Half-Life 2: Deathmatch

90%
Game Brain Score Based on 4,104 reviews
  • gameplay
  • graphics
  • humor
Half-Life 2: Deathmatch Game Cover
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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.

  • Mac OS
  • PC
  • Windows
  • Linux
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

90%
Audience ScoreBased on 4,104 reviews
gameplay62 positive mentions
grinding4 negative mentions
  • gameplay183 mentions

    The gameplay of "Half-Life 2: Deathmatch" is characterized by its fast-paced, chaotic combat that combines classic deathmatch mechanics with the unique physics and weaponry of the Half-Life universe. While the core mechanics are solid and engaging, some players find the experience somewhat dated and lacking in depth compared to modern shooters, with issues like server activity and balance affecting overall enjoyment. Despite these drawbacks, the game remains a fun and accessible option for both newcomers and long-time fans, especially with its modding potential and vibrant community.

    • “Offering both classic gameplay and modern enhancements, this title appeals to fans of competitive shooters.”
    • “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.”
    • “With its fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled gameplay and dynamic multiplayer mechanics, 'Half-Life 2: Deathmatch' is a game that is sure to keep players engaged and entertained for hours on end.”
    • “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, especially with the lack of advanced movement tech (rocket jumping, bhopping) present in other, similar games.”
    • “Unfortunately, most active DM servers run mods that make all weapons' shots nearly a one-hit kill and reduce the gravity to beyond Martian levels of severity, with most of the gameplay depth eliminated as a result.”
  • graphics92 mentions

    The graphics of Half-Life 2: Deathmatch, powered by the Source engine, are generally praised for their impressive visual fidelity, detailed environments, and dynamic lighting, especially considering the game's 2004 release. While some players note that the graphics show their age and may not meet modern standards, many agree that they still hold up well and contribute to an immersive gaming experience. Overall, the visuals are regarded as a strong point of the game, appealing to both long-time fans and newcomers.

    • “Visual fidelity: utilizing the source engine, deathmatch showcases impressive graphics with detailed environments and dynamic lighting effects.”
    • “The graphics in Half-Life 2: Deathmatch are stunning. The characters and weapons are also detailed, and the visuals set the tone for a great gaming experience.”
    • “The game's detailed and realistic visuals and atmospheric sound effects allow players to fully immerse themselves in the game's world, creating a sense of tension and excitement that is unmatched by other multiplayer games.”
    • “Age shows: it’s an older game, so don't expect modern graphics or matchmaking systems.”
    • “Firstly, the graphics are terrible.”
    • “The graphics have now aged and not many people still playing.”
  • humor70 mentions

    The humor in this game is widely praised, with players highlighting its comedic elements, such as ragdoll physics and absurd interactions, which lead to hilarious moments, especially in multiplayer settings. Many reviews emphasize the fun of playing with friends, where the game's lightheartedness and quirky mechanics create a joyful atmosphere, often filled with laughter and unexpected antics. Overall, the game is described as a funny experience that stands out for its entertaining gameplay and humorous community interactions.

    • “I just think it's funny that the screenshots haven't been updated for 20 years.”
    • “Ridiculously short time to kill, most weapons are unbalanced, and every encounter is somewhat funny because someone is most likely going to ragdoll into the air or crumple like a sack of potatoes.”
    • “This multiplayer is just too fun not to give it a try, it's best to play it with friends because of how funny it can be at times.”
  • story48 mentions

    The game's story is described as complex and sometimes difficult to follow, with many players noting that it often takes a backseat to gameplay. While some appreciate the narrative set within the Half-Life universe, others feel it lacks depth or coherence, leading to a mixed reception regarding its storytelling. Overall, the game is seen as more focused on fast-paced action than on delivering a compelling narrative.

    • “Overall good story.”
    • “Absolutely thriving game, engaging story.”
    • “Valve's games are some of the highest quality, most visually stunning, superb story and gameplay available.”
    • “The game includes a themed team deathmatch variant based on the factions in the game's story, but there is no real scenario; you just shoot at what comes in front of you. The weapons, location designs, and characters are compatible with the main story, but the gameplay becomes repetitive.”
    • “There isn't a story whatsoever, because that exists in a different game - Half-Life 2, of course.”
    • “This game is fast-paced gameplay focused on deathmatch/team deathmatch, where you fight as two factions from the Half-Life universe. Your mission is to kill as many enemies as you can, and while it includes weapons from Half-Life 2, it lacks a meaningful story.”
  • music17 mentions

    The music in the game is a mixed bag, with some players praising its atmospheric qualities that enhance immersion and tension, while others express frustration over poorly chosen tracks and disruptive sound effects. While some find the soundtrack relaxing and enjoyable, others have had negative experiences with in-game music choices, leading to a lack of engagement. Overall, the music can significantly impact the gaming experience, either enhancing it or detracting from it depending on the context.

    • “The atmospheric sounds enhance immersion, while the soundtrack ramps up tension during gameplay.”
    • “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.”
    • “☐ masterpiece music 10/10”
    • “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!”
    • “Fans of multiplayer maps with no gravity that end rounds with copyright-infringing uses of James Brown songs will be thrilled.”
  • grinding17 mentions

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

    • “A bit grindy... sometimes.”
    • “Decent grinding.”
    • “A lot of grinding.”
    • “You'll need a second life for grinding.”
    • “One long, tedious grind.”
    • “Monotonous, tedious, mediocre.”
  • stability16 mentions

    The game's stability is frequently criticized due to numerous bugs and glitches, which some players find endearing while others see as detrimental to the experience. While many acknowledge that these issues can add a quirky charm, the overall consensus suggests that the game's stability is lacking, with frequent updates often introducing new problems rather than resolving existing ones.

    • “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.”
    • “Full of bugs and glitches; also, Valve 'updates' it regularly, which breaks even more than it fixes.”
    • “The game offers some nice graphics, although there are some ugly glitches here and there; it is pleasant all the same.”
  • optimization10 mentions

    Overall, the game's optimization is generally praised, with stable performance and quick loading times on various systems, including low-end laptops. However, some users report issues with specific platforms like the Steam Deck and mention that connection problems can affect gameplay. While many find the optimization satisfactory, a few express concerns about balance and performance inconsistencies.

    • “Performance: the game performs well on a variety of systems, with stable frame rates and quick loading times.”
    • “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 have rocks to handle it. However, the optimization is also bad and people have terrible connections.”
    • “It is very, very unbalanced and not very optimized.”
  • atmosphere8 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is highly praised for its stunning visual enhancements and immersive sound design, which together create a captivating and tense experience reminiscent of the Half-Life series. Players appreciate the realistic lighting, special effects, and atmospheric sound effects that contribute to a deeply engaging world, making it stand out among multiplayer games. Overall, the atmosphere successfully evokes nostalgia while delivering a thrilling gameplay experience.

    • “The visual enhancements make the game visually appealing, maintaining the immersive atmosphere that fans love.”
    • “The atmospheric sounds enhance immersion, while the soundtrack ramps up tension during gameplay.”
    • “The game's detailed and realistic visuals and atmospheric sound effects allow players to fully immerse themselves in the game's world, creating a sense of tension and excitement that is unmatched by other multiplayer games.”
    • “Plus, they carry that distinctive Half-Life atmosphere.”
    • “>maps/atmosphere=6”
  • replayability6 mentions

    Overall, the game's replayability is enhanced by mod support and a variety of maps and characters, making it enjoyable long after its release. However, some players feel that it may not offer enough replay value compared to newer titles, with ratings around 6.5/10. Despite this, many consider it a classic with virtually limitless replay potential.

    • “The game also supports mods, which adds to its replayability and keeps the game fresh and exciting for years after its initial release.”
    • “This game is still good, and I like it due to its high replay value.”
    • “Just spend your 5 bucks on something more replayable!”
    • “Replay value: 6.5/10”
    • “Although I prefer playing some of the newer/modern games, Half-Life 2 Deathmatch is a classic with infinite replay value.”
  • monetization4 mentions

    The game is praised for its absence of microtransactions, lootboxes, and special events, allowing players to enjoy a straightforward experience without the pressure to spend money on advantages or cosmetics. This focus on a pure gameplay experience is well-received by users.

    • “I like the lack of microtransactions; this way I can play the game without the constant want of advantages or cosmetics that cost money.”
    • “No microtransactions, no in-your-face lootboxes, no special events, just selecting a generic character model and running around and shooting your friends with the guns from Half-Life 2.”
    • “No microtransactions.”
  • emotional2 mentions

    The emotional aspect of the game is highlighted by a mix of nostalgia and catharsis, as players find satisfaction in confronting past traumas through humorous gameplay elements, despite some technical issues.

    • “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 sure was satisfying.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

16hMedian play time
131hAverage play time
5-172hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 10 analyzed playthroughs

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