Valve developer slips 'HLX' codename during GameSoundCon Q&A, reigniting Half-Life 3 rumors

Valve music designer Mike Morasky accidentally mentioned the codename "HLX" during a GameSoundCon Q&A session, according to a report published on Oct. 24, 2026. The brief reference has renewed attention on long-running speculation that HLX refers to the next Half-Life title.

Morasky was explaining how the company handles HDR audio technology across different projects when the name surfaced. Years of rumours and speculation about a follow-up to Valve’s Half-Life series provide the backdrop to the reaction. Reports and leaks have previously identified HLX as an internal codename linked to the next Half-Life game.

During his explanation Morasky said, "HLX has its own version." He stopped mid-sentence and did not expand on the remark. The exchange was captured on the panel audio.

Fellow Valve developer David Feise responded on the mic with "Nice work" immediately after the interruption. At the end of the panel Feise joked that Morasky only mentioned the name once during the session, a remark that was also picked up by the microphone.

The comment has strengthened online and media speculation surrounding HLX. Previous leaks and datamine reports have suggested HLX is the codename for Half-Life 3, and many industry insiders have claimed that this game is in deep development and can be revealed any time soon by Valve. So far, Valve has neither denied nor confirmed anything about the Half-Life 3 or HLX project.

No. Valve has not officially announced Half-Life 3. For now, we can only wait and see when the company decides to reveal the game, whether it’s going to be this year or in 2027.