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Half-Life 2: Episode One

Also known as: Half-Life II: Episode One

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Way better than The Phantom Menace

Words: Ben Richardson, GamesRadar UK
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Episode One is a satisfying combination of the familiar and the new. It's a constant rollercoaster of taxing but rewarding challenges, many of which intentionally subvert the expectations of anyone familiar with Half-Life's style of gameplay.

Any quibbles - we were always going to want it to be bigger - are minor. Indeed, the frustrating command system that gave orders to citizen squad-mates in Half-Life 2 has been replaced by better, more reliable AI. And Episode One's superior pacing, voice-acting and storyline make other games look stupid in comparison.

Half-Life 2: Episode One demonstrates how games ought to be made, forged by dedication, imagination and more than a little risk-taking. It's an outstanding, stirring experience. And, with two more episodes due between now and the end of 2007, things are only going to get better.

You'll love
  • A-grade storyline and atmosphere
  • Superb dual character mechanic
  • The focus on kinetic, tactical gameplay
You'll hate
  • It's another cliffhanger
  • Another long wait for answers
  • Ultimately, not much

 
The Knowledge

Half-Life 2: Episode One

Release date: Dec 11, 2007
Published by: Electronic Arts
Developed by: Valve
8 GREAT
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