Half-Life 2: Episode One pre-loading now

Valve has announced that the much delayed and highly anticipated expansion to Half-Life 2 is now pre-loading on Steam.

It's coming soon

Those eager to ensure they have the game ready to play for its June 1 release can now commence downloading, as Valve has announced that Half-Life 2: Episode One is now pre-loading on Steam. Episode One is the first of Valve's planned episodic releases for Half-Life 2, and is said to include around six hours of gameplay. Six hours will set gamers back $19.95, and for those that order before the game's release you get a nice bonus of a 10% discount.

It has also been noticed that Valve is now rather disturbingly selling plush headcrabs at its online store. These are available now for only $24.95, and the charming little critters would make splendid presents for children, or a nice addition to a dull looking desk.