Valve, the makers of Half-Life 2, have released “Lost Coast”, a mini-level designed to showcase their new HDR (High-Dyanmic Range) system. If you own Half-Life 2, just restart Steam (if you have it open right now that is) and then right-click HL2:LC and install it. :)

Oh, and here’s HDR off vs. on:

(ignore the orange and white talk bubble thing – it’s used to activate commentary in the level)

Half-Life 2: Lost Coast - HDR In Action [Thumbnail]

It may not seem like much, but you really notice it in-game. When you’re in a dark area and then go outside, everything is really bright and over the matter of a few seconds, your virtual eyes adjust and all is good. Oh, and yes, I realize HDR is in Day of Defeat: Source meaning many of you have still seen it, but Lost Coast is still cool as it features commentary from the makers. :D

Oh, and here’s another prettiness screenshot. :)

Half-Life 2: Lost Coast - Fisherman [Thumbnail]