I reformated my computer recently then I downloaded all the new drivers for all of my componients. then i installed half life 2 (Retail) version. I ran it in steam and it updated its self. when I ran the game though it goes through the ittle intro with the guy with the bullet in his eye and then it stalls up in the blurry menu If I push Ctrl + Alt + Delete it lowers it and then when I reopen it the menu is clear but I can't do anything I can't even move the mouse. I REALL REALLY REALLY need help with this. I don't remember this happening before.

Charlie Craig

you gotta wait for a while. you dont minimize the game by pressing ctrl-alt-del. use alt+tab to minimize(switch) any program. once you minimize it it will take a while to get back the game. the screen is all black, but give its some times. if it still black for 2 mins, then end the program.

P4 3.2GHZ
kingstone 1GB DDR 3200
ABIT AS8 mobo
Nvidia geforce 6800 128mb
Soundblaster 24-bit audigy 2
520W PSU

mine does something like that too. i run it on steam, but it always get to the menu part and then shuts down. then an error pops up and says that i need directx 9.0 compatable hardware. i think it means i need a new graphics card. and wile im on the point, is a radeon 9600xt (256mb) any good?

I run HL2 on my 9600XT 128 mb, but I wouldn't choose it for a new system, there are plenty of reasonably priced X*00 and 6*00 cards out for the AGP bus I would buy today