Oh, April Fools’ Day, how I loathe thee. I’m not troubled by the obvious shenanigans, such as Notch’s ‘new’ game called Mars Effect or a video showcasing the introduction of Google Earth to the NES, because those are easy to distinguish as a joke on the one day that’s set aside each year to mess with people. I take issue with the jokes that hit close to home or sound plausible.
In this regard, Valve takes the ‘cake is a lie’ award for their April Fools’ Day contribution. If you head over to the Steam store via browser, you’ll discover some amazing news that quickly disappoints. A lambda symbol with a three in the top-right corner is complemented by text that reads, “The long awaited final part of the Half-Life saga is now available!”
Clicking on the image, though, reveals a Gabe troll confirming that it’s all, alas, poppycock. (Please note that the above link will be deactivated on the 2nd of April.)
Part of me respects their dedication to offering a joke that’s bound to rub up so many gamers the wrong way; after all, I think that the best comedy should push people’s boundaries. But this one did make me sad as a part of me dared to hope… if only for a moment.
What’s your least favourite April Fools’ Day prank this year?
