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. AS
    Dec 28, 2008
    9
    The main story is undoubtedly a let-down compared to the first two. But thanks to the replay value, all the new equipment and features, and the fact that it's online is pretty much unmatched, it's a must-have for any Xbox 360 owner.
  2. ImaFurry
    Dec 9, 2008
    10
    I love Halo because it's simple and fair, other games have tried to throw in new amour and special weapon stuff to reward the players who win, but all that does is widen the gap between the pros and the noobs. And to say this game takes no skill just means you died the whole time and don't know how to play, in multiplayer you have to know how to shoot properly and how to drive I love Halo because it's simple and fair, other games have tried to throw in new amour and special weapon stuff to reward the players who win, but all that does is widen the gap between the pros and the noobs. And to say this game takes no skill just means you died the whole time and don't know how to play, in multiplayer you have to know how to shoot properly and how to drive and stuff, the slightest mistake means you die. And also you need to work together as a team on things like capture the flag. And some people complain about how it's just the same thing as the first two Halo games, but if they had made it very different and changed everything, then everyone would be complaining about how different it is. (infact some people still whine about the downgraded pistol) And the storyline makes not sense? Wat? go RTFM and/or play the first two games Oh and also Forge, Theater, 4-Player Co-op, File Share, etc.… Expand
  3. MojoR.
    Jan 4, 2008
    10
    Folks - If you didnt become a Halo addict at Halo 1, then you can only stand by and wonder what the clamor is for. This is the last of a Trilogy and I think the campaigns are receiving the most negative attention only because the first 10 on Halo 1 were just that great. Halo 3 campaigns are slightly better than Halo 2 story line - Since I got lost in Halo 2s story line I am still foggy Folks - If you didnt become a Halo addict at Halo 1, then you can only stand by and wonder what the clamor is for. This is the last of a Trilogy and I think the campaigns are receiving the most negative attention only because the first 10 on Halo 1 were just that great. Halo 3 campaigns are slightly better than Halo 2 story line - Since I got lost in Halo 2s story line I am still foggy today, but I can rock this game on Heroic, and Legendary still gives me fits. Being a non-MOD 24 you can understand there is quite a challenge in the Campaigns. NOW the multi player - all of us addicts want to know - WHAT ABOUT THE BOARDS ??? You bet -0 They have COMPLETELY out did themselves !!! The boards - the weapons and combos are 10 +, they beat Halo 1 or 2, the hand to hand combos, the famed needler are more powerful, the (What we call) Ban Hammer is a more fair weapon than the energy sword - so in all I'd say the creators really focused on multi-player game play, and I think they did as near a perfect job as they could. For all you non halo players who bash it - It's a Master Chief thing - You wouldnt get it.… Expand
  4. HagenM.
    Oct 7, 2008
    10
    Excellent game. The campaign has a riveting plot line and never lets up on the action. The music is absolutely amazing and well-timed. The multiplayer neevr gets old. Anyone who lets up on multiplayer probably isn't good or has a conniption. I'm still playing online after a year.
  5. ZachDecker
    Feb 22, 2008
    10
    Excellent game, holy crap this game is so good. I cant stop playing it!
  6. EddieM.
    Feb 24, 2008
    10
    For the users or critics to give this any lower than a 99 is a complete disgrace. Greatest multiplayer game in history, regardless. And infinitely better than a game made all for hiding and camping (Call Of Duty 4). Oh, and the Campaign is still amazing.
  7. ManuelP.
    Feb 5, 2008
    10
    Persoanlly I think Call of Duty 4 is a better game and if you haven't bought halo 3 already and thinking about buying it i would reserve that cash for grand theft auto IV. And obviously Jim B's review is biased just because they got ahold of a map before the game came out and they still decided to sell it doesn't make the game deserve a o..do you know how hard it is to Persoanlly I think Call of Duty 4 is a better game and if you haven't bought halo 3 already and thinking about buying it i would reserve that cash for grand theft auto IV. And obviously Jim B's review is biased just because they got ahold of a map before the game came out and they still decided to sell it doesn't make the game deserve a o..do you know how hard it is to design a good map? Plus the heroic map pack is going to be free sometime in the future anyway from what I heard. but anyway game is great to play with your friends especially games like infection, co - op and forge, mostly recomend halo 3 if you like to mess around with your friends since call of duty 4's multiplayer can get boring after about 25 hours worth of multiplayer gameplay since it can get kind of repititive after you get everything unlock unless you want to trade in all of your weapons for a new little icon.… Expand
  8. AnonymousMC
    Mar 7, 2008
    10
    One of the best games out for the Xbox 360. Every Xbox 360 gamer must simply buy it and play it. The only thing I didn't like about this game was that the campaign was too short and the last two levels were Terrible. But I'm still praying for a sequel to come.
  9. DanielHavoc
    Mar 7, 2008
    9
    Halo 3 performs superbly in many ways. Graphics, Audio, Entertainment, Playability, and Replay value are all very high. Halo 3 contains few errors, and is not perfect, but in the end it performs well.

    ---------------FOR METACRITIC (ERASE)-------------- Metacritic, if you could please allow my comment below this side note parapgrah to be added, I would highly appreciate it. I do not    Halo 3 performs superbly in many ways. Graphics, Audio, Entertainment, Playability, and Replay value are all very high. Halo 3 contains few errors, and is not perfect, but in the end it performs well.

    ---------------FOR METACRITIC (ERASE)--------------
    Metacritic, if you could please allow my comment below this side note parapgrah to be added, I would highly appreciate it. I do not seek to cause tension between fans of Halo and fans of COD. But I feel I deserve the right to mention what I have stated below, and know that I do not only speak for myself
    ---------------FOR METACRITIC (ERASE)--------------

    CALL OF DUTY 4 fans: I have played Call of Duty 4. It is a great game, and has both its advantages and disadvantages over other shooters (like Halo 3). But the fact that so many "anti-halo" fans are posting weak comments about COD's dominance over Halo 3, is unethical. This section is to rank Halo 3, not for COD Fanboys to share the obsessions about COD dominating Halo 3. I take no side between the two games. They are both great. But please save the COD talk for the COD section. And Halo fans, keep the Halo talk here.

    Thank you for your time. Happy gaming!    … Expand
  10. AGuy
    Apr 10, 2008
    9
    while not as historically important as halo combat evolved the fact remains that halo 3 is one of the best fps games of all time. the single player is admitatly short its the best of the series so far. and the multiplayer is the best on 360. halo 3 can stand side by side with the best fps of this and any generation long live halo 3
  11. spongebobsquarepants
    Apr 20, 2008
    8
    Halo one was a classic. Halo 2 expanded the Halo universe and made it more immersive with it's epic story and solid game-play. Halo 3's story is uncreative and disappointing. After halo 2's cliff hanger ending I was expecting bungie to expand the halo world even further. Instead, they refined all the combat and game-play from the first to games and made it better. ItHalo one was a classic. Halo 2 expanded the Halo universe and made it more immersive with it's epic story and solid game-play. Halo 3's story is uncreative and disappointing. After halo 2's cliff hanger ending I was expecting bungie to expand the halo world even further. Instead, they refined all the combat and game-play from the first to games and made it better. It just doesn't feel like bungie was trying hard enough! The game was too short. Level 8 was terrible. The ending was a rip off and very unoriginal. Despite the misleading hype this game was still great.… Expand
  12. MicaelC.
    Apr 7, 2008
    10
    The best game ever! After finishing at Easy, I just wanted more and yes if you think it's easy you have 3 levels more to hardness to try. The AI is great but the MP is even better. Great graphics and the feeling in the cars and guns are stunning.
  13. IsaacC.
    Apr 8, 2008
    10
    The Halo trilogy is best game ever created.
  14. AddisonG.
    May 24, 2008
    9
    Halo 3's didn't end the story line in a very satisfing way but the multiplayer, forge, and above all the theater option is amazing. They deserve props for that.
  15. DanK.
    May 4, 2008
    10
    Halo 3 is an amazingly solid game produced by one of the most involved game development studios ever. The single player is immensely satisfying and the multiplayer provides thrills for months on end.
  16. AvinashA.
    Jun 22, 2008
    10
    3 seconds after kicking some Covenant butt this game just becomes addicting. Really Fun. 2 Player Campaign is also quite fun. For instance, you can drive while a Warthog while your friend operates the turret or vice-versa. Great Game!
  17. Rickmurder
    Jun 8, 2008
    10
    Best game ever and i bet some of you have who rated this haven't even played it before.
  18. TomA.
    Jul 1, 2008
    9
    It is obvious when reading through some of the user comments that many reviews have been submitted by people who have an irrational hatred of halo 3, 'because its popular' syndrome. However personally i feel this game is great, I enjoyed the single player thoroughly, until it ended, and granted, it did so quite quickly, not clocking in much more than 7 hours for me on heroic It is obvious when reading through some of the user comments that many reviews have been submitted by people who have an irrational hatred of halo 3, 'because its popular' syndrome. However personally i feel this game is great, I enjoyed the single player thoroughly, until it ended, and granted, it did so quite quickly, not clocking in much more than 7 hours for me on heroic difficulty. Co op online is great going throught the missionsn with up to 3 other players online, not to mention some of the achievements available on the campaign mode, adding for more replay value. Multiplayer is where halo 3 shines, and quite frankly anyone who feels that the game doesnt have a great online system is an idiot, I could go all 'Pro' and moan about battle rifle changes, but tbh no one excpet the competetive folks rly care about that. But the whole experience of online play is sesnsational, the matchmaking system works well normally finding games quickly, depending on amount of playres in the playlist and skill levels available. Antway I digress, Halo 3 = Great game, minor faults, Alot of people here are just giving it low to make it look bad, it is a 7 at worst, bt tbh i cnt see how it isnt at least an 8, i'll give it 9 coz of theatre and forge modes tho , anyone giving it lower than about a 7 has some sort of bias up their sleeve, maybe bungie called them names...who knows.… Expand
  19. joeycarreras
    Jul 15, 2008
    10
    best game ever made
  20. MichaelF.
    Aug 11, 2008
    10
    I laugh at all the negative comments of this game. This game is almost the grounds for all FPS to come.. Notice how all these FPS are starting to use mechanics that Halo uses? This game easily deserves an 8-10. There's really only about 3 reasons why someone would give this game a 0.. 1. Someone who only owns a PS3 and despises the fact that it's not on the console 2. I laugh at all the negative comments of this game. This game is almost the grounds for all FPS to come.. Notice how all these FPS are starting to use mechanics that Halo uses? This game easily deserves an 8-10. There's really only about 3 reasons why someone would give this game a 0.. 1. Someone who only owns a PS3 and despises the fact that it's not on the console 2. You're just Anti-Halo 3. You thought this was going to be the second coming of Jesus.. I can guarantee you if this was multi-platform, almost every comment on here would be 8-10.. seriously folks, you are truly pathetic.… Expand
  21. PinkFloyd
    Aug 1, 2008
    10
    Certainly, this game suffers from a user base that looks at its immense popularity among non-gamers and shudders. I gave this game a ten because not only do I enjoy this game (multiplayer especially) personally, but because people who aren't into video games are still into Halo 3. Even people who claim that you have to be into the franchise to be into Halo 3 are wrong when you look Certainly, this game suffers from a user base that looks at its immense popularity among non-gamers and shudders. I gave this game a ten because not only do I enjoy this game (multiplayer especially) personally, but because people who aren't into video games are still into Halo 3. Even people who claim that you have to be into the franchise to be into Halo 3 are wrong when you look at the sheer numbers. Did one million people log on to Halo 2 every day? Absolutely not, but Halo 3 logs just under that number of users almost an entire year after its release (and anyone who actually plays will tell you that it's not a population of fanboys, because it really isn't). I highly recommend this game, especially for science fiction FPS lovers like myself who want a game with a story that provides more depth and symbolism than CoD4 or Gears could ever hope to offer, and a multiplayer that kicks just as much ass.… Expand
  22. joeycarreras
    Aug 22, 2008
    10
    best game ever made
  23. BobJ.
    Sep 11, 2008
    10
    Master D. i just want you to know that you can blow me. The fact that you suck dick at this incredible game doesn't give you an excuse to bash it. If you look at the extra features, the video recorder, the forge, the extremely diverse and numerous maps you can clearly see this game is a ten. The physics engine and graphics are mind blowing alone and the multiplayer will never get old Master D. i just want you to know that you can blow me. The fact that you suck dick at this incredible game doesn't give you an excuse to bash it. If you look at the extra features, the video recorder, the forge, the extremely diverse and numerous maps you can clearly see this game is a ten. The physics engine and graphics are mind blowing alone and the multiplayer will never get old and this game will be looked back upon as revolutionary. Again you can blow me, before you come on here talking about shit you don't know learn your facts you punk ass pussy bitch.… Expand
  24. MattyF.
    Sep 20, 2008
    9
    Everyone giving it a 10 is blind, but everyone giving it below a 7 is just as ignorant. Online is great fun when it isn't laggy, Americans can play perfect games 9/10 times, while the rest of the world is left out. Gameplay is solid, Graphics are solid, and it is balanced as all hell. Everyone having a go at the MP obviously does not know how to play the game properly. Anybody can Everyone giving it a 10 is blind, but everyone giving it below a 7 is just as ignorant. Online is great fun when it isn't laggy, Americans can play perfect games 9/10 times, while the rest of the world is left out. Gameplay is solid, Graphics are solid, and it is balanced as all hell. Everyone having a go at the MP obviously does not know how to play the game properly. Anybody can play any game shit and not enjoy it, but once you get half decent, you understand everything and enjoy it. BTW Chris, don't steal Yahtzee's lines. This game is made to be played with mates, Coop and Online. Play with mates and don't care if you win or lose, and you will enjoy it. I've played this campaign around 5 times, certain levels up in to the high teens, and i still love it, why? because it's a social experience. So stop bitcihng.… Expand
  25. KhristianR.
    Sep 29, 2008
    8
    Halo 3 is a good game, but it doesn't really do much more than the first and second games did. It feels more like an addon data disk. It really excels in Multiplayer, especially online. Also the addition of being able to alter the pre-designed levels. I'd say for £10-£15. its worth it, especially with more maps being made available. But I wouldn't go as far to Halo 3 is a good game, but it doesn't really do much more than the first and second games did. It feels more like an addon data disk. It really excels in Multiplayer, especially online. Also the addition of being able to alter the pre-designed levels. I'd say for £10-£15. its worth it, especially with more maps being made available. But I wouldn't go as far to give it 5* ratings 90+% and claims that its the best game of the decade. It is good, but not that good. SCORE : 84%… Expand
  26. ryanA
    Nov 11, 2009
    10
    this game is amazing. the story is well done as always. the music will be remembered like old megaman music of the final fantasies. graphics look awesome. the multiplayer really is intense, it might be a little hard for some people, but the hardcore gamers know that this is a shooter at its best.
  27. NicholasS
    Jan 13, 2009
    10
    (Before i comment on this game i just want to remind all of you that this game has stayed in the top spot for online activity for over a year after its release.I have also noticed that everyone who gives this game a bad review don't actually tell us how it is bad. They just say stuff like "the multiplayer and campaign sucks, the graphics suck" but they don't actually tell us HOW (Before i comment on this game i just want to remind all of you that this game has stayed in the top spot for online activity for over a year after its release.I have also noticed that everyone who gives this game a bad review don't actually tell us how it is bad. They just say stuff like "the multiplayer and campaign sucks, the graphics suck" but they don't actually tell us HOW it sucks, the just go out and say it. If it is how you actually feel about the game and you arent just trying to get it's score down.. the you are entitled to your own opinion.Okay here's my actual Review.) Halo 3 IS give lots of replayability because of all the difficulty levels,skulls,meta game and 4 player CO-OP. It is a bit short however.The Multiplayer is also fun because of the 18(soon to be 24) maps, the arsenal of weapons/vehicles, the saved films and screenshots that you can share. My favorite new feature is the FORGE because you can make your own maps(duh).SOOOO yeah I just think its a really fun game.END OF REVIEW!!!… Expand
  28. MT
    Feb 22, 2009
    8
    Halo 3 starts off the campaign mode brilliantly with some well set out and well-timed action set pieces. However, later on in the game, which isn't the longest (you could finish it within 4-6 hours) it gets nothing but boring, dull and here-we-go-again style. The multiplayer is unpredictable. The most hyped part of the game, but most disappointing. The lag in match after match, the Halo 3 starts off the campaign mode brilliantly with some well set out and well-timed action set pieces. However, later on in the game, which isn't the longest (you could finish it within 4-6 hours) it gets nothing but boring, dull and here-we-go-again style. The multiplayer is unpredictable. The most hyped part of the game, but most disappointing. The lag in match after match, the continuation of games when everybody lags and dies unexpectedly and the overall poor level design in online maps is the most disappointing part of the game, which certainly isn't one of the best FPSs ever...No where near.… Expand
  29. brianw.
    Feb 24, 2009
    10
    As a single player this was the game I wanted to keep putting in the 360 until finished. I only play online with one friend and it is the one I want to keep playing online. Just the best FPS I have played, nothing frustrating about it. What a shooter should be.
  30. Ex14
    Feb 9, 2009
    8
    I would have put 7.5 but there isn't any option to. Anyway it's been more than a year since it's launch, and glad to say it's still going strong. Needless to say it's a great game. Plus it has lots of re-playability. ESP in it's multiplayer. The reviews below might diss it, but don't be fooled. It is a good game. Just not great. The story's ok, I would have put 7.5 but there isn't any option to. Anyway it's been more than a year since it's launch, and glad to say it's still going strong. Needless to say it's a great game. Plus it has lots of re-playability. ESP in it's multiplayer. The reviews below might diss it, but don't be fooled. It is a good game. Just not great. The story's ok, though u need to have played halo ce and halo 2 to understand what's it about and the graphics though just an updated ver of Halo 2, still. it looks beautiful. Multiplayer is a blast. If not for the ocassionally screechy kids online. HAlo 3 is a game you should at least play once through. Even if u dun buy it, rent it.… Expand
  31. MattS
    Mar 8, 2009
    10
    This game is a great end to the series and in my opinion the best. I will say the story line could have been longer, but the multiplayer more than makes up for any of its faults. And Obama L.., if they made any major breakthroughs with Halo 3, it probably wouldn
  32. 123456
    Jun 8, 2009
    10
    Anyone who rated this game a 0 especially the guy who said this is xbox 360's killzone 2 should be burnt alive. Seriously Halo 3 came before killzone 2, it doesn't make any sense. Anyways, great storyline and addictive multiplayer. The theater mode and forge just adds hours of more replay value too.
  33. MichaelK.
    Nov 1, 2007
    10
    I've had so much fun with this game. the campaign wraps up the halo story nicely and multi player is amazing as always. For some reason there always seems to be a large number of people who just spam low scores on the halo games saying how bad they are for stupid petty little problems, none of which makes the game less enjoyable in some way. this is what console shooters are all I've had so much fun with this game. the campaign wraps up the halo story nicely and multi player is amazing as always. For some reason there always seems to be a large number of people who just spam low scores on the halo games saying how bad they are for stupid petty little problems, none of which makes the game less enjoyable in some way. this is what console shooters are all about. no its not deep like HL2 but its fun… Expand
  34. JosephL.
    Nov 13, 2007
    9
    Great game, possibly the best in the Halo series, but it's multiplayer is still too catered to the casual player.
  35. JoeD
    Oct 1, 2007
    10
    This is a fantastic game. Ignore the low scores from the others, most of them are just ignorant. The graphics are also superb, without being as technically impressive as Gears of War. This game has far superior gameplay to most FPS titles including Half Life 2, Bioshock and Gears of War. Most of all Halo 3 is great fun and well worth purchasing.
  36. ApocalypseBrown
    Nov 16, 2007
    9
    For those who slander Halo 3, and say Call of Duty 4 is a more mature and better game? That is complete rubbish! Apart from the single player of COD4, Halo pisses all over it with polished gameplay, the best mulitplayer on any shooter, and map maker capabilities. Ok the single player here is marginally better than Halo 2, much isn't really saying much. But there is less repetition For those who slander Halo 3, and say Call of Duty 4 is a more mature and better game? That is complete rubbish! Apart from the single player of COD4, Halo pisses all over it with polished gameplay, the best mulitplayer on any shooter, and map maker capabilities. Ok the single player here is marginally better than Halo 2, much isn't really saying much. But there is less repetition and a much better arsenal of weapons, there is lots of fun to be had here. But where it excels to God-Father status is the multi player. The best ever! There is too much to write about, so go forth and play it! Forge is a nice novelty, and those patient enough to make good maps are well worth playing on. Overall I understand why some are upset about Halo, but this is second best shooter out there EVER! COD4 is a decent, but wooden ride with racist propaganda steeped all over it. Multi player score - 10. Forge - 9. Single player - 7. Overall 9!… Expand
  37. D.Smith
    Oct 1, 2007
    10
    I didn't have high hopes for this game, as I was disappointed greatly by Halo 2, but it manages to surpass my expectations. The changes to dual wielding are great, as are the new weapons, multiplayer is far more balanced, and it has the most robust, yet intuitive multiplayer components of any game I've ever played.
  38. LanaR.
    Oct 11, 2007
    8
    Aesthetically, the game is amazing to look at. The campaign mode was definitely short but I found it really fun. I liked the new weapons and the revamping of the old ones to look and sound more amazing. The new tools, such as the auto-turret and the regenerator and the bubble shield, etc etc are kind of pointless in multiplayer and take too much concentration to deploy. I am having a Aesthetically, the game is amazing to look at. The campaign mode was definitely short but I found it really fun. I liked the new weapons and the revamping of the old ones to look and sound more amazing. The new tools, such as the auto-turret and the regenerator and the bubble shield, etc etc are kind of pointless in multiplayer and take too much concentration to deploy. I am having a problem with multiplayer mode in general. I thought I was pretty damn decent in Halo 2 multiplayer, and now I feel like I'm a total newbie. I feel like I have no advantage over other players with any weapon combinations I choose. It almost feels like you're playing in third person compared to Halo 2 feeling like you were right there in the game. Is it just me, or do you not FEEL getting hit or shot? It's like you're running around just fine and suddenly you're lying there dead without any warning, and I don't find multiplayer as fun as H2.… Expand
  39. AnonymousMC
    Oct 1, 2007
    9
    Big fan of the series. I liked the campaign, don't really know why people are so upset about that. The gameplay itself is next to perfect but some decisions made by Bungie concerning the multiplayer just keeps amazing me. TEAM SLAYER with shotty snipers?!?!? that's a joke, why snipers have to ruin such a good playlist? But moreover, where's the hardcore playlist???!?!?!?!Big fan of the series. I liked the campaign, don't really know why people are so upset about that. The gameplay itself is next to perfect but some decisions made by Bungie concerning the multiplayer just keeps amazing me. TEAM SLAYER with shotty snipers?!?!? that's a joke, why snipers have to ruin such a good playlist? But moreover, where's the hardcore playlist???!?!?!?! everyone loves oddbalsl and king of the hills, now they are nowhere to be found. One other thing: MP maps. Huge setback, spoiled by too big areas. And that snowy map; why on earth there are those shield-doors??? makes gaming ridiculous. I just wait for update to make things right again. Bungie wake up! loose the snipers, add k.o.t.h.'s. You guys don't want to please majority, you have to please everyone!… Expand
  40. AntonioM.
    Nov 28, 2007
    9
    Great. You will replay the campaign a lot of times with your friends (LIVE or Split Screen), and after playing it a lot of times you will still think it's great! Multiplayer is awesome: lots of game modes and great gameplay. BUY IT!
  41. ChrisG.
    Nov 3, 2007
    10
    PS3 fans/Droids hating the game trying to bring the score down. Go watch Spiderman 3 or somthing, while I play GOTY, right next to Bioshock and Mass Effect.
  42. KarlG.
    Oct 14, 2007
    9
    There is no way that Halo 3 could live up to the hype that it picked up in development. That said, it is still a very solid, decent game. The campaign was somewhat short but it definitely gave your the impression that you "finished the fight". In regards to the multiplayer aspect, just like Halo 1 & 2, people will be playing it for years to come.
  43. LukeH.
    Oct 14, 2007
    9
    I would first like to note that 2 sentences is not a legitimate review. For people who like to bring down a games score with..."garbage" or "Yawn. Played it already--it was called Halo 2."...I seriously think that you shouldnt quit your day-job of mooching off of mother in order to become a distinguished writer of the 21st century. Now, onto the review. This game is essential to anyone I would first like to note that 2 sentences is not a legitimate review. For people who like to bring down a games score with..."garbage" or "Yawn. Played it already--it was called Halo 2."...I seriously think that you shouldnt quit your day-job of mooching off of mother in order to become a distinguished writer of the 21st century. Now, onto the review. This game is essential to anyone who owns an xbox 360. Hands down has set the bar for what a 360 game should be. Being a fan of the games since it was orginally released as Marathon for PC--Bungie has carried there FSP shooter series into the Next Generation. The engrossing campaign--with added hours of skull-hunting--and varying levels of difficulty make it worthy of purchase in itself...but then you have the LARGEST onlien community available for any next-gen console out there. This aspect just turns an already GOLD game--right into platinum. Endless hours of pwning people names Rolf S, (and getting an uber-amount of achievements for doing so) or other Noobs just makes for a truly epic experience. Where it lacks is the campaign is short. Only about a max of 10 hours on Heroic difficulty. But, the hours after you beat the campaign...especially if you have access to the internet...and even if you dont...are truly endless. That is, if you aren't a noob who gets pwned on a game-to-game basis.… Expand
  44. BARBARICRAGE
    Nov 6, 2007
    10
    Good Campaign, Great Multiplayer- The saved film feature is awesome. A truly rewarding experience.
  45. StevieW.
    Nov 7, 2007
    9
    Everything in this game is top notch. Except for maybe the facial expressions in some of the cinematics. Other than that Bungie did an awesome job!! This is my most favorite video game that i have played so far and will stay that way for a long time.
  46. JuniorG.
    Nov 7, 2007
    10
    This is a great game that will keep many playing for sometime. If you dont have xbox live then maybe you should think twice about buying this $60 game. Playing online is a completely different experience. New options such as theater and forge bring a great new aspect to this game. New additions via downloadable content and the large community will make this game interesting for years to This is a great game that will keep many playing for sometime. If you dont have xbox live then maybe you should think twice about buying this $60 game. Playing online is a completely different experience. New options such as theater and forge bring a great new aspect to this game. New additions via downloadable content and the large community will make this game interesting for years to come. I give it a 10 to try to offset some of these undeserving user ratings.… Expand
  47. MichaelZ.
    Oct 17, 2007
    10
    Halo 3 is by far the greatest Halo game ever created! In fact, Halo 3 has already improved beyond what was originally released, because Bungie has added new Modes to Halo 3. So, it is not an exaggeration to say that Halo 3 now is literally better and deserves even higher ratings than when it was first released on the market. Halo 3 is the only Halo game to offer four-player Co-Op mode Halo 3 is by far the greatest Halo game ever created! In fact, Halo 3 has already improved beyond what was originally released, because Bungie has added new Modes to Halo 3. So, it is not an exaggeration to say that Halo 3 now is literally better and deserves even higher ratings than when it was first released on the market. Halo 3 is the only Halo game to offer four-player Co-Op mode where a group of four friends on Xbox Live can get together and play together in the Story Campaign mode. Each player controls a different character; for example, player 1 can be Master Chief, and player 2 can be Arbiter. The graphics in Halo 3 are amazing! The game literally uses an incredibly advanced "Dual-Frame-Buffer" 640p resolution, which means that it offers the same level of performance as a 1280p "Single-Frame-Buffer" graphics, which are seen as high as 1080p on the Xbox 360...That is why the back of the box points out the game is perfectly compatible in 1080p mode; IGN explains that in great detail. Halo 3 really does have incredible graphics that run at a silk smooth 60 frames per second with amazing lighting. And now, Bungie has added modes where 16-players can play together in new forms of matches online on Xbox Live. This is a perfect example that shows how Halo 3 continues to improve! The gameplay of Halo 3 is perfect--your character always does what you want it to. Bungie has said that the ideal difficulty setting for Halo 3 is "Heroic." When you play the game on increased difficulty settings such as Heroic or Legendary, additional enemies are added to the game. Not only that, but the enemies are stronger and have better Artificial Intelligence. As a result, the enemies take cover more often and require more shots or better shots to kill. This takes quite a bit longer than beating the game on Normal or Easy difficulty. The Scarab "spider tank" fight scenes are absolutely amazing; those are the best graphics I have ever seen in a videogame. And as usual, the music in Halo 3 is amazing. The sound effects are also incredibly cool. The voices of the enemies and team members are funny, too. Hearing a Grunt say, "You killed my brother for the last time," is awesome! And one time I set my controller down for a few seconds when my character was looking in the direction of the team. Arbiter then said, "Stop staring at me." That was so funny! A few seconds later another member said, "Why don't you take a picture, it will last longer." Halo 3 truly is a great game with the best graphics ever seen on a console. Halo 3 has the best online mult-player gameplay I have ever played. 16-player multi-player, and 4-player Co-Op is fantastic fun! Halo 3 is by far the best Halo game ever made!… Expand
  48. MichaelB.
    Oct 17, 2007
    9
    Best shooter ever? Probably not. However, it is the best I've played thus far on the Xbox or Xbox 360. BioShock and Gears of War both come VERY close, but I still had a lot more fun with Halo 3. The visuals are vastly improved from the previous games (which is to be expected on a newer console)... the lighting effects are stunning. The voice acting and musical score are top-notch. Best shooter ever? Probably not. However, it is the best I've played thus far on the Xbox or Xbox 360. BioShock and Gears of War both come VERY close, but I still had a lot more fun with Halo 3. The visuals are vastly improved from the previous games (which is to be expected on a newer console)... the lighting effects are stunning. The voice acting and musical score are top-notch. And the gameplay is what every Halo fan has grown to love. There are, however, a few flaws. The campaign is too short (which was my biggest gripe about Halo 2 as well). However, it wraps up the story arc and its a good warm-up for the awesome multiplayer. Some of the weapons tweaks are particularly annoying. The pistol's refresh rate is much too slow, and (my BIGGEST complaint) the needler is no longer a dual-wieldable weapon (AHHH!!), making these weapons almost unusable. The controls for the Scorpion tank also seems to be a bit less refined than in Halo 2. All in all, I can assure just about any fan of FPS games that they will get enjoyment out of this game, particularly the multiplayer. I don't think that there was any way this game could live up to the hype surrounding it, which is sort of sad, but it still stands above most of the rest on a console that is saturated with first person shooters.… Expand
  49. CliveG.
    Oct 19, 2007
    8
    While I can wax lyrical about the visuals, it's the gameplay which is more than a little disappointing after Halo 1 set the bar. Hackneyed level design, lack of real balance when it comes to the weapons and the cliched ending all combine to make this feel like an anticlimax after all the hype. One of the single biggest improvements that could have been made was solid direction for While I can wax lyrical about the visuals, it's the gameplay which is more than a little disappointing after Halo 1 set the bar. Hackneyed level design, lack of real balance when it comes to the weapons and the cliched ending all combine to make this feel like an anticlimax after all the hype. One of the single biggest improvements that could have been made was solid direction for the plot, tying together the sections believably and keeping a coherent thread for the storyline. Having said all that, this is great rental game and, for the hardcore, a good multiplayer game to own.… Expand
  50. VechaK.
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    Good game. If you don't like it don't play it. Simple as that. Reminds me of goldeneye on the n64...
  51. SeanC.
    Oct 2, 2007
    8
    The single player campaign is somewhat lacking (It's revived a bit via co-op mode). It's the Live stuff that makes this game worthy of purchase, though. The Forge and Theater options are nice adds. Hopefully it'll get some worthy patches and tweaks in the months to come. Even though it didn't live up to the hype (with so much hype given it was never going to happen), The single player campaign is somewhat lacking (It's revived a bit via co-op mode). It's the Live stuff that makes this game worthy of purchase, though. The Forge and Theater options are nice adds. Hopefully it'll get some worthy patches and tweaks in the months to come. Even though it didn't live up to the hype (with so much hype given it was never going to happen), this game is head and shoulders above 99% of the 360 titles.… Expand
  52. ShaneB.
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    Very pleased with the game. Online gives this game legs like no other ive seen on a console. Single player story was brilliant and probably the best way to wrap up the story arch (I still want more but apparently thats not happening). It was a little short but the second I beat it I wanted to go through it again one difficulty higher. I just love how many people come on here to rank on Very pleased with the game. Online gives this game legs like no other ive seen on a console. Single player story was brilliant and probably the best way to wrap up the story arch (I still want more but apparently thats not happening). It was a little short but the second I beat it I wanted to go through it again one difficulty higher. I just love how many people come on here to rank on the halo series... the fact that these people feel they have to come onto the halo 3 review site without actually playing it and give it bad scores just proves the impact that this series has had on gaming. This game causes heated arguments haha. Bungie has done me proud :D… Expand
  53. TylerW.
    Oct 2, 2007
    10
    This game is an amazing and epic end to Halo. The campaign was fun and the battles are much bigger. THe best part was takin on the scarabs. The new weapons are beast. Especially the gravity hamer. The best part of the game is the multiplayer, no doubt. With new features like Forge and Theater it makes it even better. The weapons are also much more balanced than of halo2. The sword has a This game is an amazing and epic end to Halo. The campaign was fun and the battles are much bigger. THe best part was takin on the scarabs. The new weapons are beast. Especially the gravity hamer. The best part of the game is the multiplayer, no doubt. With new features like Forge and Theater it makes it even better. The weapons are also much more balanced than of halo2. The sword has a lesser range for lunge and the rockets dont lock on. The plasma pistol doesnt seek the enemy as well. The graphics are simply amazing. When i was watching the little videos in between levels and such i thouhhgt i was watching a movie. Everybody should play this game. It is definitely the game of the year… Expand
  54. JoeK.
    Dec 18, 2007
    10
    GREAT GAME!
  55. CarterD.
    Dec 2, 2007
    9
    For being the most hyped up game ever, Halo 3 didn't deliver as much as everybody hoped. It has a few new weapons and vehicales, but they aren't that great. Also, I felt the story was going to be better than the first two, but except for a few moments it was quite dull. The reason this game is the best is not because of the single player. It is because of the best multiplayer For being the most hyped up game ever, Halo 3 didn't deliver as much as everybody hoped. It has a few new weapons and vehicales, but they aren't that great. Also, I felt the story was going to be better than the first two, but except for a few moments it was quite dull. The reason this game is the best is not because of the single player. It is because of the best multiplayer out there. You can play online forever. People can complain about this game all they want, but you can't say there is a better multiplayer than in Halo 3.… Expand
  56. WayneJ.
    Dec 27, 2007
    10
    Stunning,every last second you play it you want more.the nly thing that lets it down are the over competative players online but if your lucky enough to miss them your in for one hell of a ride.
  57. StephenF.
    Oct 23, 2007
    9
    Halo is great, and I love it. It had the potential to be a great literary work and I feel it did not take full advantage of that.
  58. ChrisC.
    Oct 24, 2007
    8
    I can't see why everyone's so up-in-arms about this game. Nor why they're in such a mood that "BEST GAME EVAR" qualifies as a legitimate review. Here's what it is, from a harcore PC gamer, nonetheless: great graphics with beautiful lighting and artwork where, much like in World of Warcraft, a sub-par technology is ramped up in quality with amazing art design. (Human I can't see why everyone's so up-in-arms about this game. Nor why they're in such a mood that "BEST GAME EVAR" qualifies as a legitimate review. Here's what it is, from a harcore PC gamer, nonetheless: great graphics with beautiful lighting and artwork where, much like in World of Warcraft, a sub-par technology is ramped up in quality with amazing art design. (Human faces still look very awkward.) A great storyline that wraps up the games well, and leaves more questions for Halo players and Halo canon fans alike. A somewhat tactical experience where weapons must be used in context, and guns blazing just won't cut it. Good replayability, as the enemy AI is fairly adept at finding flanking positions and firing points, so not only will each encounter play out differently, but the skulls discoverable in the campaign award an exponential increase in points, and for those hardcore enough, each has its own game-altering effect, making play much more difficult. And the multiplay is danged-near perfect. It's fun, there's huge variety (game-types are customizable down to the letter, and the Forge takes a varied experience and turns it into an incredibly fun sandbox), the matchmaking is addictive as one ranks up, and the Xbox Live service is implemented near-flawlessly. Oh, achievements in the campaign will let you unlock some pretty nifty armor permutations, which can be customized further with emblems and every other color needed to live. A solid experience, and yes, one that will make a great PC port when the time comes (unlike the awkward Halo 2). Oh, did I mention this game is fun?… Expand
  59. DylanC.
    Dec 4, 2007
    10
    Love the single and multi player, as good as #1 and better than #2. Great for parties.
  60. ScottM.
    Dec 5, 2007
    10
    I am overwhelmed with the level of amazement I have acheived from this game. Online gaming, Campaign, Forge, and Theater!!! Literally hours, days, months, and years worth of content and fun. If you are disappointed with this game, I challenge you to go back and REALLY explore the seemingly endless options for entertainment that this installment of Halo offers.
  61. BrandonS.
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    Game plays better than the previous 2. it looks better than the previous 2. the online mulitplayer is better than the previous 2. the levels are long, picturesque & diverse in both environment & gameplay. the story finishes up nicely & for those interested there is plenty of back story to shed light on many story elements. those who arent concerned with the story will still enjoy the huge Game plays better than the previous 2. it looks better than the previous 2. the online mulitplayer is better than the previous 2. the levels are long, picturesque & diverse in both environment & gameplay. the story finishes up nicely & for those interested there is plenty of back story to shed light on many story elements. those who arent concerned with the story will still enjoy the huge battlefields & gameplay variables. experienced gamers should play at no less than heroic. beginners should start at normal. the games new features (picture mode, co-op, theatre, forge & MP gametypes) add a ton of new gameplay & the new multiplayer maps are diverse & balanced for great game play. the game is between 10-12 hours long when played on heroic & legendary is longer due to the difficulty level. the multiplayer experience will no doubt stay at the top of the charts like its predecessor to ensure hours & hours of online play. bungie.net tracks ALL of your stats & allows you to upload photos from the game to your PC. very cool for anyone who loves gaming.… Expand
  62. ChrisS
    Oct 26, 2007
    10
    An outstanding achievement of gaming quality and online multiplayer. Halo 3, while not truly perfect, comes as close as I can expect to meeting every high-placed expectation. A thrilling adventure from start to ending. All I can ask for is more Halo in the future. Lets see this game live on!
  63. AlexK.
    Oct 27, 2007
    10
    I would have rated 9.5 but whatever. Campaign has a replayability option that not many FPS have, skulls, meta game, and 4 player co-op means the fun never ends. The varied combat, humourous chatter, and great level design makes for a great game. The scale of battles are the likes of what have never been seen in a FPS, and with the air battles above your head, adds the epic feeling most I would have rated 9.5 but whatever. Campaign has a replayability option that not many FPS have, skulls, meta game, and 4 player co-op means the fun never ends. The varied combat, humourous chatter, and great level design makes for a great game. The scale of battles are the likes of what have never been seen in a FPS, and with the air battles above your head, adds the epic feeling most sci-fi shooters are missing. AI is still superior to most games that are on this scale, and has many gameplay options such as dual weilding,equipment and highjacking.The cutscenes while feeling cliche, feel like a movie. But the major thing that makes this game love .5 score is that compared to Halo 2, the plot just seems tired, cheesy, and the ending was not the ending I would have thought.… Expand
  64. MattF.
    Dec 7, 2007
    8
    Very strong multiplayer game with awesome game types and a whole new editing mode called forge. Hours of fun for xbox live gold members. However, the single player just doesn't deliver and I found myself playing the career mode purely for achievements. Good game, a must buy for online gamers.
  65. HonkH.
    Oct 29, 2007
    10
    It's good. Get over yourselves, HL2 fanboys- a game doesn't need to be original to be admirable. The Halo series does the thing that it doth do, and it does them well. If you don't like it, then go ahead, play Orange Box. That's a great buy too. No reason to not let people enjoy Halo 3, which is, by all means, worth a 8-10.
  66. JamesR.
    Oct 3, 2007
    10
    An amazing game, extremely fun to play, with good graphics to boot. Don't listen to anyone who scores this game less than a 8, they obviously don't know a good game when they see one and probably have an axe to grind. The Edge Magazine review got it spot on (10/10).
  67. SM31
    Oct 5, 2007
    10
    This game is unbelievable and improves just like every Halo game does. As if there wasnt enough in Halo 2, they have added Grenades, Weapons, sick maps and so many more stuff. The campaign is a blast and though its short, it def has replay value especially since your one of the best charactrs in video game history. Master Chief is totally bad-ass and its sweet. Halo haters cant come up This game is unbelievable and improves just like every Halo game does. As if there wasnt enough in Halo 2, they have added Grenades, Weapons, sick maps and so many more stuff. The campaign is a blast and though its short, it def has replay value especially since your one of the best charactrs in video game history. Master Chief is totally bad-ass and its sweet. Halo haters cant come up with any excuses unless they are still saving up for the overpriced PSIII or just like to be different. There is not one thing majorly wrong with this game, and thats why its so looked up to. It's not always revolutionary, but unlike all other shooting games it does everything well, and in many cases sets higher standards for Shooters. This game will be remembered like Mario still is, and is the best game i have ever played. Not only that, but there will be many more games (different stories), some movies (with peter jackson, Sweet), and so much more. Ill def finish this fight countless times, and if you think about how simple it is, yet so complex it is its truly incredible. Its basic in that it can be compared to Independence day, just a war between Humans and Aliens, but then add in all the Alien weapons, all the crazy settings, all the characters, all the vehicles, and the fact that someone came up with this quiet, and often times gentle main character. Everyone looks up to him in the game, and when you hear the Aliens screaming for their life while saying "It's the Demon", you really feel like your the one saving the world. This is a classic game that so many games in the future will try to copy, and 99.9% of the time they will fall short. Although the tagline is Finish The Fight, its far from the truth, we will see much more Halo in the years to come. Easily the trilogy to rule all trilogies...… Expand
  68. TonyB.
    Oct 5, 2007
    10
    Absolutely perfect in every aspect. Though the single-player is rather short, the AI and the metagame, let alone the multiplayer, make up for that and more. If there was a "20" option I'd rate it that.
  69. [anonymous]
    Oct 6, 2007
    10
    Normally people hate on this game just because they claim it's overhyped. Sure the campaign is pretty bad, but the multiplayer (xbox live and LAN mostly) is probably the most fun and addicting multiplayer i've ever seen or played. In fact i invited some of my friends who claimed halo and halo 2was awful. When done playing some LAN matches they wanted to play over and over again.
  70. Grey
    Oct 6, 2007
    10
    Hmm.... ok. I almost read all bad comments about this game, i played and finished it, i thought it was great. Now, please open you eyes guys, ok you wanted a VERY VERY VERY large campaign, play FFVII haha, dont be stupid, obviously the campaign was meant to be short, it covers up all holes,the graphics are simply better than the other games, so dont tell me that 3 is the same of 2, Hmm.... ok. I almost read all bad comments about this game, i played and finished it, i thought it was great. Now, please open you eyes guys, ok you wanted a VERY VERY VERY large campaign, play FFVII haha, dont be stupid, obviously the campaign was meant to be short, it covers up all holes,the graphics are simply better than the other games, so dont tell me that 3 is the same of 2, wtf¿? maybe all of you need some criticism classes, all the bad ratings ive seen here are the same, because you dont have the enought imagination to create your own critics, what is worst, you are not even seen the upgrades of this NEW GAME AT ALL, the graphics are way to better than the other halos, ok gears of war is a great game to, but the same old story, DIFFERENT STORYLINES, you guys will see how his storyline will be boring for you in the next gears of war 2 and 3. The point of this comment is to clear the eyes of this bad critics, with poor comments about the game, we dont need the bullshit ofmediocre critics who even cant see how good and well rated a game could be.… Expand
  71. SaulX
    Oct 7, 2007
    10
    Campaign is fun, not amazing kinda boring bu your self but good on 4 player co-op, multiplayer is mind blowing though, never had so much fun in a video game in a while stat tracking is a in depth and lots and lots of replay, with forge and video editor, this game would be 8 if it was just single player campaign and thats it but withe the multiplayer its just way to good, this could a Campaign is fun, not amazing kinda boring bu your self but good on 4 player co-op, multiplayer is mind blowing though, never had so much fun in a video game in a while stat tracking is a in depth and lots and lots of replay, with forge and video editor, this game would be 8 if it was just single player campaign and thats it but withe the multiplayer its just way to good, this could a stand alone multiplayer game easily. its also quite funny that all the below 8 reviews dont seem to make mention of the multiplayer, get live before u review the game, reveiwing just based on single player is ridiculous its like 10% of the game. The graphics are great but ppl keep saying there dated there not. Just because its called halo it has to have the best graphics on 360 or else its "dated" the graphics are in the top 3 games for 360 for sure.… Expand
  72. masterchief.okmyrealnamesstephen
    Oct 9, 2007
    10
    please its obvious they are already making halo 4. *spoilers* if you have completed the game then you know the master chief dies. it doesnt show him dying it just shows him on the ship telling cortana that they are gonna make it. then it skips straight to some sort of gathering on earth talking boot how they won the war and saying that the master chief died. i reckon halo 4 will be aboutplease its obvious they are already making halo 4. *spoilers* if you have completed the game then you know the master chief dies. it doesnt show him dying it just shows him on the ship telling cortana that they are gonna make it. then it skips straight to some sort of gathering on earth talking boot how they won the war and saying that the master chief died. i reckon halo 4 will be about how he died. this is the best game on 360 but also the shortest. took me boot 6 hours.… Expand
  73. ChrisRademacher
    Sep 23, 2007
    10
    I picked up an early release, and this game ROCKS! The campaign is what every HALO fan grew to love in HALO:CE, and the Multiplayer is exactly what we know and love in H2. Forge is the new hotness, with unbelievable customization capabilities and endless configurations. Plain and simple, this game is the best that i've played for the 360, and I'm sure, come 3 or 4 am onI picked up an early release, and this game ROCKS! The campaign is what every HALO fan grew to love in HALO:CE, and the Multiplayer is exactly what we know and love in H2. Forge is the new hotness, with unbelievable customization capabilities and endless configurations. Plain and simple, this game is the best that i've played for the 360, and I'm sure, come 3 or 4 am on Tuesday, that you'll come to see that as well.… Expand
  74. ImokTrogdor
    Sep 24, 2007
    10
    Graphics are amazing, not perfect merely because of the saved films feature which means that every aspect of the game must be rendered at all times. Weapons are more balanced, and the pasky auto-aim feature is gone. Multiplayer is fantastic now - can't wait to play the campaign! Finish the Fight!
  75. JamesB.
    Sep 25, 2007
    9
    I got this game last night, and played it until class today at 1:00. The campaign is excellent, leaps and bounds ahead of H1 or H2. The new weapons are a great addition, and the assault rifle isn't worthless anymore. The hammer might just be my favorite weapon of any game I've ever played.
  76. EricS.
    Sep 25, 2007
    8
    Ok, it get's an 8 because of content alone, voice acting/sound/story/originality/character design/gameplay..all get a 6.5. It's a really good 10 year old PC shooter. I can't believe this is going to get a better score than Half Life 2.
  77. EliezerG.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    Awesome. There are video games, and then there's Halo. For millions of people around the world, the science fiction FPS is the reason they play games. It's the reason they bought an Xbox. It's the reason they signed up to Xbox Live. Master Chief is their hero, a modern day icon for a modern day generation.
  78. [Anonymous]
    Sep 25, 2007
    9
    Based on the games multiplayer, this game deserves a nine. I don't play it myself because its not my cup of tea, but with the most robust and feature laden online modes I can see why many people do.
  79. EmoryB.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    I've been following this game from the begining. this is a fantastic game. yes, its mainly focused on multiplayer because in the long term that whats going to keep their fan base up. yeah its gonna piss off the people who do it mainly for the story line but it makes it up wth its incredible multiplayer.
  80. JaycenA.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    Bungie can do no wrong! this game is just too damn awesome! Tha multiplayer is awesome & Bungie incorporated gamers mods from Halo 2 into 3, now that is too cool. Tha sad part is that the trilogy is over :( please please make Halo 4, 5 & 6!!! Halo 3 is tha Greatest Game of all time. Graphics dont quite match up to Gears of War but gameplay beats EVERYTHING!
  81. JoelP.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    Great game, near-infinite replayability (that's not actually a word), great multiplayer and campaign, what more can you want from a game ?
  82. CharlesD.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Great game, best game of all time. Gears of what? cod who?
  83. StuartG.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    I'd give it a 9.6-9.8, but I'm fine with a 10 too. At first, to be honest, I was a little disappointed because it was so much like Halo 2, but after around an hour the differences became perceptible--I think your expectations can get in the way of actually experiencing the game. And the depth of replay offered, the whole film experience--I have to say, it isn't Halo: CE I'd give it a 9.6-9.8, but I'm fine with a 10 too. At first, to be honest, I was a little disappointed because it was so much like Halo 2, but after around an hour the differences became perceptible--I think your expectations can get in the way of actually experiencing the game. And the depth of replay offered, the whole film experience--I have to say, it isn't Halo: CE (magic beyond most games in the same way Starcraft, or Civilization is), but it doesn't try to be. It offers an experience unlike any video game ever made, and I think as time goes on this will become universally accepted, whether it is commonly perceived now or not. Short version: wow, just wow.… Expand
  84. TomN.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Lives up to the hype and goes beyond it as well; who was expecting the brilliance that is Forge? Also while the graphics may not be quite as good as Gears Of War's, anyone who was disappointed by them is a very cynical person indeed, it's considerably more beautiful than a heck of alot of other next-gen games. Compare it to Red Steel, go on.
  85. KevinC.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Perfection for the console FPS, shines brilliantly in multiplayer.
  86. NathanC.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Everything I expected, and maybe a little bit more. The campaign comes to a satisfying(albeit somewhat predictable) close, and the multiplayer cranks it up another notch. It's certainly enough to warrant the amount of hype. It may not be revolutionary, but it's sure as hell fun.
  87. 360Fan
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Best coop ever.
  88. EdwardH.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    First, to all those who said that this game was too short, trying playing it on normal, heroic, or legendary, and then tell me it was too short. Also wtf do you do with your time man the game was released yesterday and you beat it already? Umm get a life , get a girlfriend, and put the game down for a sec. Not to mention that it has an awesome multiplayer system for up to 16 players...so First, to all those who said that this game was too short, trying playing it on normal, heroic, or legendary, and then tell me it was too short. Also wtf do you do with your time man the game was released yesterday and you beat it already? Umm get a life , get a girlfriend, and put the game down for a sec. Not to mention that it has an awesome multiplayer system for up to 16 players...so try that on for size. Also a few comments about the graphics, are you guys blind, "It looks like Halo2" was one comment..."what?!" Firstly no way, and second just no way. The game is amazing, the story is an intensive conclusion to an amazing trilogy, and quite frankly we need to take that part in mind. If you want a better more advanced Halo3 experience try playing the game on heroic or legendary and see what happens when the AI starts calling for reinforcements and backup, and starts making better use of it's tools and weapons. So 10 is my vote I have been a Halo fan since before I had an xbox, and I still think it is the best story based FPS and online multiplayer FPS to date. Sony may be able to beat the graphics, but getting that many fans interested 3 times will be harder I think. To all those who got Halo 3 and love it, keep lovin' it guys, ms will keep pushing for more games like this.… Expand
  89. JohnY.
    Sep 26, 2007
    8
    Rehashed backtracking/linear single player levels, average graphics and a killer multiplayer game add up to a definite purchase for Halo fans.
  90. TonyP
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Amazing graphics, great story, insane amounts of multilayer modes! So much to do and not enough time!
  91. TomC.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Great graphics, story and intense FPS, with more enemies to kill at any time on an halo game
  92. RazaB.
    Sep 26, 2007
    8
    The game must be rated based on how it compares with other 2007 games, not how it compares with Halo 2. Based on its competition, it is good but short of top-of-the-line in nearly all categories.
  93. Barry
    Sep 26, 2007
    9
    Graphics - 8 Gameplay - 10 Value - 9 Overall - 9 It's a great game, no doubt about that. The in game graphics look really awesome and colourful, but the fmv leads alot to be desired. The jumping system is alot of fun, and it is nice to be able to jump in a game and pull off accurate shots while airbourne. I just have this little thing at the back of my head saying that something is Graphics - 8 Gameplay - 10 Value - 9 Overall - 9 It's a great game, no doubt about that. The in game graphics look really awesome and colourful, but the fmv leads alot to be desired. The jumping system is alot of fun, and it is nice to be able to jump in a game and pull off accurate shots while airbourne. I just have this little thing at the back of my head saying that something is missing from this game..and that seems to be the end result in great expectations. Ok, so i have only played the first one and never Halo 2 before, so i may not understand the story very well but so far after reaching the third level, single player seems to be a bit flat. But there's more where it all came from i guess..but i think i'm sensible enough to make a good judgement of what i have played so far. Overall, extremelly overhyped by the media and some fanboys (as they do) but it's a decent FPS that deserves a decent scoreline. There is nothing wrong with it at all, the only things that really stopped me from giving it a 10 was the fmv and it failing to live up to my expectations..and also the Sun/NOTW calling it the game of the decade when that is just uter rubbish, but it doesn't surprise me with a tabloid that talks a load of crap! Halo 3 is a very good game. I recommend it!… Expand
  94. ThomasG.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Fantastic game and it lives up to the hype.
  95. BrandonH.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    To be absolutely honest, I give this game a 10. I have been a Halo fan through out the years and this one is my favorite. The campaign is a little short, however it is highly engaging, and truly a unique shooter experience. At first I thought the ending was extremely dissapointing and anticlimatic, however if you wait through the credits, you will indeed see the answers to your questions. To be absolutely honest, I give this game a 10. I have been a Halo fan through out the years and this one is my favorite. The campaign is a little short, however it is highly engaging, and truly a unique shooter experience. At first I thought the ending was extremely dissapointing and anticlimatic, however if you wait through the credits, you will indeed see the answers to your questions. So dont panic initially after beating it. By the way the multiplayer is the best hands-down. Combine all this with new weapons, vehicles, and The Forge and Film options, this game is freaking great!… Expand
  96. DanielD.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Sublime. Would pay £80 just for the multiplayer.
  97. SeanM.
    Sep 26, 2007
    9
    If you go into this game expecting the second coming or something completely new and different than the previous Halo's, maybe you won't be that impressed. To put it bluntly, this game is Halo 2 with a new coat of paint and a whole bunch of new features. However, if you go in and take the game for what it is, I guarantee you'll be extremely impressed. It's a very solid If you go into this game expecting the second coming or something completely new and different than the previous Halo's, maybe you won't be that impressed. To put it bluntly, this game is Halo 2 with a new coat of paint and a whole bunch of new features. However, if you go in and take the game for what it is, I guarantee you'll be extremely impressed. It's a very solid shooter with some great graphics, finely tuned gameplay, a good story that actually ends (or does it?), awesome multiplayer, and a whole list of features that should keep you coming back for more again and again. I gave this a 9 not because it was the most innovative game ever, but because it accomplishes perfectly everything it sets out to do.… Expand
  98. AllenA.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    Yes it does live up to the hype, so what if the campaign is short, you still get that steller experience, ai is ten times smarter than in the previous halo, the only problem that i had with the game is that the graphics could have been a tad bit better, but still a great game. Multiplayer has some cool new levels to experience, and they are really big levels. The music is amazing, nothing Yes it does live up to the hype, so what if the campaign is short, you still get that steller experience, ai is ten times smarter than in the previous halo, the only problem that i had with the game is that the graphics could have been a tad bit better, but still a great game. Multiplayer has some cool new levels to experience, and they are really big levels. The music is amazing, nothing better to hear bum bum bum bummm while blazing your gun into battle. Great game.… Expand
  99. Ben
    Sep 26, 2007
    8
    Hype aside, it's good but not great, solid but unspectacular. Sound design is amazing, levels are good, control is OK, AI is pretty horrible, and the story isn't done nearly as well as 1 or 2. The attention to hardcore fans with Forge and Theater is welcome, but it feels like this came at the expense of the actual game. Fans will be pleased, but 2 was better, and it compares Hype aside, it's good but not great, solid but unspectacular. Sound design is amazing, levels are good, control is OK, AI is pretty horrible, and the story isn't done nearly as well as 1 or 2. The attention to hardcore fans with Forge and Theater is welcome, but it feels like this came at the expense of the actual game. Fans will be pleased, but 2 was better, and it compares poorly to recent PC games like Half-Life 2 or Bioshock.… Expand
  100. GuillaumeD.
    Sep 26, 2007
    10
    This game is simply too good. A must buy for anyone who loves FPS.
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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

All reviews »
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.
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  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.
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  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[?].
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