We've been down this road before: the speculation and the rumors leading up to E3 2011; waiting for something - anything - from Valve about Half-Life 3; the let-down of not getting what was hoped for; and finally the acceptance and the courage to move on and look hopefully to next year. Unfortunately, it appears E3 2012 may be mostly the same, but at least it will be better than last year.

Valve intends to showcase Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, the long-awaited Dota 2, and the dubbed "ten-foot UI," an update to Steam that will essentially provide a TV-friendly "big picture" mode. While all of these are great on their own, Valve has been particularly quiet about any new Half-Life or Portal titles, leaving fans guessing what is to become of their favourite mute protagonists.

"We are not announcing anything at E3. Really. We are not announcing Half-Life 3 or Portal 3 or Left 4 Dead 3. We are going to be showing stuff everyone already knows about (CS:Go, Dota 2, 10' UI, ...)"

While most gamers can agree that Half-Life 3 is something we would like to drop into our hands as soon as possible, Gabe Newell has been pretty up-front about why that wouldn't work. His not-no-subtle hints at "Ricochet 2" have at least given fans hope that the much-needed sequel is underway. As far as any new Portal or L4D instalments go, however -- is one really necessary so soon? Well, soon in comparison to HL3's development time.

Of course, it is possible that Valve's appearance at E3 2012 could go the way of the 2010 expo: with a surprise visit from the big man himself, to announce a new title. Last year was eerily quiet, so it's not impossible that eager players will catch a break this year, but only time will tell. What do you think ranters -- is there any hope of seeing Gordon Freeman this June?

E3 kicks off June 5th and we'll be there.

Source: ValveTime.net