can someone explain to me how is Far Cry revolutionary ? 
I played it, it's a nice game, nice graphics and all, but overall how is it a huge step forward ?
Main thing in HL2 that sounds like its worth waiting for me is physics engine and ability to destroy objects like walls and such ( aka - blow your way though the map with a bazooka) 
 Far cry doesn't offer that if I remember correctly. 
That being said, Valve really screwed the pooch on HL2.