Half-Life was such a breath of fresh air when it hit the PC in 1998 that it was difficult to fathom how Valve could possibly outdo themselves. However, when Half-Life 2 finally hit stores after a massive delay in late 2004, they instantly proved how. This is every bit the bigger and better game that any sequel, video game or otherwise, needs to be: it takes the (mostly) singular location of the original game and throws Gordon into a more sprawling locale, complete with vehicle sections, the ability to control creatures called Antlions, and of course, the Gravity Gun, which instantly took its place as one of the greatest weapons ever conceived (sitting just behind the Portal Gun). In addition to this, the inclusion of memorable characters such as Alyx Vance and her father Eli gave the game plenty of additional personality, and the return of fan favourite Barney was certainly a fun touch as well. And of course, what would Half-Life be without the villainous, creepy-as-hell G-Man? With superlative set-pieces, one of the creepiest levels in video game history (Ravenholm...we dare even speak its name), insane action and a huge variety of gameplay, Half-Life 2 is every bit the sequel fans deserved, and makes us skeptical that Valve could possibly ever top it for Half-Life 3 (if it even comes out). Did we miss any of your favourite FPS games from the last decade? Let us know in the comments!
Stay at home dad who spends as much time teaching his kids the merits of Martin Scorsese as possible (against the missus' wishes).
General video game, TV and film nut. Occasional sports fan. Full time loon.
