Black Mesa Source release date revealed, high-res headcrabs due in 11 days

September 14 is the release date for the first build of one of the most long-awaited mods of all time.

September 14 is the release date for the first build of one of the most long-awaited mods of all time. The Black Mesa project remakes Half-Life in Valve's Source engine with prettier textures and lighting. Gordon's beard is now super high-res and headcrabs are 20% prettier.

The first release "will include our re-envisioning of Half-Life all the way up to Lambda Core," according to project leader Carlos Montero, writing on the Black Mesa forums. "We believe this is a great way to provide a complete-feeling 8-10 hour experience with a solid ending, make our fans happy and help us make the best overall game possible."

To celebrate the announcement, the mod team have launched an ominous doom clock, the likes of which I haven't seen since way back in July last year. When the clock hits zero we'll finally have the chance to sample the action shown in the official trailer, released three years ago . These recent screenshotsoffer further evidence that Black Mesa Source is actually happening.