One of the most iconic and undeniably ground-breaking video game openings ever is that of revolutionary PC FPS Half-Life, which begins as protagonist Gordon Freeman is catching the train into the Black Mesa research facility. This 5-minute literally on-rails train ride gives us a chance to soak in the environment we'll be spending most of the game, and was at the time of the game's release one of the most visually ambitious scenes ever depicted in a video game. The vaguely creepy robotic voice-over and shady images (namely a very brief glimpse of G-Man) help to create a sinister tone from the outset before anything even goes wrong. From the second we stepped foot off the tram, we knew we were in the hands of masters. Still, for many, this inventive opening sequence wound up being the most praise-worthy aspect of the game.
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.
