Of course, no scientific mess would be complete without the government trying to cover it up. Soon after the whole disaster plays off at Black Mesa, you hear from a fellow scientist that soldiers are on the way to rescue the survivors. Great, now you don't need to get out and get help anymore, right? Wrong. On your way to the surface you encounter some marines who kills some other scientists in cold blood and you realize that these guys aren't here to help you.
The addition of the military makes a huge difference to the overall gameplay, since you now have two different camps to contend with, while trying to save innocent scientists and security guards alike along the way. Some you won't be able to save and these always leave you with a feeling of regret while you know you have to push on. The military AI for Half Life was the best out at the time, with the soldiers ducking for cover when you shoot and trying to outflank you when possible.
As with the different aliens, you have different enemies where the military is concerned as well. Starting with the standard MP5-sporting grunts, you move up through the ranks until you reach the abominable heavy armored vehicles and helicopters. All make for a more exciting and dangerous experience. Here's a quick rundown of the military enemies you'll find in the game:
All soldiers carry grenades, so it's best if you don't attract their attention and then go cower behind some crates; they'll kill you... However, if you kill them, you also stand a chance of gaining some grenades as loot.
As mentioned, the standard grunt with the MP5 machine gun (that's the same one you use, so they drop bullets for you; sometimes even grenades for the MP5's launcher) is the one you'll encounter the most often. These guys are relatively tough, but a few shotgun blasts will make short work of them.
Next are the shotgun-toting grunts, their health stats are the same as the MP5 soldiers, but they pack a mean punch in firepower, since they carry the same SPAS 12 style shotgun that you do. Once again, the shotgun is effective, but if you can get a shot off with the .357magnum from a distance, it'd be much easier.
Marine officers are tough. They have more health than your standard grunts and they carry a .357magnum, same as yours. This makes it a challenge to kill them, but with guaranteed satisfaction if you do; you get to load up on some rare-to-come-by ammo for the Magnum.
Sometimes you'll encounter grunts manning all kinds of turrets, like machine guns and rocket launchers. These guys are usually very hard to take out, unless you can toss a grenade into their bunker or nest. Sometimes, however, you can get a sneak shot off with the Magnum or crossbow. If you can, take it; it makes life much easier.
Tomorrow in Half Life - Part 5: Military Hardware
