'Official' Half-Life 2 Thread. Do Not Create New Threads (NO SPOILERS)

[t.foster73]

I take it you've all heard about HL2, and how it requires online activation in order to run. Does this mean the disks will not have any copy protection? Most of the core code is already available for download via STEAM, but I really don't like relying on a third party in order to run software. What if you want to play in a few years, and the website no longer exists? Is this just the activation of a unique serial code, or is crucial core data downloaded to the target machine? If it's hardware based, then does that mean you can't set up a LAN at home without buying 2 or more copies? And what about buying a seconhand copy (from GAMESTATION say)? Also GAME (UK) told me today that I've as much chance of getting a copy on the 16th as hell has of freezing over. I REALLY hope someone cracks this online activation fiasco quickly, as I don't fancy the idea of 'leasing' a game from Valve, although I understand that in law, you are only purchasing the 'right to play' for any game you buy. I bet I (and many) spend more time whining on this site next week than we actually spend playing the game.