Oh wow, this one really shines. The 6 years of hard work Valve put off really shows.
GAMEPLAY: The gameplay has a luxurious feel to it. Kind of like driving a Corolla for 10 years, then borrowing a Ferarri. Still, driving is driving, but it's got such a good feel. Same applies here, shooting is shooting, but it just feels fantastic. The new physics system is beyond what words can describe. "Revolutionary" is an understatement, the gameplay is just so fantastic that.... well you gotta play it to feel it.
GRAPHICS: While this isn't Doom 3, its darn close behind. Still a 10/10 graphics engine, what more needs to be said?
SOUND: Sound effects are simply fantastic, especially the satisfying BOOM and BANG of the explosions and guns, and the soundtrack is damn cool too. Offers 5.1 or 7.1 surround sound, which is a blast to play under.
FUN FACTOR: Oh wow, amazingly fun. Possibly the most fun you'll ever have playing a game.
OVERALL: A fantastic creation beyond what words can describe. 6 years well worth it.
FINAL WORDS: Get this game, even if it costs you an arm and a leg.