS worth it. I’m going to savour this.
