Halo 3

 Xbox 360
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 5503 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 4,271 out of 5503
  2. Mixed: 542 out of 5503
  3. Negative: 690 out of 5503
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  1. AllAroundGamer
    Nov 1, 2011
    5
    To my readers, this game is nothing more than a mediocre game that was blasted into the limelight. What an overrated game. The mechanics are okay and the graphics are a plus. Multiplayer is overrated as well. May it be biased or objective, there are just too many trolls online. I can't say too much about this game. I didn't like it much myself, but that's just me. I do not recommend anyoneTo my readers, this game is nothing more than a mediocre game that was blasted into the limelight. What an overrated game. The mechanics are okay and the graphics are a plus. Multiplayer is overrated as well. May it be biased or objective, there are just too many trolls online. I can't say too much about this game. I didn't like it much myself, but that's just me. I do not recommend anyone to buy it, rather just borrow from a friend or rent it out and see the crappiness for yourself.… Expand
  2. Mattyice
    May 20, 2012
    6
    Good graphics. Even today, but even before the server was shut down, there were still occasional lags and screwups. Too mediocre to still play, even a year ago when i bought the game.
  3. wesker2012
    May 27, 2012
    6
    game is okay, not as good as the previous two games.
  4. Breegullbeak
    Aug 25, 2012
    7
    This game has a solid campaign. It plays well and that's all I care about since I haven't played the previous two games. The Forge is incredible even at it's early stages when there was no sandbox or foundry. dropping tanks on friends is just fun. Multi-player is great and it is done very well. That being said it is much more fun in custom game if you have the right friends and game types.
  5. Trixmay
    Nov 10, 2013
    7
    Let me start off by saying, Halo 3 is well worth your money and your time. The story campaign is well done and you really feel connected to the characters, although the campaign is short (about 5-6 hours long) it's still worth your money just for that. The campaign also includes co-op just like all the previous Halo games and that's a bunch of fun. The multi-player is still as good asLet me start off by saying, Halo 3 is well worth your money and your time. The story campaign is well done and you really feel connected to the characters, although the campaign is short (about 5-6 hours long) it's still worth your money just for that. The campaign also includes co-op just like all the previous Halo games and that's a bunch of fun. The multi-player is still as good as ever, if not, better. New vehicles and new guns keep the game from becoming bland when compared to the previous games.

    The multi-player will make you keep coming for more with the ranking system and the customisable armour for your player. There's a new mode called Forge which lets you edit maps and do some really cool stuff, unfortunately it is very limited but it's still fun to play with friends and create a racetrack every now and then.

    The graphics are nice considering this games was released in 2007 and although they may not look the best now they still hold up pretty well. This games is a solid game, and it deserves all your money and time, buy it, I honestly can't think of any cons for this games apart from being a bit repetitive sometimes. Even if you don't have Xbox Live this game has split-screen or offline players and still let's you play everything Xbox Live members do, as long as you have a second controller and a buddy.

    Seriously, buy this game right now.    … Expand
  6. gdmatt
    Oct 3, 2017
    7
    A good version of the same Halo that we have been playing for years. Despite a few standout single player missions, Halo 3 offers little else but a Halo experience on the Xbox 360.
  7. SilentSputnik
    Feb 8, 2013
    7
    It seems that the critics were paid off. The campaign of this game is okay. It's far better with friends. Multiplayer is also passable, but not impressive. Forge mode and the ridiculous custom games that have been created are the best parts of Halo 3.
  8. shprea
    Jun 27, 2013
    7
    Halo 3 is an all around good game. However, there are a few issues with it. For one thing, the FPS mechanics are very uninteresting. Other than a few cool guns, the game just doesn't have much else as far as mechanics go. Also, the story is really bland at times. It doesn't seem cohesive and fails to engage the player. The multiplayer, too, it a bit bland, feeling more like Halo 2 withHalo 3 is an all around good game. However, there are a few issues with it. For one thing, the FPS mechanics are very uninteresting. Other than a few cool guns, the game just doesn't have much else as far as mechanics go. Also, the story is really bland at times. It doesn't seem cohesive and fails to engage the player. The multiplayer, too, it a bit bland, feeling more like Halo 2 with better graphics. It's a good game, just a bit uninspired. I constantly hear that this game is the best in the series, however I'd have to disagree. To me, the original Halo will always be the best.… Expand
  9. houyi111
    May 10, 2013
    7
    My first halo game, also my second game on XBOX. I used this game to practice my aiming skill using a controller other than keyboard+mouse. Beat the campaign, I think 5 times and didn't pay any attention to the story since I never played the first two games. TBH, i found Master Chief the least interesting character in this game.
  10. savagejoe444
    May 26, 2013
    7
    Halo 3 is not a bad game, its just not that good. The game's story was completely confusing, plot holes everywhere. The new enemies, the Brutes, are stupid as hell, but fun to kill. It seems that Bungi never took any risks, besides the co-op campaign. Arbiter is back, that's about all I can say. Wish I could talk about MP, but I don't use Xbox LIVE. Either way, Halo 3 is an awesome returnHalo 3 is not a bad game, its just not that good. The game's story was completely confusing, plot holes everywhere. The new enemies, the Brutes, are stupid as hell, but fun to kill. It seems that Bungi never took any risks, besides the co-op campaign. Arbiter is back, that's about all I can say. Wish I could talk about MP, but I don't use Xbox LIVE. Either way, Halo 3 is an awesome return for Master Chief, but is lackluster in the execution, which is sad.… Expand
  11. Huckleberry2013
    Aug 31, 2013
    6
    Single player, Solid game play. Multiplayer, leave it to the "click and twitch" crowd of adolescent 13-18 year old Red Bull laced kids. At this point, if you haven't played the other 2, don't start. The story isn't that compelling that you'll remember any major plot point.
  12. memus
    Jul 19, 2022
    5
    Meh, this one felt weak for (I played the Master Chief Collection version of it). It's the most fascistic and melodramatic of them all yet. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as CE or Reach. This game just rehashes everything from 1 & 2 and puts them in a bigger package. But I was more bored than entertained.

    Pros: + The epilogue in zero gravity is kinda cool (and almost touching). +    Meh, this one felt weak for (I played the Master Chief Collection version of it). It's the most fascistic and melodramatic of them all yet. I didn't enjoy it quite as much as CE or Reach. This game just rehashes everything from 1 & 2 and puts them in a bigger package. But I was more bored than entertained.

    Pros:
    + The epilogue in zero gravity is kinda cool (and almost touching).
    + Some of the space cutscenes look epic (though, the low resolution reduces the illusion a bit).

    Cons:
    - Enemies and allies AI is weak. Allies in cars where dropped me 100+ from the cliffs. Enemies freeze from time to time.
    - The story is confusing. Like it's cool that we change locations so quickly, but I wasn't clear what's happening and what's my role in it most of the game. Also, the dated engine doesn't allow to take the melodrama of the story seriously.
    - The level navigation and encounter design are weak too. Like 10+ times I was confused on what I should do and where I should go.    … Expand
  13. coopert
    Jan 18, 2014
    7
    Another game that is a little hard to review, as the multi-player element of the game is far better than it's single player campaign. Halo gains almost all it's score in the multi-player but I feel this is a bit unfair as it's one of the only online experiences I have had on the 360 but that's because it's the most fun. The only good thing the single player campaign did was remind me ofAnother game that is a little hard to review, as the multi-player element of the game is far better than it's single player campaign. Halo gains almost all it's score in the multi-player but I feel this is a bit unfair as it's one of the only online experiences I have had on the 360 but that's because it's the most fun. The only good thing the single player campaign did was remind me of the fun I had playing the original Halo, after the second Halo game really didn't tickle my balls I thought this game returned to a formula that works, but the more I thought about the game afterwards the more it reminded me of Halo and it felt like this game was just chasing the success of the original. This was the end of my interest in the Halo storyline, I thought it descended into **** at the start of the second game. Overall the amount of time I have spent playing multi-player saves this game from a low score.… Expand
  14. Kevlar101
    Mar 16, 2015
    7
    * * * * * * * * *
    CAMPAIGN
    * * * * * * * * * A solid plotline with a plethora of epic set-pieces and stirring moments of spine-tingling drama. The characters are predictable, but it's what you would and should expect from a Halo game. Graphically, this game has the unmistakably unique Halo style of aesthetics, which keeps it distinguishable. The sound effects are good and, like the    * * * * * * * * *
    CAMPAIGN
    * * * * * * * * *
    A solid plotline with a plethora of epic set-pieces and stirring moments of spine-tingling drama. The characters are predictable, but it's what you would and should expect from a Halo game.

    Graphically, this game has the unmistakably unique Halo style of aesthetics, which keeps it distinguishable. The sound effects are good and, like the graphical style, retain an unmistakable Halo feel. The voice acting is above average, but nothing standout. NPC dialogue is still bland and often cringe-worthy, but luckily, the main dialogue is usually noticeably better.

    The soundtrack is, in my opinion, easily one of the most stunning ever composed for a video-game. The amount of raw emotional power delivered through the expertly crafted soundtrack of Halo 3 is truly something to behold, and it will make your spine tingle more times than one could count. Martin O'Donnell certainly, without a doubt, gave this soundtrack everything he had. And it shows.

    The controls of Halo 3 are virtually the same as the previous two titles, and there is not necessarily anything wrong with that. The Halo control scheme is a classic layout, and to tamper with it inefficiently would be a bit of a drawback. However, the inherent lack of a sprint button by now, the third entry, is something worth mentioning. The HUD is still clear and simple, and provides just as much information as it has to.

    Meanwhile, there are virtually no bugs to speak of, and the system runs smoothly with the well-known Halo physics that are a blast to play around with. The biggest issue with the campaign is the somewhat tedious final few levels, such as the infamous and universally dreaded 'Cortana' level. The Flood are, as always, horribly annoying. Entire levels dedicated to them are beyond frustrating.

    There is good content here, and replay value is moderate.

    TOTAL SCORE FOR CAMPAIGN: 7/10

    * * * * * * * * * * *
    MULTIPLAYER
    * * * * * * * * * * *
    The ever-classic multiplayer mode of Halo has never been better than it is here.

    Halo 3 can proudly boast one of the most excellent multiplayer modes ever created for an FPS game. With plenty of modes to keep you occupied, lots of intense slayer battles to be fought, more flags and oddballs to be collected than one could hope for, Halo 3's multiplayer is superb in nearly every way. Truly, this is Halo 3's winning feature.

    The amount of fun to be had here is unmatched.

    TOTAL SCORE FOR MULTIPLAYER: 9/10

    * * * * * * * *
    FILM
    * * * * * * * *
    Film allows you to get a spectacularly detailed look at the campaign levels and multiplayer matches through the eyes of a spectator. It adds a whole new element to the mix.

    The controls can be occasionally finicky, but once mastered, Film can provide you with plenty of awesome views.

    It takes some getting used to, but if used well, it can be a mildly entertaining mode.

    TOTAL SCORE FOR FILM MODE: 7/10

    * * * * * * * *
    FORGE
    * * * * * * * *
    Forge allows the player to customize the default maps with additional weapons and items.

    Highly finicky, surprisingly buggy, and just very very frustrating. The amount of time and patience required to produce a customized map is rarely worth the result, especially with the annoyingly unwieldy controls.

    Hardly worth the effort necessary to be used. It's Lackluster, and there is little chance of repeat visits to this mode.

    TOTAL SCORE OF FORGE: 5/10

    * * * * * * * * THE VERDICT * * * * * * * * There is plenty of value in Halo 3. A good campaign that is sure to give you goose-bumps (but not without a few road-bumps here and there), and a stunning multiplayer mode that improves on the classic style in efficient ways. The replay value is high. Unfortunately, Film Mode and Forge detract a bit from the overall content, but not much. Halo 3 is a great gaming experience that has held up over the years. It's a true classic.    … Expand
  15. Woodsmack
    Jun 30, 2016
    6
    I have never understood the fascination with this game. Its graphics were above average for its time, yet they have not aged well at all. The sound design on the whole is fairly solid, however, many of the weapon sounds (especially the assault rifle) are downright laughable. Meanwhile, the soundTRACK is very well done, and it is worth owning if you're a fan of contemporary or Halo musicI have never understood the fascination with this game. Its graphics were above average for its time, yet they have not aged well at all. The sound design on the whole is fairly solid, however, many of the weapon sounds (especially the assault rifle) are downright laughable. Meanwhile, the soundTRACK is very well done, and it is worth owning if you're a fan of contemporary or Halo music in general. The controls feel clanky and awkward (even more so now), and I have never enjoyed being taken out of scope view or crouch when I'm under fire. Moving through the jungle and exploiting its features in the first mission is a real joy, and the final mission is absolutely epic, yet the stuff in between leaves much to be desired. The story and cut-scenes are well done, and they set a nice backdrop for saving humanity and the galaxy yet again; definitely a highlight of the game. The Multiplayer element of this game is very well done, and overall it's arguably the best multiplayer structure for any of the Halo games. Nonetheless, I can only do so much running around and shooting of human opponents, before the multiplayer begins to feel a lot less fun, and a lot more like work. As I am not being paid to play the game, reaching level 50 and becoming a 'world beater', is a relatively empty experience and offers next to no real-life value whatsoever. My advice to fans of this genre is to seek out Halo Reach and Halo 4, as those games are far superior in almost every way. All-in-All, Halo 3 is a decent game. However, in this reviewer's opinion, it was and still is extremely overrated, and it is certainly not an essential game for XBOX 360 owners.… Expand
  16. TwigNigel69
    Jan 22, 2020
    5
    this game is one of the most boring games I have ever played it just feels like one one of the most generic shooter games its just trash and boring do not buy this game unless you want a game to waste your money on
  17. Kio22
    Sep 25, 2022
    7
    A solid game, has a good story, good characters, fun level designs, interesting new gear compared to previous games, and beautiful music, but a slight step down from Halo 2 overall. Weapons have even less feel of power behind them than in Halo 2 and the changes to the flood from previous two games made them seem like soft sponges. The story and characters were overall good but did feel aA solid game, has a good story, good characters, fun level designs, interesting new gear compared to previous games, and beautiful music, but a slight step down from Halo 2 overall. Weapons have even less feel of power behind them than in Halo 2 and the changes to the flood from previous two games made them seem like soft sponges. The story and characters were overall good but did feel a little cheesy at moments but nothing that should bother anyone. Had great moments that really brought out emotions and made you care about the characters. Has a great ending and is a good send off to the original trilogy.… Expand
  18. AlcoholicGoat
    Mar 27, 2022
    7
    A bit disappointing. Gameplay yeah it is the best but the campaign left so much to be desired. It feels like it's going through the motions
  19. B00tador
    Nov 28, 2021
    7
    Another forgettable Halo campaign, I honestly couldn't remember much about it.
  20. Gotthosue3
    Jan 24, 2022
    7
    Not my favorite of the halo games, but still very good :) I recommend but I do wish it had something more…
  21. LUISANG
    Nov 15, 2022
    5
    Es un juego muiEs un juego mui goooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooogoooooooooooooooooooooo… Expand
  22. qbangamer98
    Nov 20, 2022
    7
    this game is the reason i bought an xbox 360 when microsoft greedily decided to keep halo as an xbox exclusive and pc gamers were abandoned by the halo franchise , i was so hyped for this game and when i finally played it on xbox 360 it felt ok not bad but just ok , i do consider halo 3 better than halo 2 but still inferior to the first halo combat evolved which has the best storytellingthis game is the reason i bought an xbox 360 when microsoft greedily decided to keep halo as an xbox exclusive and pc gamers were abandoned by the halo franchise , i was so hyped for this game and when i finally played it on xbox 360 it felt ok not bad but just ok , i do consider halo 3 better than halo 2 but still inferior to the first halo combat evolved which has the best storytelling and the best campaign overall , years later i was able to play halo 3 finally on PC when microsoft ported the master chief collection on PC and when i played it again in the comfort of my own computer in 1080p it felt amazing how beautiful the graphics of this 2007 games still are , the campaign is short but epic in fact i consider halo 3 the most epic of all halo games the music of the game gives you that epicness vibe and that intensity in key moments during the gameplay overall is a very good game… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

4
#4 Best Xbox 360 Game of 2007
1
#1 Most Discussed Xbox 360 Game of 2007
2
#2 Most Shared Xbox 360 Game of 2007

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
94

Universal acclaim - based on 86 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 85 out of 86
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 86
  3. Negative: 0 out of 86
  1. GameSpot
    95
    It's the addition of the Forge level editor and the saved films that give the game an even longer set of legs, legs that will probably keep you running at full speed until Bungie figures out where, exactly, to go from here.
    Read full review
  2. TeamXbox
    97
    Halo 3 is the best Xbox 360 game to date. The single-player campaign and storyline are both very strong, but it's Forge and the Saved Films features that will likely go down in history as Bungie's crowning achievements. They've basically taken everything great about the series and improved upon it in every way, then added some amazing new features that we'll be using for years to come.
    Read full review
  3. GamePro
    100
    It's solid gameplay, immense replayability, online functionality and incredible production values will ensure its place in video game history, and it is, without a doubt, a satisfying and fulfilling close to the beloved trilogy[?].
    Read full review
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