I didn't want to play this game until I beat the first one, thankfully I found a copy of the collectors edition which came with the original. The first one was good, I am sure it was amazing for its time, but it was just good from what I played. The second one blows it away. The story is so much more immersive. The graphics also help in the immersion factor. I just got past Ravenmore and so far this is a great. I would say it is worth all the hype it recieved, but I'll have make up my mind once I beat it.
**edit**
I just beat Half-Life 2, it was an amazing experience and one of the best games I have ever played.Spoiler:
The end was really bizarre, but at the same time really cool. They still have not fully explained everything so I guess now we wait for a sequel. 