Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 168 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 131 out of 168
  2. Mixed: 24 out of 168
  3. Negative: 13 out of 168
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  1. FrankCreeper
    Jul 4, 2023
    10
    I played all games about the series and I can say this game is awesome...the story writting,characters,filosofy under this game,the atrocity about the real events on the Operation Market Garden....The Humanity about this game is something only a few game about the WWII can really rappresent...such a masterpiece for his too bad that ubisoft or gearbox dont create another sequel...
    P.S I    I played all games about the series and I can say this game is awesome...the story writting,characters,filosofy under this game,the atrocity about the real events on the Operation Market Garden....The Humanity about this game is something only a few game about the WWII can really rappresent...such a masterpiece for his too bad that ubisoft or gearbox dont create another sequel...
    P.S I played both versions game of the console    … Expand
  2. goodgriff33
    Jan 16, 2023
    8
    Answer: 75 characters is between 10 words and 19 words with spaces included in the character count. If spaces are not included in the character count, then 75 characters is between 12 words and 25 words.
  3. Heisenberg93
    Nov 2, 2021
    8
    It's been over a decade that I wanted to play Hell's Highway, outside the well-known demo, and finish the game given its name and fame from the fans that, even after many years, I still hear. I got the chance on Xbox 360 with which I recently started playing important and early generation games on the console.

    Video games with plot set in WWII usually go like this: the stories of    It's been over a decade that I wanted to play Hell's Highway, outside the well-known demo, and finish the game given its name and fame from the fans that, even after many years, I still hear. I got the chance on Xbox 360 with which I recently started playing important and early generation games on the console.

    Video games with plot set in WWII usually go like this: the stories of characters will be the background to the war, or the other way around. Whatever it will be, the plot must be interesting and catching. In Hell's Highway, maybe because plot is based on a true story, the war is really a powerful background to strictly personal events, which involve its characters. It's easy to empathise with them and the writing is credible and deep. Following the logic of Market Garden operation is more complex. "What is it that makes a great soldier? Is it his brain or his heart?". The answer, maybe obvious maybe not, is somewhere in between, probably.

    The game's base principle, "suppress and flank", works correctly. Put enemies under suppressive fire from your team and send another team to attack them on the flank. As such, putting enemies under pressure with MG team or Fire team fire is essential. The Assault team can also put suppressive fire but is less effective. Baker himself can also put suppressive fire. Squad members can't kill enemies on medium and long range, even if those are suppressed, but on short range their effectiveness increases. No need to flank suppressed enemies: sending Assault team in their face will be enough to kill them with ease. Consistent with the game's base principle, moving and shortening distances is key to progress. ​As a tactical shooter, the game works: commanding squads efficiently and observing them at work generates satisfaction, a sense of progression. Friend AI works well, even if sometimes gets stuck in the scenario or don't respond to orders. Enemy AI maybe a bit worse, but I saw them retreat as I advanced, move from cover to cover and have good mobility. There's a good variety of WWII weapons and shooting mechanics are solid; switch between the first and third person view (while in cover) is well done and seamless. Cover system itself is also not bad at all and it's nice to see a bit of environmental destructibility with things like wooden fences. Splatter system is good and explosives have devastating effects on bodies. The game offers an effective and convincing reconstruction of the war.

    Health game mechanic is different. Basically, while being hit, Baker is actually dodging bullets and increasing the risk of being hit. At the peak of exposure to threat, if not in cover, Baker is actually shot dead. Health is not decreasing, your luck is. Definitely an original design choice. While from the player's point of view, it doesn't change much, the problem is shooting and seeing enemy soldiers literally duck down and dodge bullets that should have hit. I don't like it, I understand that shooting means "lowering the enemies' luck and eventually kill them" but when the target gets hit, it just has to take damage, not turn into Max Payne.

    Hell's Highway is a slow game as it's a tactical shooter seeking realism. Shootings can lead to stalemates if not carried out correctly and can last for a long time. But slowness aside, the game it's woody; Baker is really slow, clumsy and in a cast. Enemy soldiers don't throw grenades (which contrasts realism) because I suppose it would be complicate for the player to avoid them. Also, the player's grenade launch system could have been done better as well. About lack of realism, the game grants too much ammo: I doubt s single soldier could carry such large bulky sets of ammo bandoleers, belts or pouches.

    The game is still graphically pleasing. Technically, it holds together both a decent environmental destructibility and splatter system. However, characters' faces and cut scenes in general are below expectations, even for a game of the time; they almost seem to come from the generation before. The soundtrack holds up well the epic feel of a WWII game.

    Ultimately, Hell's Highway is a great game. Critics seem to have been "disappointed" by absence of gameplay variations and alleged repetitiveness. Maybe that's true, but I have to give this game its merits. The ending is deliberately open and we knew recently that a new game is in development: let's hope Gearbox won't make any nonsense and that everything will go smoothly. Another game like Hell's Highway may very well be enough.    … Expand
  4. SleepNot
    Mar 28, 2020
    9
    Brothers in Arms: Hell's Highway - very good and realistic game! Great action about world war 2! very recommended!
  5. verminzz
    Jul 17, 2012
    8
    I've never played a BiA game, because i thought it is just another cheap war game. My friend lend my his Hells highway for xbox360 a week ago and i was amazed. I really like war games like Medal of honor, Cod, Bf, but this game really is special. The story, combat, soundtrack and graphics are good and controls are easy to learn. The only thing that isn't that good is multiplayer mode.I've never played a BiA game, because i thought it is just another cheap war game. My friend lend my his Hells highway for xbox360 a week ago and i was amazed. I really like war games like Medal of honor, Cod, Bf, but this game really is special. The story, combat, soundtrack and graphics are good and controls are easy to learn. The only thing that isn't that good is multiplayer mode. Great game.… Expand
  6. Guivera
    Feb 28, 2011
    8
    A great game that is overshadowed by the colossus that is Call of Duty, Hells Highway does not get the attention and praise it deserves. While not a perfect war shooter, i found myself continually wanting to keep playing even with its flaws. Great game.
  7. AnotherSociety
    Feb 22, 2011
    8
    (Written by AnotherSociety, Editing and comedic quotes by x Joelene x)

    THE STORY SO FAR
    I have been looking forward to playing this installment of â
  8. parlarocha
    Aug 25, 2010
    10
    Un juego diferente, una diversión diferente para por fin tener acción en primera persona realmente divertida y entretenida. Se acabó el ir en plan Rambo, ahora debes estudiar al contrario y tener mucho cuidado de dónde pones a tus compañeros de batallón. Mejorable en el apartado gráfico,Un juego diferente, una diversión diferente para por fin tener acción en primera persona realmente divertida y entretenida. Se acabó el ir en plan Rambo, ahora debes estudiar al contrario y tener mucho cuidado de dónde pones a tus compañeros de batallón. Mejorable en el apartado gráfico, inmejorable en la sensación de estar verdaderamente en la II Guerra Mundial.… Expand
  9. tror123
    Mar 14, 2009
    9
    Wow I must be really losing my mind here or publishers are paying out for their critiques...this was whole lot of fun! The core mechanics I mastered and excelled out made me feel like I serving with heroes....The only wish I had was that I could control a tank and a squad like the first one...can't wait for the nex version!
  10. PeterB
    Feb 17, 2009
    10
    I really don't understand the people who give this game such low scores. It's one of the best games I've ever played. Story's awesome, killcam is even more awesome and the graphics are also awesome.
  11. ChrisO
    Dec 27, 2008
    9
    This is by far one of the best WWII shooters I have played, it's right up there next to Call of Duty Finest Hour (best IMO). Great story, great controls, and surprisingly very good multiplayer.
  12. AllanD
    Oct 2, 2008
    8
    More often than not, I believe the Metascores for 360 games are just about right. Having played this game for several hours, I do really feel this game has been underrated. I you like Rainbow Six Vegas, GRAW, there's a good chance you might like this game. The only knock I have is the graphics and controls could be a bit better. Overall, a fun game that I think deserves an 8.5.
  13. AaronB
    Oct 2, 2008
    9
    This game met my expectations, exceeded them on many, many occasions, fell down a couple of times, but, all said and done I was totally engrossed from beginning to end, and that was on casual mode. ...but then came Authentic mode. The enemy AI is totally different in the way it plays, advancing on masse when attacked, from the very beginning you start the game again. I was swarmed by This game met my expectations, exceeded them on many, many occasions, fell down a couple of times, but, all said and done I was totally engrossed from beginning to end, and that was on casual mode. ...but then came Authentic mode. The enemy AI is totally different in the way it plays, advancing on masse when attacked, from the very beginning you start the game again. I was swarmed by enemies who seemed intent on kicking my squads asses. Without the crosshair either the game really feels like a life/death situation everytime you encounter an enemy. It forces you too use the iron sight view alot more making u vulnerable, and relying on visual aids such as explosions of dirt next to enemies, the only thing to gauge your accuracy - alot of fun flanking German infantry , to pop up next to them with your Thompson, no crosshair and spraying wildly in their general direction. Moments like this are represented amazingly well, for me anyway. Lots of tense shootouts. Most of the parts when u are seperated from your squad played really well for me, if not slightly out of place- it was appropriate for the moments in the game though and a nice diversion. I must say that the tank parts were, sort of fun, but I would have far rather commanded them as a squad like the original games, and not had to drive them myself. There is a lot of replay value to the game and authentic mode will keep you busy for quite a while. Some people don't like online...thats because its NOT ........COD4. If you actually pay attention to your squad leader its a blast. It is a different game however, you DO NOT control squads like the single player, you're part of one- you've got Rockstar New England to thank for that whatever you're final take on that is. GFX do take a hit though, but still alot of fun. More modes, even a deathmatch mode to test everyone's 'dig in' skills would be very welcome. Overall its a slower based, tactical game, abit like GRAW or Rainbow six, but with WWII tactics...GFX are similar to R6 in some ways actually, although it has a gfx style all its own with an grainy filter over some shadows etc. I liked that look as well. Please don't take 3 more years to bring out the next one Gearbox....and put back what you changed with regards the tank sections. I want to command them.not drive them. BUY it. Its well worth it.… Expand
  14. PaulB
    Oct 1, 2008
    8
    Just finished this very enjoyable game - different from your usual FPS, since it's squad based - and you cant just go in guns blazing. The game has a very cinematic feel throughout,with plenty of cutscenes to introduce the characters and their relationships with one another. Sure there are a few technical and gameplay issues, but thankfully they don't overshadow, what is a solid Just finished this very enjoyable game - different from your usual FPS, since it's squad based - and you cant just go in guns blazing. The game has a very cinematic feel throughout,with plenty of cutscenes to introduce the characters and their relationships with one another. Sure there are a few technical and gameplay issues, but thankfully they don't overshadow, what is a solid and refreshingly different shooter for the XboX.… Expand
  15. FPSMaster
    Sep 30, 2008
    8
    Most seem to hate it at first then by the 2nd or 3rd day it's grown on them. I am one of these people. The first play through was hard to stomach: Average graphics, lots of pop-in, bad framerates, bad friendly and enemy A.I., not many weapons, glitches galore, unrealistic reloading animations, not being able to aim at all on Authentic when in 3rd person view, linear levels, cheesy Most seem to hate it at first then by the 2nd or 3rd day it's grown on them. I am one of these people. The first play through was hard to stomach: Average graphics, lots of pop-in, bad framerates, bad friendly and enemy A.I., not many weapons, glitches galore, unrealistic reloading animations, not being able to aim at all on Authentic when in 3rd person view, linear levels, cheesy voice acting, overly drawn out cutscens and ridiculous solo missions that go against the entire point of playing this series over any other WW2 shooter. But it all clicked at some point and seemed as fun as the other 2 BIA games. It still though has a very last-gen feel with perfectly placed cover points put on the maps giving it a gamey feel and most of the levels only have 1 or 2 ways to outflank the enemies because they are so narrow and linear. The MP blows ass any way you look at it though so Gearbox should have made it themselves instead of leaving it to the team that ruined Bully for 360, Rockstar New England. It has 1 mode with no A.I. squads, looks like a PS2 game graphically and lags to Hell and back. Still, give the SP a chance if you like ordering squads around because this type of game is quickly becoming extinct in favor of everything being all about online MP in todays gaming world.… Expand
  16. DanC.
    Sep 30, 2008
    9
    Great game. Story is one of the best I've ever seen in a game. Controls feel great, haven't gotten bored yet. Don't purchase this game for the multiplayer though.
  17. ZackS.
    Sep 28, 2008
    9
    I have been a huge fan of brothers in arms series and this is the best one yet. The addition of the cover system really feels like your a soldier fighting in Holland. this is the most realistic and authentic WW2 game i have ever played.
  18. KCL.
    Sep 28, 2008
    10
    Awesome WWII shooter, the best in its class. I hope they make another one soon.
  19. DylanH.
    Sep 28, 2008
    8
    This is a great game! Great story, however I wish the acting was better. I believe the people that give this game a negative review is because they don't understand that this is more of a strategy game (not a run and gun).
  20. SteveH.
    Sep 27, 2008
    9
    Very fun shooter, only complaint is that my fallen squad-mates miraculously reappear at the next checkpoint after being killed.
  21. DamoW.
    Sep 27, 2008
    8
    I was a bit worried about this game but I really do think there are a lot more good points than bad. I recommend this to anyone who likes FPS's.
  22. WillM.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    Wow what a game!! This one should hold a special place in your collection. The story sets this one apart from all the good games out there. There hasn't been a good story like this since Band of Brothers or Saving Private Ryan.
  23. JesseK.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    I'm a little late to the BiA franchise but having played through other WWII shooters, I was looking for something a little different than the typical run and gun scenarios. With cinematic cutscenes and tactical gameplay this game is a winner! So far I've been able to complete the game on the Veteran difficulty setting and it's been a wild trip on the senses. Baker and his I'm a little late to the BiA franchise but having played through other WWII shooters, I was looking for something a little different than the typical run and gun scenarios. With cinematic cutscenes and tactical gameplay this game is a winner! So far I've been able to complete the game on the Veteran difficulty setting and it's been a wild trip on the senses. Baker and his squads have amazing detail. Their faces show every little mark and even some scars. With the intense audio blasting from all the speakers in my 5.1 system at home, I can't get enough. The weapons, the explosions ... everything just rips out at you. It's like having the war play out in your living room. Ordering my squads around is a great way to gain tactical advantage on the enemies that litter the landscapes and taking them out with a bazooka squad ... iIn a word Awesome! Watching your enemies fly apart on screen is amazing! Well, I'm back to the game now.… Expand
  24. BartW.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    Better than COD!!!! This game is the best WW2 game ever created bar none.
  25. SeanB.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    Rubbish!!!!! This game deserves a 10 for the graphics alone! I went into this game believing it would be another WW2 shoot em up. I was knocked off my footstool when I saw the fire graphics. The story actually made me feel sorry when I lost my squad mates which is a different kind of feeling when you're playing a video game. I actually felt exhausted when I was finished, like a real Rubbish!!!!! This game deserves a 10 for the graphics alone! I went into this game believing it would be another WW2 shoot em up. I was knocked off my footstool when I saw the fire graphics. The story actually made me feel sorry when I lost my squad mates which is a different kind of feeling when you're playing a video game. I actually felt exhausted when I was finished, like a real war. This is not for kids!! The game shows slow motion deaths with bits of skull flying out the back of the unlucky German's head.… Expand
  26. LadelleB.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    I cannot begin to tell how good this game is. As a matter of fact there are so many things that point to the center of this franchise but the story really defines this game.
  27. EvanE.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    Well deserved WWII title for the 360. Hell's Highway will bring you closer to the feel of the world's greatest war than any other game to date.
  28. TimH.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    As the quality of games have declined due to the overwhelming thirst for the almighty dollar, BIA: HH stands out above the crowd to bring a realistic approach to the last World War. Gearbox will hopefully continue this trend with their upcoming titles.
  29. JonasM.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    At last a game the captures the spirit of the tragic events after d-day. This game has it all joy, pain, and brotherhood. Good job gearbox.
  30. StevenR.
    Sep 26, 2008
    10
    Excellent job from Gearbox. This a game that breaks from the norms of other FPS games and offers a great story, great graphics, and great gameplay. I'm very glad I added this game to my collection.
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Awards & Rankings

65
#65 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2008
22
#22 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2008
55
#55 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
76

Generally favorable reviews - based on 65 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 42 out of 65
  2. Mixed: 23 out of 65
  3. Negative: 0 out of 65
  1. games(TM)
    60
    To continually repackage the same hackneyed take on real pain, real suffering, and real people in the mane of entertainment is a sure road to exploitation. [Nov 2008, p.112]
  2. MEGamers
    87
    The game offers so much, from an engaging emotional story to showing the brutal face of war. Easily one of the best WWII based shooters.
    Read full review
  3. Edge Magazine
    60
    Gearbox has made a game that is stable and complete, if hugely unrefined in places, with an under-exploited but sound core of tactical squad combat. [Nov 2008, p.93]
See all critic reviews »