Episode One is an amazing achivement, the only problem is that its over before you know it.
The fact that the game is basically a third of the origonal plan, means that it only clocks in at about 5 hours, but don't think that it wont be time well spent, Episode one sticks to the basic formula that half life 2 put into to place. That formula being Non stop action and puzzles, and valve delivers on every front.
The story picks up Immediatley where Half life 2 Left off. If you havent
played half life 2, then I won't spoil anything for you here. All i'll say is that your task is to get out of city 17 as fast as possible, doing whatever it takes.
Gameplay is a non stop thrill ride that keeps you on the edge of you seat. the game has a nef feature where alyx is by your side for almost the entire game. This add something new to the franchise and gets away from the Superhuman army of one mechanic found in most of half life 2, and also Alyx's AI is so good, you sometimes think that it's a real person next to you. the same goes for the enemies. The combine are no pushovers, and belive me, they wont go down without a fight, you'll actually have to use your head to survive.
As always, the presentation is top notch. the Graphics are great, the story is actually interesting, the voice acting is awesome,and the characters are memorable. This is the standard that all First Person Shooters should follow.
So, if you liked Half life 2, well chances are you bought this game and beat it on day one. If you are wondering wether to jump on the half life band wagon with this one, I recommend you play the origional first to keep up on the story. but no matter which half life you play, you wont be dissapointed.