I've played EP1 two times (on my third), and I am pleased to say, it's still a great experience. It really exceeded my expectations, in certain respects. The atmosphere, Alyx AI, the story did it's job explaining how Gordon got out of Gman's grasp and introducing new mysterious elements (the transmission, Mossman in the Arctic). So, here's how I rate Ep1:
Atmosphere 10/10: From the dynamic skybox showing the Citadel's state (changing back to meltdown status later), the Citadel's fiery orange interior, to the layers of ash falling to the ground during the intro, as well as the dark corridors of Lowlife, to the sadistic hospital, Valve nailed the atmosphere. It exceeded even the original's atmosphere by a noticable margin, and that of any game to date.
Alyx AI: The First time I saw Alyx throw back a Zombie, to stepping on a headcrab, I was highly impressed with the Alyx AI. She could crouch, very rarely got in the way, and was just a joy to fight alongside with.
The Story: Many have complained about the story, I don't know why. There was a fair amount of it in the game. But the main goal was to explain getting out of the Gman's grasp, and escaping the city. Which it did do.
So, all in all, I was highly impressed by Ep1, and will definitely pick up the second episode.
Atmosphere 10/10: From the dynamic skybox showing the Citadel's state (changing back to meltdown status later), the Citadel's fiery orange interior, to the layers of ash falling to the ground during the intro, as well as the dark corridors of Lowlife, to the sadistic hospital, Valve nailed the atmosphere. It exceeded even the original's atmosphere by a noticable margin, and that of any game to date.
Alyx AI: The First time I saw Alyx throw back a Zombie, to stepping on a headcrab, I was highly impressed with the Alyx AI. She could crouch, very rarely got in the way, and was just a joy to fight alongside with.
The Story: Many have complained about the story, I don't know why. There was a fair amount of it in the game. But the main goal was to explain getting out of the Gman's grasp, and escaping the city. Which it did do.
So, all in all, I was highly impressed by Ep1, and will definitely pick up the second episode.
