It has been nearly a decade since the launch of "Half-Life 2: Episode Two," and Valve has remained silent about the possibility of a proper sequel coming out anytime soon. However, fans of the franchise have voiced out their demands for "Half-Life 3" through the recent Steam Awards.

As reported by Eurogamer, Valve created several categories for the Steam Awards, but for anything they did not think of, they placed in the "We Didn't Think of Everything" award. This special award allows users to create and vote in their category.

The report further reveals that user GruffBarbarian took this opportunity to create a category called "Game That Deserves a Sequel" award. In this specific category the game that got voted the most was "Half-Life 2," showcasing that there was indeed a high demand for "Half-Life 3."

Eurogamer further reveals that, as of writing, there have been well over 700 votes and counting. However, it is further stated that even this may not be enough to convince Valve to reconsider their current plans, especially if they already have laid out their schedules for the next few years.

According to Game N Guide, there are rumors that Valve has been secretly developing the game and that it might launch in 2018. This is because the franchise will celebrate its 2-th anniversary in 2018, and it would be the perfect time to launch a third title in the series.

It is also indicated that the game's release is being pushed around due to the rise of VR technology. Valve VR has already begun picking up popularity, and it is possible that Valve will build "Half-Life 3" specifically for VR headsets. If this proves true it is uncertain if the game will have a traditional non-VR game mode.

Valve has not yet confirmed if the Steam Awards and the demand for "Half-Life 3" indicate a possible announcement for the game in the near future.