Episode 3 gameplay footage was revealed in the documentary

Valve recently celebrated Half-Life 2's 20th anniversary with a two-hour documentary on the game, going over its development and legacy. It also touches on the canceled sequel, Episode 3, after Episode 2 left the story on a cliffhanger.

As the devs discuss what Episode 3 could be, the documentary gives us a look at some early gameplay footage. This shows one of its planned weapons in action, as Episode 3 was supposed to give players an incredibly versatile ice gun.

A first look at Half-Life 2: Episode 3 gameplay shows off the planned Ice Gun

This gameplay reveal comes at about the 1:53:30 mark, so towards the end of the documentary. Here, we can see a demonstration of how the ice gun would work. Its primary function was to create formations, which could be used for cover from enemies and to create platforms for traversal. It can also be used to freeze enemies, instead of taking them down.

After that, we're shown one of the planned enemy types: blobs. These are incredibly unique, as their shape is constantly changing, allowing them to move around anything that blocks their path, including people. We're also told that they can split into multiple blobs, possibly making them a frustrating enemy to go up against or try to escape from.

related to

Fingers crossed Half-Life 3 isn't VR

Alyx was great, but I hope the next half-life drops the headset.

However, Episode 3 never saw the light of day. Originally planned for release in 2007, it was pushed back until Valve finally confirmed the cancellation.

This is different from the much sought-after Half-Life 3, which has been an internet urban legend for years. But now, several leaks indicate that Half-Life 3 is finally in development. Valve has yet to confirm this, but for the first time in years, fans have something more concrete to rally around.

Half-Life 2: Episode 3