Will the free version be updated to the same level that the Steam version is at? Or will the free version be staying as a sort of demo/prototype of the full release?
Just because they’re making money doesn’t necessarily mean they can afford to work on the game full time to finish it.
This post hits the nail on the head. The game may not be done, but they decided to give the community what they have. Take it for what you will.
They’re releasing an updated free version at some point, it’s unknown when it’ll be done. The free version will include only bug fixes and possibly a shiny new engine (2013 SDK) as far as I’m aware, but don’t hold me to that (someone is free to correct me if they have more information). Don’t ask about release dates, you’re not going to get an answer.
The mod has been in development for YEARS. Like, it should pretty much be done with how long it’s taken them do get to this point.
Well that’s their problem isn’t it? If I’m paying money for an unfinished product I at least expect it to be finished in a reasonable time frame. That’s why I’m paying money in the first place. The developers’ real life woes is the least of my concern.
Yes. Or, OR, get this: they’re actually trying to make sure it’s good, rather than finished. How’s that, eh?
Yes, your money is obviously far more important than the well-being of the developers who have spent 10 years on a free mod.
You know what else was in development for years?
Duke Nukem Forever.
And we all know why DNF was horrible.
Be glad that even after all these years in development, the quality of the project has only risen.
I don’t understand how charging money for an unfinished product ensures that it will be good. If anything, that kind of hinders the enjoyment of something. Getting to play it gradually with small updates here and there instead of taking it all in at once.
“BE HAPPY IT’S NOT AS BAD AS THIS OTHER GAME” is not a valid argument or defense.
You’re hardly making your own point. Releasing a half-baked product in bad taste, yes, but there is all the proper disclaimers in place and “EARLY ACCESS GAME” in big bold letters before the buy button, and frankly, this game isn’t half-baked. It’s fully baked with the other loaf of bread (that being Xen) in the oven cooking.
Do you have ANY idea how hard it is to make a good model, level, etc from scratch? They’re not making a 1:1 remake of Half-Life.
Yes, it is a valid argument in this case.
For years, the Black Mesa team has done nothing but give, and give, and give, and they’ve poured their lives into this project so you can enjoy it.
It’s been in development for so long because the team is striving to make Black Mesa the best experience they possibly can. For your enjoyment.
They’ve released an updated version of what we’ve had and loved for a long time now, because their community asked for more. We asked for more, and they provided.
And the moment that they ask for even the slightest bit in return, you spit in their faces and refuse.
Tell me, where the hell do you get off? What right have you to tell the Black Mesa team that they can’t even get the slightest bit of monetary help from their community?
Donations almost never work. People won’t give other people money unless they get something in return. And I think $20 is a goddamn deal compared to the amount of work put into the game.
I don’t understand how you don’t understand that these people need money to pay bills, and they can either get that through this, or jobs. They can’t do both at the same time. If they work jobs, they won’t be able to improve the game. If they do this, they can.
How can I explain this in a way that you’ll understand how life works?
They can’t do both? How so and who decides that?
Up to them, and it becomes a bit more difficult when you’re juggling actual work and a labor of love.
They technically can do both, but it would be detrimental to the project.
Having a job outside Black Mesa would minimize time able to be put into it, modelling, texturing, coding, mapping, etc.
But if their job IS Black Mesa, then they’re making enough money to sustain themselves and the project, along with being able to put as much time into what they do as they need or want! It’s a win-win situation.
I gladly paid £14.99 for BM on Steam. This is my way of contributing towards and actively supporting this awesome remake of an awesome game. Many companies these days release “HD Remastered” versions of older games, BM is much more than that and is worth far more than £14.99. For those who don’t want to support the team for their countless years of tiresome work then fine, play the free mod. Either way, it’s totally your choice.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’m just about to put on my HEV Suit.
Awesome work. 
I am just thankful this isn’t 60 dollars… though hell I would pay that it would have just taken time, as it is I sold my last expensive tf2 item for black mesa cause hell I love the game and I would be willing to pay 60 dollars. we all know the game is worth more then even that.
I agree, though you shouldn’t generalize not paying for the game as simply not wanting to. There are countless people out there who just plain can’t spare $19.99/£14.99. I’m in that exact situation.
If the free version gets updated, I’ll personally be torn between playing the free version, and waiting until I can buy the Steam version to play. But regardless, when I can get the Steam version, you bet your sweet Black Mesa behind I will!
I know, it was meant to be a little cynical. Well said though.
The two won’t be exactly the same. The paid version has new models and textures made by Bkdale and other members of the team. The free version would be just bug fixes. I’m not entirely sure if it’s upgraded to the new engine or not though.