Loading screen problem

[floaterbo]

I bought the collector's edition dvd version of of HL2. CS: S is working fine. However, when I launch HL2, I get the loading screen. The harddrive activity light shows a flurry of activity, then nothing. The game will not start.
I have no firewall, and my onboard soundcard is installed (both of these were recommended the last time someone posted a similar thread)
My computer specs are as follows:
Mach Speed Viper K8M8MS Motherboard
AMD Athlon 64 3700+
1024MB DDR PC3200
e-GeForce 6200 256 MB AGP 8x
160 gig harddrive

 

[Lord Raisin]

I dunno but I really suggest you get a firewall. Maybe zonealarm.

 

[floaterbo]

n00b3r

Please do not post a response that has absolutely nothing to do with the thread.

The issue is that I do not currently have a firewall which could interfere with the comms to the steam servers.

 

[Beerdude26]

Is it completely updated?

Left-click on the Steam tray icon
Select 'Games'
Select the 'My Games' tab
Right-click on 'Half-Life 2'
Select 'Properties'
Select the 'Updates' tab

Is the option set to "Always keep this game up to date" ?
If not, set it and restart Steam.

 

[floaterbo]

Yup, completely up to date.