ExOps Project mod for Half-Life 2

Welcome back! Today, we're diving into the world of ExOps with some little digital concept art. You won't see any new maps in this article, but don't worry, we'll show them off in the next one. Instead, let's focus on the concept arts of the Combine Units. From Conscripts, Civil Protection units to the Transhumans, we've got the main Combine enemy cast ready. I am very grateful for the artist's willingness in drawing these concept arts in order to help me shape the world of ExOps!

Let us start with the Conscripts, the most common Combine units, you'll meet them very often in the wasteland.



"Conscript soldiers are recruited men from the City-17's population, pressed into service by the Combine. Conscript soldiers are fiercely loyal to the Combine, their allegiance unwavering despite their forced recruitment. Their loyalty is born from fear, indoctrination, and the promise of rewards for compliance... They fulfill various roles within the Combine's military, from frontline infantry to support functions like logistics and maintenance on the wasteland. The primary purpose of Conscript soldiers is to safeguard City 17 from external threats while asserting control over the surrounding wasteland."

Now let's see the Civil Protection!



"The Civil Protection units represent a distinct echelon within the Combine's hierarchy, comprised of former Conscript soldiers who have earned a reprieve from frontline duty. These individuals, having demonstrated loyalty and effectiveness in their previous roles, are rewarded with the relative comfort and privilege afforded by membership in Civil Protection. Stationed within City 17, Civil Protection units serve as the enforcers of the Combine's rule in urban environments, tasked with maintaining order, suppressing dissent, and ensuring the smooth operation of daily life under Combine control."

In ExOps, the Civil Protection undergoes a radical change in design that sets them apart from their predecessors. Clad in modified Conscript uniforms, now sporting a striking blue marine hue, they exude an aura of authority and distinction. Their attire is further enhanced with helmets featuring windshields, alongside caps and M17 gas masks reminiscent of those worn by Conscripts.
This new aesthetic serves a dual purpose: not only does it provide a visual distinction within the Combine hierarchy, but it also reinforces the Civil Protection's origins as former Conscript soldiers who have transitioned to a different role. By repurposing Conscript uniforms, ExOps emphasizes the notion that the Civil Protection is more akin to a militia rather than a cyber-gestapo.

And for the last one, here are the Transhumans!



"The Transhumans stand as the predators of the Combine forces. They are not only the strongest units but also the most tactically adept. Unlike their human counterparts (the conscripts), the Transhumans are devoid of emotion, allowing them to remain composed and unflinching in the face of danger. While conscripts may panic when their comrades fall, the Transhumans stand unwavering, their focus is fixed on the task at hand.
The appearance of Transhumans signals a critical juncture in the battle against the wasteland's threats. When conscripts fail their missions, the Combine Overwatch deploys these elite soldiers to rectify the situation and ensure the completion of their objectives.
For those brave enough to challenge them, beware. The Transhumans in the world of ExOps are not to be underestimated. They are the epitome of Combine strength and will stop at nothing to achieve their goals."

Just like the Civil Protection, the Transhumans undergo a profound metamorphosis in their design, evoking a distinctly insectoid and alien aesthetic.

This is it! I am once again very thankful for the artist "Korbi", here is the link of Korbi's Tumblr and Lambdagen profile if you wanna check!
Korbi-the.tumblr.com
Community.lambdageneration.com