This has got to be the silliest problem I've ever had. Anyway, does anyone know why when I type in -console after the hl.exe as instructed it says that that's not valid and to check the filepath?

indeed it is

create a shortcut and in the command line write after "path\hl.exe" -console.
just be sure to don't include -console between quotes

How do I create a shortcut in the command line? Man, I feel really stupid...

you're talking about the first HL right (not about hl: source from steam)?

simply drag&drop the main .exe of the game (hl.exe) with the right button of your mouse over your desktop (a sub-menu will appear), choose create shortcut.

now go to shortcut properties (hotkey alt+enter), look for shotcut tab and there, destiny box. path to .exe should be indicated here, just close it between quotes and add at the end of the line -console.

it's simple, i'm sure you won't have any problems

Ok, this is really odd. It just won't happen.
Screenshot

Edit - Nevermind, I am officially the world's biggest id***.

Just telling myself off.

Edit 2 - LOL OMFG... Id!()T is censored? lolll

rlmfao!!