The inferior game between the two episodes, but still a blast!

Yes, it's very short. It took me 3.5 hours to complete it. At the same time, EP1 is polished as hell. Not having any weapons other than the Gravity Gun, in the beginning, freaked me out a bit, but I got through the first chapter and soon I had my weapons again.

Getting the crowbar back actually got me teary. That's an insane achievement for an FPS. I emoted loudly, drawing my wife's attention. I couldn't believe how much I missed it :)

Graphics got a nice bump in EP1. Everything looks sharper and more detailed. Lighting was improved as well -- it definitely felt more natural. I'm still amazed at what Source can achieve.

In short, EP1 was over too soon, whetting my appetite for Episode 2. If you own the Orange Box (one of the best values in gaming, ever) prepare to be amazed.

The inferior game between the two episodes, but still a blast! Yes, it's very short. It took me 3.5 hours to complete it. At the same time, EP1 is polished as hell. Not having any weapons other than the Gravity Gun, in the beginning, freaked me out a bit, but I got through the first chapter and soon I had my weapons again. Getting the crowbar back actually got me teary. That's an insane achievement for an FPS. I emoted loudly, drawing my wife's attention. I couldn't believe how much I missed it :) Graphics got a nice bump in EP1. Everything looks sharper and more detailed. Lighting was improved as well -- it definitely felt more natural. I'm still amazed at what Source can achieve. In short, EP1 was over too soon, whetting my appetite for Episode 2. If you own the Orange Box (one of the best values in gaming, ever) prepare to be amazed.