One of Half-Life’s most famous scientists isn’t based on Einstein after all

Although not much into development these days, there was a time when Valve made some fantastic games. Right from the word “go” – with the release of Half-Life in 1998 – Gabe Newell and his team became an overnight success. As such, the first entry in the adventures of the silent scientist Gordon Freeman continues to be talked about a quarter of a century later.

For example, there’s been some curiosity over the inspiration for some of Half-Life‘s NPCs, specifically the scientists who aid Freeman. One that typically sticks out is the older physicist with the mustache and white, “mad scientist” hairstyle.

Naturally, many people assumed this Half-Life character was based off Albert Einstein. They’re both somewhat into science, after all, so it made sense. However, that doesn’t appear to be the case.

The founding father…of Black Mesa?

In a report from TheGamer, it turns out that the labcoat-wearing NPC with the white ‘do was not inspired by the world’s most famous scientist.

According to Chuck Jones, the 3D artist who designed Gordon Freeman, this particular character was actually based off George Washington. “The one you mentioned that looked like Einstein? I think I got the inspiration from George Washington (weird haircut)—not sure why,” Jones told TheGamer.

Additionally, G-Man—the mysterious government agent who follows the player throughout the facility—was inspired by the Cigarette Man from X-Files. The show was at its most popular back in the ’90s, so it’s not surprising that it would come under Valve and Half-Life‘s radar.

It’s interesting how a theoretical physicist with a white haircut was not actually based off Albert Einstein. It begs the question of whether fans will start referring to him as “George” instead.