The highest standard for game development...
Everyone expects the graphics and sound to have a certain standard when it comes to PC games. Half-Life 2 is no exception. Large maps and nice enviroments brings the game's visuals to life. It is one of the best-looking games for the PC -even after a year from its release- an achievment that isn't too easy to reach. But you may be asking: How powerful of a computer do I need? Well that's one of the great things about HL2, it doesn't take a very souped-up computer to run. Even a computer several years old can run the game at nearly the highest settings, a great example showing how good development can over-come anything.
Sound, as a feature, is catching-up to graphics. But HL2 isn't a game that you should worry about. All the guns have a distinct sound that really is impressive with a good surround-sound system. Any action you make will make some kind of sound that is always welcomed. From walking knee-deep in water, to opening a rusted door- they will all have just the right sound. Music isn't from recognized bands, which is something I like in a game. Although the music maybe unknown to you, it still has the right feeling and comes on at the right time to get you pumped enough for a killing spree!
Gameplay
A keyboard and mouse has always been the best controls for a FPS, the only thing that sets games apart is from how you access everything using the duo. For selecting weapons, the standard scroll wheel lets you select the weapon of your choice. Each weapon is catagorized by their type; which, at times, can get a bit hard to get the right weapon out during a fire-fight. But what saves HL2 from the horror is the swap weapon button, mapped to the tab key on default.
The maps in HL2 have a complex design, which is welcomed in anybody's book. But it isn't complex enough to confuse a player, but to give them a choice on how to complete the mission. I'm not saying that the game is completely non-linear, but it does try to hide it.
Overall
Half-Life 2 is another master-peice that is destined to become a classic, just like its older brother. The 7-years of waiting it definatly worth it. With the great storyline, characters, graphics, and level design; its a sure-win for anybody that plays games.