The older I get, the more I appreciate the Half-Life games and their monumental impact on the first-person shooter genre. Revisiting Half-Life 2 for its 20th anniversary—after a decade since first completing Episode 2—has only solidified its place as my favourite game of all time.

Despite hearing close friends dismiss Half-Life as "terrible," "irrelevant," or "hAlF lIfE HaS wRiTeRs?" playing through the series again reminded me of its brilliance. The immersive world-building, revolutionary physics, Kelly Bailey’s unforgettable soundtrack, the chilling ambient noises, and believable characters create a gaming experience that remains unmatched.

If you’ve never given Half-Life a chance, I urge you to do so. Yes, it may lack modern-day dopamine hits like flashy cosmetics, instant rewards, and flashy bright colours, but for those willing to explore its environments and absorb its narrative, Half-Life offers a depth and immersion rarely found in today's gaming landscape.