So, i'm thinking about playing Half Life 2

[Sacman]

play it. you don't need to play the first to appreciate the second...

 

[TelHybrid]

It's not mandatory, but it does give you a better understanding of some events and plot points.

I would recommend playing the original anyway just because it's a good game, as are its expansions.

Edit: Why are people so against playing the originals? So many threads saying "should I play *insert sequel name here* without playing the original?", are people really that against games because of a bit of graphical ageing.

Yes I agree except in the case of Just Cause and Just Cause 2. Just Cause 2 is rollicking good fun, Just Cause is bollocks. Not because of graphics, but because of it sucking.

Oh agreed. It's not always worth playing the original first. Driving games prove this.

 

[suhlEap]

I was gonna get around to doing that too but since my computer is teh suckass I would probly just go pick up a cheap copy of Orange box for the 360, get a free shot at getting past level 30 on portal again..but yeah, if you have an xbox, orange box has half life one and two, so if you can sink the extra time its a fairly cost efficient shot at getting the whole picture.

That being said, a steam buy of number two is probly easier.

orange box doesn't have half life 1...

 

[WelshDanny]

Ive been kinda interested in the fan remake, Half Life: Black Mesa?

Looks promising enough.

That might be something to look for.

Or not.

You know, either way is totally cool.

I guess.

That's been going for about 5 years now, and all updates have ceased. It's essentially vapour ware, the duke nukem forever of the mod world. Except this one is a genuine loss. Then again, tf2 was 9 years in development, so you never know!

Ot: I've never played the first, and I don't really think you'll miss on much story wise if you haven't played it. It's all self contained, and aside from a few references it's pretty separate.

http://kotaku.com/5626525/half-life-remake-black-mesa-tantalizingly-previewed

It has made a recent comeback. It looks goooood.