Codename: Gordon reviews

The gameplay feels tedious even though the overall gameplay only lasts an hour, the controls are sloppy, the level design is boring.  While it's fine to have a game serve as an homage to another game or series, this game takes it way, way too far, doing nothing with the story elements provided by the larger Half-Life Series and including a bunch of immersion breaking in-jokes that make me roll my eyes at the dialogue.  It is not a good sign when literally all the dialogue is immediately skippable and the skip option is displayed as prominently as the dialogue tree options.  Unlike the flash 2D version of Portal, this game did not reimagine any of the core Half Life game's mechanics to accommodate the 2D restrictions on movement and aiming.  I appreciate it basically amounts to a fan tribute but I didn't even bother finishing the final boss fight because I was so bored with the whole thing.  Not recommended.

«Codename: Gordon» is a good fan-made side-scroller in the «Half-Life» universe, released in 2004, and, by the way, free on «Steam» (although it would have to be found online now, because it has been removed from the store).

So, what's on offer here? A funny 2D rendition of the classic game, where Gordon Freeman does what he does best - smashing monsters and harvesters to shreds. Despite the fact that it is only 2D, they were able to convey the atmosphere of «Half-Life». Well, without the legendary claw hammer and gravity gun!

Controls may seem a little strange, but once you get the hang of it, everything will go smoothly. The graphics, though simple, are quite appealing to fans of 2D. A nice and technical soundtrack holds its own, too.

«Codename: Gordon» is a fun little side-scroller that will let you enjoy a little wave of nostalgia. Try it