"Half-Life 2" came out as far back as 2004 and no sign of "Half-Life 3" has ever surfaced save for rumors and speculations. However, as stated by PC Gamer, hope for the third title in the franchise has been renewed now that Valve has officially approved and licensed the release of a fan-made "Half-Life 2" game titled "Prospekt."

"Prospekt" is generally built using the same Source engine utilized for "Half-Life 2" and is even regarded by its creator, Richard Seabrook, as a direct continuation of "Half-Life: Opposing Force." Not only does this place the game in the official timeline of the series but it may tie in with the potential story of "Half-Life 3."

While Valve has not officially given any word about the development of "Half-Life 3," this move does signficantly indicate that the company is not letting go of their famed IP any time soon. While it has been reported that Valve is more interested now in VR technology and the Steam platform, this gesture proves they are still invested in "Half-Life."

Fans now speculate that if "Prospekt" succeeds financially and critically, it is possible that Valve's in-house development team will pour more focus on a true sequel, either in the traditional PC set-up or through VR technology.

The game sees main hero Gordon Freeman at the Nova Prospekt prison where he is suddenly overrun by its captured soldiers. The Vortiguant sends in U.S. Marine Adrian Shephard to rescue Freeman, which essentially connects this game to both the "Half-Life 2" and "Half-Life: Opposing Force" storylines together.

"Prospekt" is said to be as long "Half-Life 2: Episode One," with a total of 13 playable levels. One of these levels is based on Xen, a level taken from the first game in the franchise. "Prospekt" will also introduce updated graphics and is also a stand-alone title, meaning players will not be required to own "Half-Life 2" to play this game.

"Prospekt" is scheduled to launch this coming Feb. 11.