None (Primarily Solo): RAGE 2 is a single-player experience focused on Walker. While you interact with key allies like Lily Prowley, Loosum Hagar, John Marshall, and Dr. Kvasir for missions and story progression, they do not act as persistent, controllable combat companions in the field.
Russell (Via Radio Comms): While not physically present, Russell is Alyx's constant companion via radio communication. He provides mission objectives, guidance, technical support, lore exposition, and humorous commentary throughout the game. He is crucial for narrative progression and player guidance.
Human
None (Physical AI Combat Companions): Alyx undertakes her physical journey through City 17 alone. She does not have any AI-controlled combat companions that follow her or fight alongside her in the traditional sense, emphasizing her vulnerability and resourcefulness in the VR environment.
Key Collectibles
Arks: Sealed underground bunkers from before the asteroid impact. Discovering and clearing Arks unlocks new Nanotrite abilities for Walker and new weapons. They are major points of interest and progression.
Data Pads: PDAs or similar devices found throughout the wasteland, containing lore entries, personal logs, and information about the world, its inhabitants, and past events.
Storage Containers: Orange-glowing containers found in various locations, holding Feltrite (upgrade currency), cash, or other resources.
Spy Drones: Small, hovering Authority drones that must be shot down. Destroying them all in a region often contributes to location completion and rewards.
MBTV Banners / Targets (Mutant Bash TV): Within the Mutant Bash TV arenas, specific targets or banners might need to be destroyed for challenges or completion.
Resin: Small, orange, cylindrical pieces of Combine material found scattered throughout all levels, often in crates, shelves, or hidden nooks. Collected and used at Combine Fabricator stations to upgrade Alyx's three main weapons (Pistol, Shotgun, SMG).
Ammo (Pistol Clips, Shotgun Shells, SMG Power Cells): Found in Combine supply crates, on defeated enemies, or in the environment. Essential for combat. Alyx can store a limited amount on her person and in her backpack.
Health Syringes: Medical items that restore Alyx's health. Found in medical kits, bathrooms, or sometimes dropped by Combine medics. Stored in wrist slots for quick access.
Combine Grenades: Standard fragmentation grenades used by the Combine. Can be found in the environment or taken from defeated enemies. Stored in wrist slots.
Grub Nests / Antlion Grubs (Healing Items - Minor): In Xen-infested areas, Alyx can find Antlion grubs in nests. Crushing them provides a small amount of healing. A nod to Half-Life 2: Episode Two.
Vodka Bottles (For Jeff sequence): Specific to Chapter 7: Jeff. Vodka bottles are used as throwable distractions to lure the sound-sensitive creature Jeff away from Alyx's path.
Battery Cells (For Multi-Tool Puzzles): Small cylindrical batteries that must be found and inserted into specific slots to power up doors, lifts, or other machinery as part of environmental puzzles solved with the Multi-Tool.
Hidden Gnome Chompski (Easter Egg): A single, well-hidden garden gnome. Finding it and carrying it to a specific later point in the game unlocks an achievement, referencing a long-running Valve gag.
Key Themes
Post-Apocalyptic
Wasteland Survival
Mutants
Rival Factions
Vehicular Combat
Nanotrite Superpowers
Anarchy
Punk Rock Aesthetic
Dark Humor
Anti-Authoritarianism
Mayhem & Carnage
Alien Occupation & Resistance
Father-Daughter Relationship
Hope in Oppression
Scientific Discovery & Peril
Body Horror (Headcrabs
Xen Creatures)
Totalitarian Control (The Combine)
VR Immersion
Prequel Story
Environmental Storytelling
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Combat & Gear
Weapons Overview
Sidewinder Pistol: Pistol
Standard starting pistol. Can be upgraded with mods like a burst fire or armor-piercing rounds.
Ranger Assault Rifle: Assault Rifle
Versatile automatic rifle, effective at medium range. Upgradable for better stability, damage, and magazine size.
Combat Shotgun: Shotgun
Devastating at close range. Alternate fire mode can be a concussive blast that sends enemies flying.
Smart Rocket Launcher: Heavy Weapon (Explosive)
Fires rockets that can lock onto targets or be dumb-fired. Alternate fire allows for multiple target locks.
Grav-Dart Launcher: Special Weapon
Fires darts that can attach to enemies or objects. A second dart fired nearby will cause the first target to be violently pulled towards the second dart's impact point.
Firestorm Revolver: Revolver (Incendiary)
Fires rounds that can be remotely detonated to set enemies ablaze. Multiple rounds can be stuck to a target before detonation.
Hyper-Cannon: Energy Weapon (Railgun)
A powerful railgun that can be charged to fire a devastating penetrating shot. Can pierce multiple enemies and some cover.
Pulse Cannon: Energy Weapon (Automatic)
Fires rapid energy projectiles that can disintegrate enemies. Generates heat and can overheat if fired continuously.
Wingstick: Throwable (Returning Blade)
A signature RAGE weapon. A three-bladed boomerang that can lock onto enemies, dealing significant damage and often decapitating them. Can be upgraded for multiple targets or explosive tips.
Standard fragmentation grenades for area damage and EMP grenades for disabling Authority shields or vehicles.
BFG 9000 (Bonus Weapon): Super Weapon (Energy)
Iconic weapon from DOOM, available as a pre-order bonus or in the Deluxe Edition. Fires a massive ball of energy that obliterates most enemies.
Feltrite Laser Launcher (Rise of the Ghosts DLC): Energy Weapon
A powerful laser weapon introduced in the 'Rise of the Ghosts' expansion.
Sword of Transitus (TerrorMania DLC): Melee/Special Weapon
A magical sword introduced in the 'TerrorMania' expansion, capable of powerful melee attacks and interacting with dimensional rifts.
Pistol (USP Match / Alyx's Pistol): Handgun (Semi-Automatic)
Alyx's starting weapon. A reliable semi-automatic pistol. Can be upgraded with a reflex sight, laser sight, extended magazine, and a burst fire module.
A powerful close-quarters weapon. Can be upgraded with a laser sight, double shot capability (fires two shells at once), and a grenade launcher attachment (fires explosive grenades).
A rapid-firing Combine weapon. Can be upgraded with an extended magazine, laser sight, and reflex sight. Effective against groups or for sustained fire.
Not a traditional weapon, but Alyx's primary tool for interacting with the environment. Allows her to target and flick distant objects (ammo, Resin, health syringes, physics objects) into her hands. Can be used offensively by throwing explosive objects or heavy items at enemies.
Grenades (Combine Grenades): Throwable Explosive
Standard fragmentation grenades found in the environment or dropped by Combine soldiers. Can be stored in wrist slots and thrown physically by the player.
Multi-Tool: Utility Tool (Hacking/Puzzle Solving)
A handheld device used to hack Combine interfaces, disable force fields, solve electrical circuit puzzles by redirecting power, and scan objects for information.
Players can often find and throw explosive Xen flora (like 'Boom Blobs') or potentially use Snark-like creatures found in specific containers, though these are environmental interactions rather than equippable weapons.
Armor / Gear Sets
Ranger Armor (Walker's Suit): Walker's signature Ranger armor. While not customizable with different pieces in the traditional RPG sense, its capabilities are enhanced through Nanotrite abilities and upgrades that improve Walker's health, damage resistance (via Constitution ability), and combat effectiveness. Cosmetic variations might be available through editions or unlocks.
Nicholas Raine Armor (Deluxe Edition): A cosmetic armor skin for Walker, styled after Nicholas Raine, the protagonist of the original RAGE. Included in the Deluxe Edition.
No Equipable Armor System: Alyx Vance does not have an equipable armor system where players can find or upgrade different pieces of armor for stat boosts. Her survivability is based on her base health, which can be restored using Health Syringes found in the environment or from Health Stations. Player skill in combat, using cover effectively, and managing resources are key to survival.
Health Syringes & Health Stations: Health Syringes are consumable items stored in Alyx's wrist slots that provide instant healing. Wall-mounted Health Stations can also be found, allowing Alyx to restore her health by interacting with them (often requiring a puzzle or power to activate).
Outfits/Customization
Ranger Armor: Walker's primary attire is the Ranger suit. While direct aesthetic customization of the suit itself (beyond choosing male/female Walker) is limited in the base game, different editions or unlocks (like the Nicholas Raine Armor skin in the Deluxe Edition) provided alternate appearances.
Weapon Skins: Some editions or DLCs offered cosmetic skins for weapons (e.g., Reaper Assault Rifle skin in TerrorMania Deluxe upgrade).
Vehicle Skins: Skins were available for vehicles, particularly the Phoenix, like the Wasteland Celebrity Phoenix skin or Mutant Monster Truck skin through special editions or DLCs.
Alyx Vance's Standard Attire: Alyx wears a consistent outfit throughout the game, consisting of a practical jacket (often with a Black Mesa logo reference), shirt, pants, and her iconic fingerless gloves which house her health/ammo display and are part of the Gravity Glove system. There are no player-controlled clothing customization options for Alyx; her appearance is fixed for the narrative.
Gravity Gloves ('Russells'): These are a key piece of Alyx's gear, not clothing in the traditional sense, but visually distinct. They are black and yellow and integral to her ability to interact with the VR world. They are not customizable in appearance.
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World & Exploration
Playable Vehicles
Phoenix: Primary Player Vehicle (Upgradable All-Terrain Assault Car)
Walker's main customizable and upgradable vehicle. Equipped with machine guns, rockets, and other unlockable offensive and defensive capabilities. Can be summoned almost anywhere in the wasteland.
Icarus: Gyrocopter / Light Air Vehicle
A small, agile gyrocopter allowing for aerial traversal and reconnaissance of the wasteland. Useful for reaching high places or bypassing difficult terrain.
Raptor: Motorcycle
A fast and nimble motorcycle for quick travel across the wasteland, though offering little protection.
ChazCar: Classic Car (Customizable)
A pre-war classic car that can be found and driven, belonging to Chaz Morass. Can be upgraded.
A heavily armored and armed monster truck used by the Goon Squad. Can be commandeered.
Pulverizer (River Hogs Vehicle): Heavy Armored Vehicle (Faction Vehicle)
A large, durable vehicle used by the River Hogs, often equipped with powerful weaponry.
Various Buggies & Trucks: Land Vehicles (Assorted)
A wide assortment of other driveable vehicles belonging to different factions or found abandoned, including light buggies, transport trucks, and armored cars. Most vehicles encountered can be driven.
A cosmetic skin for a monster truck, included in the Deluxe Edition.
None (Player Controlled for General Traversal)
Alyx Vance traverses all environments on foot using various VR locomotion options (Teleport, Shift, Continuous). There are no player-controlled vehicles like cars, bikes, or aircraft for general navigation in the game.
Combine Razor Train (Contextual / Environmental): Mass Transit / Enemy Transport
The iconic Combine Razor Trains are present in City 17's environment and feature in some scripted sequences or as background elements, but Alyx does not pilot or directly control them.
Various lifts and elevators are found within levels, providing vertical traversal. Alyx interacts with them to move between floors or different sections of a facility.
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Story & Characters
Main Characters
Walker: Protagonist / The Last Ranger
The player character. Can be male or female. The last surviving Ranger of Vineland, seeking to avenge their fallen comrades and stop The Authority. Infused with Nanotrites, granting powerful abilities.
Lily Prowley: Ally / Walker's Adoptive Sister
Walker's adoptive sister and a key figure from Vineland. She provides support, mission objectives, and drives much of Walker's initial motivation. Daughter of Erwina Prowley.
General Martin Cross: Main Antagonist / Leader of The Authority
The primary villain and leader of the technologically advanced and oppressive faction, The Authority. He aims to control the wasteland and utilizes cloning technology to ensure his survival.
Loosum Hagar: Ally / Mayor of Wellspring
The pragmatic mayor of the trade town Wellspring. One of the three key figures Walker needs to recruit for Project Dagger, focusing on vehicular and firepower aspects.
John Marshall: Ally / Ex-Ranger Resistance Leader
A former Ranger and an old war buddy of Erwina Prowley. He leads a resistance movement in Gunbarrel and helps Walker with tactical and weaponry aspects of Project Dagger.
Dr. Anton Kvasir: Ally / Eccentric Scientist
A brilliant but eccentric scientist specializing in Nanotrites and mutations. He is crucial for developing the means to permanently defeat General Cross as part of Project Dagger.
A renowned Ranger and Walker's adoptive mother, Lily's biological mother. Her legacy inspires Walker.
Alyx Vance: Protagonist / Resistance Fighter
The main playable character. A resourceful and skilled member of the human resistance against the Combine. Daughter of Dr. Eli Vance. She is determined, witty, and possesses a strong moral compass. The game explores her capabilities and resolve before she meets Gordon Freeman.
Eli Vance: Supporting Character / Resistance Leader / Scientist
Alyx's father, a brilliant scientist formerly of Black Mesa and a key leader in the resistance. His capture by the Combine at the start of the game is the catalyst for Alyx's mission.
Russell: Ally / Resistance Technician & Inventor
A quirky and humorous resistance member who communicates with Alyx via radio throughout her journey. He provides technical support, guidance, and invents crucial gear for Alyx, including the Gravity Gloves (which he calls 'Russells').
Combine Overwatch (Various Voices/Units): Primary Antagonistic Force
The military arm of the interdimensional Combine empire occupying Earth. They are cold, calculating, and technologically superior. Communicate via standardized radio chatter. Alyx confronts various soldier types and their technology.
Vortigaunts: Allies / Enslaved Alien Species
An alien species from Xen, formerly enslaved by the Nihilanth and now also oppressed by the Combine. Some Vortigaunts aid the resistance and Alyx, possessing unique energy-based abilities and cryptic wisdom.
The mysterious, pan-dimensional 'bureaucrat' who has influenced events throughout the Half-Life series. His presence is felt, and he makes a pivotal appearance that recontextualizes past and future events.
Dr. Judith Mossman (Mentioned/Implied): Scientist / Double Agent
While not directly appearing in person for most of the game, her actions and involvement with Eli Vance and the Combine are referenced, linking to the broader Half-Life narrative.
Headcrabs, Zombies, Barnacles, etc. (Xen Creatures): Antagonistic Fauna/Flora
Various hostile lifeforms originating from the borderworld Xen, now infesting parts of City 17 due to Combine activity or portals.
Example Missions
Main Story Missions (Project Dagger)
A series of core missions focused on Walker's efforts to recruit three key allies (Loosum Hagar, John Marshall, Dr. Anton Kvasir) and execute Project Dagger to defeat General Cross and The Authority. These missions often involve infiltrating enemy strongholds, rescuing characters, and large-scale battles.
Ark Hunting
Locating and clearing out Arks, which are sealed pre-apocalypse bunkers. Successfully accessing an Ark rewards Walker with new Nanotrite abilities or powerful weapons.
Bandit Dens / Authority Sentries / Mutant Nests
Clearing out various enemy encampments scattered throughout the wasteland. These typically involve defeating all enemies in the area and destroying specific objectives or looting containers. Contributes to regional completion and provides resources.
Convoy Destruction
Intercepting and destroying heavily armed convoys belonging to different factions that roam the wasteland. Requires vehicular combat skills and often culminates in a battle against a powerful lead vehicle.
Mutant Bash TV (MBTV)
Participating in a televised death sport arena, fighting waves of mutants for fame and fortune (in-game currency and rewards). Features different arenas and increasing difficulty.
Races
Participating in vehicular races found at various locations in the wasteland. Winning races provides rewards and parts for vehicle upgrades.
Bounties & Side Missions
Undertaking specific tasks or hunting down wanted individuals for rewards, often obtained from bounty boards in trade towns or from various NPCs.
Rise of the Ghosts (DLC Campaign)
A new storyline where Walker confronts the Ghost faction in a new region called the Overgrown City, acquiring the Feltrite Laser Launcher and the Void Nanotrite ability.
TerrorMania (DLC Campaign)
Walker ventures into the Deadlands, a twisted alternate reality, to reverse a curse and fight the Army of the Dead, armed with the new Sword of Transitus.
Main Story Chapters (Approximately 11 Chapters)
A linear series of chapters that progress the narrative of Alyx Vance's mission to rescue her father, Eli Vance, from the Combine. This involves navigating various sectors of City 17, infiltrating Combine facilities, confronting Xen creatures, solving environmental puzzles using VR interactions and the Multi-Tool, and ultimately reaching a massive Combine Vault. Each chapter presents unique environments, challenges, and story developments.
Environmental Puzzle Solving
Throughout the levels, Alyx must solve various environmental puzzles to progress. These often involve using the Gravity Gloves to manipulate objects, finding and placing battery cells, rewiring circuits with the Multi-Tool (involving 3D holographic puzzles), disabling Combine security systems, or navigating hazardous terrain.
Combat Encounters (Combine & Xen)
Engage in intense first-person combat against Combine soldiers (various types with different weapons and tactics) and hostile Xen creatures (Headcrabs, Zombies, Barnacles, etc.). Combat emphasizes physically aiming, reloading weapons, using cover, and utilizing throwable items like grenades or environmental explosives.
Stealth Sequences & Evasion
Certain sections require or encourage stealthy approaches to bypass heavily armed Combine patrols, avoid waking dormant enemies, or navigate areas with unkillable threats like Jeff. This involves using cover, distractions, and careful movement.
Resource Scavenging & Management
Continuously search the environment for vital resources: Resin (for weapon upgrades), ammunition for Alyx's three firearms, health syringes, Combine grenades, and other useful items. Efficiently managing these limited resources is key to survival.
Weapon Upgrading (At Combine Fabricators)
Locate Combine fabricator stations and spend collected Resin to unlock and apply various upgrades to Alyx's pistol, shotgun, and SMG, enhancing their capabilities (e.g., adding sights, extended magazines, alternate fire modes like a grenade launcher).
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Multiplayer
Multiplayer Details
N/A
Half-Life: Alyx is a purely single-player experience. There are no official multiplayer modes. Community-created mods might explore multiplayer concepts, but these are not part of the base game.
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Editions & DLC
Available Editions
N/A
Half-Life: Alyx was released as a single digital edition on Steam. Owners of the Valve Index VR headset received the game for free. There were no special or collector's physical editions announced by Valve.
Post-Launch Content / DLC
N/A
Valve released extensive modding tools (Source 2 SDK) for Half-Life: Alyx, leading to a vibrant community workshop scene with numerous custom maps, campaigns, and experiences created by users. No official story DLC or expansions have been released by Valve for Alyx.
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FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When was Rage 2 released? A: Rage 2 was released on May 14, 2019.
Q: Who developed Rage 2? A: Rage 2 was co-developed by Avalanche Studios (known for open-world games like Mad Max and Just Cause) and id Software (creators of DOOM and the original Rage).
Q: What is the story of Rage 2 about? A: Players control Walker, the last Ranger, in a post-apocalyptic wasteland fighting against the tyrannical Authority led by General Cross, as well as various gangs and mutants. The goal is to gather allies and execute Project Dagger to stop The Authority.
Q: What are Nanotrite abilities? A: Nanotrite abilities are powerful, upgradable superpowers that Walker can unlock from Arks. They include offensive skills like Slam and Shatter, defensive ones like Barrier, and utility powers like Grav-Jump and Dash. Activating Overdrive supercharges these abilities and weapons.
Q: Is Rage 2 an open-world game? A: Yes, Rage 2 features a large, seamless open world with diverse biomes, which players can traverse using a variety of vehicles. The world is filled with activities, enemy encampments, and locations to discover.
Q: Does Rage 2 have multiplayer? A: No, Rage 2 is a single-player game. It did feature some online social components like community challenges and events post-launch but no direct co-op or competitive multiplayer.
Q: What kind of vehicles are in Rage 2? A: Players can drive a wide range of wasteland vehicles, including the upgradable Phoenix (main player vehicle), motorcycles (Raptor), gyrocopters (Icarus), monster trucks, and various faction-specific buggies and combat vehicles. If you see it, you can generally drive it.
Q: Are there DLCs for Rage 2? A: Yes, two major expansions were released: 'Rise of the Ghosts' and 'TerrorMania,' both adding new story content, regions, enemies, weapons, and abilities.
Q: Is Half-Life: Alyx a VR-only game? A: Yes, Half-Life: Alyx was designed from the ground up exclusively for virtual reality and requires a compatible PC VR headset (like Valve Index, HTC Vive, Oculus Rift/Quest with Link, Windows Mixed Reality) and motion controllers to play.
Q: Where does Half-Life: Alyx fit into the Half-Life timeline? A: Half-Life: Alyx is a prequel set between the events of the original Half-Life and Half-Life 2. It takes place five years before Gordon Freeman's return in Half-Life 2.
Q: Do I need to have played previous Half-Life games to understand Alyx? A: While Half-Life: Alyx tells a self-contained story focused on Alyx Vance, familiarity with the Half-Life universe, characters (like Eli Vance, G-Man), and the Combine will significantly enhance the appreciation of its narrative, lore, and the impact of its ending. However, it can still be enjoyed by newcomers.
Q: What are the 'Russells' or Gravity Gloves? A: The Gravity Gloves, nicknamed 'Russells' by Alyx after their inventor, are a pair of gloves that allow her to target distant objects and flick her wrist to pull them towards her through the air. They are a core VR mechanic for interaction, looting, and puzzle-solving.
Q: How long is Half-Life: Alyx? A: A typical playthrough of the main story campaign takes around 12-15 hours, though this can vary depending on exploration, puzzle difficulty, and player skill. The Steam Workshop offers many additional hours of community-created content.
Q: Does Half-Life: Alyx have mod support? A: Yes, Valve released official modding tools (Source 2 SDK) for Half-Life: Alyx, which has led to a thriving modding community creating custom maps, new campaigns, gameplay modifications, and other experiences available through the Steam Workshop.
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Technical Details
Graphics & Visual Fidelity
N/A
Developed on the Source 2 Engine, Half-Life: Alyx sets a new benchmark for visual fidelity and detail in VR. It features incredibly realistic environments with high-resolution textures, advanced lighting and shadow effects, and detailed character/enemy models. The level of interactivity with objects in the environment is exceptional, designed to leverage VR capabilities. The game is renowned for its atmospheric and immersive world.
Audio & Soundtrack
N/A
Original score composed by Mike Morasky, featuring atmospheric electronic and orchestral pieces that build tension, enhance horror, and underscore dramatic moments. Sound design is crucial for VR immersion, with highly realistic spatial audio, distinct enemy vocalizations (Combine radio chatter, Headcrab screeches, Barnacle clicks), and impactful weapon sounds. Environmental audio plays a key role in detecting threats and navigating.
User Interface (UI/UX)
N/A
Designed for VR immersion. Health and ammo are displayed on Alyx's left glove. Weapon selection is often done by reaching over the shoulder or via a wrist-mounted menu. The Gravity Gloves provide intuitive object interaction. Inventory (syringes, grenades, Resin) is managed via wrist slots or a backpack accessible by reaching behind the shoulder. Minimal on-screen HUD elements to maximize immersion.
CPU: Official recommended desktop CPU for a good 1080p/High experience.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated mid-range laptop CPUs for solid 1080p/High performance.
GPU: Official recommended desktop GPU for 1080p High settings. 8GB VRAM is important.
GPU (Laptop): Good laptop GPUs for 1080p High. Ensure adequate TGP. RTX 50 series mention is speculative.
RAM: 8GB RAM is officially recommended. Dual-channel configuration improves performance. 16GB offers more headroom.
Storage: SSD is strongly recommended for this tier for fast loading and responsiveness.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i7-4770 or AMD Ryzen 5 1600X
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1660 Ti Mobile (6GB), RTX 2060 Mobile (6GB), RTX 3050 Ti Laptop GPU (4GB, High TGP), RTX 3060 Laptop GPU (6GB, Med-High TGP), RTX 4050 Laptop GPU (6GB, High TGP), RTX 4060 Laptop GPU (8GB). (A hypothetical future RTX 5050 Laptop GPU would easily manage this).
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 50 GB SSD
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1080p (Full HD) - VR Minimum (Mapped to '1080p' key for structural consistency)(Targets baseline VR performance, suitable for Low/Medium in-game fidelity settings. Actual render resolution depends on the VR headset used.)
CPU: Official minimum desktop CPU required to run Half-Life: Alyx.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU equivalent. VR is demanding; ensure the laptop can sustain performance without overheating.
GPU: Official minimum desktop GPU required for Half-Life: Alyx. Must have appropriate video outputs for your VR headset.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs. Ensure the laptop GPU is not a significantly lower-power variant and has the required VRAM.
RAM: 12 GB of system RAM is the official minimum requirement.
Storage: SSD installation is strongly recommended for the best experience in VR to minimize load times and asset streaming issues.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 Mobile (6GB, full desktop equivalent performance) / GTX 1660 Ti Mobile or AMD Radeon RX 5500M (with sufficient VRAM and performance).
layersRAM: 12 GB
saveStorage (Tier): ~70 GB (SSD Recommended)
1080p (Full HD) - Minimum (Targets 1080p, Low settings, ~30-60 FPS or 720p ~30 FPS for older interpretation)(Low Preset, 1080p resolution (or 720p for absolute minimum target).)
CPU: Official minimum desktop CPU for Rage 2.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop CPU for minimum playability. Most modern laptop CPUs will exceed this.
GPU: Official minimum desktop GPU. Requires 3GB VRAM.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated laptop GPUs for minimum settings. Even low-end modern discrete GPUs or powerful iGPUs (Iris Xe G7, Radeon 680M/780M) will perform adequately. RTX 50 series is highly speculative and far exceeds this tier.
RAM: 8GB RAM is the official minimum requirement.
Storage: HDD is absolute minimum; SSD highly recommended for better loading.
memoryCPU: Intel Core i5-3570 or AMD Ryzen 3 1300X
laptop_macCPU (L): Intel Core i5-7200U / AMD Ryzen 3 2200U or better. Modern i3/Ryzen 3 U-series can handle this.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce MX350 (2GB, might struggle) / MX450 (2GB), GTX 1050 Mobile (3GB/4GB). RTX 3050 Laptop GPU (Low TGP) / RTX 4050 Laptop GPU would be significant overkill but a modern entry point.
layersRAM: 8 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 50 GB HDD (SSD Recommended)
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1440p (QHD/2K) - VR Recommended (Mapped to '1440p' key for structural consistency)(Targets higher fidelity VR performance, suitable for High in-game fidelity settings. Actual render resolution depends on the VR headset used.)
CPU: Official recommended desktop CPU for a smoother and more consistent Half-Life: Alyx experience.
CPU (Laptop): Estimated higher-performance laptop CPUs to better handle VR demands at higher settings.
GPU: Official recommended desktop GPU for playing Half-Life: Alyx at higher fidelity settings.
GPU (Laptop): Estimated performance-focused laptop GPUs. High TGP and good thermal design are critical for these higher-end mobile GPUs in VR.
RAM: 16 GB of system RAM is officially recommended for improved performance and stability at higher settings.
Storage: SSD installation is strongly recommended.
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memoryCPU: Intel Core i7-9700K or AMD Ryzen 5 3600
developer_boardGPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super (8GB VRAM) or AMD Radeon RX 5700 XT (8GB VRAM)
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070 Super Mobile / RTX 2080 Mobile / RTX 3060 Mobile (High TGP variants) or AMD Radeon RX 6700M / RX 6800M.
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): ~70 GB (SSD Recommended)
1440p (QHD/2K) - High (Targets 1440p, High settings, ~60-90 FPS)(High Preset, 1440p resolution.)
CPU: Strong desktop CPU for achieving smooth framerates at 1440p.
CPU (Laptop): High-performance laptop CPUs beneficial for consistent 1440p gameplay.
GPU: Desktop GPU capable of delivering a solid 1440p experience at high settings. 8GB VRAM essential.
GPU (Laptop): Strong laptop GPUs for 1440p. Max TGP versions are important. RTX 50 series mention is speculative.
RAM: 16GB RAM is recommended for smooth 1440p gaming.
Storage: NVMe SSD recommended for the best loading times at 1440p.
2160p (UHD/4K) - Extreme VR (Max Fidelity & Supersampling - '2160p' key used for structure)(Ultra in-game fidelity, significant supersampling (e.g., 150%-200%+ on high-resolution headsets) to achieve maximum visual clarity. Targets highest stable framerate supported by top-tier VR headsets (e.g., 90Hz, 120Hz+).)
CPU: Top-tier desktop CPUs required to minimize any potential bottlenecks when pushing extreme VR resolutions and maintaining high, stable framerates.
CPU (Laptop): Absolute flagship laptop CPUs. Performance will still be below desktop counterparts and heavily dependent on laptop cooling and power delivery.
GPU: Flagship desktop GPUs with maximum available VRAM essential for driving very high VR resolutions with supersampling and ultra settings.
GPU (Laptop): The most powerful laptop GPU available (as of early-mid 2025). Performance will vary based on TGP; will still require careful settings management for extreme supersampling compared to desktop.
RAM: 32GB of fast DDR5 RAM recommended for handling extreme VR demands and potential background processes without issue.
Storage: A very fast NVMe SSD (PCIe Gen 4.0 or newer) recommended to ensure ultra-fast loading and asset streaming for the most seamless experience at maximum settings.
2160p (UHD/4K) - 4K High Settings (Targets 2160p/4K, High settings, ~60 FPS)(High Preset, 2160p (4K) resolution (internal resolution scaler may be used to maintain 60FPS).)
CPU: Capable desktop CPU to support 4K gaming in Rage 2 without significant bottlenecks.
CPU (Laptop): High-end laptop CPUs to pair with capable GPUs for 4K Rage 2.
GPU: Desktop GPUs capable of running Rage 2 at 4K High settings with good framerates. 8GB+ VRAM essential.
GPU (Laptop): High-end laptop GPUs from RTX 30/40 series can achieve 4K in Rage 2. Hypothetical RTX 50 series would enhance this further but is significant overkill.
RAM: 16GB RAM is generally sufficient for 4K in Rage 2.
Storage: A fast NVMe SSD is recommended for the best 4K gaming experience.
laptop_windowsGPU (L): NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3070 Ti Laptop GPU (8GB), RTX 3080 Laptop GPU (8GB/16GB), RTX 4070 Laptop GPU (8GB), RTX 4080 Laptop GPU (12GB). **(A hypothetical future RTX 5070 Laptop GPU would provide a very strong 4K experience for Rage 2.)**
layersRAM: 16 GB
saveStorage (Tier): 50 GB NVMe SSD
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save Overall Storage
Spec: 50 GB available space (SSD Recommended) Note: An SSD (Solid State Drive) is recommended for faster loading times. Ensure at least 50 GB of free disk space. This requirement may change with updates, though unlikely for an older title. Type: SSD
Spec: ~70 GB available space (SSD Recommended) Note: An SSD (Solid State Drive) is strongly recommended for optimal loading times and to reduce potential stuttering during gameplay. Approximately 70 GB of free disk space is required for installation. Type: SSD
desktop_windows Operating System
Spec: Windows 7, 8.1, or 10 (64-Bit versions), Windows 11 (64-Bit) Explanation: A 64-bit version of Windows 7, 8.1, 10, or 11 is required. For optimal compatibility and performance, Windows 10 or 11 (latest updates) is recommended.
Spec: Windows 10 (64-bit) Explanation: 64-bit Windows 10 is the officially supported operating system. Windows 11 is also generally compatible.
gamepad DirectX Version
Spec: DirectX 11 Explanation: Requires a graphics card compatible with DirectX 11. Rage 2 does not support ray tracing.
Spec: Vulkan (Primary), DirectX 11 Explanation: Half-Life: Alyx primarily utilizes the Vulkan API for rendering, which is recommended for best performance. DirectX 11 is also supported as a fallback.
info_outline Other Game Notes
OFFICIAL AND EXTRAPOLATED SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS for Rage 2 (Released May 2019). This information is based on official Minimum/Recommended PC specifications from Bethesda Softworks and includes extrapolated tiers for higher performance targets, adapted to the requested JSON structure for a May 2025 context. Laptop GPU mentions for RTX 50 series are speculative and represent overkill for this title.
Laptop Performance Note: Laptop models of listed desktop GPUs require comparable performance, dependent on TGP (Total Graphics Power) and cooling. Rage 2 is moderately demanding; most modern gaming laptops should run it well, but good TGP and cooling ensure smoother high-framerate gameplay.
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Sufficient TGP for the laptop GPU helps achieve consistent framerates.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Good cooling is beneficial for maintaining stable performance during extended gameplay sessions.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Adequate CPU power ensures smooth gameplay, though Rage 2 is generally more GPU-bound at higher settings.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: A MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can reduce latency and improve framerates.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: The game features an internal resolution scaling option. It does not natively support advanced upscaling technologies like NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, or Intel XeSS through official patches.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: Texture Detail, Shadow Quality, Geometric Details, Anti-Aliasing, Anisotropic Filtering, SSR (Screen Space Reflections), and FOV significantly impact performance. The internal resolution scaler can be used to improve framerates.
Game Name: Rage 2
OFFICIAL SYSTEM REQUIREMENTS for Half-Life: Alyx (VR Game). This information has been adapted to the provided JSON structure. Half-Life: Alyx is a VR-exclusive title with established requirements. The '1080p' and '1440p' tier keys from the template are used here to represent 'VR Minimum' and 'VR Recommended' specifications, respectively. The '2160p' tier has been populated with hardware for an 'Extreme VR / Max Supersampling' scenario, which is not an official Valve-defined tier but represents a very high-end target.
Laptop Performance Note: For VR titles like Half-Life: Alyx, laptop models of listed desktop GPUs must have comparable performance. Sufficient TGP (Total Graphics Power) for the GPU, robust cooling, and correct port connections for the VR headset are critical for a good VR experience.
Laptop Consideration: G P U T G P: Adequate TGP is crucial for VR performance on laptops, ensuring the GPU can deliver its expected power.
Laptop Consideration: Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling and maintain stable frame rates, which is vital for VR comfort.
Laptop Consideration: C P U Power Limits: Sustained CPU performance is important for physics calculations, AI, and overall game logic in demanding VR scenarios.
Laptop Consideration: M U X Switch Optimus: A MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can reduce latency and improve framerates by allowing the dedicated GPU to connect directly to the display (or VR headset via appropriate ports), which is highly beneficial for VR.
Optimization Detail: Upscaling Tech: The game engine (Source 2) features dynamic resolution scaling and allows for fixed render resolution overrides (per-eye) to manage performance for VR. SteamVR also provides global and per-application resolution settings.
Optimization Detail: Key Settings Impact: In-game graphics fidelity settings (Low, Medium, High, Ultra), the VR headset's native refresh rate (e.g., 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz), and the render resolution (per-eye) are the most significant factors affecting performance and visual quality. Maintaining a stable framerate matching the headset's refresh rate is crucial for a comfortable and immersive VR experience.
Game Name: Half-Life: Alyx
build Optimization Details
Upscaling Tech: The game features an internal resolution scaling option. It does not natively support advanced upscaling technologies like NVIDIA DLSS, AMD FSR, or Intel XeSS through official patches.
Key Settings Impact: Texture Detail, Shadow Quality, Geometric Details, Anti-Aliasing, Anisotropic Filtering, SSR (Screen Space Reflections), and FOV significantly impact performance. The internal resolution scaler can be used to improve framerates.
Upscaling Tech: The game engine (Source 2) features dynamic resolution scaling and allows for fixed render resolution overrides (per-eye) to manage performance for VR. SteamVR also provides global and per-application resolution settings.
Key Settings Impact: In-game graphics fidelity settings (Low, Medium, High, Ultra), the VR headset's native refresh rate (e.g., 90Hz, 120Hz, 144Hz), and the render resolution (per-eye) are the most significant factors affecting performance and visual quality. Maintaining a stable framerate matching the headset's refresh rate is crucial for a comfortable and immersive VR experience.
laptop Laptop Considerations
G P U T G P: Sufficient TGP for the laptop GPU helps achieve consistent framerates.
Cooling Thermals: Good cooling is beneficial for maintaining stable performance during extended gameplay sessions.
C P U Power Limits: Adequate CPU power ensures smooth gameplay, though Rage 2 is generally more GPU-bound at higher settings.
M U X Switch Optimus: A MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can reduce latency and improve framerates.
G P U T G P: Adequate TGP is crucial for VR performance on laptops, ensuring the GPU can deliver its expected power.
Cooling Thermals: Excellent cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling and maintain stable frame rates, which is vital for VR comfort.
C P U Power Limits: Sustained CPU performance is important for physics calculations, AI, and overall game logic in demanding VR scenarios.
M U X Switch Optimus: A MUX switch or NVIDIA Advanced Optimus can reduce latency and improve framerates by allowing the dedicated GPU to connect directly to the display (or VR headset via appropriate ports), which is highly beneficial for VR.
info_outline
Laptop recommendations are estimates based on available component benchmarks and game requirements.
Actual performance may vary depending on settings, drivers, cooling, power limits, etc.
Prices and availability subject to change. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.