FAQ
What is Operation Black Mesa / Guard Duty?
Operation Black Mesa and Guard Duty are projects developed under a Source engine, reimagining the classic Half-Life expansion packs — Opposing Force and Blue Shift. These remakes aim to modernize the original experiences with updated visuals, enhanced gameplay, and expanded storytelling, all while staying true to the spirit of the originals.​
What are the requirements to play Operation: Black Mesa / Guard Duty? How much will it cost?
To play Operation Black Mesa or Guard Duty, a Steam account will be required. While system requirements are currently listed on the Steam Storepage, please note that these are temporary placeholders. We’ll share the final hardware requirements closer to release.
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As for pricing, it hasn’t been finalized yet — once a decisionis made, it will be listed on the game’s Steam Storepage.
Are you still working on your projects? They seem dead to me!
Yep! Please remember that we are a very small indie team, composed of (primarily) hobbyists who do this all in their spare time, who all work remotely across various time zones, with a budget of $0, all while working full time jobs (or school), while trying to maintain some sort of family/social life. Unless there is an official announcement that we are dead, then the projects are still ongoing.
When will you release another media update? What is the best way to get notified of an update?
We do not have a set schedule for media releases. When we want you to know about one, we'll post an announcement. The best way to get notified each time we post an update is to follow us on twitter and/or this Discord server.
What is a release date, and how much of the game is done?
Given the scale of this project, it’s difficult to estimate exactly how much is finished — and we’re not yet ready to announce a release date. We prefer to avoid making bold promises that could lead to disappointment if delays occur.
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That said, when we’re confident in a realistic timeline, you’ll be the first to know — loud and clear. We always share major updates and announcements through our official channels, including:
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Facebook
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Discord
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Tripmine Studios Website
You can also find us on ModDB and IndieDB.
Will you include the training missions in your games?
Yes, we will include Boot Camp (OBM) and Hazard Course (GD).
Are there plans for a demo or an Early Access release?
At this time, we don’t have any plans for a demo or an Early Access release. If that changes in the future, rest assured — we’ll make sure to let everyone know.
Are you using Black Mesa? Is this a mod? Will there be consistency between the games?
We deeply respect what Crowbar Collective achieved with Black Mesa, and their work continues to inspireus. That said, Tripmine Studios is not affiliated with Crowbar Collective in any way.
We are developing our games independently, and we do not use or run on the same engine version as Black Mesa.
Will you include both the Mp5 and M4a1? Beretta?
The Mp5 will be the default, with the M4a1 planned to be an optional replacement via the options menu. The Beretta as an optional replacement for the glock is a ton of unnecessary work, so although there is a tiny chance it might make it into the game, you should definitely not expect it.
Will you include HL1 cut Beta content?
We do not actively aim to add cut content. Much of it was cut for a good reason and we are a very small team and are already handling a huge workload. Adding extra unnecessary work would only delay the projects even longer. In short: Don't expect it.
Will there be a multiplayer?
Yes! We do plan to include multiplayer modes similar to those found in the original game. However, single-player is currently our primary development focus.
What languages are planned for the release?
We don´t have a definitive list of available translations of the game at the moment, but you can definitely expect more than only English. That being said, we will engage with our community in order to get the game translated into as many languages as possible.
Is Steam Workshop and Achievements planned?
Both areAchievements are definitely planned, and Steam Workshop support is also on our roadmap. While we can't confirm whether Workshop features will be available at launch or added as a post-release update, it's something we're excited about planned, yes.
Will the project ever convert to the Source 2 Engine?
A Source 2 version is very unlikely. Porting the project would requireus to redo a significant amount of content that’s already been completed. Instead, we’re utilizing a modified version of the Source (1) engine, specifically based on the Global Offensive branch.
Will the player - Adrian or Barney - ever speak?
We do not plan to have Adrian speak. It's possible we might have the option for Barney to speak; but we are still undecided at this time.
Is the old sound track from original games being used in Operation: Black Mesa?
No — our game will feature an entirely new soundtrack composed by the talented composer and sound designer KAON
Is the art direction going to be realistic?
We have a semi-realistic art direction, while taking artistic liberties by prioritizing the art styles and themes from the HL games. This is not a hardcore realistic milsim game, so definitely do not expect the weapons, characters, etc, to be super realistic.