LogFAQs > #947877328

10. Half-Life 2 - Xeybozn
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7HBwxbWVb-M

I hadnt seen this intro before, and I have to say its a really intriguing sequence.

First of all, this is some fantastic voice acting. The character speaks in a manner not unlike a computer trying to simulate human speech patterns, with a stilted flow of words and pronunciation of syllables, but theres no doubt its a person speaking. This unusual way of speaking, coupled with the bizarre visual distortions involving the mans face, give the sequence a vaguely unsettling quality. And what works best about it is its difficult to pinpoint precisely why its so unsettling, since the sequence never clarifies if theres an immediate threat, let alone what that threat might be.

Although its a short sequence, I think that makes it work even better. It conveys a strong sense of story, despite the lack of narration or spelling out any plot details. Sometimes less is more, and this is a perfect example.