With Half-Life: Alyx's March 23 release date rapidly approaching, the game might be in some trouble. Like just about everything these days, the game's release is being affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The deadly virus has already caused a stir in the gaming industry, causing high-profile events like E3 and GDC to be canceled. Although event cancellations have been the most high-profile effects of the virus, hardware development has also taken a hit.
Valve announced Half-Life: Alyx in November 2019, with the game scheduled to arrive on Steam exclusively as a VR title. However, gamers who don't yet have VR headsets may have to wait even longer to play the highly anticipated game.
Valve's own VR headset had already been out of stock before coronavirus concerns put further strain on availability. The Index, which includes a VR headset and two controllers, is currently unavailable for purchase through any means. Because the novel coronavirus initially hit China, where these devices are manufactured, the production of new units has been delayed.
In a statement, Valve tried to reassure gamers that more Index systems would be available by the time Half-Life: Alyx releases, though it did acknowledge there were would be fewer units available than originally planned. Valve also directed fans to click "Notify Me" on the Index's Steam page to receive an update as soon as it is back in stock.
Although players don't necessarily have to purchase the Valve Index VR hardware in order to experience Half-Life: Alyx, there are some features that are exclusively accessed through the high-end hardware. Those with other PC-compatible VR headsets will still be able to play the full game, and, while it may not run or play as well as Valve envisioned, most players likely won't notice the difference. However, for gamers who were hoping to buy a VR headset for Alyx, coming by one may be difficult. The Oculus Quest was also affected by the outbreak, and Facebook announced a delay to the already back-ordered hardware.
These delays are even more disappointing for fans who have waited over a decade for a new entry in the franchise. The latest Half-Life release was Half-Life 2: Episode Two back in 2007. Aylx is not meant to be a sequel to the events of Episode Two, instead, taking place before Half-Life 2. Although some fans aren't thrilled about the longer wait for Episode 3 or long-rumored Half-Life 3, Half-Life: Alyx is a sign that they may eventually materialize.
It is uncertain if there will be another Half-Life game after this one. Still, the future looks bright for fans of the series, even if Half-Life: Alyx is not the game fans asked for. The game could also cause a stir in the VR world. VR games aren't currently considered as fully featured as other AAA games, so if Alyx is well-received, it could encourage other developers to put more resources into these kinds of experiences.
Half-Life: Alyx launches on Steam on March 23, 2020.