Halo 2

 Xbox
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 2394 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,035 out of 2394
  2. Mixed: 192 out of 2394
  3. Negative: 167 out of 2394
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  1. RuthlessMan82
    Dec 25, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 doesn't have the flawless gameplay of Halo CE but it's story is one of the best in the fps genre.
  2. ibrahimkhan1234
    Dec 13, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The story in this games is so amazing the character development of the arbiter how he gets betrayed and how he reacts is just awsome just amazing… Expand
  3. GrownT839
    Dec 25, 2020
    10
    I finished Halo 2 in one sitting with my brother, it took us 12 hours to finish the game. But after we finished it, we both said "i love it! ". Halo 2 is truly one of the very rare sequels that did so many things better.
  4. Poorman3
    Dec 26, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 Refined CE's formula and gave us a perfect sequel, the game may seem short on coop but when you play on heroic or legendary, it will take twice of your time, because how challenging the Gameplay is. What can i say about the story? Well it's perfect.
  5. Hydroman220
    Dec 26, 2020
    10
    Halo 2's story is just enough for you to buy this game, this game understood how to handle deep character arcs and story-telling, the narration in halo 2 is perfect, the Gameplay lacks some of the novelty of halo ce but it is still so fluid and flexible.
  6. Hayaow93
    Dec 26, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 is probably the greatest original xbox exclusive, it had everything, a perfect and a meaningful story, complex character arcs, a revolutionary online multiplayer... My only problem with this game is the ending.
  7. DancerofBorel
    Dec 29, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 may not be as great as CE, But man, this game is really great, from its story, dialog, character arcs to its action packed gameplay and brilliant sand box elements.
  8. da_one23
    Aug 3, 2022
    10
    This game was a wild rild so many funny xd lol moment's but also so many badass moments and the graphics on the remaster are mega drippy and the gameplay is halo the energy sword is so fun. I kinda like this game
  9. EnYadir43
    Jan 3, 2021
    10
    Halo 2 is probably the second most important game in the franchise and one of the most influential games in the industry, the game's multiplayer just pushed the industry forward, it was the first time that a shooter had such an emotional and an amazing story, the sandbox elements where unbelievable for the time.
  10. Tte93
    Jan 3, 2021
    10
    Halo 2 is a sequel to care about, it pushed the industry forward in many levels, the story-telling simply added so many aspects to the stories a game could tell. The Gameplay and sanbox elements represent the modern shooters.
  11. BikerNotes863
    Jan 6, 2021
    10
    Halo 2 brought so many new things to the table, say anything you want to say about halo 2, you can't say it didn't felt fresh and with its thought-provoking and deep story, halo 2 proved shooters can be deep and fun at the same time.
  12. RocketManDD75
    Jan 7, 2021
    10
    Aw Man, how Halo 2 managed to be this good is a mystery, how bungie managed to create a sequel as epic as Halo 2 is so unbelievable, there was so much hype around this game back in 2004 and the amount of pressure that was on bungie was alot. They didn't want to ruin Halo Brand or disappoint the fanbase either but you know what they did? They gave us the best sequel ever made.
  13. ChipsAreGood
    Jan 10, 2021
    10
    Amazing sequel from an amazing game, more weapons, more enemie types, more vehicules, great story and a better gameplay with the introduction of dual wielding.
  14. Uper
    Jan 22, 2021
    10
    My favourite game and simply one of the best games of all time!

    Halo 2 is brilliant. Story is awesome and more well written. Game play is still fun to play, after all these years. More fun guns, more fun enemies. And finally the soundtrack ... the soundtrack is something special ... something you will still hear after the game is finished ... the soundtrack is just EXCELLENT! And    My favourite game and simply one of the best games of all time!

    Halo 2 is brilliant.
    Story is awesome and more well written.
    Game play is still fun to play, after all these years.
    More fun guns, more fun enemies.
    And finally the soundtrack ... the soundtrack is something special ... something you will still hear after the game is finished ... the soundtrack is just EXCELLENT!
    And multiplayer is one big fun thing!

    Masterpiece.    … Expand
  15. Meta_Critzz
    May 25, 2021
    10
    Probably my favorite war shooter multiplayer game. One of the best multiplayer games ever made.
  16. Axelelc0smic0
    Jan 28, 2021
    10
    EL MEJOR JUEGO DE LA HISTORIA ALV, TREMENDA JOYA VAMOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOoODDD GODBOX
  17. junkykunky
    Feb 10, 2021
    10
    My 2nd favourite Halo game after Halo CE. This game is a BANGER and I promise you it will bring fun experiences. The new weapons and maps really add to the original.
  18. SteinZero
    May 19, 2023
    10
    Como um fã dedicado da série Halo, Halo 2 foi um jogo que me deixou extasiado desde o momento em que comecei a jogar. Lançado em 2004, esse título superou minhas expectativas e se tornou um marco na história dos jogos de tiro em primeira pessoa.

    A continuação direta do primeiro jogo, Halo 2 expande e aprofunda ainda mais o universo de ficção científica que me cativou anteriormente. A    Como um fã dedicado da série Halo, Halo 2 foi um jogo que me deixou extasiado desde o momento em que comecei a jogar. Lançado em 2004, esse título superou minhas expectativas e se tornou um marco na história dos jogos de tiro em primeira pessoa.

    A continuação direta do primeiro jogo, Halo 2 expande e aprofunda ainda mais o universo de ficção científica que me cativou anteriormente. A narrativa continua a saga do Master Chief e do conflito entre humanos e Covenant, adicionando novos personagens, reviravoltas emocionantes e uma trama mais intrincada. A história envolvente me manteve preso ao jogo do início ao fim, ansioso para descobrir o que aconteceria a seguir.

    A jogabilidade de Halo 2 é simplesmente excepcional. Os controles são responsivos e aperfeiçoados em relação ao jogo anterior, proporcionando uma experiência ainda mais suave e satisfatória. O combate continua empolgante, com a adição de novas armas e a possibilidade de dual-wield (uso de duas armas simultaneamente), que acrescenta uma camada extra de estratégia e diversão às batalhas. Além disso, o jogo introduz o uso de veículos aéreos, como o icônico Banshee, e permite aos jogadores pilotarem os temíveis Scarabs, proporcionando momentos épicos de ação.

    O design dos níveis em Halo 2 é outro ponto alto do jogo. Os ambientes são visualmente deslumbrantes e variados, desde paisagens alienígenas até cenários urbanos futuristas. Os níveis são bem construídos e oferecem uma mistura equilibrada de desafios táticos e momentos de ação intensa. A jogabilidade é enriquecida pela adição de novos elementos, como a habilidade de usar um jetpack, permitindo uma maior verticalidade nas batalhas.    … Expand
  19. RockFigo
    Apr 5, 2021
    10
    Un juego de disparos en primera persona excelente, 15 niveles y una duración muy buena, historia genial continuando la primera entrega, apartado gráfico descomunal, muy buena banda sonora, sin fallos, excelente jugabilidad y un multijugador pionero en consolas.
  20. ElRole
    Jun 13, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Definitivamente GOD este juego es uno de los mejores que e jugado 30/10 y obra maestra… Expand
  21. Goodbadcritic45
    Jun 30, 2021
    10
    Halo 2 was a thrill ride from start to finish. I couldn't stop playing this thing.
    I was hooked so to the plot that i couldn't stop playing; it was like a thrilling novel told with vivid colors, beautiful scenery and fluid gameplay. Now halo 2's story is not perfect but how bungie handles different characters and plot lines is so fascinating. In 11 hours Bungie opened up a whole new side    Halo 2 was a thrill ride from start to finish. I couldn't stop playing this thing.
    I was hooked so to the plot that i couldn't stop playing; it was like a thrilling novel told with vivid colors, beautiful scenery and fluid gameplay. Now halo 2's story is not perfect but how bungie handles different characters and plot lines is so fascinating. In 11 hours Bungie opened up a whole new side of the Halo universe to me; something that i never thought i wanted but definitely needed. The gameplay felt a lot more balanced than combat evolved; the level design specifically. As i mentioned Bungie used RTS map design for Halo 1 and in some places it felt a bit off but Halo 2's level design is more like Half-Life 2. The graphics are gorgeous and the soundtrack is even better than the original game; for some reason Halo 2 is even more epic than the original Halo. The sandbox elements added to the gameplay simply makes it a lot more satisfying to play. The pacing in Halo 2 is a bit problematic though to so many cut content that happened during development. Halo 2 on normal is shorter than CE but on heroic and legendary you should prepare yourself for a 12 to 15 hour action-packed journey. After playing Halo 2, there were so many things that i wanted to be in the game; so many ideas were scratched but Halo 2 is still a a masterpiece of a game and in my opinion a more modern experience than combat evolved. I can say i enjoyed Halo 2 more than combat evolved but both games have their problems. In general Halo 2 is a superb sequel that is worth playing at least once.    … Expand
  22. dplatt45
    Oct 9, 2021
    10
    I absolutely love Halo 2! Took everything from the first game and made it better. This is done by expanding multiplayer and making it feel faster, run smoother. Must own if you have an Xbox, be silly not to
  23. tatsatvats
    Oct 21, 2021
    10
    dear humanity ,we regret being alien bastards
    we regret comin to earth,
    and we most definitely regret the corpse just blew our raggedy ass feet
  24. TeemoTime
    Sep 4, 2023
    10
    Imagine making one of the best FPS campaigns ever and then doing it again. Despite some difficulty issues on Legendary, the campaign is a worthy successor to CE. Furthermore, it revolutionised online multiplayer as we know it, and set up the behemoth that would be 360 era Xbox Live. Of course, this game feels more responsive than CE while also carving out is own, more competitive identityImagine making one of the best FPS campaigns ever and then doing it again. Despite some difficulty issues on Legendary, the campaign is a worthy successor to CE. Furthermore, it revolutionised online multiplayer as we know it, and set up the behemoth that would be 360 era Xbox Live. Of course, this game feels more responsive than CE while also carving out is own, more competitive identity as it is known for today, with additions like the battle rifle and the mistake that was button combos, carving out it's eventual legacy.… Expand
  25. Muslimano
    Nov 17, 2021
    10
    my favourite halo, really good gameplay and campaign is the definition of perfection! made my childhood :)
  26. The_Senate
    Nov 25, 2021
    10
    The best Halo in the series. Amazing for it’s time, and still worth playing. 2004 was peak of fps.
  27. SpartanSCDO
    Dec 1, 2021
    10
    Halo is quite simply the closest thing we have ever experienced to a living, breathing alternate universe.
  28. Johnspartan117
    Dec 9, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ha sido el mejor juego de halo en toda la saga prácticamente he jugado casi todos los juegos de está gran franquicia y es una obra arte respecto a los juegos de los ultimos años halo 2 es y sera por siempre una obra de arte en todos los sentidos sí es una secuela pero era necesario y Bungie lo hizo muy bien , la historia, el diseño de niveles , es increíblemente genial eso si tambien partimos del hecho de que realmente hablando de la parte gráfica se ve genial incluso para su epoca , vi muchos comentarios de hate y de gente relativamente poco racional y podria decir que halo 2 no es unreal tournement en mucho mas que eso y por mucho el unico parecido sera en ser de la categoría de fps pero en niveles ,mapas multijugador , historia , graficos , banda sonora es muy bueno , efectos de sonido , enemigos , easter eggs, armas , vehículos , simplemente es perfecto y junto con muy buenas mecanicas , puedes pasar horas y horas repitiendo la campaña o jugar en el multijugador con mapas como encerrona o centro de nave, además la introducción de jugar con el inquisidor es tan geniales encanta simplemente halo 2 es perfecto… Expand
  29. Amir7scorpioN
    Dec 11, 2021
    10
    Halo CE was awesome and It set the settings for halo 2 to make its way to another level , halo 2 was more about story telling! it has the best story in halo franchise and will forever be in my mind as one of the greatest FPS games of all time.
  30. Rodrixq1
    Dec 10, 2021
    10
    Excelente juego es el juego con mas misiones y demasiado largas mucha diversión y catálogo extenso de armas
  31. Capitanupula
    Dec 10, 2021
    10
    This game is part if my childhood and everybody who has an xbox should play it
  32. NotaBot2
    Dec 11, 2021
    10
    My favorite Halo game of all time, the gameplay still feels very good and the story is incredible. Oh and also the soundtrack rocks.
  33. Osbraikeet
    Dec 13, 2021
    10
    The best chief in all halo games
  34. Wingsuit
    Jan 3, 2022
    10
    Arguably the best Halo in my opinion. It offers a lot of fun. It has an insane multiplayer depth and still holds up to this day
  35. Zilla_Freak
    Jan 4, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Perfection. Halo 2 has aged very well, you will have a better time playing halo 2 than any other halo games… Expand
  36. cchenders40
    Aug 25, 2022
    10
    Halo two is maybe the best FPS of all time. It is a masterpiece without rival. The story is amazing especially with the Arbiter. The gameplay flawless. The world and worldbuilding/lore is expansive and engulfing. The religious commentary on blind faith is striking. The multiplayer endlessly addictive and so fun with friends. This is the Empire Strikes Back of FPS games.
  37. Gotthosue3
    Jan 24, 2022
    10
    The absolutely best halo game hands down. I love the parallel story line and the music should be illegal it’s so good. This is how you tell a story
  38. Cadafinn
    Feb 19, 2022
    10
    Una verdadera obra maestra: El soundtrack, Los personajes, Su jugabilidad, El inquisidor ahora es personaje jugable, Es uno de los mejores franquicias que han creado bungie y Microsoft. Es una verdadera lastima que bungie haya abandonado no saben lo que me han dolido que hayan dejado a halo.
  39. PhaseFunnyGuy
    Feb 24, 2022
    10
    This is my favourite game of all time :))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))))
  40. LostError
    Feb 27, 2022
    10
    A master-class in multiplayer game design that puts all modern Halo games to shame.

    Featuring the best dual wielding weapons in any video game, ever.

    Combat feels fun, rewarding and balanced. With a killer soundtrack.

    Easily one of the best shooters in history.
  41. Netherghul
    Mar 6, 2022
    10
    Greatest Shooter ever made. I wont waste my time saying much else. Except that I have to for the word count.
  42. neomoonsevin
    Jan 22, 2023
    10
    Another awesome title I had this day one and I liked it halo is a great franchise dispite all the bad negativity with the franchise through it all there still rumbling in 2023
  43. ProbablyNick
    Apr 7, 2022
    10
    Halo 2 is the perfect sequel to Halo Combat Evolved, nearly every aspect of the game has been improved, easily the best shooter of 2004.
  44. Jabbawockee
    Jul 26, 2022
    10
    This game, like the original, is responsible for shaping most of my childhood. This game iterates on the Halo formula to create a truly special experiences entirely distinct from the first, introduction of elements like the brutes, the arbiter and dual-wielding became fan favorite inclusions for many games to come. A worthy successor the original that in some way surpassed it, but viewingThis game, like the original, is responsible for shaping most of my childhood. This game iterates on the Halo formula to create a truly special experiences entirely distinct from the first, introduction of elements like the brutes, the arbiter and dual-wielding became fan favorite inclusions for many games to come. A worthy successor the original that in some way surpassed it, but viewing the Bungie trilogy as a package, this is the game that hammered home the point that Halo was here to stay.… Expand
  45. Tork202
    Jun 3, 2022
    10
    Шедевральная игра, отличная всем, игра заслуженно имeет статус бесптлеера первого Xbox , в игре xopoшо все, минусов нет.
  46. DinboNomad2z2
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    Playing Halo Infinite and how horrible it has gotten made me respect the OGs.
  47. x1CHIEF8x
    Oct 18, 2022
    10
    even tho I like the first halo more but this game is nothing short then a masterpiece great campaign and even greater multiplayer
  48. Lordbit4735
    Jan 26, 2023
    10
    este juego es una obra de arte en todos los sentidos, excelente historia, jugabilidad, el online de lo mejor en años.
  49. goodgriff33
    Dec 24, 2022
    10
    Answer: 75 characters is between 10 words and 19 words with spaces included in the character count. If spaces are not included in the character count, then 75 characters is between 12 words and 25 words.
  50. Yojimbo2015
    Jun 17, 2023
    10
    Halo returns in this bigger, bolder adventure set during the Covenant invasion of Earth, More weapons including a new dual wield system, more vehicles, spectacular set pieces and an enhanced multiplayer makes for the best game on the Xbox, bar none.
  51. Jaidenbrkl1
    May 5, 2023
    10
    The game that made Xbox Live into what it is today with the online. A worthy sequel to an amazing game with a better story, GREAT multiplayer as online multiplayer had just started two years ago at the time, and overall, an even better sequel to an amazing game.
  52. Clovermp4
    May 11, 2023
    10
    I don’t have many memories from this game. But i remember when I was addicted to play it with my siblings. Kinda miss them
  53. blakee_1999
    Jun 19, 2023
    10
    probably one of the best games I've ever played everything about this game is literally perfect.
  54. HydrophobikFish
    Jun 9, 2023
    10
    What is there to say? One of the best singleplayer and multiplayer FPS games ever. Took everything great about 1 and improved it. Too many memorable campaign moments to count. Cliffhanger ending is a bummer but the rest of the game is so good it doesn't matter. Iconic for so many reasons.
  55. Danteinfierno14
    Jun 24, 2023
    10
    Emocionante y explosivo de principio a fin. A pesar de las.quejas por la introducción de la campaña del inquisidor. Este es sin duda uno de los mejores personajes de la saga. Lo mejor del juego son las Boss fights
  56. MasterGubbers
    Jul 11, 2023
    10
    The game that launched online console shooters nearly two decades ago still holds up today. Not only does it have the amazing multiplayer that popularized Xbox Live, but it delivers one of the greatest stories in gaming.
  57. GameMan2005
    Aug 22, 2023
    10
    This is the pinnacle of Halo. Amazing campaign, multiplayer, and took Halo to even further heights.
  58. campack
    Aug 31, 2023
    10
    El primer juego que sentí una historía sólida y envolvente, con mucho que pensar y descubrir siendo un juego de acción en primera persona. Perfecta continuación de un clásico. Una ambicioso juego adelantado a su época que da más detalles a las motivaciones no solamente de tu personaje, si no de sus enemigos.
  59. ASTR0_J0HN
    Sep 7, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Halo 2 is the best Halo game, and is easily the best game in history. The multiplayer was VERY good, and at the time, everyone would learn the button combos, which was a lot of fun, and the maps were incredible, and to this day, my friends have game nights playing Halo 2 multiplayer the most in MCC. But that doesn't even hail to just how AMAZING the campaign was. The campaign is perfect. There is literally nothing wrong with the campaign. Yes the sniper jackals were bad in legendary mode, but Heroic is the way the game was meant to be played anyways, and the dialogue of this campaign is undefeatable. The switching between playing as the Arbiter and the MasterChief is mind blowing story writing. The introduction of XBOX LIVE in this game was SOOOO good. Absoutely the best game in history.… Expand
  60. MikeyW.
    Apr 3, 2005
    9
    Halo2 has the best multiplayer features. there is one thing that absolutley sucks about it. th laziness put into the videos and the single player levels. If you are looking for a perfect campain mode in a shooting game then don't buy halo 2. if you are looking for probally the best multiplayer and xbox live game on the market then definitely buy halo2.
  61. RavindK.
    Nov 16, 2004
    9
    As most of you know, HALO 2 was changed to adapt to the NEW story line with the New Halo Ring. HALO2 was SOOOO kick ass...the only problem with it was that thye cut it short. Rumors have it that it was cut short for the XBOX2 platform (yeah right) but in any case, the XBOX live is amazing. So far, i have not have had more fun then jumping on top of a banshee, firing a rocket into an As most of you know, HALO 2 was changed to adapt to the NEW story line with the New Halo Ring. HALO2 was SOOOO kick ass...the only problem with it was that thye cut it short. Rumors have it that it was cut short for the XBOX2 platform (yeah right) but in any case, the XBOX live is amazing. So far, i have not have had more fun then jumping on top of a banshee, firing a rocket into an enemy, kicking the guy off the banshe, then running his ass over in midair … Expand
  62. JeffB.
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    The game delivered on so many levels, and did an excellent job, the only downfall, is some comic humor,or awkardness in the weapons, but besides that,it tops the first in every area.
  63. KalebW.
    Feb 2, 2005
    9
    I like this game is the best! I love Xbox Live Halo2 is is so cool. I like how u can talk to other people and I like the way how you can save friends and all. The thing I like about Halo2 is that you can hold 2 weapons and i like the sword also!!! :) :) :) :)
  64. RichardD.
    Mar 21, 2005
    9
    Good Game..bad Levles..X Box Live..Perfect.
  65. ScottG.
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    Everything was good. but they promised great maybe if they'd actually tried instead of loffing around on their asses it would have been a ten. still a good game but that one point i think is the most important one.
  66. SPYBREAK
    Apr 7, 2005
    9
    Halo conquered the "universe", with good level designs, great sounds, fun gameplay and a glorious musical score. And so came time for the battle of planet Earth
  67. OmarI.
    Jun 2, 2005
    9
    I say this is the best game ever! Only downside is its short Campaign player but i still reccemend buying it and specially Xbox Live. Even though Halo 2 campaign was short, Online gives such a good time......For all i know this is the best online system game i have ever seen........Better than runescape, halo 1 online......Halo 2 online is the best Online system EVER!
  68. EricG.
    Jun 30, 2005
    9
    I wanted to give this game an 8, but i just could'nt do it. This is a very good game, a VERY good game. The graphics are some of the best I've seen. The only drawback is the short campaign. But it's hard to complain when the campaign is still extremely fun, even if it is a little short.
  69. GulagWarden5
    Jul 1, 2005
    9
    This game is great, but not as much as I expected. The game was fun to play, but it was really short, and ither to easy or to hard to beat (depending on you difficulty leavel). And the ending sucked, but still it had a great multi-player. So 9 is my #
  70. JamesS.
    May 13, 2006
    9
    VERY FUN GAME it is very fun and very interactive with the co-op, but still like hl2 better :P
  71. DavidV.
    Oct 8, 2007
    9
    Perhaps not as good as it's ground breaking predessecor, but it's still a lot of fun. The gameplay, graphics, and multiplayer are top notch but the story is a little shoddy compared to the orginal. Then again, it's tough being in the middle of the trilogy.
  72. Chopin
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    Very, very, very, very kickass. Singleplayer and multiplayer deliver just as everyone hoped they would. however: this game is still overrated. it does NOT beat all games down to the ground. compared to how revolutionary HL2 is, this game seems like not that much. BUT if you have an Xbox, then there is no question about buying this game.
  73. DominicU.
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    Looks amasing new levels new wepons new vehicles new story line a must buy game.
  74. RobertC.
    Dec 22, 2004
    9
    The best action,shooting game i play but i like halo 1 better i dont know wy.
  75. JaceN.
    Nov 19, 2005
    9
    I'm a much bigger Half-Life fan than Halo, but it is a good game. It deffenaly has on of (if not the) greatest vehicular combat in a FPS, and the multiplayer is great. But i'm more big on Long, Griping Single Players than Great Multiplayers. The single player thought short is fun, but has little replay value, and the story is intreaging. But where this gave is it's I'm a much bigger Half-Life fan than Halo, but it is a good game. It deffenaly has on of (if not the) greatest vehicular combat in a FPS, and the multiplayer is great. But i'm more big on Long, Griping Single Players than Great Multiplayers. The single player thought short is fun, but has little replay value, and the story is intreaging. But where this gave is it's multipalyer, it's worth getting the game just for that. I would recomend this game espasaly if you have Xbox Live.… Expand
  76. TDK80700
    Jan 19, 2005
    9
    This is one of the best games out this year and all. the down side to the game is the fact that its short but it atleast shows use that there will be a Halo3. But the online gaming is crazy i think its crazy and its fun at anytime of the day.
  77. EricT.
    Feb 14, 2005
    9
    I cannot believe how many in-the-middle-of-pms kind of ignorant people gave this game a 1 or 0. Seriously, look at it. It's beautiful. It's amazing. It's Halo 2. Excuse me? Run-of-the-mill online play??? Go to bungie.net, join it, and look at your games you've played online. It's simply genius. The matchmaking-even though you get mowed over at the beginning, you I cannot believe how many in-the-middle-of-pms kind of ignorant people gave this game a 1 or 0. Seriously, look at it. It's beautiful. It's amazing. It's Halo 2. Excuse me? Run-of-the-mill online play??? Go to bungie.net, join it, and look at your games you've played online. It's simply genius. The matchmaking-even though you get mowed over at the beginning, you begin to learn and go through the ranks, not playing against level 27s or level 1s. You get stuck with people that you have a chance against. The single player was great....still trying to beat it in legendary.....but one disappointing thing, something SO disappointing it brought this amazing rating down one point-the sad ripoff of an ending.....HEY MASTER CHIEF!!!! We can finish this fight, then we can go on to HALO 3!!!! Am I the only one here who has a brain enough to notice how amazingly good this game is? Am I???… Expand
  78. AdamM.
    Feb 19, 2005
    9
    The game play is awesome. The music rocks. But the graphics are alittle edgy sometimes. But over all this game rocks.
  79. ScottH.
    Mar 27, 2005
    9
    The campaign was a little boring, but I really bought it for the Xbox Live. For XBL users, it is a must-buy, otherwise, maybe just rent or borrow.
  80. RaymonB.
    Apr 10, 2005
    9
    This game is phat it gets me and my friends together about every week i certainly look forward to halo3.
  81. TearanK.
    Jun 17, 2005
    9
    I luv this game it is awsome i luv the multiplayer and all my friends do see sumthing surprising about me im a girl so wat im a girl i mean this is the reason why i give it a 9 and well other then that it is so awsome and because of that i am addicted to this game call me crazy but it is so true Hey if you want to get to no me my gamertag is Viroodiem
  82. JonathanM.
    Jul 5, 2005
    9
    It is a bit hard but fun.
  83. KevinM.
    Sep 12, 2005
    9
    Just plain awesome. Cooperative is awsome, great new weapons, maps, multiplayer is awsome, dual wielding, its just an insanely fun game. There are a few things I dont like, such as 1 life in Legendary, but then again it makes it more challenging. Thanks Bungie for an awsome game.
  84. Deanna
    Mar 19, 2007
    9
    I don't see why there are so many people who dislike Halo 2. I will admit, that it is not as good as the 1st, but is it still a terrific game! I like that they put in new weapons, espically the plasma sword and the beam rifle. I also like being both the Arbitur and the Master Cheif. It is fun, fighting for both sides and then joining together, to kick the crap out of some brutes. I I don't see why there are so many people who dislike Halo 2. I will admit, that it is not as good as the 1st, but is it still a terrific game! I like that they put in new weapons, espically the plasma sword and the beam rifle. I also like being both the Arbitur and the Master Cheif. It is fun, fighting for both sides and then joining together, to kick the crap out of some brutes. I think Halo 2 was also more challenging, I found it harder to beat on heroic than Halo 1. (which is a good thing). I also liked the introduction of the Prophits. They made it very interesting, adding a sort of religious aspect to the game. ( am athiest btw). The only thing[s] I didn't like was that they got rid of the assult rifle!!! That thing whipped butt. I also sometimes found it difficult being the Arbitur and having to right against other Grunts and Jackals, it was sometimes hard to figure out who was good and who was bad.… Expand
  85. BryanS.
    Sep 19, 2007
    9
    While the story line of Halo 2 takes the series in a drastically convoluted, and (in my opinion) unwelcome direction, there is simply no denying the might of Halo 2's multiplayer. Virtually unrivaled by almost anything on the market, Halo 2 is numbered among my favorite games for its multiplayer component alone. Truly the stuff of dreams.
  86. ErikS
    Nov 3, 2009
    9
    9.5 I persanally halo 1 was really just an average game, except for multiplayer which me and my friends ocasionally pop in. Halo 2 though I loved mainly for duel weilding which is shallow I know but I just couldn't get enough of the SMG.
  87. JasonB.
    Nov 13, 2004
    9
    Not Perfect. Neither is god. What annoys me is all these people giving halo 2 bad scores because they think it makes them different, and sophisticated to dislike a great shoot 'em up. Play the game, and you will have a lot of fun. Believe the hype.
  88. Kabootle
    Nov 18, 2004
    9
    The good definItely outweighs the bad. Some repetitive level design is a bit of a problem but some of the great cinematic feelings of some of the levels make them easily forgetable. Legendary sets a whole new level compared to the old halo and multiplayer is going to keep me busy for a very long time. Graphics aren't the greatest for cutscenes but are very nice for xbox and the music The good definItely outweighs the bad. Some repetitive level design is a bit of a problem but some of the great cinematic feelings of some of the levels make them easily forgetable. Legendary sets a whole new level compared to the old halo and multiplayer is going to keep me busy for a very long time. Graphics aren't the greatest for cutscenes but are very nice for xbox and the music is a thing of beauty. One other minus is the plot. But if you're like me, you're just playing campaign to get skilled for multiplayer.… Expand
  89. FoxFactor
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    Single play started great, but my jaw hit the floor at how shortly we were leaving earth. and as i was lifting my jaw, the game ended with a b**** slap in my face. Multiplayer on the other hand... Bungie, you guys did something magnificent on the multiplayer.
  90. ChrisS.
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    If you're expecting campaign levels like Halo 1 had, you will have to adjust. You are now thrown into some real world type environments. It's easy to get lost and there aren't nearly as many waypoints as there should be. Some points in the game I was finding myself running in circles because I had no idea what to do. Also there are a lot of times where you sit in the same If you're expecting campaign levels like Halo 1 had, you will have to adjust. You are now thrown into some real world type environments. It's easy to get lost and there aren't nearly as many waypoints as there should be. Some points in the game I was finding myself running in circles because I had no idea what to do. Also there are a lot of times where you sit in the same room while enemies come, you kill them, enemies come, you kill them over and over and you never know when it will end. I prefer moving along through maps than having to sit in one room clearing endlessly. I hate the new pistol. If you used the pistol a lot in the first one for multiplayer, you will be disappointed with the new one. You can't really do the 2 headshot kill like you used to be able to. I really don't like having to play as the covenent guy throughout the game. It's not as much fun and you can never tell who is a good alien and who's a bad one. I ended up killing all my helpers by accident on several occasions. Overall though, this game rocks and the multiplayer is sweet. You might as well just buy it because all your friends have it and they will whoop your --- if you suck. … Expand
  91. PandaSlayer
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    This game by far contains the best multiplayer options available in the world to date. however some poor features drag this game down, but still a must buy game
  92. JamesH.
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    The phenomenal hype that surrounded this release meant that some people were always going to feel a sense of disappointment when a computer game, no matter how good, failed to change their lives. Those of us who were able to resist the temptation of allowing our expectations to run wild and to maintain a degree of objectivity when playing will have enjoyed a truly great game. The The phenomenal hype that surrounded this release meant that some people were always going to feel a sense of disappointment when a computer game, no matter how good, failed to change their lives. Those of us who were able to resist the temptation of allowing our expectations to run wild and to maintain a degree of objectivity when playing will have enjoyed a truly great game. The graphical and sound quality are, at times, breathtaking and the campaign gameplay (best experienced in Co-Op) improves (if not excessively) on the original. If Halo 2 is the last in the Halo series then the ending of the game could be seen as a huge disappointment by some. The new depth that Halo 2 brought to the Halo universe and the cliff-hanger ending mean that, for me, it is now inconceivable that Halo 3 will not follow this title. All this aside, the enduring joy of this game is in the incredible multiplayer experience (especially on Xbox live). When people reminisce about Halo 1, part of the nostalgia relates back to the great multiplayer experiences that they had with it. The same is likely to be true of Halo 2 and IMO this is the area of the game where the lasting judgement on Halo 2 will be made. To summarise, the campaign mode gets an 8 and Xbox live multiplayer a definite 10 … Expand
  93. Userguy
    Nov 28, 2004
    9
    After playing and beating the first Halo, I couldn't wait for the prequel. Just the first game chalked out about 135 hours for me, and thats not including multiplayer. Not much later after Halo 2 came out I got it, and was amazed. Well really amazed, and then a tiny bit disappointed. Halo 2 is amazing, the graphics, the AI, everything. I love all the new weapons as well as the After playing and beating the first Halo, I couldn't wait for the prequel. Just the first game chalked out about 135 hours for me, and thats not including multiplayer. Not much later after Halo 2 came out I got it, and was amazed. Well really amazed, and then a tiny bit disappointed. Halo 2 is amazing, the graphics, the AI, everything. I love all the new weapons as well as the vehicles. I have to say, those rock. But as for the new covenant members, I have to say, that I didn't like them. In my opinion, I think the original covenant troops were better, way better. The flying guys were just weak and annoying, and distracted me from the battle. They seemed more like mutant rejects than members of the covenant, so it kind of disappointed me there. The furry strong guys were pretty bad also, they are mostly beefed up versions of elites, and I prefer elites anyways, they are better looking and cooler... Mostly I didn't like them because they mostly melee and fuck up my screen whenever I get hit. That was bloody annoying. The prophets were just freakly looking and extremely weak. I didn't really see them as strong enough (or religious enough) to lead the whole covenant. A bunch of arbitors would have been excellent leaders ^^. Yeah, so I would have prefered the original covenant crew. I have to say I have another pretty funny complaint... I seriously think the shields are too powerful... In Halo 2, the enemies and allies alike seem a bit too beefed up; it takes forever for any of them to die, including yourself. I really think they should gave you weaker shields and make the enemies a bit weaker. Its not who has the strongest weapons and shields, its who has the best tactics. Halo was much better, where you had to keep more cover and lay down some fire. By the way, I'm not talking about easy, I'm talking about normal and hard. I also kind of miss the assult rifle, it was such a kickass weapon instead of the smg which just shoots willy nilly. Double weapons was a good idea, I love having double mags ^^. The levels and cutscenes were pretty good, but in my opinion Halo is still much better. There really wasn't much of a good story and plot to this sequel compared to the original. Half the time, you have no idea why the hell you are doing shit, and how it influences the story. Also, the maps in Halo 2 are way smaller and shorter than its original. I remember travelling through a shitload of maps before even finishing a level in the first Halo. In this game, all the maps are pretty tight and dark, and you never really come across any large environments. That was kind of disappointing. One thing that I can't help but be proud of is the AI. Daaamn! I remember in the first Halo, the marines kept stepping behind my warthog and getting run over. But now, they can drive vehicles!!! I always wanted them to do that. I also like being able to play the covenant missions. Those were pretty kool. I would suggest a better storyline though and better maps. Nothing so far in Halo 2 can match the last level of the game, or half the maps at that. THe only thing that is better in Halo 2 right now would have to be the multiplayer maps which just kick ass. IN short, Halo just kicks the ass of Halo 2 so far in storyline and maps, but I have to say, in multiplayer, Halo 2 just shines... I'll go play Halo now, and then play my friends in Halo 2!… Expand
  94. MarkC.
    Nov 4, 2004
    9
    Man the d-wield is gonna be nice.
  95. Nick
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    halo 1 was overrated. halo 2 is the game everyone said halo 1 was. easily best fps on xbox, but then it's supposed to be. story's very b-movie and i don't care for the characters one way or the other. solid title, but not the bext xbox game (i'd still put mechassault ahead of it). can't be compared to gta: san andreas, which is a superior gaming experience.
  96. RandyM.
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    Halo 2 will own you!!!!
  97. DanielL.
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    (9.9) Fable gets a 10. Well looks like 3-4 yrs of nothing but halo 2 and fable. Halo2=way better than my PS2's Killzone which was the only reason i got a PS2. Killzone is tons of fun but halo 2 is a WORLD of more fun. Anyone with the right mind knows this. Either that or their just a Xbox Hating PS2-Freak. For all the ppl who say Halo 2 should be on PS2 1. yeah the controllers are (9.9) Fable gets a 10. Well looks like 3-4 yrs of nothing but halo 2 and fable. Halo2=way better than my PS2's Killzone which was the only reason i got a PS2. Killzone is tons of fun but halo 2 is a WORLD of more fun. Anyone with the right mind knows this. Either that or their just a Xbox Hating PS2-Freak. For all the ppl who say Halo 2 should be on PS2 1. yeah the controllers are bigger. A.You will get used to it (Trust Me) and yes their are alot of buttons but your smart enuf to learn them. And i dont have to tap X 3 times to enter a vehicle. 2.Simply put, Why do u think sony is coming out with a PS3? HALO 2 ROCKS!!!!! THX BUNGIE… Expand
  98. Arthur
    Dec 28, 2004
    9
    While the single-player game lacks a phenominal story, it serves as a great practice for the game's real gem: multiplayer action. The game is easily worth buying just to be able to play with three friends or up to fifteen online. With infinate multiplayer modes and an enormous Live community that's growing each day, you will get Live as soon as you play this game.
  99. Kevlar
    Dec 3, 2004
    9
    First of all, from a video game veteran's standpoint this game succeeds in everyway, shape, or form that a video game should. For all you whiners, you are what I would call hype-aholics. Granted this game came out as a sequel but to compare a game only to it's predecesor is wrong. There were so many crappy 1st person shooters that for one completely playable as a self-contained First of all, from a video game veteran's standpoint this game succeeds in everyway, shape, or form that a video game should. For all you whiners, you are what I would call hype-aholics. Granted this game came out as a sequel but to compare a game only to it's predecesor is wrong. There were so many crappy 1st person shooters that for one completely playable as a self-contained unit to come out and to be playable on an almost life-long scale (ie mulitplayer options) then the game is truly great....in my opinion. The complexity of the story arc and the characters alone dwarfs that of hordes of preceeding FPS games. … Expand
  100. FrankieB.
    Jan 24, 2005
    9
    Cinescape really dont know what they're talking about. If you look at thier website, it shows games like Sharks Tale, and Mario Party Six, getting a better review than Halo 2. Come on. Come ooooon. You may not like Halo 2 but it far surpasses games like Leisure Suit Larry, Vampire, and Taiko Drum Master. Give me a break. The only thing that bothered me in this game was playing with Cinescape really dont know what they're talking about. If you look at thier website, it shows games like Sharks Tale, and Mario Party Six, getting a better review than Halo 2. Come on. Come ooooon. You may not like Halo 2 but it far surpasses games like Leisure Suit Larry, Vampire, and Taiko Drum Master. Give me a break. The only thing that bothered me in this game was playing with that Covinent scum. You go from killing all Covi bastards to sympathizing, and sparing Covi bastards.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Xbox Game of 2004
1
#1 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2004
2
#2 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2004

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
95

Universal acclaim - based on 91 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 89 out of 91
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 91
  3. Negative: 0 out of 91
  1. Xbox Nation Magazine
    100
    Microsoft and Bungie have created a gigantic bell that sounds like thunder and reverberates with a fury worthy of a gale-force hurricane. It's not perfect, but get in front of it, and wonderful things - wonderful destructive things - are bound to happen. [Dec 2004, p.72]
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  2. GMR Magazine
    100
    The digital surround sound is phenomenal (and the voice-acting peerless), and players with a good A/V system will enjoy hearing enemies approach from all sides due to the sharp positional sound.
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  3. Gamestyle
    100
    One of Halo 2 Online's best features - if not the best - is the statistics tracking system. [Online review]
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