it appears that vale is allowing fans to continue the story of half life opposing force
which they are calling half life prospekt http://dispatches.cheatcc.com/2075
http://www.destructoid.com/a-sequel-to-half-life-opposing-force-is-coming-to-steam-next-month-334631.phtml

if this takes off half life 3 might come about before the heat death of the universe after all
...maybe

Opposing Force was really good, almost better than Half-Life itself. Loved the weapons, using a Barnacle as a grappling hook in platforming sections was excellent, also the alien weapons like the electricity shooter and the acid blob shooter.

And when will Half-Life 2: Episode Three come?

never
valve wil farm it off to fans they are afraid of the nr 3 they'd rather skip to 4

It just occurred to me with my new computer I can actually play HL 2. Any reason I shouldn't? Is it playable off a disc?

The parts where you had a team were really fun as well, such as the medic providing health, and the engineer cutting through doors. I believe it's the first time I experienced something like that in a fps as well. There probably is an earlier fps with similar team dynamics, but off the top of my head I can't think of one.

the very very very early 2004 versions maybe
but otherwise its steam only

It was a good idea, but the terrible AI ruined it. Having to babysit and keeping pressing E just to get them to do simple things like move into a room.

Thanks. That's what I was asking for. Oh well. :P

I do seem to recall some issues with the AI, but it's pretty vague after all these years :P At least most of the game you were by yourself from what I can remember.

I tried playing and finishing Half-Life 2 long before I quit Steam, I tried. I then gave up on the game entirely. Too.... BORING! I'm not sure what about the first Half-Life as well as Opposing Force and Blue Shift that actually made me finish them and stick to the end, but HL2 simply tried to bore me in every single step. I'd die to know who the hell overrated this boredom fest.

easiest way to play half life 2 if you really want to play it is on the xbox or the orange box on the playstation 3 or xbox 360

Steam only as far as I am aware. I have played through both parts, really didn't think much of it. Half the game is dedicated to "whey gravity gun", the other is pretty dull. One good bit is the mad priest in the village. Otherwise I couldn't recommend it. Play the original, Opposing Force, Blue Shift - they are much better. Or play Serious Sam :o)

I reinstalled the original a few days ago. Even with the old resolutions and everything she still looks and plays great.

Yep, its great on its own. You can also try:
http://www.moddb.com/engines/xash3d-engine