Deus Ex: Invisible War vs Half Life 2
Deus Ex: Invisible War
Deus Ex: Invisible War is the first sequel to the Deus Ex game franchise and is perhaps one of the least known version. Set in a world 20 years after the events in the first game has concluded, Deus Ex: Invisible War lets you take part in the dark struggle between massive religious sects and powerful political factions that are hellbent on setting up and securing a world government that will pass policies that are in their favor; policies that will change the human society for decades and maybe centuries to come. The storyline in this game may be dark and dreary, but it is supported by plenty of responsive plot branches that will shape your narrative based on your actions and decisions.Aside from the many amazing new augments added to your arsenal, Deus Ex: Invisible War even has a much improved AI and stealth system where enemies will actively seek you (the intruder) out even when any sound is detected. This makes its stealth gameplay a whole lot more challenging. Of course, like the previous game, you'll also be given multiple (more peaceful) ways to avoid conflict if you so wish to.
Deus Ex: Invisible War is unfortunately the black sheep of the franchise. It has plenty of problems and let's not even mention about the incredibly long loading screens. Honestly, if you can afford the other games in the series, you might want to get those instead.
Half Life 2
Half Life 2 is the exciting sequel to the original Half Life game and is also the inspiration for a new Half-Life-based spin-off series. The game took the suspense, the challenge and the momentum of the first game and added in a much improved and realistic graphics and responsiveness that removes a lot of the clunkiness that old games often experience.The story also continues where it was left off before, with the crowbar-wielding scientist Gordon Freeman who now finds himself in an Earth that is not only infested with aliens but is also slowly decimated by them. He now needs to make amends for the incident back in Black Mesa and at least save the people that he cares about.
Half Life 2 is a great sequel, but it is unfortunately the last... at least for the Half Life series. On the bright side, you can somewhat continue the storyline through the spin-off games Half Life 2: Episode 1 and 2.