Half-Life: Alyx (formerly: Half Life 3 is coming??)

TheValeyard · 18-11-2019 9:08pm

[Deleted User] wrote: »

No. Wait. Dont do it.

dreamers75 · 19-11-2019 12:23am

Absolutely

OMG its happening

https://twitter.com/valvesoftware/status/1196566870360387584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1196566870360387584&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fkotaku.com%2Fajax%2Finset%2Fiframe%3Fid%3Dtwitter-1196566870360387584%26autosize%3D1

Coudlknt be arsed with VR but ITS HAPPENING!!!!!

Sierra Oscar · 19-11-2019 12:28am

dreamers75 wrote: »

OMG its happening

https://twitter.com/valvesoftware/status/1196566870360387584?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw%7Ctwcamp%5Etweetembed%7Ctwterm%5E1196566870360387584&ref_url=https%3A%2F%2Fkotaku.com%2Fajax%2Finset%2Fiframe%3Fid%3Dtwitter-1196566870360387584%26autosize%3D1

Coudlknt be arsed with VR but ITS HAPPENING!!!!!

Fantastic to see the Half Life universe making a reappearance.

I'm seriously tempted to purchase the Index for this alone.

J. Marston · 19-11-2019 12:30am

Any Half Life stuff is great but VR just does nothing for me.

Zero-Cool · 19-11-2019 1:18am

Oh ye of little faith, i knew it was coming!

CastorTroy · 19-11-2019 2:44am

All it is its seeing Alyx being carried away by her point of view, then ends as you get dropped at the destination.

Thought I read somewhere recently that a game is coming that follows Alyx before meeting Gordon, so a prequel to 2

19-11-2019 4:33am

Sierra Oscar wrote: »

Fantastic to see the Half Life universe making a reappearance.

I'm seriously tempted to purchase the Index for this alone.

You know nothing but the name of the game and are talking about spanking a grand on a headset.

The hype this shlt is going to get is going to be comical. I have VR and will play it but I'm not getting a hard on over it.

19-11-2019 9:13am

Deleted User wrote: »

19-11-2019 9:15am

B.A._Baracus · 19-11-2019 9:46am

Absolutely

Some big questions get raised ahead of it's reveal on Thursday

Half Life has always had the silent protagonist of Gordan essentially allowing you to invest in the world and characters more. Alyx is an established character so will we be hearing her talk through her eyes like a more traditional FPS character? or will they make her silent somehow to increase the immersion and follow HL tradition?

pixelburp · 19-11-2019 9:50am

They might as well be announcing a HL game for the Nokia N-gage, for all the likelihood I'll go anywhere near that antisocial, nauseau inducing gimmick. Very disappointing, but I guess not surprising as Valve seem to be technological magpies, and probably wanted to play with the cool new toys.

Maybe - MAYBE - there'll be some way to play it minus the VR properly, but even watching Let's Plays of VR games make me uncomfortable. It's a media, like 3D, that just seems to ignore the demographics who can't actually use it

which is a shame in an era when developers are making extra effort with accessable games

B.A._Baracus · 19-11-2019 10:05am

Absolutely

Yeah I know what you mean Pixel. I have never even tried a VR game and i'm in the "wont it make you dizzy?" camp.

That said.... it's Valve. HL1 was a tech feat. HL2 more so. They took years to come about with something new. Surely this VR game has to set the standards?
We've been hearing so much chatter over the years that things they tried to come up with were'nt mind blowing. Worth of carrying the HL name, etc etc blah blah.

So this better be some VR game. Anything short and it will be meh... why not just release it as a standard FPS as you say.

one armed dwarf · 19-11-2019 10:24am

pixelburp wrote: »

Maybe - MAYBE - there'll be some way to play it minus the VR properly, but even watching Let's Plays of VR games make me uncomfortable. It's a media, like 3D, that just seems to ignore the demographics who can't actually use it which is a shame in an era when developers are making extra effort with accessable games

Yes... it's such an anti-accessibility choice. I can't use it either. I really hope this is an REVII type situation (excellent both in and outside VR)

19-11-2019 10:27am

Valve have always done this though.
Same when the source engine was introduced, it changed gaming.
I expect something big / revolutionary here, exactly what VR needs

pixelburp · 19-11-2019 10:46am

Deleted User wrote: »

Valve have always done this though.
Same when the source engine was introduced, it changed gaming.
I expect something big / revolutionary here, exactly what VR needs

I don't agree, this isn't some leap in digital delivery or game engine: VR contains some genuine, real-world logistical issues that no amount of Valve magic can necessarily overcome. Aside from the fact that some folks simply can't use it without nausea & inner ear issues, IMO the tech isn't conducive to smaller homes & that simple "pick up a controller and relax" element of gaming (like, I presume it's a total no-go for any parents of small children, given it's an inherently isolating technology).

I get that there are applications for the tech that would be useful, in schools or in a medical capacity, but as a recreation & evolution beyond the tried & tested controller + sofa, I can't see it being anything more than an expensive gimmick for those with disposable income & more floorspace at home. Like I said with 3D cinema, it feels like those who can't use this are just being ignored for the big shiny toy.

19-11-2019 11:11am

It's a case of wait and see now.
Here's some context to why I think this will be different to that of the current VR experiences.
The issues you speak of are apparently what Valve has been spending years trying to overcome.

CastorTroy · 19-11-2019 11:51am

It's PC so I'm sure someone will be working on a mod to enable non VR play

one armed dwarf · 19-11-2019 11:55am

Deleted User wrote: »

It's a case of wait and see now.
Here's some context to why I think this will be different to that of the current VR experiences.
The issues you speak of are apparently what Valve has been spending years trying to overcome.

There are other immobility issues though which Valve can't tech their way around.

I don't doubt that Valve could come up with something very innovative in the VR space, but unless this scales outside VR as well it just seems like a very exclusive platform (excluding people from being able to play it)

B.A._Baracus · 19-11-2019 11:57am

Absolutely

Probably be Ps4 too down the line?

Zero-Cool · 19-11-2019 12:05pm

From February 2016

Myrddin wrote: »

I'd say the only hope of seeing it is when VR becomes more affordable, maybe a VR generation or two down the road. The only way to make HL3 hit with the impact that HL & HL2 did, is to use VR imo, & only when the tech is more mature can that be done.l

Winner winner chicken dinner.

19-11-2019 12:21pm

I wonder when the people who talk about nausea / dizziness tried VR? Which headset? Which game?

Homelander · 19-11-2019 12:35pm

Absolutely

Yeah I think people are being extremely unreasonable here, VR is an excellent platform, my first experience playing Robo Recall on the Rift was a real eye-opener as to the massive potential and inevitable future of the platform. I'm excited about a Valve VR game, anyone who's used VR would be.

Harping on about people with inner ear issues, comparing VR to the N-Gage or claiming Valve are being anti-access is really childish imo. What, VR should be discontinued because a small minority can't use it, or companies should never produce innovative, standard-raising games on that platform?

This isn't Half Life 3, it's a game in the HL franchise being developed specifically for VR, I really don't see the issue.

Oafley Jones · 19-11-2019 12:36pm

Deleted User wrote: »

I wonder when the people who talk about nausea / dizziness tried VR? Which headset? Which game?

In fairness, some people just cannot take it, regardless of the game type. There are a number of promising solutions coming down the line (mostly involving magnets, electrical stimulation), but they're still a few years away.

As someone who's never been bothered about HL3, I'm quite looking forward to this. "Aperature Labs" was one of the first VR experiences that demonstrated to me the potential of the medium, that it was more than Rollercoasters, jump scares etc. Also, if you've no issues with VR and can't take inspiration from the delightful joy that is "AstroBot", then you're just lost to me.

pixelburp · 19-11-2019 12:39pm

Homelander wrote: »

Yeah I think people are being extremely unreasonable here, VR is an excellent platform, my first experience playing Robo Recall on the Rift was a real eye-opener as to the massive potential and inevitable future of the platform. I'm excited about a Valve VR game, anyone who's used VR would be.

Harping on about people with inner ear issues, comparing VR to the N-Gage or claiming Valve are being anti-access is really childish imo. What, VR should be discontinued because a small minority can't use it, or companies should never produce innovative, standard-raising games on that platform?

This isn't Half Life 3, it's a game in the HL franchise being developed specifically for VR, I really don't see the issue.

That's ... not what I said; I didn't compare it to the ngage, I said it might as well be on that platform for all the likelihood that I'd play this VR game. So if you're going to sneer about childishness, at least understand my point first?

I don't like VR as a platform or technology, clearly that's personal preference & no, I don't expect Valve to personally engineer specific products for me. But I'm disappointed that their new game is going to be geared towards a medium whose hype I don't buy into. Again personal preference and so far opinions against it have been fairly soberly expressed, touching on issues of mobility, nausea and so on. Hardly "childish"

one armed dwarf · 19-11-2019 12:47pm

I have spine issues that affect thoracic and cervical spine as well as chronic nerve pain that flares up on certain actions, I don't think I'm being 'childish' in my disappointment, at least.

I'll watch a Lets Play of this, probably.

marcbrophy · 19-11-2019 12:49pm

Not HL3 or even Ep3 lads, can we keep this thread for HL3 related stuff only please? :P :P :P

Shred · 19-11-2019 1:18pm

I'm absolutely in - Half Life in VR done by Valve, oh yes :eek:

19-11-2019 1:23pm

pixelburp wrote: »

That's ... not what I said; I didn't compare it to the ngage, I said it might as well be on that platform for all the likelihood that I'd play this VR game. So if you're going to sneer about childishness, at least understand my point first?

I don't like VR as a platform or technology, clearly that's personal preference & no, I don't expect Valve to personally engineer specific products for me. But I'm disappointed that their new game is going to be geared towards a medium whose hype I don't buy into. Again personal preference and so far opinions against it have been fairly soberly expressed, touching on issues of mobility, nausea and so on. Hardly "childish"

Give it another go at some stage. Not for everyone but tech gets better. I certainly don't think it's a gimmick even if I use mine less than I thought I would. It just requires more effort than regular gaming.

one armed dwarf wrote: »

I have spine issues that affect thoracic and cervical spine as well as chronic nerve pain that flares up on certain actions, I don't think I'm being 'childish' in my disappointment, at least.

I'll watch a Lets Play of this, probably.

Don't think anyone would be calling you childish for that. Hopefully this game is sit down VR compatible. I like Skyrim VR because I don't have to really move much. Same with Trover.

nix · 19-11-2019 1:43pm

ugh, a crazy short vr game, glad we waited all these years :rolleyes:

cnocbui · 19-11-2019 1:47pm

pixelburp wrote: »

I don't agree, this isn't some leap in digital delivery or game engine: VR contains some genuine, real-world logistical issues that no amount of Valve magic can necessarily overcome. Aside from the fact that some folks simply can't use it without nausea & inner ear issues, IMO the tech isn't conducive to smaller homes & that simple "pick up a controller and relax" element of gaming (like, I presume it's a total no-go for any parents of small children, given it's an inherently isolating technology).

I get that there are applications for the tech that would be useful, in schools or in a medical capacity, but as a recreation & evolution beyond the tried & tested controller + sofa, I can't see it being anything more than an expensive gimmick for those with disposable income & more floorspace at home. Like I said with 3D cinema, it feels like those who can't use this are just being ignored for the big shiny toy.

Well I happen to like VR and use my Gear VR for watching movies, just in case you thought you were speaking for everyone. Good on Valve, I say.

cnocbui · 19-11-2019 1:49pm

marcbrophy wrote: »

Not HL3 or even Ep3 lads, can we keep this thread for HL3 related stuff only please? :P :P :P

We'll turn the thread back over to you when HL3 is announced.

Kintarō Hattori · 19-11-2019 1:50pm

pixelburp wrote: »

...(like, I presume it's a total no-go for any parents of small children, given it's an inherently isolating technology)...

Spot on. Any gaming I get to do is at night when my daughter goes to bed. I sit as close to the baby monitor as is possible and have a Google Hub Max showing a video feed of her cot so it's completely out for me.

cnocbui · 19-11-2019 1:53pm

Kintarō Hattori wrote: »

Spot on. Any gaming I get to do is at night when my daughter goes to bed. I sit as close to the baby monitor as is possible and have a Google Hub Max showing a video feed of her cot so it's completely out for me.

Has she got a medical problem or something?

nix · 19-11-2019 1:55pm

Kintarō Hattori wrote: »

Spot on. Any gaming I get to do is at night when my daughter goes to bed. I sit as close to the baby monitor as is possible and have a Google Hub Max showing a video feed of her cot so it's completely out for me.

Not to worry, Your daughter will probably be able to play the game by the time it gets released :pac::p

pixelburp · 19-11-2019 2:02pm

Deleted User wrote: »

Give it another go at some stage. Not for everyone but tech gets better. I certainly don't think it's a gimmick even if I use mine less than I thought I would. It just requires more effort than regular gaming.

As I said already, I don't think VR is a gimmick outside of the gaming realm: I've seen some awesome uses of it in education & surgery for instance. But I think you've hit on another element that might limit the scope of VR in the gaming world: effort. I suspect the tech might struggle to hit full mainstream by the nature of it requiring more effort and commitment just to play an hour or two; plus can't see OHs or parents being stoked about their partner effectively isolating themselves off.
It might simply remain niche for hardcore gamers, similar to USB steering wheels, joysticks and other peripherals of yore.

Kintarō Hattori · 19-11-2019 2:28pm

cnocbui wrote: »

Has she got a medical problem or something?

No, I consider it good parenting to keep an eye on her.

Zero-Cool · 19-11-2019 2:47pm

Kintarō Hattori wrote: »

Spot on. Any gaming I get to do is at night when my daughter goes to bed. I sit as close to the baby monitor as is possible and have a Google Hub Max showing a video feed of her cot so it's completely out for me.

Exactly why I haven't bought the PSVR. I tried it once at a con and absolutely loved it but 5 senses isn't enough with a toddler sometimes, i can't afford to lose sight and sound. I could try it for small bits but not worth the investment for something i can't put on whenever i want. One day though.

Sierra Oscar · 19-11-2019 2:56pm

Deleted User wrote: »

You know nothing but the name of the game and are talking about spanking a grand on a headset.

The hype this shlt is going to get is going to be comical. I have VR and will play it but I'm not getting a hard on over it.

I'm fairly confident it will be a substantial game considering how long Valve have been working on the project and the fact that early indications are that this will be a prequel to Half Life 2.

I doubt it's going to be some sort of Lost Coast type VR tech demo. We'll see I guess.

To be honest I've been humming and hawing about getting a VR headset for ages now but there hasn't been a game yet that has really done it for me. This could very well do it. I'm optimistic considering how ground breaking Valve have tended to be with their games down through the years.

I'm far from confident that VR will take off among the masses. However as a gamer it's something I want to give a chance and at least experience the medium for myself.

19-11-2019 2:57pm

I think you can load video into Elite Dangerous. Would be pretty funny flying around and the baby monitor video is on the screen in the cockpit. There's also video passthrough on some headsets but I wouldn't trust that for a toddler.

pixelburp, my experience of VR has been the opposite in terms of people locking themselves into their own world's. It's always on the TV and if me, my ex, or my brother were playing, we're always watching, taking turns, and talking during it. It bizarrely becomes more of a social thing even if only one person is playing.

And then there's Keep Talking or Everyone explodes which requires teamwork between the person wearing and the people on the book. Also playable without VR. Excellent game.

B.A._Baracus · 19-11-2019 3:19pm

Absolutely

Wish they wouldn't make us wait until Thursday. Like the cat was out of the bag yesterday and today they confirmed it themselves! why wait :pac:

cnocbui · 19-11-2019 3:44pm

Kintarō Hattori wrote: »

No, I consider it good parenting to keep an eye on her.

So I presume you and a hypothetical partner sleep in shifts, so someone is always awake to monitor her?

I have two children. One has just entered college and the other has exited. They were put them to bed and that's it. Furthermore, I have evidence from four generations worth of detailed family historical data wherein not a single child expired, or came to other noteworthy harm between being put to bed and waking, so personally, I don't think the monitoring regime you employ amounts to good parenting. But do carry on, I don't wish to stop you.

Rattlehead_ie · 19-11-2019 4:28pm

B.A._Baracus wrote: »

Wish they wouldn't make us wait until Thursday. Like the cat was out of the bag yesterday and today they confirmed it themselves! why wait :pac:

:p You have waited since 2007 for the next HL game, surely you can wait another day or two

:D:D

Kintarō Hattori · 19-11-2019 4:35pm

cnocbui wrote: »

So I presume you and a hypothetical partner sleep in shifts, so someone is always awake to monitor her?

I have two children. One has just entered college and the other has exited. They were put them to bed and that's it. Furthermore, I have evidence from four generations worth of detailed family historical data wherein not a single child expired, or came to other noteworthy harm between being put to bed and waking, so personally, I don't think the monitoring regime you employ amounts to good parenting. But do carry on, I don't wish to stop you.

I take the tone of your reply to be rather cheeky my friend. There's no need for that. I haven't criticised you or any other parent in any way. You asked me a straightforward question, I gave you a straightforward answer. Parenting doesn't have a one size fits all solution. We all can only do our best and where I can, I like to be aware how my little lady is doing.

johnny_ultimate · 19-11-2019 4:44pm

It’s absolutely the case that some people can’t use VR. Like any accessibility issue, it’s a real shame and not one easily resolved. Completely understand any frustration therefore when games are VR-only.

It’s definitely also the case that when games are properly, fully designed for VR that can’t translate easily. The use of depth, motion and gestures can be essential to what a good VR game tries to achieve. Games like Moss or Astrobot would be severely lesser with the unique features of VR.

It’s a shame, but I reckon those two positions aren’t always going to be reconcilable

wyrn · 19-11-2019 4:45pm

Delighted there's a new HL but sadly the VR aspect rules me out. I've nothing against VR but I don't have the set up. Sucks to miss out.

Sierra Oscar · 19-11-2019 5:03pm

I guess there is always the possibility that a non-VR PC version could be released down the line. One half of me thinks surely Valve have given this serious thought considering how small the VR market actually is. Then the other half of me is thinking that Valve are looking to make a statement about the future of VR and will keep it solely to that platform.

B.A._Baracus · 19-11-2019 7:15pm

Absolutely

Hmm. How long will the game be?
A fully fledged game or because it's vr not actually be that long...

TheValeyard · 19-11-2019 7:19pm

Skerries · 19-11-2019 8:37pm

fergus1001 · 19-11-2019 9:58pm

waits 12 years for half life 3

VR Game

Shoot me now

Half-Life: Alyx (formerly: Half Life 3 is coming??)

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