A fresh story in Half-Life’s classic engine
Half-Life: Delta is a total conversion mod by Yuri Epifantsev that takes players out of Black Mesa and into the depths of Delta Base, a new research facility with its own secrets. Built in the GoldSrc engine, it offers a lengthy single-player campaign filled with custom maps and an atmosphere that recalls the tension and pacing of the original game.
Delta base expands the Half-Life universe
The story follows Nick Farrell, a scientist working at Delta Base who becomes trapped when an experiment triggers an alien invasion. From here, the game unfolds as a familiar blend of firefights, exploration, and puzzle-solving. While it mirrors the structure of Half-Life, the new environments and narrative twists give it a distinct identity. The campaign is linear, with scripted sequences driving the action forward, making it approachable for anyone who enjoyed the original’s design.
Visually, Half-Life: Delta makes the most of the aging GoldSrc engine. The custom environments are detailed, with varied settings that range from laboratories to industrial complexes, each designed with care. Character and enemy models retain the classic style, and while they show their age, they fit naturally within the world. Audio design supports the mood with familiar effects and ambient sounds, keeping the tension consistent throughout. It’s not a reinvention, but rather a well-crafted continuation that feels true to its roots.
Final thoughts
Half-Life: Delta succeeds in delivering a substantial new campaign for fans of the original game. It doesn’t introduce new mechanics or graphical overhauls, but its strength lies in strong level design, atmosphere, and a self-contained story. For those looking to revisit the style of Half-Life with fresh content, it’s an experience worth playing.
