Summary
A great game but a poor sequel.
The Good
Gameplay is great, the graphics and overall atmosphere is consistent with the story and the amazing engine works wonders like allowing you to play the original Half Life game.
The Bad
It is painfully obvious to me that this game is not the best or anything close to that.
I hate to compare games but since HL2 is the sequel to one of the most amazing games of all time I had no other choice.
Enemies in HL2 are repetitive, the levels too linear in a way you can't take any alternative routes and some levels especially the ones you play with vehicles seemed out of place for an FPS.
The story is too simple and filled with strange ideas that don't resemble the previous game at all.
HL2 didn't change much from the original in terms of innovation, I had the same problem while playing Doom 3, I don't mean it's the same game with a different engine but in my opinion they need to push something more than the technology.
The Bottom Line
Half life was an incredible game that set a new standard for FPS games everywhere. Half Life 2 is a great game but one that will probably fade away in a few years.
Buy HL2 because it is a good game but don't expect too much from it. I see it this way "At least it's not Deus Ex 2".
