When Half-Life 2 launched in 2004, it didn’t just meet the high expectations set by its predecessor — it shattered them. Widely considered the greatest sequel in video game history, Half-Life 2 took everything that made the original iconic and elevated it with cutting-edge technology, emotionally rich storytelling, and groundbreaking gameplay mechanics. It is not just a sequel — it is a milestone in gaming, and it deserves a place on GOG to be preserved and experienced DRM-free by current and future generations.
Half-Life 2 revolutionized the FPS genre with its advanced physics engine. The introduction of the Gravity Gun turned the environment into a weapon, letting players interact with objects in ways never seen before. Whether launching saw blades at zombies or solving physics-based puzzles, it made the world feel alive and tangible.
The storytelling was subtle and immersive. Gordon Freeman, still silent, was surrounded by deeply human characters like Alyx Vance and Dog, who gave the story emotional depth. City 17 felt like a living, breathing dystopia under Combine rule, and the worldbuilding pulled players into a narrative filled with resistance, hope, and oppression.
Even today, Half-Life 2 stands tall as a technical and creative triumph. Releasing it on GOG would honor its legacy by giving players a DRM-free version optimized for modern systems. It’s more than a game — it’s a masterpiece, and it’s time for it to find a new home on GOG.