Half Life 2 was a hip title at E³, with game aficionados waiting in line for hours to catch glimpses of this staggeringly violent game.  Designer Greg Coomer feels the reasons for such zealotry are pretty clear.

“It really is an immersive experience.” Says Coomer, “It feels like you are [main character] Gordon Freeman going through this science fiction world and taking part.”

The grueling Half Life 2 takes place in real time and enables players to utilize virtually any object they encounter (crowbars, radiators, etc.) as weaponry.

Half Life 2 hits stores on September 30^th, 2003.

“It feels like all three million people who bought the original game are here at E³ to see the sequel.” 

Thus spoke David Hufford, project manager for Xbox.  He was referring, of course, to the eagerly anticipated Halo 2.  Anyone paying attention will know that Halo 2 is huge deal for Microsoft and Xbox.  However, the electronics giants have plenty more up their (virtual) sleeves at E³, including over 175 games demoed at 250 stations.

“You name it.  If you love sports, action, racing, role playing games, Xbox is gonna bring the heat this fall.”

In an interesting twist, UbiSoft’s The Matrix Online promotes serious multiplayer action while forwarding the plot of the Wachowski brothers’ popular film series.  Unfolding after the third installment, Matrix Revolutions, The Matrix Online, will highlight snazzy graphics and wild martial arts action.

Red Pills For Everyone!

E³ is one of the few events on the planet that could be accurately described as serious fun.  After three hilarious, exciting, terrifying, frustrating, exhausting days, it’s time clear out and head home.  However, everyone can take with them the best swag imaginable – the knowledge that all these great games will be available soon!

It’s been great and now it’s over.  See you next year.