The Silent Protagonist You Never Noticed - Half Life 2

Half-Life 2 is more than a game—it's a masterclass in storytelling, atmosphere, and world-building. But what if the real protagonist isn’t Gordon Freeman or Alyx Vance? What if it’s City 17 itself?

In this video, we delve into how City 17’s design, architecture, and soundscape elevate it from a mere setting to a living, breathing character. From the looming shadow of the Citadel to the haunting silence of Ravenholm, City 17 tells a story of oppression, resilience, and the fight for identity.

What’s your take on City 17? Did you notice its story unfolding during your playthrough? Share your thoughts in the comments below—I’d love to hear them!

Shoutouts to Channels That Inspired This Video:
‪@JacobGeller‬
‪@DarylTalksGames‬
‪@PeyTalksAnime‬
‪@NapoleonVIINap‬

Chapters:
00:00 Intro
01:56 Oppression in Architecture
04:04 Liminal Spaces & Humanity
5:10 Resistance in the Shadows
05:54 Ravenholm’s Warning
06:47 Conclusion