It's fine? It's fine. I can't say I love it because frankly even after it came out I still spent a hilarious amount of time playing the HL1 mods, even if they ended up getting source ports. I think it's a better game engine than HL1, but not a better paced game, nor a better community.

There's two big exceptions. The first is, of course, Garry's Mod, which rightfully would require it's own review. The second is Black Mesa, which uses the HL2 engine to remake HL1 and- surprise!- is better than both as a game by a really unbelievable margin.