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Half-Life 2: Deathmatch

The Dead Island Definitive Collection looks better than ever, but leaves room for improvement in areas like frame rate.
Half-Life 2: Deathmatch Game Cover
80%Game Brain Score
gameplay, graphics
stability, grinding
91% User Score Based on 6,777 reviews
Critic Score 63%Based on 6 reviews

Platforms

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Half-Life 2: Deathmatch Game Cover

About

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a single player and multiplayer survival hack and slash game with horror and science fiction themes. It was developed by Valve and was released on October 31, 2004. It received mostly positive reviews from critics and very positive reviews from players.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a multiplayer-focused game set in the Half-Life 2 universe, offering both deathmatch and teamplay modes. Experience stunning visuals and innovative physics-based gameplay, where you can manipulate objects and weapons to your advantage. With the option for co-op and single-player modes, engage in fast-paced action, tossing toilets and other objects at friends or AI opponents, but be aware of occasional bugs.

Genres & Tags
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91%
Audience ScoreBased on 6,777 reviews
gameplay100 positive mentions
stability26 negative mentions
  • gameplay
    274 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The gameplay of "Half-Life 2: Deathmatch" is characterized by its fast-paced, chaotic combat that effectively utilizes the physics engine from the original Half-Life 2, particularly through the iconic gravity gun. While many players appreciate the nostalgic charm and addictive nature of the mechanics, some criticize the limited variety in game modes and the repetitive gameplay that can arise from its simplicity. Overall, it offers a unique multiplayer experience that blends traditional FPS elements with creative physics-based interactions, making it enjoyable for both casual and competitive players, despite its aging mechanics and dwindling player base.

    • “The fight mechanics are exceptionally polished and satisfying.”
    • “Every elimination feels exhilarating and earned, creating an addictive gameplay loop that keeps you coming back for more.”
    • “The combination of fast-paced action, innovative physics mechanics, and a vibrant community makes 'Half-Life 2: Deathmatch' a must-play for any fan of competitive shooters.”
    • “The gameplay is too fast-paced and lacks the tactical depth of more polished multiplayer shooters like Team Fortress 2.”
    • “The game's weapons and gameplay mechanics are underwhelming, with no new or exciting features to set it apart from other first-person shooters on the market.”
    • “Despite this seeming variety in gameplay, the game can feel quite basic in terms of mechanics and tactical options, creating an experience that feels perhaps too generic compared to its more modern contemporaries.”
  • graphics
    124 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The graphics of the game are often praised for their stunning realism and impressive quality, especially considering its release nearly 20 years ago. However, many reviews note that while the visuals were groundbreaking at the time, they now appear outdated compared to modern titles, with some users expressing disappointment in the aging graphics. Overall, the game maintains a decent graphical standard that still appeals to fans, particularly those nostalgic for the original Half-Life 2 aesthetic.

    • “The graphics are so stunningly realistic that you'll feel like you're watching real footage of someone running through actual environments with a head-mounted camera.”
    • “I am still surprised how it was possible to make such a graphically and physically good game almost 20 years ago.”
    • “The graphics are great and the gameplay is awesome.”
    • “Aged graphics – while the Source engine was impressive in its day, the visuals may seem outdated compared to newer FPS titles.”
    • “Age shows: it’s an older game, so don't expect modern graphics or matchmaking systems.”
    • “Firstly, the graphics are terrible.”
  • humor
    114 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The humor in this game is widely praised for its chaotic and physics-based gameplay, leading to countless hilarious moments, especially when players use unconventional weapons like toilets and barrels. Many reviews highlight the fun of playing with friends, where the unpredictable ragdoll physics and absurd scenarios create a lighthearted atmosphere, making it a memorable multiplayer experience. Overall, players find the game to be a source of endless laughter, with a community that embraces its silly and comedic nature.

    • “The physics-based combat system creates memorable moments that you'll be laughing about years later.”
    • “Players battle it out using iconic weapons like the gravity gun, which allows for creative and hilarious kills using environmental objects.”
    • “The maps are familiar, the gameplay is smooth, and the crazy ragdoll physics make every match unpredictable and hilarious.”
  • story
    76 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's story is often described as minimal or overly simplistic, with many players noting that it primarily serves as a backdrop for gameplay rather than a central focus. While some appreciate the connection to the Half-Life universe and the thematic elements involving factions, others find the narrative confusing or lacking depth. Overall, the consensus suggests that the game prioritizes fast-paced action over a compelling story, making it more of a multiplayer experience than a narrative-driven one.

    • “Absolutely thriving game, engaging story.”
    • “I like the story, the characters, and setting.”
    • “Even after all the years this game has come out, it still has an active community and great storyline.”
    • “☑ no story”
    • “There isn't a story whatsoever, because that exists in a different game - Half-Life 2 of course.”
    • “This game is literally just Half-Life 2, but instead of playing through a story, you play as a rebel or combine, and fight the other faction.”
  • stability
    27 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's stability is frequently criticized, with many users reporting numerous bugs, glitches, and issues such as broken hitboxes and chaotic gameplay. While some players find the bugs add to the fun and charm of the game, the overall consensus is that the stability is poor, with frequent exploits and a toxic community detracting from the experience. Despite these issues, some still enjoy the gameplay, indicating that the fun factor can outweigh the technical shortcomings.

    • “Really fun, runs great, and it looks superb (especially for a 2004 game!)”
    • “I wouldn't recommend anyone to play this game just because of the many bugs and glitches you can see on the servers, and also the toxic community and player base itself.”
    • “With the exception of Counter-Strike, this game is/was one of the most exploited, buggy, and hacked multiplayer games on the Source engine.”
    • “Full of bugs and glitches; also, Valve 'updates' it regularly, which breaks even more than it fixes.”
  • grinding
    23 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The reviews indicate that grinding in the game is often viewed as excessively time-consuming and tedious, with many players feeling it requires an unrealistic commitment, likening it to needing a "second life." While some acknowledge that grinding can be manageable or even enjoyable at times, the overall sentiment leans towards it being a monotonous and lengthy process.

    • “A lot of grinding.”
    • “One long, tedious grind.”
    • “Monotonous, tedious, mediocre.”
    • “A bit grindy... sometimes.”
  • music
    21 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The music in the game elicits mixed reactions from players, with some enjoying the immersive soundtracks that enhance their gaming experience, while others express frustration over poorly chosen tracks or disruptive music played by server admins. Overall, the quality of the music varies significantly, with some players finding it enjoyable and others deeming it a negative aspect of their gameplay.

    • “I relaxed for 5 minutes listening to this music, long enough to realize that I would be okay.”
    • “Put on some music and it's actually pretty damn fun, too.”
    • “The graphics are simply amazing, the soundtrack immerses you in the whole experience, and it's the kind of game where you sit down to play, and the next thing you know it's 4 am.”
    • “I have joined in the last 5 minutes of a match on some server, and as soon as the match was over and Katy Perry music started playing, I instantly closed the game and never touched it again.”
    • “Joining some other server: random people, some poorly made custom maps, and terrible music broadcasted right into your headphones!”
    • “Sound also remains minimal with no music.”
  • replayability
    12 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the replayability of Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is viewed positively, with users appreciating its modding support and community-generated content that enhance the experience. However, some players note that the limited game modes can lead to repetitiveness, making it less replayable compared to other titles like Counter-Strike: Source. Ratings for replayability range from 6.5 to 8 out of 10, indicating a solid but not exceptional replay value.

    • “The gameplay may look simple at first glance, but it’s a perfect example of how Valve turned a tech demo into an endlessly replayable experience.”
    • “✅ Modding support – the game has a strong community of modders who provide custom content, maps, and mods that enhance the replayability of the game.”
    • “Although I prefer playing some of the newer/modern games, Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a classic with infinite replay value.”
    • “While not as replayable as Half-Life 1: Deathmatch or as engaging as other titles released at the same time like Counter-Strike: Source, there's still fun to be had in Half-Life 2: Deathmatch.”
    • “Just spend your 5 bucks on something more replayable!”
    • “Replay value: 6.5/10”
  • optimization
    10 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Overall, the game's optimization is generally praised for providing smooth gameplay on modern and low-end hardware, with responsive controls that enhance the combat experience. However, there are notable issues on the Steam Deck and some reports of poor optimization affecting multiplayer performance. While many players find it runs well, a few express concerns about balance and connection stability.

    • “✅ Smooth gameplay – the game runs smoothly on modern hardware, with fast, responsive movement and controls that make combat enjoyable.”
    • “ Good optimization, works on my low-end laptop.”
    • “The game has been optimized for great performance, even on lower-end computers.”
    • “I really wish this was optimized for the Steam Deck because it does not render graphics properly as of writing this review.”
    • “This is HL2DM; it's still alive and kicking, so try it out if you can handle it. However, the optimization is also bad, and people have terrible connections.”
    • “It is very, very unbalanced and not very optimized.”
  • atmosphere
    9 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its eerie and immersive qualities, reminiscent of the iconic Half-Life series, enhanced by impressive lighting, sound effects, and thoughtful level design that keeps encounters fresh. However, some users feel that while it captures the essence of its predecessor, it may not fully meet expectations, with mixed ratings reflecting a range of opinions on its atmospheric execution.

    • “The use of lighting and special effects is impressive, with realistic sound effects that add to the game's immersive atmosphere.”
    • “This game succeeds greatly at keeping the same great Half-Life 2 atmosphere and environments.”
    • “Especially with the wonderful atmosphere of the second part of the legendary game.”
    • “Eerie atmosphere”
    • “Plus, they carry that distinctive Half-Life atmosphere.”
    • “Atmosphere: 5/10”
  • monetization
    8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    The monetization aspect of the game is largely praised for its absence of microtransactions, loot boxes, and season passes, allowing players to enjoy a straightforward experience without the pressure of spending money for advantages or cosmetics. However, some users noted the presence of in-game ads and described the maps as feeling lifeless, suggesting a mixed reception regarding the overall monetization strategy.

    • “It's also quite refreshing to revisit an online shooter that's not plagued with microtransactions and season passes.”
    • “I like the lack of microtransactions; this way I can play the game without the constant desire for advantages or cosmetics that cost money.”
    • “No ranks, no skill groups, no unlocks, no microtransactions, nothing. You just join a server and that's it; every single player is equal, no cosmetics, no nonsense.”
    • “Even the maps felt lifeless, and in some cases, were cluttered with weird in-game ads despite owning the game.”
    • “Cash grab move from Valve?”
    • “No ranks, no skill groups, no unlocks, no microtransactions, nothing, you just join a server and that's it, every single player is equal, no cosmetics, no bullshit...”
  • emotional
    6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative

    Players express a mix of nostalgia and emotional connection to the Half-Life franchise, particularly highlighting the bittersweet memories associated with "Half-Life 2: Deathmatch." While some find satisfaction in playful interactions, others reflect on the emotional impact of community experiences, with the closure of long-standing groups evoking genuine sadness. Overall, the emotional resonance of the game is tied to personal memories and community bonds.

    • “Throwing a toilet at his face maybe didn't make up for the emotional damage he caused by sinking my head in one when I was a kid, but it surely was satisfying.”
    • “No time on any Steam game was as much fun as the time I spent on 'Half-Life 2: Deathmatch' *cough totallynotgmod9 cough*. Although the community I ran with has closed the final chapter in their story (this made me cry, I'm not even kidding), I would recommend getting the game just for memories.”
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63%Critics’ scoreBased on 6 critic reviews
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51h Median play time
432h Average play time
5-900h Spent by most gamers
*Based on 17 analyzed playthroughs
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Frequently Asked Questions

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a survival hack and slash game with horror and science fiction themes.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is available on Xbox Series X|S, PC, Mac OS, PlayStation 4 and others.

On average players spend around 432 hours playing Half-Life 2: Deathmatch.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch was released on October 31, 2004.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch was developed by Valve.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch has received very positive reviews from players. Most players liked this game for its gameplay but disliked it for its stability.

Half-Life 2: Deathmatch is a single player game with multiplayer and local co-op support.

Similar games include Deathmatch Classic, Team Fortress Classic, Ricochet, Murder Miners, Left 4 Dead and others.