Zero Point Energy Field Manipulator

Gravity Gun Weapon Statistics
First seen:	Chapter Five, Black Mesa East
Ammo type:	N/A
Capacity:	N/A
Damage:	Special
Primary fire:	Fire/push object
Secondary fire:	Pick up/put down object
Best at range:	Any

The Gravity Gun--or Zero-Point Energy Field Manipulator as it is technically called--acts as a tractor beam of sorts, able to pick up objects and manipulate them. The Gravity Gun can also use zero-point to repulse objects held in its field, propelling them at high speeds, effectively turning everyday objects into weapons.

Description

Like much of Resistance technology, the Zero-Point Energy Field Manipulator has a stripped-down-yet-functional appearance.

The Gravity Gun is cylindrical, with a somewhat angular back end fitted with a handlebar for the user to grip. The triggers for the manipulator are located on the rear of the weapon, just before the handlebar. Also on the back of the gravity gun is an old-style gauge that measures the zero point energy field output by the gun.

The body of the Gravity Gun is a metal cage that surrounds what appears to be crystalline material, or perhaps the amber pulse of the contained zero-point energy itself. At the front of the device are a trio of metal arms attached to two circular discs: one large outer disc and a smaller central disc from which the repulsive charge is fired. When near an object the gun can pick up, the arms will open and created a link of energy that allows said object to be picked up and levitated.

Supercharged Gravity Gun

When exposed to Combine energy, the Zero-Point Energy Field Manipulator becomes infused with power, its energy taking on a bright blue hue. When in this mode, the gravity gun literally quakes with increased strength, able to lift heavy objects normally out of its weight capacity. In addition, the Gravity Gun gains the ability to affect living organics, such as Combine soldiers, killing them instantly by either picking them up or firing a deadly arc of blue electricity at them.

Use

Because nearly everything that isn't bolted down in Half-Life 2 can be pushed, pulled, or picked up by the gravity gun, it is one of the most versatile weapons in FPS gaming. Objects can be manipulated in non-combative scenarios to solve physics puzzles or interact with the world in clever ways. During combat, nearby objects can become anything from bullets to shields.

Experimentation with the Gravity Gun is the key to its usage. Note that many objects do not have a "default" position when they are picked up; that is, they can be manipulated and held in many different ways. A table held lengthwise in front of you is a battering ram; flipping it vertically on its end causes it to become a shield against incoming fire. Rotating certain objects flat, like barrels or radiators, can give you a better view while carrying them.

Be mindful that the Gravity Gun can also be used to pull items to a safe location behind cover, throw back enemy grenades, and even "cook" your own grenades, a process through which you throw your own grenade using the gravity gun, thereby increasing its range.

Damage for the Gravity Gun is listed as "special" because the damage varies depending on what you throw. For example, punting a barrel at an enemy does a lot more damage than peppering him with an empty milk carton.

Trivia

• The Gravity Gun was designed as a way to make physics matter to the player in a real context, rather than using it simply for ragdolls and/or as an engine gimmick. The Gravity Gun allows players to interact with their environment in a way that is truly immersive and natural.

• There were originally two Gravity Guns in Half-Life 2: the one we know now, and a different kind of "Physcannon" that allowed the user to pick up and move objects, then weld them to other things. This weapon was eventually scrapped but was added to Garry's Mod.

• The Gravity Gun was used in Half-Life 2 to show off its physics, and especially gravity.