The Half-Life Series is a popular first-person shooter video game franchise developed by Valve Corporation. The series began with the release of the original Half-Life in 1998, which introduced players to the character Gordon Freeman, a scientist fighting against alien creatures and government forces in a research facility. The franchise includes several sequels and expansions, such as Half-Life 2 and its episodic follow-ups. Known for its engaging storytelling, innovative gameplay mechanics, and immersive environments, the series has received critical acclaim and has significantly influenced the gaming industry.