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#REDIRECT [[Half-Life (series)]] |
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{{incomplete|date=May 2008|article}} |
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{{General CVG character |
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| name = Vortigaunt |
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| image = [[Image:Vortigaunt.png|245px|A Vortigaunt in ''Episode Two'']] |
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| caption = A Vortigaunt as seen in ''[[Half-Life 2: Episode Two]]'' |
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| series = [[Half-Life (series)|''Half-Life'' series]] |
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| firstgame = ''[[Half-Life (video game)|Half-Life]]'' (1998) |
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| voiceactor = [[Louis Gossett, Jr.]]<br />[[Tony Todd]] |
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}} |
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'''Vortigaunts''' are a fictional [[Extraterrestrial life|alien]] race in the [[Half-Life (series)|''Half-Life'' series]] by the [[Valve Corporation]]. In ''[[Half-Life (video game)|Half-Life]]'' and its three expansions, Vortigaunts are frequently encountered by the player as hostile [[non-player character]]s. The Vortigaunts are depicted in ''Half-Life'' as being an enslaved race native to an [[multiverse|alternate dimension]] called [[Xen (Half-Life)|Xen]], subserviant a large Xen creature called the [[Nihilanth]], which itself is a slave to undisclosed masters. In ''[[Half-Life 2]]'', the Vortigaunts have broken free of their slavery, and actively assist the player and other humans in resisting the [[Combine (Half-Life)|Combine]] occupation of [[Earth]]. |
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Vortigaunts are shown as a very communal and cultural race, believing in force that binds the fabric of the universe and each Vortigaunt together, as well as producing a tradition of poetry and music. Vortigaunts also display the ability to summon and command energy with no technology. In the video games, this ability is used for various activities, including as an attack method or simply to power up electrical equipment. In addition to their role within the ''Half-Life'' series, Vortigaunts have been made into a [[plush toy]] by the Valve Corporation. |
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==Character design== |
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In ''Half-Life 2'', the Vortigaunts are voiced by [[Louis Gossett, Jr.]] It is mentioned in ''[[Half-Life 2: Raising the Bar|Raising the Bar]]'' that Gossett was chosen partially due to his role as the alien in the film ''[[Enemy Mine (film)|Enemy Mine]]''. In ''[[Half-Life 2: Episode Two|Episode Two]]'', he is replaced by [[Tony Todd]]. |
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==Attributes== |
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===Society=== |
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Vortigaunts are intelligent and social creatures. In ''[[Half-Life (video game)|Half-Life]]'', they serve as basic ground units for the [[Xen (Half-Life)|Xen]] forces, often supporting heavier troops fighting the player and the humans in the [[Black Mesa Research Facility]]. They are shown as being capable of developing intelligent strategies and tactics to take on their enemies.<ref name="VortHL2"/> Initially, Vortigaunts are shown to be enslaved to the [[Nihilanth]], a large creature on Xen itself a slave to unknown superiors.<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[1998]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Interloper| language = English| quote='''Nihilanth''': Their slaves, we are their slaves, we are.}}</ref> On Xen, the Vortigaunts are shown to be used as factory workers and drones.<ref name="interloper"/> In ''[[Half-Life 2]]'', Vortigaunts indicate that this slavery has lasted for generations.<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote='''Vortigaunt''': We have endured these chafing bonds for eons, yet a single moment of further servitude seems intolerable! How often have we slipped our yoke, only to find it choking us again.}}</ref> Despite this, Vortigaunts are shown to have developed an intellectual culture, valuing poetry,<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote='''Vortigaunt''': Our finest poet describes it thus: Gallum galla gilla ma.}}</ref> music<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote='''Vortigaunt''': Your song we sing and shall sing for eternity.}}</ref> and philosophy.<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote='''Vortigaunt''': We are mindful of the words of our greatest philosopher: Kpnnum gninin vogenuk!}}</ref> The death of the Nihilanth at the hands of [[Gordon Freeman]] at the end of ''Half-Life'' frees the Vortigaunts from their slavery;<ref name="freedom">{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote = '''Vortigaunt''': While our own lay scattered at your feet, you severed the vortal cord that bound the Nihilanth to life, and to us.}}</ref> consequently the Vortigaunts see Freeman as a [[messianic figure]]. |
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Vortigaunts possess their own method of vocal communication, which, in ''Half-Life 2'', they can be heard using and referring to as "flux shifting". This method of communication involves both speakers vocalising at the same time and cannot be understood by other species who lack the auditory anatomy to intepret the sounds.<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Sandtraps| language = English| quote='''Vortigaunt #1''': The Freeman must excuse us. It is rude of us to commune by flux shifting in front of those whose vortal inputs are impaired. / '''Vortigaunt #2''': Yes, we will vocalize in your auditory language as a matter of courtesy. / '''Vortigaunt #1''': Unless we wish to say unflattering things about you. / '''Vortigaunt #2''': Just so.}}</ref> Vortigaunts use scattered English words in ''Half-Life'' to taunt the player, although by ''Half-Life 2'' they have learned to speak at least the English language fluently, albeit using archaic words and grammatical structures. In addition, the Vortigaunts believe in a binding life-force referred to as the "Vortessence".<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote = '''Vortigaunt''': Communion of the Vortessence. And that other: a deeper mystery. No deeper than the void itself.}}</ref> The exact nature of the Vortessence is left unclear, although it is revealed that Vortigaunts believe the Vortessence is the fabric of the universe and connects everything.<ref>{{cite video game | title = [[Half-Life 2]] | developer = [[Valve Corporation]] | date = [[2004]]| platform = [[Personal computer|PC]]| level = Water Hazard| language = English| quote = '''Vortigaunt''': We are a tapestry woven of Vortessence. It is the same for you if only you would see it.}}</ref> |
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===Depiction=== |
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In appearance, a Vortigaunt is a somewhat [[humanoid]] figure with two legs and two arms, but has an additional arm protruding from its thorax. Vortigaunts possess [[digitigrade]] legs, allowing them to move quickly. In addition, Vortigaunts have mottled green-brown skin, sharp [[teeth]] and [[claw]]ed hands. Vortigaunts have a slightly hunched posture, and their faces are dominated by a large red eye. In ''Half-Life'', this eye is surrounded by five smaller eyes, although in ''Half-Life 2'' this has been reduced to three smaller eyes. Vortigaunts are also able to summon energy to their command without the need for any equipment. In-game, this ability is most commonly used as a means of attack, with Vortigaunts hurling the energy towards foes. In addition, Vortigaunts have been shown to be able to use the energy for other purposes, such as assisting in repair work, removing rubble and blockages, recharging the player's [[HEV suit]] or powering up electrical generators. Enslaved Vortigaunts are depicted with green collars and shackles, although the means by which these control Vortigaunts is not explored. Vortigaunts are not typically seen wearing clothing, although one Vortigaunt in ''Episode Two'' is observed wearing a lab coat. |
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== Appearances == |
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===''Half-Life''=== |
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[[Image:Vortigaunt Slave.png|thumb|right|An enslaved Vortigaunt in ''Half-Life'']] |
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Vortigaunts are first introduced as one of the primary enemies in ''[[Half-Life (video game)|Half-Life]]''. They are frequently encountered by players throughout ''Half-Life'' and its three expansions, ''[[Half-Life: Opposing Force|Opposing Force]]'', ''[[Half-Life: Blue Shift|Blue Shift]]'' and ''[[Half-Life: Decay|Decay]]''. They are portrayed as one of the sentient races of [[Xen (Half-Life)|Xen]], often working in groups or with more heavily armored Xen troops.<ref name="VortHL1">{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=HLGameInfo.Detail&id=7&game=4|title=Life Forms|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> In the later stages of ''Half-Life'', Vortigaunts are seen working in factory-like environments, constructing or maturing the more heavily armored Xen troops in [[Pupa#Cocoon|cocoon]]-like capsules under the direction of other aliens in the Xen hierarchy.<ref name="interloper">{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=hlstrategies.detail&id=17&game=4|title=''Half-Life''—Walkthrough: Interloper|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> |
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In the [[Split screen (computer graphics)|cooperative multiplayer]] expansion ''Decay'', players have the opportunity to assume the role of two Vortigaunts if they score highly on all missions. In this bonus mission, entitled "Xen Attacks", two Vortigaunts, designated as Drone Subjects X-8973 and R-4913, are given a mission by the [[Nihilanth]], the highest creature in the Xen hierarchy, to retrieve a number of crystals stolen from Xen by human scientists from the [[Black Mesa Research Facility]].<ref name="Decay">{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=Previews.Detail&id=67|title=''Half-Life: Decay''|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=2006-11-12|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> |
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=== ''Half-Life 2'' === |
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The role of the Vortigaunts is substantially changed in ''[[Half-Life 2]]''. Now acting as allies to the player, Vortigaunts are shown to have been freed as a result of [[Gordon Freeman]] killing the [[Nihilanth]] at the end of ''Half-Life''. Instead of acting with hostility towards humanity, the Vortigaunts are actively engaged in assisting the human resistance against the [[Combine (Half-Life)|Combine]], a multi-dimensional empire that has invaded and occupied [[Earth]] in between ''Half-Life'' and ''Half-Life 2''.<ref name="VortHL2"/> Vortigaunts are frequently shown at resistance compounds and stations,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=HL2Walkthroughs.Detail&id=15&game=3|title=''Half-Life 2'' Walkthrough—Chapter 4: Water Hazard|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> often performing maintenance work or providing help with experiments, and sometimes assist the player by using their energy abilities to recharge the player's [[HEV suit]].<ref name="VortHL2">{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=HL2GameInfo.Detail&id=2&game=3|title=''Half-Life 2'' Allies|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> However, a number of Vortigaunts are still shown to be in captivity, as at various points in the game, Vortigaunts are shown to be used as slave labor by the Combine.<ref name="VortHL2"/> |
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Vortigaunts play a greater part in the story of the series in ''Half-Life 2''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s continuations, ''[[Half-Life 2: Episode One|Episode One]]'' and ''[[Half-Life 2: Episode Two|Episode Two]]''. In ''Episode One'', Vortigaunts use unexplained powers to rescue [[Alyx Vance]], the series' main female character, from the top of the Combine Citadel in [[City 17]], saving her from the explosion of the Citadel's reactor at the end of ''Half-Life 2''.<ref name="VortHL2E">{{cite web|url=http://planethalflife.gamespy.com/View.php?view=HL2GameInfo.Detail&id=23&game=3|title=''Half-Life 2: Episode Two'' Allies|work=Planet Half-Life|publisher=[[IGN]]|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> The Vortigaunts also free Gordon Freeman from the [[stasis]] imposed on him at the end of ''Half-Life 2'' by his enigmatic employer, the [[G-Man (Half-Life)|G-Man]], much to the G-Man's irritation.<ref>{{cite video game|title=[[Half-Life 2: Episode One]] |developer=[[Valve Corporation]]| level = Direct Intervention |date=2006-06-01 |platform=[[Personal computer|PC]] |language=English|quote='''G-Man:''' We'll see...about ''that''. }}</ref> ''Episode Two'' dedicates much of the early part of the game to the Vortigaunts, with a group of four Vortigaunts working to heal Alyx Vance after she is injured by a Combine [[Half-Life 2: Episode Two#Enemies|Hunter]].<ref name="VortHL2E"/> One Vortigaunt accompanies the player and acts as combat support on an expedition into an [[antlion (Half-Life)|antlion]] hive. In the latter stages of ''Episode Two'', a number of Vortigaunts are observed in the [[White Forest]] missile silo, performing various tasks to facilitate the launch of a satellite to close the Combine's [[Portal (fiction)|super portal]]. |
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==Cultural impact== |
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===Merchandise=== |
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[[Image:Vortigaunt (plush toy).jpg|thumb|right|The Vortigaunt plush toy, complete with a [[Santa Claus]] hat]] |
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The character of the Vortigaunt has been popular enough to inspire the creation of a Vortigaunt [[plush toy]]. Designed by one of Valve's own artists, Dhabih Eng,<ref name="Vorttoy">{{cite web|url=http://store.valvesoftware.com/productshowcase/productshowcase_HL2Vortigaunt.html|title=''HL2'' Vortigaunt Collectible|publisher=[[Valve Corporation]]|date=2006-12-05|accessdate=2008-05-23}}</ref> the toy was released in December 2006. Due to the proximity to Christmas, the Vortigaunt was accompanied by a to-scale [[Santa Claus]] hat.<ref name="Vorttoy"/> |
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===Reception=== |
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The Vortigaunts brief appearance in ''Episode One'' received a mixed reception among critics. A number of reviewers found the sequence in which the Vortigaunts rescue Alyx and Gordon from the top of the Citadel as confusing—[[IGN]] stated that it was simply "weird", and did not help to clear up questions with the story.<ref name="IGNEP1">{{cite web|url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/710/710967p1.html|title=''Half-Life 2: Episode One'' Review|first=Tom|last=McNamara|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=2006-06-01|accessdate=2008-05-26}}</ref> Other reviewers thought the Vortigaunts' involvement was disappointing, with [[GameSpot]] describing the event as an "incredible cop-out" for rescuing Alyx and removing the G-Man from the rest of the game.<ref name="GSpotEP1">{{cite web|url=http://uk.gamespot.com/pc/action/halflife2aftermath/review.html?om_act=convert&om_clk=tabs&tag=tabs;reviews|title=''Half-Life 2: Episode One'' for PC Review|first=Jason|last=Ocampo|publisher=[[GameSpot]]|date=2008-06-02|accessdate=2008-05-26}}</ref> The role of the Vortigaunts in ''Episode Two'' was met with more approval by critics, who described the Vortigaunt who accompanies the player in the early parts of the game as "a great joy to fight alongside", praising the improved [[game artificial intelligence|artificial intelligence]] and noting that "the fact that they're not trying to intricately imitate real-life people" significantly aided the presentation of the Vortigaunts.<ref name="CVGEP2">{{cite web|url=http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=173331|publisher=''[[Computer and Video Games]]''title=Review: ''Half-Life 2: Episode Two''|first=Andy|last=Robinson|date=2007-10-10|accessdate=2008-05-26}}</ref> In addition, the visual and character overhaul given to the Vortigaunt in Episode Two was praised by reviewers.<ref name="IGNEP2">{{cite web|url=http://uk.pc.ign.com/articles/826/826067p1.html|title=''Half-Life 2: Episode Two'' Review|first=Dan|last=Adams|publisher=[[IGN]]|date=2007-10-09|accessdate=2008-05-26}}</ref> |
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==References== |
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{{reflist|2}} |
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==External links== |
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{{wikiquote|All-Knowing Vortigaunt}} |
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* [http://half-life.wikia.com/wiki/Vortigaunt Vortigaunt] at Combine OverWiki, a ''Half-Life'' [[Wikia]] |
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{{Half-Life}} |
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[[Category:Fictional extraterrestrial species]] |
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[[Category:First-person shooter creatures]] |
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[[Category:Half-Life characters]] |
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[[ca:Vortigaunt]] |
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[[es:Vortigaunt]] |
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[[fr:Vortigaunt]] |
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[[uz:Vortigaunt]] |
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[[pl:Vortigaunt]] |
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[[ru:Вортигонт]] |
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[[fi:Vortigaunt]] |
Latest revision as of 00:23, 19 July 2023
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