Half-Life 3 Rumored to Have RPG, Open World Elements
It sounds like Half-Life 3 may be more like Rage this time, only more interactive than id Software's latest post-apocalyptic open-world shooter.
Half-Life 3 is back on the rumor mill again, conveniently one day after Valve's hardware division spoke with Engadget about its 2013 plans. An unnamed source has reportedly spilled details regarding the mysterious Half-Life sequel, confirming that the game is indeed in development (duh), but there's a lot that still needs to be done.
Breaking away from the rumor for just a moment, there's a good chance Valve is working on Source 2 in conjunction with Half-Life 3 much like id Software did with Rage and id Tech 5. The original Source engine made its debut back in June 2004 with the launch of Counter-Strike: Source and shortly thereafter Half-Life 2. Thus, it's easy to assume Source 2 and Half-Life 3 will be connected and launched simultaneously.
Building on that, on a business level, it's probably time to update both the engine and Valve's flagship franchise, especially with Epic taking up all the licensing opportunities with its commercial-friendly Unreal Engine.
This Source 2 concept seemingly backs up the remainder of the current rumor which claims Half-Life 3 will be open-world with many RPG elements. The team has reportedly been so inspired by Bethesda's Elder Scrolls series that they want NPCs and "quests". This will likely be similar to Rage, staying true to its FPS roots while dishing out missions in a vast environment.
Now here's something else to think about: the release date. Sources claim that the game won't make an appearance until after 2013. Bummer we know, but we're betting Source 2 / Half-Life 3 will be next-generation console friendly. The 2013 marker also indicates that Valve's hardware ambitions may be tied into the project, as the first beta is expected to launch sometime next year.
Remember, this is all speculation and rumor save for the possible beta of Valve's first hardware attempt next year. But this latest rumor does make sense given that today's technology allows the Half-Life universe to be even more immersive than it was back in 2004.
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Kevin Parrish has over a decade of experience as a writer, editor, and product tester. His work focused on computer hardware, networking equipment, smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, and other internet-connected devices. His work has appeared in Tom's Hardware, Tom's Guide, Maximum PC, Digital Trends, Android Authority, How-To Geek, Lifewire, and others.
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fonzy ReplySources claim that the game won't make an appearance until after 2013
DAMN, I hope that is not true! -
reprotected Open-world + physics puzzles + running tricks and holding on to edges (ex. Mirror's Edge) would make it one of the best games.Reply -
Arls If they can pull off HL with an RPG element....it could be awesome. However something about HL+RPG doesn't sound right together.Reply -
Parsian I am so stoked!!! that i think im going to die prior to its release due to over driven biological systems.Reply
I also hope, just like HL2/Source that revolutionized computer games by impressive lighting, facial animation and PHYSICS!!, they would push the boundaries further and show off something extra ordinary.
I would love realtime fluid physics, far better real time dynamic GI/Radiosity than what is shown on CryEngine 3++/FB 2 and UE4, better AA solution, great AI and since valve is going toward VR, PLEASE figure out how to actually SIMULATE sound because that would be EPIC.
see sound simulation on HL2 by researchers:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MQt1jtDBNK4
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nightbird321 Well at least we don't have to worry about them pulling an Origin and offering their game only on the new Valve console, they wouldn't snub Steam :)Reply