Half-Life OZ Deathmatch (OzDM)

Oz Deathmatch (OZDM) is a server-side modification for Half-Life, first created in Australia and known for its fast, chaotic gameplay. Players don’t need to download anything to join—servers handle the mod entirely. What began as a simple custom ruleset with a grappling hook and configurable weapon values quickly evolved into one of the most popular competitive Half-Life deathmatch mods.

The hallmark feature of OzDM is its Rune System. Starting with just a handful of power-ups, it grew to include runes like regeneration, haste, vampire, and low gravity. Players may carry one rune at a time—or discard it—adding a strategic layer to deathmatch gameplay.

Today, OzDM runs on any standard Half-Life deathmatch map. A Capture the Flag mode was in development for later versions, alongside an optional map pack.

Gallery

Using the hook feature in Ozdm for half-life
Hook
One of the many runes available in OzDM
OZDM Rune
The 9mmhandgun uses a silencer in OZDM
9mmhandgun Silencer
Using the Low Gravity rune in OzDM
Jumping using the Low Gravity Rune
The explosions are much stronger in OzDM
Powerful explosions

Key Features

  • Customizable Weapons: Server admins can adjust damage, clip size, ammo pickups, and limits.
  • Rune System: Power-ups like regeneration, haste, vampire, and low gravity change gameplay flow.
  • Grappling Hook: Adds speed, verticality, and new tactics to standard HL maps.
  • Server-Side Only: Players simply join the server—no downloads required.
  • Future Plans: Capture the Flag mode + map pack were planned for later releases.

Downloads

How to Install Oz Deathmatch

Since many third-party mods were removed from Steam, OzDM must be installed manually.

  1. Download the correct version for your OS from the links above.
  2. Locate your Half-Life directory:
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Half-Life
  3. Extract the downloaded archive into the Half-Life folder. You should now see:
    C:\Program Files (x86)\Steam\steamapps\common\Half-Life\oz
  4. Restart Steam. Oz Deathmatch will now appear in your Steam Library.

About Oz Deathmatch

OzDM became a staple in the Half-Life multiplayer community, thanks to its flexibility and unique mechanics. The grappling hook changed movement forever, while the Rune System introduced dynamic strategy to simple deathmatch. As a server-side mod, it was always easy to join, and administrators enjoyed full control over balancing and custom rules.

Whether you’re a nostalgic veteran or a new player exploring Half-Life mods, Oz Deathmatch remains one of the most iconic custom deathmatch experiences in GoldSrc history.

Summary

  • Style: Fast-paced server-side mod
  • Signature Feature: Grappling Hook + Rune System
  • Runs on: Any HLDM map
  • Final Release: v3.0 (Windows/Linux)