Halo: Combat Evolved

 PC
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 638 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 442 out of 638
  2. Mixed: 120 out of 638
  3. Negative: 76 out of 638
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. JimM.
    Oct 23, 2003
    10
    One of the best games. I have an AMD 2000XP, 1GIG PC133 SDRAM and an ATI RAdeon 970(non pro) and run the game at 1024X768 . The game runs fine for me. Super fast like the rest of my games. What is wrong with you people. Don't u know how to tweak ur system? Owell if your half way smart get this game and it should run great for u too. I'm talking about the single player and not on-line .
  2. PhillipR.
    Sep 27, 2003
    10
    "I've played the 1.5 beta........." I don't really think you can base your opinion on a trial version der bud. HALO prolly won't be the greatest FPS ever for PC, but I promise it will be remembered as one of the best.
  3. Dan
    Sep 30, 2003
    10
    Simply amazing multiplayer!
  4. CarlosR.
    Aug 13, 2004
    10
    This is bad ass you get new levels two new guns you should problably get this game it kicks but if you dont get then whats the point sitting there in the can and reading the script over and over again if you want new levels new vhicles and guns then stop getting in the can and buy it.
  5. SamF.
    Apr 20, 2006
    10
    Amazing game. I played this twice in fact and still can't get over the graphics and gameplay. People Rating this Low are complaining about low frame rates and terrible graphics .One guy quoted he had a celeron!!! Give me a break...Get a Good computer and stop Ranking on possibly the greatest Sci-Fi FPS Ever! Anyone giving this lower than a 9 needs serious help. The only negative Amazing game. I played this twice in fact and still can't get over the graphics and gameplay. People Rating this Low are complaining about low frame rates and terrible graphics .One guy quoted he had a celeron!!! Give me a break...Get a Good computer and stop Ranking on possibly the greatest Sci-Fi FPS Ever! Anyone giving this lower than a 9 needs serious help. The only negative about this game is that some levels get repetitive (Library - Flood) Way Too Much. other than that it rocks!… Expand
  6. ADD
    Nov 8, 2003
    10
    GREATEST GAME EVER, i dont care, i havnt got a brilliant comp, but the graphics are still good! great multiplayer, and mouse works better than xbox controller!
  7. Ron
    Oct 7, 2003
    9
    There are definitely some issues that need to be fixed concerning peoples perception of framerates. I have 2 machines one is the AMD 2600 on simple MX440 and the other is AMD 1300 also on MX440 and both machines run smooth as silk. My pal has a P4 HT 512MB on a 5600 card and the game really stutters. We are using the same drivers! I really love the game's storyline and the lovely There are definitely some issues that need to be fixed concerning peoples perception of framerates. I have 2 machines one is the AMD 2600 on simple MX440 and the other is AMD 1300 also on MX440 and both machines run smooth as silk. My pal has a P4 HT 512MB on a 5600 card and the game really stutters. We are using the same drivers! I really love the game's storyline and the lovely scenery. If its too slow on your system play something else.… Expand
  8. AndrewL.
    Feb 19, 2004
    10
    I played Halo on X-BOX and loved it. Then i heard it was coming out for PC and I had to have it. I ended up getting it, and have played it every day. The graphics are great and the sounds are perfect (why do people think it sucks, when it's really just there comp. that sucks).
  9. Hotshot34
    Jan 15, 2004
    10
    I've never played Halo for the Xbox and I naver will. But this game is the best game ever and its fun torturing the grunts by shooting their feet with the pistol. If you don't like this game your a freak!
  10. HillBillyJIMWWF
    Apr 26, 2004
    10
    This game was amazing when I played it on xbox, and its even more amazing now on my pc with high crystal clear resolutions and new level/weapons. What an amazing phenomenon this game is. Almost as good as Farcry.
  11. Werdson
    Nov 28, 2003
    10
    It doesn't get much better than hiting a grunt in the face with a pistol.
  12. John7grain
    Nov 8, 2003
    10
    Wow this game is perfect.
  13. John7grain
    Nov 8, 2003
    10
    Wow this game is perfect.
  14. FredM.
    Oct 6, 2003
    9
    So what if this thing is a bit slow...I run a 2.4Ghz Pentium4 with 256Mb RAM and a 64Mb GeForce4 at 1024x768, on WinXP, and at the MAXIMUM GRAPHICS, it's only a BIT slow! And it ONLY slows at all at extremely high graphics, such as when a Covenant gun overheats in your hands. Does that happen often (if it does, you need to learn to conserve ammo better...)? Deal with it, you pansies! So what if this thing is a bit slow...I run a 2.4Ghz Pentium4 with 256Mb RAM and a 64Mb GeForce4 at 1024x768, on WinXP, and at the MAXIMUM GRAPHICS, it's only a BIT slow! And it ONLY slows at all at extremely high graphics, such as when a Covenant gun overheats in your hands. Does that happen often (if it does, you need to learn to conserve ammo better...)? Deal with it, you pansies! I have lived somehow without an Xbox thus far, and so this is the best thing since Half-Life! You don't like it? Go play your Gamecube (that was sarcastic). And if you want to complain about the fact that the game seems outdated, that's because it is! Released for the Xbox in 2001, it is bound to be old by now! The second Halo is already out! This is just a supplemental to those who don't have an Xbox or want to take it to the next level with a really good gaming computer. If you don't like it, buy an Xbox and play it there.… Expand
  15. JohnB.
    Sep 24, 2003
    10
    This is the best game i have ever played I have it for Xbox also and it is so cool. Now it's came out for PC. I have it. It is so totally awesome! All of those who oppose really have PROBLEMS!
  16. PaulR.
    Mar 2, 2004
    10
    This is the first game out for xbox, and people still play it , its not too good when u play alone, but when u do i system link, and there are 12 people in ur basement, killing a fighting for first place, halo, is the best.
  17. ChrisD.
    Mar 5, 2004
    10
    This game is not the best when you play one player but the multiplayer kicks butt!
  18. JoeS.
    Apr 23, 2004
    10
    This game is awesome it is a lot better than xbox version the new levels everything is just great.
  19. ElfrancheT.
    Jun 10, 2006
    10
    Halo is one of the most soul-moving games ever made, in that it gives you the feeling you are taking part in something great and very important. The level design is not physically brilliant, but the atmosphere always is.
  20. halopcgmr
    May 29, 2007
    10
    THe People at the last review that said it was impossible to play at the second level THEY WERE WRONG.they probaly have cheap pc and didnt even play online i give it a 10. they should have more enemies like scott said like in halo 2 but its the best game i played so far as fear.
  21. infernoyourmom
    May 8, 2008
    10
    An amazing game ESPECIALLY with the Custom Edition of the game allowing completely custom maps, weapons, vehicles and what nots.
  22. HeadCrab
    Oct 16, 2003
    9
    The game is good, there's no disputing that, really. However, there is a small issue of choppy frame rates, even on more higher-end systems. Now, there's also you people who complain about system performance, while running a 64mb GeForce 4 MX440 card, or a Celeron, and that rare GeForce 2. Of COURSE your going to experience system lag, because quite simply, your hardware is The game is good, there's no disputing that, really. However, there is a small issue of choppy frame rates, even on more higher-end systems. Now, there's also you people who complain about system performance, while running a 64mb GeForce 4 MX440 card, or a Celeron, and that rare GeForce 2. Of COURSE your going to experience system lag, because quite simply, your hardware is outdated. I realize that it's expensive to upgrade, but the future of technology is ever evolving, and thus demands more and more from the end user, like it or not. Get better parts to end your sufferings. Or play older games.… Expand
  23. LenardN.
    Sep 26, 2003
    9
    Halo..... although 2 years old, great gameplay never get's old. The AI is stil the best at the moment (after 2 years even!). MOH is a great game, but Halo is better IMO and many critics. Unreal 2.. ahem... why did i mention that game? lol....... Battlefield 1942 has a pathetic singleplay and a laggy online play. NOLF 2.. good game but Halo is stil better. Half-Life... RESPECT. But Halo..... although 2 years old, great gameplay never get's old. The AI is stil the best at the moment (after 2 years even!). MOH is a great game, but Halo is better IMO and many critics. Unreal 2.. ahem... why did i mention that game? lol....... Battlefield 1942 has a pathetic singleplay and a laggy online play. NOLF 2.. good game but Halo is stil better. Half-Life... RESPECT. But stil that is years old. The great FPS wil come out in the fourth quarter of 20024. Until then... Halo is the great FPS for now and i doubt that certain FPS wil stil beat it (HL 2 wil beat it, Deus Ex 2 wil beat it.. but that is it). Pick this game up now! … Expand
  24. OrbitalShock
    Sep 27, 2003
    9
    This games has the best gameplay on my pc!
  25. ScottG.
    Jan 15, 2007
    10
    Its totally awesome, I just think there should be more enemies.
  26. 222234
    Sep 29, 2010
    8
    Halo is a good game. The graphics were a bit dull when I played it when I wars about ten. The AI need to be better because they are so dumb sometimes. I have to hand it to them Halo had an awsome
    stroy line. Out of all Halo gets an 8 from me.
  27. WhiteFire37
    Sep 4, 2011
    8
    This is a fantastic game! Not only do you get an exciting single player campaign, but you get an awesome multiplayer expeirence! The campaign is engaging yet at times a little boring, but it is still fantastic! Your first play through is unforgettable. The multiplayer is even better and very fun to play! There are tonnes of maps with many game modes and even a game mode creator! And thereThis is a fantastic game! Not only do you get an exciting single player campaign, but you get an awesome multiplayer expeirence! The campaign is engaging yet at times a little boring, but it is still fantastic! Your first play through is unforgettable. The multiplayer is even better and very fun to play! There are tonnes of maps with many game modes and even a game mode creator! And there are always people playing online. It does not have the best of graphics but this is because it was made early 2000's. Not many games back then did.

    Graphics: 8/10 (for its time)
    campign: 9/10
    multiplayer: 10/10    … Expand
  28. spadenx
    Jan 13, 2012
    8
    I liked it a lot. Campaign was just as fun and it added a few new weapons (such as the fuel rod) to the game. Multiplayer was a ton of fun but it suffers from extreme lag if anyone in your match has lag. Also it features quite a few bugs and glitches as well. Overall it was an enjoyable game that was well worth playing imo.
  29. ZxZ
    Jun 5, 2013
    9
    very good game with action everywhere, quite addictive although history can be boring so strong is the multiplayer going to be can spend hours and hours playing
  30. Nick
    Oct 3, 2003
    8
    I have a P4 2.4GHz and a Geforce 4 Ti 4400 and I am running Halo at 1024x768 with high detail. Almost no slowdown, even in very large areas. Oh, and the gameplay is as good as the reviews say. In comparison, Unreal 2 and Chrome are weak...
  31. GeorgeC.
    Jun 7, 2003
    10
    Hey this game is totally awesome in xbox... now its hitting pc with new weapons and new vehicle, it will only get better than the x box version so its gonna be 10 for sure since the original is already a "10" game.
  32. DarrylM.
    Oct 13, 2003
    8
    I don't know why everyone is having problems running this game on P4/Athlon systems. Halo runs just fine on my old PIII866 w/720megs of RAM and a 64meg GeForce 4 MX 440. I do have the resolution at 800x600 though. All in all it's still a fun game!
  33. [Anonymous]
    Sep 7, 2003
    10
    I bought an xbox for this game, it just died 2 days ago and im ready to get a new comp for this and some strategie games, Im ready to play online PROPERLY (xconnect sucked) and have a load of mod and modding tools at my disposal, give me halo or give me death.
  34. SnowW.
    Nov 19, 2007
    9
    Fast, beautiful and fun multiplayermaps. People say it's old and stuff, but they don't pay attention to its fun but only its name. I'd give this a 9 because I've had some lag with it once, no more. The grphics are nice, but aren't the best. so I'd still give it a nine out of ten.
  35. kane148
    Aug 6, 2012
    8
    Although Halo probably isn't as good as much of the hype it got, it's still a pretty good game. Most of the time it's a matter of going in guns blazing, rather than using stealth or strategy, but it's still pretty fun to go around blasting aliens and mutants. The game's storyline is good--though it could have used more developing--and the banter is fairly amusing. Many of the levels canAlthough Halo probably isn't as good as much of the hype it got, it's still a pretty good game. Most of the time it's a matter of going in guns blazing, rather than using stealth or strategy, but it's still pretty fun to go around blasting aliens and mutants. The game's storyline is good--though it could have used more developing--and the banter is fairly amusing. Many of the levels can get rather confusing as you try to navigate around endless corridors on spaceships and fortresses, but all is forgiven once you hop into a Warthog and drive around running over enemies or chase down a screaming grunt and pistol whip him!… Expand
  36. Juicymarmalade
    Nov 30, 2012
    8
    I haven't played Halo on Xbox or in its early years but looking at it from 2012, it's still pretty good but has some glaring flaws. For some reason there's no minimap and destination points only appeared in a few missions for me which can make the levels very confusing and I did get lost more than a couple times. The level design is also pretty bland and repetitive, especially in theI haven't played Halo on Xbox or in its early years but looking at it from 2012, it's still pretty good but has some glaring flaws. For some reason there's no minimap and destination points only appeared in a few missions for me which can make the levels very confusing and I did get lost more than a couple times. The level design is also pretty bland and repetitive, especially in the mission with 343 Guilty Spark. Having to go through 4 floors of the same looking environment sure got stale. Those are my two main flaws with the game but it has tons of positives as well. The guns are awesome and feel great to shoot and there's a good variety of them as well, my personal favourites are the pistol and the plasma pistol. I dunno why, I guess I just like pistols. The vehicles are also amazing and I was blown away by how smoothly they controlled for a game that came out in 2001, especially the banshee which I had a blast with. I found the story pretty good for a shooter as well but I wish they could have started to give Master Chief more of a personality in the first game.

    The multiplayer is great fun and I was pleasantly surprised that it's actually still pretty active on the PC version, I always see servers that are full and thriving with players even after 11 years. I'm not a huge fan of the maps that take place in an interior because they can get very chaotic when the only available weapon is set to rocket launcher. I did love the outdoor maps and my favourite is Timberland for it's size and beauty.

    Overall a great game and still worth playing even after over a decade, it's at it's best in multiplayer though since the singleplayer campaign is pretty dated.    … Expand
  37. PersonDude
    Nov 6, 2013
    8
    The soundtrack is awesome and the graphics are really impressive for a 2003 game. The campaign is lengthy and the story is good, and most of the levels are pretty fun. Except for the library. Multiplayer, however, is super fun considering its age. Pistols and sniper rifles are too OP though.
  38. firechip
    Nov 26, 2013
    9
    I played this years ago. It was a fun game. I played multiplayer a lot. Mods were very cool, going up the mountains in some maps. My favorite maps were death island, the two snow maps, and some of the smaller maps. I liked oddball, ctf, bfm racing.
  39. AD_79
    Oct 21, 2013
    8
    NOTE: This is a single-player review.

    In terms of a port, it's actually quite good. The gameplay is engaging (especially with the improved control of the PC), the graphics are nice for an older game and it runs fairly well. It's also a very difficult game, seeming near impossible on the highest difficulty. Halo has a few flaws, though. The level design can be extremely repetitive,    NOTE: This is a single-player review.

    In terms of a port, it's actually quite good. The gameplay is engaging (especially with the improved control of the PC), the graphics are nice for an older game and it runs fairly well. It's also a very difficult game, seeming near impossible on the highest difficulty. Halo has a few flaws, though. The level design can be extremely repetitive, having you walk through copies of the same hallway more than once.

    Despite the semi-average level design, it's definitely an enjoyable game. If you like first-person shooters, play this game.    … Expand
  40. 1am4critic
    Apr 7, 2013
    8
    By itself, halo combat evolved is nothing much. just an average game. But putting in Custom edition and playing all those different maps and mods makes the game so much better
  41. theeDarkhorse
    Apr 10, 2014
    10
    Polished. Its solid like Quake but updated for the next generation. Couldnt ask for more

    Halo:REACH updated the game engine. Play that for the next leap
  42. NeedForsleep
    Sep 26, 2013
    10
    One of my most favorite childhood games a fun and addicting shooter with a great story and it can run on most PC's and with mods and Custom edition you will not want to stop playing this game!
  43. Slick-Z
    Sep 13, 2013
    9
    Accounting for 2001 it had a great campaign, amazing multiplayer with great maps (including the famous Blood Gultch). It was the pioneer for competitive shooters on console and has one of the greatest world designs ever. It's weaknesses lie in it's overuse of the same textures in the world and the crouching control mechanics (move the stick fully towards a direction and you move whileAccounting for 2001 it had a great campaign, amazing multiplayer with great maps (including the famous Blood Gultch). It was the pioneer for competitive shooters on console and has one of the greatest world designs ever. It's weaknesses lie in it's overuse of the same textures in the world and the crouching control mechanics (move the stick fully towards a direction and you move while standing, move it slightly and you move while crouching)… Expand
  44. SirMarty
    Apr 16, 2014
    10
    This Halo game is the one that started it all. It brought us even greater Halo games, those being Halo 2, Halo 3, and to some extent Halo: Reach. The multiplayer on the PC is still up, so go get this game and experience the awesomeness of the first Halo game.
  45. ThePotnoodleBoy
    Jun 21, 2014
    8
    Solid sci-fi FPS with fantastic well written plot and impeccable AI. The level design however is quite repetitive and the dialogue seems out of sync with the characters. Much fun to be had pummeling grunts with warthogs and destroying hunters! 8/10
  46. jacob4
    Jun 25, 2014
    10
    A great game full of action, adventure, great multi-player, and a great storyline. It has taken Sci-fi first person shooter to a whole new level. It has an amazing gallery of weapons, vehicles, enemies, and good guys. Outstand graphics and affects. An absolute must play before climbing up the franchise!
  47. Jagkid007
    Aug 29, 2010
    9
    Halo is truly the most innovative shooter since goldeneye. It set a new standard for the future FPS's to come. It is not only fun to play, but the graphics are excellent. Although there is not multiplayer on the xbox version, if you get games on the PC you will have the best multiplayer fun in years.
  48. PatrickH.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    Just as good, if not better, than the XBox version. Banshees are awesome, and the internet style of linked play is second to none.
  49. MastaGunZ
    Aug 13, 2006
    10
    Simply put, Halo is a great game, and defined the fps genre for the current-gen systems.
  50. Review9
    Aug 22, 2010
    10
    Seeing that the average user review is 6.4 i must say there is something wrong with you! Halo is one of the greatest fps's ever on gamespot and ign's top ten fps's it was 2nd in both. the game is now 7 years old and some people are posting review complaining about graphics? It's a 7 year old game. Yes it did not have an online multiplayer for the 360 but it is by far my favorite fps with aSeeing that the average user review is 6.4 i must say there is something wrong with you! Halo is one of the greatest fps's ever on gamespot and ign's top ten fps's it was 2nd in both. the game is now 7 years old and some people are posting review complaining about graphics? It's a 7 year old game. Yes it did not have an online multiplayer for the 360 but it is by far my favorite fps with a great campaign and it was extremely fun to play with friends. I am now realising this is a p.c review. FUDGE IT! I'm posting it anyway… Expand
  51. Teh_Pwnerer
    Aug 28, 2010
    10
    I think that Halo: Combat Evolved defined FPS Gaming, this is the game that changed the way we played FPS Games. The online multiplayer is very addictive and it is a really good to play online with friends. I read some of these reviews that you noobs have wrote and I feel sorry for you because you are the ones that we pwn online. I think that it is a game that gamers will will keep playersI think that Halo: Combat Evolved defined FPS Gaming, this is the game that changed the way we played FPS Games. The online multiplayer is very addictive and it is a really good to play online with friends. I read some of these reviews that you noobs have wrote and I feel sorry for you because you are the ones that we pwn online. I think that it is a game that gamers will will keep players for many years to come.… Expand
  52. spartan-117
    Sep 24, 2010
    10
    this game is great has great weapons great ai especially on legendary the music just heals the soul and it has that touch of perfection for a sci-fi shooter with the most amazing architectures i have seen in a shooter
  53. SMScorx89
    Sep 24, 2010
    10
    It's Halo plus some new features like the Custom Edition, online multiplayer, new vehicles to use in multiplayer such as the Banshee and the Rocket-equipped Warthog, and new weapons such as the Fuel Rod Cannon and the Flamethrower. Plus, Bungie has a little something for the PC/Mac version: If you use the product key code on bungie.net, you get access to use the Halo nameplate for Halo: Reach!
  54. Wormboy
    Jul 1, 2012
    9
    Halo brought us a fascinating and unique plot, lush textures, and an unusually compelling soundtrack. In hindsight it doesn't seem so great, but when issued it was way ahead of its time.
  55. firefox2
    May 18, 2014
    10
    This game had it all. It had balance, skill, and was revolutionary. It wasn't quite as good as quake, but it was a refreshing competitor to the best PC fps. For a console game it still remains the king to this day. No other halo, battlefield, or call of duty comes close to the competitive nature this game was built with. A true arena shooter. It's a shame Bungie strayed away from thisThis game had it all. It had balance, skill, and was revolutionary. It wasn't quite as good as quake, but it was a refreshing competitor to the best PC fps. For a console game it still remains the king to this day. No other halo, battlefield, or call of duty comes close to the competitive nature this game was built with. A true arena shooter. It's a shame Bungie strayed away from this formula as the series progressed.… Expand
  56. Seriously
    Nov 13, 2010
    10
    This review is the second part of a fairly long but helpful review, go to the Halo: Combat Evoleved (Xbox 2001) page to see the first half.
    There are ten fairly long, open playable campaign (story-mode) levels in Halo: Combat Evolved and even more multiplayer (versus-mode) levels. You can play with one or two players in the campaign or up to sixteen players in multiplayer, which is great    This review is the second part of a fairly long but helpful review, go to the Halo: Combat Evoleved (Xbox 2001) page to see the first half.
    There are ten fairly long, open playable campaign (story-mode) levels in Halo: Combat Evolved and even more multiplayer (versus-mode) levels. You can play with one or two players in the campaign or up to sixteen players in multiplayer, which is great fun when youâ    … Expand
  57. Gosumaster
    Nov 5, 2003
    10
    OK this game is god- your all just pissed cuz u have sh.tty comps. ok you say u have a 5600 big deal- the rest of your system probly blows @$$. just cuz u cant afford a system capable of the godlyness of this game, doesnt mean you should bring it down.
  58. Azzazz
    May 1, 2014
    10
    Halo: CE shaped modern FPS games, and also has one of the best stories, entangled in one of the best soundtracks of any game ever made. The atmosphere in the game was simply amazing. Sure the graphics are dated, it's from 2001 for god's sake, this was a launch title for the original Xbox! The game was revolutionary in its time, its a classic.
  59. Watermelon789
    Jun 15, 2011
    8
    Halo is more famous on the xbox , than on PC, but the team did a great work on putting effort in this version. Is not the best PC game but is still superb.
  60. lilschreck
    Aug 13, 2013
    10
    so confused how this game did not get better ratings compared to its xbox release.

    they are both the same freaking game- scratch that.... the only thing different about this game is the fact that because it is on the computer you could CUSTOMIZE AND MOD IT. which is freaking AMAZING. I know this is not related to the game but ever play Halo:custom edition? simply fantastic. if    so confused how this game did not get better ratings compared to its xbox release.

    they are both the same freaking game- scratch that....

    the only thing different about this game is the fact that because it is on the computer you could CUSTOMIZE AND MOD IT. which is freaking AMAZING.

    I know this is not related to the game but ever play Halo:custom edition? simply fantastic.
    if halo for the xbox got a 97 without the ability to create god like player/ fan based mods then this game should have scored the equivalent or higher than the xbox version    … Expand
  61. DemonicAngel
    Nov 29, 2003
    8
    I'd been waiting for Halo to arrive for PC for a long time, so when it finally arrived I was psyched. I installed and booted it... and was shocked. Why was it running so slowly? In all seriousness, the graphics, whilst very attractive, simply aren't as awesome as I'd expect from a game with this low level of performance (and my PC is no slouch, either). That aside, Halo is I'd been waiting for Halo to arrive for PC for a long time, so when it finally arrived I was psyched. I installed and booted it... and was shocked. Why was it running so slowly? In all seriousness, the graphics, whilst very attractive, simply aren't as awesome as I'd expect from a game with this low level of performance (and my PC is no slouch, either). That aside, Halo is one of the most fun shooters I've played for a while. Enemies are pretty smart, and will dodge in and out of cover and try to flank you. Graphics, as mennioned, are cool. Sound is adequate, though some of the voice acting is a bit dodgy, and the plasma weapons sound underpowered. The story is fairly standard sci-fi fluff, but it's done well, with humour at appropriate points to balance out the seriousness. If your system can handle it, definitely worth a play, just so you can see what the fuss was about. … Expand
  62. Valgeth
    Oct 9, 2020
    8
    THIS, this is the best Halo game, and that's not even nostalgia talking, it has a story which will constantly keep you engaged, you can replay it almost endlessly, voice acting is great, dialogue is believable and earnest, gameplay is almost flawless, its art style continues to be studied by gaming historians today, sometimes when i play Reach or Halo 2 it just doesnt feel right. The XboneTHIS, this is the best Halo game, and that's not even nostalgia talking, it has a story which will constantly keep you engaged, you can replay it almost endlessly, voice acting is great, dialogue is believable and earnest, gameplay is almost flawless, its art style continues to be studied by gaming historians today, sometimes when i play Reach or Halo 2 it just doesnt feel right. The Xbone version is better though.… Expand
  63. FoxDude
    Jul 21, 2020
    10
    This is Halo, it would be blasphemous not to give it a 10. Crazy good gameplay, plenty of teabags, lots of bang bangs, revolutionary for its time, and has a good modding community! Highly recommend!
  64. BoogieReviewer
    May 24, 2021
    8
    This is a very good port of a very good game. To be honest CE never reached the true heights of a first-person shooter but this port is a great way for pc gamers to play this masterpiece. There are certain graphical problems but in general if you don't want to pay for MCC; play this game because they used this port for Combat Evolved in the master chief collection as well.
  65. KIrillooss
    Dec 9, 2021
    10
    Офигеннейший шутер, который спустя 20 лет играется так же увлекательно
  66. MarcB.
    Mar 26, 2006
    8
    Heyyo, Great game. But the port to PC was a poor one that ran horrible and the netcode too was horrible, and they should've upgraded the graphics to PC standards as the textures were quite blurred. But luckly, even with these problems, that solid Halo gameplay was still present.
  67. Marmoo
    Apr 18, 2008
    8
    Having completed Halo on Xbox many years ago i was happy when my bro bought me this last week, i have not tried the story game as i have done that, i was more interested in the online multiplayer. I can say i have no probs running it and it runs smooth on a dated cpu now (2.94ghz celeron, 2 gig ram, 160g hd and ATI 256mb graphics), i was impressed with the speed of online game but am Having completed Halo on Xbox many years ago i was happy when my bro bought me this last week, i have not tried the story game as i have done that, i was more interested in the online multiplayer. I can say i have no probs running it and it runs smooth on a dated cpu now (2.94ghz celeron, 2 gig ram, 160g hd and ATI 256mb graphics), i was impressed with the speed of online game but am struggling with the pace of it lol. playing with keyboard and mouse is a bit cumbersome so looking to but a controller - on the whole - very happy with product - cant understand why people have rated this game so low, especially those who cant get it to run - how can you rate he actual quality of the game without playing it- what a bunch of noobs lol.… Expand
  68. Andredre
    Nov 1, 2003
    8
    Well, the game run just fine in my comp. with P4 1.5 and 256 MB ddr ram and GF 2 MX 400 64 MB. The game run at 40 fps on 800x600, and it's playable enough for me.
  69. GetFitWithGilbertMulroneycakes
    Oct 18, 2003
    8
    Hmm. It's a good game alright - one of the best console FPSes evereverever - only, now it's on PC, it's, it's, it's out of date. It took two sodding years to port it over, and now it feels like, well, a two-year-old game. Buy it if you like, but bear in mind that Half-Life 2 - which makes this game look even older than it is - is just around the corner. Mmm, Hmm. It's a good game alright - one of the best console FPSes evereverever - only, now it's on PC, it's, it's, it's out of date. It took two sodding years to port it over, and now it feels like, well, a two-year-old game. Buy it if you like, but bear in mind that Half-Life 2 - which makes this game look even older than it is - is just around the corner. Mmm, Half-Life 2...… Expand
  70. KimJ.
    Sep 19, 2007
    8
    Great game, but it really ads nothing to the table. it would be sick if they added a weapon like the carbine in this issue, or some other weapon from the halo drawing boards or even from halo 2. i must admit, it runs slowly and repetitivly at times, but its a great game. another complaint i have is the fact that the game becomes a one man army type game after the middle of the game. it Great game, but it really ads nothing to the table. it would be sick if they added a weapon like the carbine in this issue, or some other weapon from the halo drawing boards or even from halo 2. i must admit, it runs slowly and repetitivly at times, but its a great game. another complaint i have is the fact that the game becomes a one man army type game after the middle of the game. it just makes it a little lame. when marines are with you, you almost feel a duty to keppt them alive, for some reason or another. If you read storm of steel, you could recognize this as the bond that happens between men in trenches. Without debate, its a great game, even if its on the PC. it would just be nice if they actually changed some flaws from the x-box instead of litterally taking the same exact game and just putting a PC sign on it. Of course, if you arent a moron, then you cant play halo 2 for the PC, kuz you need vistas. … Expand
  71. MichalW.
    Nov 16, 2003
    8
    A good game. It looks pretty, loads fast, has a great music score, and most of all - it's really enjoyable and satisfying to shoot at all these aliens...
  72. BitBurn
    Nov 7, 2003
    8
    Never as smooth as the Xbox version, but this game always seems to keep me coming back for more.
  73. StevenD.
    Dec 14, 2004
    8
    This game isnt 2 bad i hardly played the Xbox version the only time i did was at my friends house, but i do have it for pc and its not all that bad all it needs is a coop mode (which by the way there are rumors of bungie working hard at it), bungie couldent put coop on system link on Xbox nor could they do it over the internet or lan because of AI issues...but other then that halo pc isntThis game isnt 2 bad i hardly played the Xbox version the only time i did was at my friends house, but i do have it for pc and its not all that bad all it needs is a coop mode (which by the way there are rumors of bungie working hard at it), bungie couldent put coop on system link on Xbox nor could they do it over the internet or lan because of AI issues...but other then that halo pc isnt a bad game and its not a waste of money..if your a modder go get the halo editing kit and the halo CE patch from file planet.… Expand
  74. iddqd4
    Feb 11, 2018
    10
    Начало любимой серии фантастических приключений Мастера Чифа, идеальный шутер, в супер крутом сеттинге, жаль что начал знакомство не на Xbox, но спустя много лет наверстал в переиздание. Игра веха в индустрии FPS.
  75. Lucif3r
    Dec 31, 2020
    9
    The game that literally put Xbox on the map. Amazing atmosphere and setting. Great soundtrack and likeable characters. Love the open level design and good driving mechanics. Ai for its time is problably ahead of its time. Multiplayer is simplistic and fun. Great console title that made it to PC
  76. GYARA
    Jan 30, 2015
    10
    I seriously can't believe this game was released so many years ago, and yet in 2015 it is still a blast. "Graphics don't matter" you'd say, and you'd be right. The gameplay is simple, yet brilliant, only minus being the lack of zooming while aiming, but that I can live with. Now, the plot is really great, the whole "struggle to save humanity" is quite the idea, and I've gotta give it toI seriously can't believe this game was released so many years ago, and yet in 2015 it is still a blast. "Graphics don't matter" you'd say, and you'd be right. The gameplay is simple, yet brilliant, only minus being the lack of zooming while aiming, but that I can live with. Now, the plot is really great, the whole "struggle to save humanity" is quite the idea, and I've gotta give it to Bungie, that Cortana got me even in the "yet-somewhat-squareish" form. Overall the game has mineor flaws and just shows what is coming in Halo 2, 3, 4, Reach, ODST and 5- great plot and gameplay. And for that time, nice graphics.… Expand
  77. MrSchipunov
    Jul 30, 2020
    8
    Has a single-player campaign that is worth your time. Halo:CE is a timeless classic.
  78. gautamkumar633
    Feb 20, 2022
    10
    What a game! Its visuals blew my mind when I first played it in 2007. Still the best Halo game out there.
  79. Pakon
    Jan 19, 2019
    9
    An amazing First Person Shooter game with great graphics and story!!!!!!!!!
  80. Epsilon-Xenos
    Mar 3, 2020
    9
    Great setting and plot line. The story is fitting and consistent, however the in-game cutscenes aren't phenomenal but they are really good nonetheless.

    Multiplayer is too quiet, maps have too much ambiance. Some Maps are too big for some of the game modes. Some maps have semi-unfair asymmetry. Overall the game is worth the play if you're looking for a good story and multiplayer    Great setting and plot line. The story is fitting and consistent, however the in-game cutscenes aren't phenomenal but they are really good nonetheless.

    Multiplayer is too quiet, maps have too much ambiance. Some Maps are too big for some of the game modes. Some maps have semi-unfair asymmetry.

    Overall the game is worth the play if you're looking for a good story and multiplayer experience. The mods are fantastic as well, so those will keep you occupied for a long time.

    I would also recommend purchasing Halo: The Master Chief Collection for an enhanced experience, it's also on PC now.    … Expand
  81. john000champ
    May 3, 2019
    9
    It's a good game...........................................................
  82. Shimmeywill
    Feb 19, 2020
    10
    Countless hours into multiplayer and simple but satisfying and iconic campaign.
  83. AkitoAK
    Dec 6, 2021
    10
    I played this ages ago when I never heard of Xbox nor Halo, found it on a random shelf in a game store.
    Boy i never thought i would have had this much fun playing an FPS back then, i was just starting off with RTS games and GTA, this one was a new feel back in the day, and to this date(a day before Halo Infinite launches) I treasure playing this game.
    Here's to all the Spartans who found    I played this ages ago when I never heard of Xbox nor Halo, found it on a random shelf in a game store.
    Boy i never thought i would have had this much fun playing an FPS back then, i was just starting off with RTS games and GTA, this one was a new feel back in the day, and to this date(a day before Halo Infinite launches) I treasure playing this game.
    Here's to all the Spartans who found their way back..
    Cheers fellow Spartans!!!    … Expand
  84. Genek13
    Nov 19, 2019
    9
    First and only experience I ever had with Halo - im a PC gamer.
    That's why i cant compare to other ones (Halo 2 was only for Windows Vista sooo... skipped).
    Story telling in this game is outstanding, with charming music and great combat.
    Hope they release remake of this game in the future for PC.
  85. LegendaryM
    May 27, 2020
    8
    very good. gGgllfwfnjy542x ;isnnjtwacn,lo76rfjo9c njhsdcghhytrffgjjjhffvn,,
  86. SpringZulu
    Aug 19, 2021
    8
    This game is aa decent i think i dont really have much to say about the game other than it is decent some great stuff but i just hate masterchief movement it is very stiff that all tbh that i can say
  87. adam_carl
    Oct 12, 2020
    9
    This is the game what we always wanted great story,big characters this game is unbreakable in XBOX VERSION! BUT in PC version the game have problems with controls and with graphics too but I enjoyed the gameplay and the futuristic story so THIS IS A GREAT GAME! I recommend to everybody.
  88. Oldschoolgeek
    Dec 6, 2020
    9
    An overall good port of the Xbox Classic! Halo: Combat Evolved. Perhaps one of the best first-person shooters I've ever played. Gameplay-wise, the pc port is pretty good, providing options for better lighting, particle effects, higher resolutions, and multiple options for framerate. It is pretty much halo and all it's glory!

    so overall, not a bad port! 9/10
  89. MotherSpore4335
    Apr 30, 2021
    10
    A very good and enjoyable port, yeah it's somehow inferior to the xbox version but at least we now can play in full resolution and 60fps. Halo CE is a very original game and it differentiates itself from other fps video games.
  90. quijano
    Feb 25, 2021
    9
    Incredible. I dont believe that this Game was made at 2003. There are a lot of action, and the Gameplay is amazing for 2003.
  91. prostopopez
    Mar 29, 2022
    8
    Interesting and balanced, a golden classic. Brings back fond memories from childhood.
  92. somerandomguyhx
    Aug 1, 2021
    10
    very good and its good that bungie made this pc port buttttttt just get the annavirsery edition
  93. DonldTrump_45Th
    Jan 26, 2023
    9
    Hello, this is a default review because i'm forced to use 75 characters. I'll edit this review in the future talking about the game, don't worry ;)

    My final rate is: 9
  94. AsTa16
    Dec 6, 2021
    10
    Halo CE is my first FPS game and its will always be a great for me, always a part of my childhood
  95. petrkozak13
    Dec 13, 2021
    8
    I never thought Halo is a game that would excite me. But after finishing it I just couldn't be more satisfied. Great game.
  96. BogdanZelinschi
    Dec 12, 2021
    9
    Добротная игра, произвёдшая революцию в мире консольных шутеров. Я с игрой до этого года лично не был знаком, но после прохождения на героической сложности могу наконец высказаться: ИИ у врагов действительно неплохой, иерархия у врагов присутствует явная, большие просторные локации, кое где с вертикальным гейплеем, немного, не менее разнообразной техники, как и обычный наземный транспорт,Добротная игра, произвёдшая революцию в мире консольных шутеров. Я с игрой до этого года лично не был знаком, но после прохождения на героической сложности могу наконец высказаться: ИИ у врагов действительно неплохой, иерархия у врагов присутствует явная, большие просторные локации, кое где с вертикальным гейплеем, немного, не менее разнообразной техники, как и обычный наземный транспорт, так и летающие всякие мини кораблики. Сюжет... честно не то чтобы впечатлило, ну он есть и есть, не самый плохой. Твёрдая девятка за (по-началу) немного необычный геймплей… Expand
  97. Halo_Fan
    Feb 4, 2022
    10
    Such the best game, it's even better than Grand Theft Auto 5 for Xbox 360 (My favorite game). I have a 2GB Ram PC With an Intel GMA 3100 as GPU And Intel Core 2 Duo E7500 With 279GB Of Hard Drive. I have the pc really tweaked and it goes like 60 fps. multiplayer is the reason why i buy it. the problem is that there is like 0 servers on my country, 10 of 10, it needs to be the best game onSuch the best game, it's even better than Grand Theft Auto 5 for Xbox 360 (My favorite game). I have a 2GB Ram PC With an Intel GMA 3100 as GPU And Intel Core 2 Duo E7500 With 279GB Of Hard Drive. I have the pc really tweaked and it goes like 60 fps. multiplayer is the reason why i buy it. the problem is that there is like 0 servers on my country, 10 of 10, it needs to be the best game on Metacritic.… Expand
  98. GamerDadIsBad
    Mar 26, 2022
    8
    The first game I played when I played it on the original Xbox.

    Played with my friend in co op mode and it was an absolute blast considering
    it released in 2001 so it was ahead of it's time then.

    Still play it on the Master Chief collection on pc to this day with my nephew.
  99. qbangamer98
    Nov 20, 2022
    9
    the first halo game and still in my opinion the best of all the saga , the story and the campaign are also in my opinion the best of all the halo games , i think the halo games that came later failed to be as interesting and fun as this one is , halo 3 had an epic soundtrack a good campaign but was too damn short , odst was artistic and had some interesting points too but nothing likethe first halo game and still in my opinion the best of all the saga , the story and the campaign are also in my opinion the best of all the halo games , i think the halo games that came later failed to be as interesting and fun as this one is , halo 3 had an epic soundtrack a good campaign but was too damn short , odst was artistic and had some interesting points too but nothing like the original halo ce still the best halo game and one of the best fps of all time 9/10… Expand
  100. PepperPlay5
    Dec 4, 2022
    9
    Uhm... I don't even know where to begin. When I think of the year 2001, this piece comes to mind. Simply way ahead of its time.

    Although the textures might feel repetitive[-0.3], the level/map designs are beyond ingenious. One more thing I find nice is that the Legendary difficulty is somewhat actually tolerable unlike later Halo games. At least for me, Halo 3/Reach on Legendary is    Uhm... I don't even know where to begin. When I think of the year 2001, this piece comes to mind. Simply way ahead of its time.

    Although the textures might feel repetitive[-0.3], the level/map designs are beyond ingenious. One more thing I find nice is that the Legendary difficulty is somewhat actually tolerable unlike later Halo games. At least for me, Halo 3/Reach on Legendary is *remotely* playable. Halo 2 isn't. NOT worth my time trying that.

    The sound design is phenomenal; alongside the stellar soundtrack. Quite iconic I'd say!

    The storytelling is alright, but rest of the series does it a little better.

    Several *not* game breaking glitches exist[-0.3]. The most annoying one is: even when you cut the left arm of a certain enemy(which is used for their vicious whip attacks) while it's swinging, its ongoing melee would still land unless that enemy is stunned by your shot registered. THEN it'll be unable to whip again.

    I wasn't willing to comment on multiplayer but why not. In my honest opinion, all the weapons are a bit imbalanced when it comes to on-line experience[-0.4]. Worse still, the skill gap between new people and veteran players is more than massive at this point anyways. Maybe I should 've been born earlier than myself(10/16/2001).

    Overall, just great old game with few flaws. Something very fundamental if you're gonna discuss about FPS or video game history in general.    … Expand
prev
Page:

Awards & Rankings

30
#30 Best PC Game of 2003
9
#9 Most Discussed PC Game of 2003
26
#26 Most Shared PC Game of 2003

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
83

Generally favorable reviews - based on 40 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 35 out of 40
  2. Mixed: 4 out of 40
  3. Negative: 1 out of 40
  1. GameZone
    92
    The Xbox is all about high resolution graphics. The PC version outdoes the original with better graphics with hardly any loading time. The models are fairly good but the enormous amount of activity that occurs on-screen makes the graphics that much better.
    Read full review
  2. GameSpot
    90
    Surprisingly taxing even on very fast PCs with tons of RAM and the latest video cards. Halo for the PC also loses the original version's much-vaunted cooperative play mode. But in spite of all that, and in spite of the very high standards for first-person shooters on the PC, Halo is still an incredible action game. It's a true classic.
    Read full review
  3. Next Level Gaming
    98
    A decent storyline, lots of NPC interaction, and graphics that you have to see to believe. Anyway, if you are even remotely a fan of FPS games, this is an absolute must have, and one hell of a ride.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »