It’s really difficult to review The Orange Box as a single product because quite frankly, it is more of a “Best Of” collection than a single standalone product.  The box centers around the release Half-Life 2: Episode 2, which I’ll focus on HERE, but just so happens to include – for those who missed it – Half-Life 2 in its entirety, Episode I, Portal and Team Fortress 2.  The phrase ‘deal of the century’ is aptly applied here. 

Console gamers are in a for a big treat as they’ll have a chance to catch up on the entire Half-Life 2 experience in one box with the added benefit of exploring Portal’s view on the Half-Life Universe and the long anticipated multiplayer title Team Fortress 2.  But, while Portal and Team Fortress 2 add value to the package – it is this second chapter in the “Half-Life 3” trilogy – if you will – that is unquestionably the headlining act of this three ring circus.  Half-Life 2: Episode II could quite possible be Valve’s Empire Strikes Back.

Thinking Out of the Orange Box

The score listed here reflects our thoughts on the value of The Orange Box as a whole.  We've chosen to visit each of the individual products separately for a proper review beginning with our take on Half-Life 2: Episode Two.  Over the coming week we'll be releasing some spoiler-filled interviews with David Speyrer, Project Lead on Episode Two as well as Kim Swift and Jeep Barnett of the Portal Team.

Orange Box Reviews:

Half-Life 2: Episode Two (score: 9.5)
Portal (score: 9.5)
Team Fortress 2(Coming)

Orange Box Interviews:

Interview with David Speyrer, Project Lead, Episode Two
Part One 
Part Two 
Part Three

Portal Team Interview (Kim Swift  & Jeep Barnett)
Part One