"Disable automatic updating...patch when YOU want."
OH! Please tell me how! I don't see the option.
In fact, I'm writing this as Steam chugs away validating my HL2 files for the gozillionth time. I just wanna play. Why, dear God, has Valve made it so hard for me to *just play*!
(First, I log into Steam, then verify my files every 5th launch, then start the game, then load the 3D menu)
Is it just me or does HL2 take forever to get you into the game? Elapsed time too play (with verify/without verify): 5+min/1:45*
*without skipping the Valve Splash Screen