Combine (Half-Life)

The Combine
The Combine "clamp" symbol, seen in propaganda throughout Half-Life: Alyx, Half-Life 2 and its Episodes.
SeriesHalf-Life
First appearanceHalf-Life 2
Most recent appearanceHalf-Life: Alyx
Created byMarc Laidlaw
In-universe information
Other name(s)Our Benefactors (Dr. Breen), Our Malefactors (Dr. Kleiner), CMB (various in-game imagery/symbolism)
TypeInter-dimensional alien conglomerate
LeaderDr. Wallace Breen (puppet ruler)
EmployeesTranshuman soldiers
PurposeConquest
TechnologiesInter-dimensional Teleportation
EnemiesHuman Rebels, Vortigaunt Rebels

The Combine (/ˈkɒmbn/ KOM-byne) are a fictional multidimensional alien empire which serve as the primary antagonistic force in the 2004 video game Half-Life 2 and its subsequent episodes developed and published by Valve Corporation. The Combine consist of organic, synthetic, and heavily mechanized elements. They are encountered throughout Half-Life 2, Half-Life 2: Episode One, and Half-Life 2: Episode Two, as well as Half-Life: Alyx, as hostile non-player characters as the player progresses through the games in an effort to overthrow the Combine occupation of Earth.

The Combine are depicted as cruel rulers over the citizens of Earth, suppressing dissent with brutality, using excessive violence to police humanity, and forcibly performing surgery on some to transform them into slaves. Throughout the games, the player primarily battles transformed humans as well as synthetic and mechanical enemies that are the product of Combine technology. In addition to their role within the Half-Life series, the Combine have been adapted by fans for machinima productions and other works.