Half-life 2 seems destined to be remembered as one of the most epic single-player experiences on the Xbox.
From the opening seen, Half-life 2 pulls the player in, offering a moody and realistic environment. The characters convey their emotions very well, and help to create the feeling that you are in a desperate world. When the action starts, the game kicks into high gear, and doesn't seem to let go until the credits role. Every chapter offers something new and exciting to see and do.
The graphics in the Xbox version of Half-life 2 are difficult to describe. On one hand, they're an amazing accomplishment, but on the other, they have many technical flaws. The characters and environments look very natural, and all of the characters in the game animate realistically. The water and particle effects are also top notch, and from a distance, the textures look very sharp and impressive. However, the falts in Half-life 2's presentation are almost immediately recognizeable. Textures look very muddy and low res up close. Also, the frame rate is very inconsistant. Of course, the framerate doesn't really ever drop enough to inhibit gameplay, but it does get a bit laggy, particulary right after each load time.
The gameplay is very intense and immersive. The diversity of the gameplay is virtually unrivaled, and it really helps to draw you into the role of Gordon Freeman. Little graphical effects, like the way that glass breaks away, really help to keep you focusing on the game. The enemy AI is agressive and responsive, and will react realistically to your every move. The driving physics are really touchy, but they usually don't cause too much grief. The puzzle solving in the game is pretty good for the most part. It can get confusing and monotonous at times, but it usually offers something new and refreshing before it gets too bad. The physics are also top notch, and everything in the environment acts realistically. The gravity gun does a great job of manipulating the games outstanding physics system.
The audio in the game is amazing. Everything from voice acting to weapons effects are spot on. Explosions and gunfire really make you feel like you're on the edge on your seat the whole time. The original soundtrack in th game is incredible, and always seems to have something to fit the mood, from epic instrumentals to gentle ambient tracks.
The experience itself will last anywhere from 10-15 hours, depending on player skill, and how quickly you can master the many puzzles that the game throws at you. The game deffinately warrants at leats a second play through. Overall, Half-life 2 is an epic single-player experience, that should not be missed by any Xbox action fan who doesn't own a top-of-the-line PC.