nicked on 24/9/2012 at 21:51
Just finished it. Definitely a mixed bag. Some things were really well done, well thought out improvements to the original, and some really cool things (like the houndeyes).
Others were just frustrating or pointless. The human AI is massively frustrating rather than challenging because it feels unfair. They're more boring to fight as they have insta-reactions, hitscan weapons, and the actual AI seems a bit poor (they rarely use grenades, and often bunch up outside doorways). They cut out almost every mini-puzzle (for example, having to place boxes over a puddle of water so that you can jump back across after it's electrified - replaced by just a hallway).
I dunno - it's very impressive for an amateur mod, but if I feel like replaying Half-Life in the future, I'll go and replay Half-Life and probably not play this again.
ZylonBane on 25/9/2012 at 00:24
I just noticed that the tapes on the reel-to-reel tape drives spin in opposite directions. D'oh.
Vasquez on 25/9/2012 at 04:36
Quote Posted by Sulphur
Vasquez? Could you visit henke and beat him up for those of us who actually prefer the original because of, I dunno,
taste!?
I hunted him through ice and snow, fighting off polar bears and penguins, but alas, he sought refuge in Santa Claus's home. I can hear them playing and laughing at the lame-ass music :erg:
Kolya on 25/9/2012 at 08:36
Currently at "Power Up" and enjoying the ride. One thing that bugs me a bit is how there isn't anything to be won for the thorough explorer. Last night I saw a single crate on a hard to reach ledge (right above that radiated waste water turbine) and there was nothing in it. This is just an example. I don't know how many times I've thought, well this would have been a nice place to hide some goodies, but there was nothing. Instead ammo and power ups are strewn in the most obvious places. The level design is also rather linear. Whenever I found a secret passage I soon noticed I had to find it because it's the only way. Of course the game is huge and you get to see lots of places, so it shouldn't be a big deal, but somehow it is for me. I feel I'm supposed to rush forward instead of looking around and that's not my playstyle. I'm aware that these are problems of the original game. The goodie distribution could have been made better though. The linear design is a gripe I had with HL2 and the episodes as well. I guess it's just how Valve do things.
june gloom on 25/9/2012 at 09:54
uhhhh
the HL2 games are pretty good about stashing items in out-of-the-way places
faetal on 25/9/2012 at 11:07
I was going to say the same. In fact, I'd argue that's likely what gave you the urge to check out the crate on the ledge (I know the one you mean, I did the same).
Muzman on 1/10/2012 at 03:31
The end.
Oh, so when they were saying Xen was re-imagined, or whatever, that was a joke. Well fair enough I guess. There's a few things about this that made it seem they just wanted it out the door, which I understand.
ZylonBane on 1/10/2012 at 14:53
Quote Posted by Muzman
Oh, so when they were saying Xen was re-imagined, or whatever, that was a joke.
Uh, no, it wasn't. All the media has been very clear that this is a
partial release. They aren't done yet.
