You can now relive the groundbreaking Half-Life 2 like never before as Valve celebrates the iconic game’s 20th anniversary. A massive update has been rolled out, merging the base game with its expansions, Episode One and Episode Two. This allows you to play through the entire story seamlessly. The update also includes a two-hour documentary, developer commentary, and a wealth of other surprises. Even better, the game is free to play on Steam until November 18, making this the perfect time to revisit or discover the legendary title.
A unique experience for fans
Valve didn’t just stop at game updates—they’ve turned their announcement into a playful experience. On their official page, you can grab a gravity gun at the bottom of the screen and interact with objects, tossing them around. For those who remember the infamous can in the game’s opening scene, you can even put it in the bin if you feel nostalgic.
The update itself is a labour of love. “Valve-level designers have looked over every map in Half-Life 2 to fix longstanding bugs, restore content and features lost to time, and improve the quality of a few things like lightmap resolution and fog,” the team explains. The release notes provide an in-depth look at the changes, which include enhanced graphics settings, refined gamepad controls, and improvements to the Steam Deck menu.
Behind-the-scenes and future releases
For collectors and enthusiasts, there’s even more good news. Valve has announced an expanded second edition of Raising the Bar, the 2004 behind-the-scenes book that has become a prized possession among fans. The new edition, set to release in 2025, will feature additional concept art from Episode One and Episode Two and ideas and experiments for the elusive third episode that never materialised.
Valve has also shared rare demo videos from Half-Life 2’s early development, offering a fascinating glimpse into how the game evolved. This retrospective look will surely delight fans who have followed the series since its inception.
A celebration to remember
Half-Life 2’s 20th-anniversary update isn’t just a nostalgic trip—it’s a chance to experience the game in its best form yet. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer, Valve’s efforts to refine and expand the experience ensure the game’s legacy continues to shine. Don’t miss your chance to enjoy it for free on Steam until November 18.