HL2 Won't Fully load - it used to

[Post]

As far as I can tell I've made no major changes to my PC except possibly driver updates, etc. I used to play HL2 all the time but stopped for a while. In anticipation of Episode 2 coming out I decided to play through again, but I cannot! I start Steam, and I start loading HL2 and it gives me the standard, blurry, out-of-focus "loading" screen. Several moments later the "loading" symbol goes away and I'm stuck on that same out-of-focus screen. The only way out is a forced shut-down of my PC via holding down the power button. Nothing else will get me out. I've tried updating, I've tried completely uninstalling and reinstalling Steam. Any suggestions? Why won't it load all the way anymore?
-Post

 

[Link]

Try adding "+map_background none" to your command line, see if that gets you in.

 

[Post]

Oh I also forgot to mention: When it first starts up and plays the "valve" music the picture of the guy with a valve coming out of his eye doesn't show up anymore. Anyway, I thought I'd mention that before I go and try this.

 

[Post]

Ok I'm back... that did not work.

 

[Jintor]

Have you revalidated your files yet?