[Art]

Anyone have any experience with either Valve's game, Portal or Portal 2 ?

The game(s) seem outrageous, extremely challenging, fun and very twisted in a graphic puzzling kind of way.

My only concern was whether it could be played without installing Steam to one's computer.

Any other input in this regard would be appreciated. Portal (1) can now be had for less than $10 US!
"The cake is a lie..."

http://store.steampowered.com/app/400/

 

[Data]

I haven't played that particular game but I do have Steam installed, there is nothing wrong with Steam though Art, it's a very good system for hardcore gamers like me, I know Freddy has it installed too, as well as most of us over on DH, we can spy on each other and see what we are playing, I also have it plugged into DH in the gamers area. Lots of really nice features to Steam. 

[Freddy]

I haven't played that game either, but it does look different to most games. Some of the adverts for it have been entertaining too.

I can recommend Steam too, it's perfectly fine to use and I would now consider getting most of my games from them - if they have them.

It's also handy to move things around, you can just copy/paste/whatever it to a new location if you need to.

[Art]

OK I went for the Demo version of Portal and of course Had to download and install Steam first which went without a hitch.
Then downloaded / installed Portal.

Wow. Nice graphics and smooth gameplay although I barely got my feet wet because I still have this thing to do every day called, WORK!!
Really cuts into my computer time!! Soon...my friends...soon... (if a couple of years is soon).

Free demo of Portal. You should give it a try!

[Data]

I've downloaded it, had a little go, I noticed it uses a 7 year old game engine, it is an old game. Should be OK on my "ready for next gen" monster of a computer. 

Will post some screenshots when I get the time.

[Data]

The game plays around with your mind and makes you think in new ways, which is amusing.

I made a portal on the floor in front of me but can see myself through it   

EDIT:
The Demo takes about an hour to complete and was fun 

[Art]

Yes, the graphics and challenge along with the unique dimensional concept are what I think, make the game fun and interesting!

Reports are that Portal 2 is way more challenging as far as graphics, puzzles and overall complexity.

Cool stuff! Thanks for playing / reviewing Data!