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. TimK.
    Mar 22, 2005
    9
    Although i was contemplating giving this game an eight it is a very good game. Its Great Fun online with other people. And even the Campaign is a little lacking in the story department thats ok. You cannot deny this game is a must buy for any Xboxer who is a fan of the shooters but keep in mind that you will think it is great not perfect.
  2. CoryK.
    Apr 27, 2005
    9
    This game is WAY overhyped. It's saving grace is it's amazing multiplayer. However, the campaign is not only short ut also very boring.
  3. MikeA.
    Sep 12, 2005
    9
    At first i didn't really like it that much, but once i got into it, now i think its the best game ever, but there could of been more maps and better weapons.
  4. JimR.
    Sep 17, 2005
    9
    Now I do love halo 2, maybe more than the next guy. But it not even close to being like the first Halo. In the origanal you go through massave areas that are more nature with some buildings once in a while which gave it depth. In the 2nd halo you have it fliped. You get get the feeling that nature is taking over and it feels, dirty I gess is the bast way to explan it. Also in the first Now I do love halo 2, maybe more than the next guy. But it not even close to being like the first Halo. In the origanal you go through massave areas that are more nature with some buildings once in a while which gave it depth. In the 2nd halo you have it fliped. You get get the feeling that nature is taking over and it feels, dirty I gess is the bast way to explan it. Also in the first Halo every one LOVED the pistol. Not any more. The people at bungie tried replacing the pistol with the battle rifle, and it ended coming out not even close. In short you will have a lot of fun in halo 2 but the main game is just too short, and thoughs of us with out Xbox live (tear) will end up sitting, staring at the same levels over and over and over....… Expand
  5. GD
    Nov 11, 2004
    9
    I loved the game. It blew my f..king mind. the only thing that pisses me off is that i beat the story mode in a day. Whatever though its still damn good i'd give it a 9.5. Probably a ten if the ending wasn't so damn pissant.
  6. NedL.
    Nov 11, 2004
    9
    Halo 2 is great, but not perfect, and so not worth 100% or 10. The single-player world that is created is epic and just damn cool, although I agree that the ending leaves you somewhat deflated. Those who unfavourably compare this to PC games like half-life or unreal tournament need to get in a room with one TV, four controllers and three friends. It is just SO EASY to get set up and have Halo 2 is great, but not perfect, and so not worth 100% or 10. The single-player world that is created is epic and just damn cool, although I agree that the ending leaves you somewhat deflated. Those who unfavourably compare this to PC games like half-life or unreal tournament need to get in a room with one TV, four controllers and three friends. It is just SO EASY to get set up and have fun in this game, and THAT is what makes it special. After all, it's good to play together :P… Expand
  7. RaphaelR.
    Nov 11, 2004
    9
    Yes i gave it a nine NOT A TEN why? because its s0o0o overated sometimes the game is not perfect why are you people giving it ten i mean don't get me wrong it is a good game the single player is s0o much fun plus if u have al ot of friends that likes halo multiplayer would be a super fun experience for you. The first time i played this game (i've never played halo 1) my friendYes i gave it a nine NOT A TEN why? because its s0o0o overated sometimes the game is not perfect why are you people giving it ten i mean don't get me wrong it is a good game the single player is s0o much fun plus if u have al ot of friends that likes halo multiplayer would be a super fun experience for you. The first time i played this game (i've never played halo 1) my friend asked me to come over and play because he was talkin bout how great this game is and the graphics are unbelievable i was like ok i'll go to your house and we played for 5 hours straight while i was playing it i was like "is this the kind of graphics u were talkin bout???" because the graphics aren't really all that but it is good i was just disappointed to find out that the game wasn't what i expected form hearing what all of my friends say. This game has plenty of weapons but they should add more weapons more variety of SMG's , and assualt rifles , and so on and how come this game doesn't have light machine guns i mean the turrets are fun to use but would'nt you like a machine gun that you can carry and kill aliens with. There's also one very fun thing about this game its the dual - wielding this thing makes the game really fun especially when you have double SMG's that is my favorite combination its not the most powerful combination but i like using two fully automatic SMG's at the same time. The single player itself is fairly long its about 10 - 15 hours thats how long it took me but it really depends on what difficulty you play it on.overall the games is pretty good it is a must have for your xbox games collection this is one of the best FPS games i've played so far this game is worth $50 or $55 if u got the collectors edition..haha.. but chyeah i guess this ends my review hope i helped you with my review.… Expand
  8. FrankS.
    Nov 12, 2004
    9
    I give Halo 2 a 9 for several reasons. I feel that the game delivered on it's gameplay, but the storyline in my opinion is terrible. You are constantly switching from master chief to the arbitor. They should have had a section where you could pick one character and play through with him to see what happens... then play it all over again with the other character. Graphics are GREAT I give Halo 2 a 9 for several reasons. I feel that the game delivered on it's gameplay, but the storyline in my opinion is terrible. You are constantly switching from master chief to the arbitor. They should have had a section where you could pick one character and play through with him to see what happens... then play it all over again with the other character. Graphics are GREAT and gameplay is AWESOME!!! but the storyline sucks.... I could not follow what was going on because they constantly jump around, and the last level I'm not going to ruin anything, I thought the last level was a drag for one reason and one reason only and you will all know once you beat the game.… Expand
  9. WayneF.
    Nov 14, 2004
    9
    If I had never played the original Halo, this game would be the coolest, toughest, meanest, best game ever. However, I know all the tricks now and this game , in single player mode, isn't too much of a challenge. But its still Halo and even better than the first. Nice vehicles and weapons. I really want that energy sword. Unfortunately, the ending made me want to scream, i've If I had never played the original Halo, this game would be the coolest, toughest, meanest, best game ever. However, I know all the tricks now and this game , in single player mode, isn't too much of a challenge. But its still Halo and even better than the first. Nice vehicles and weapons. I really want that energy sword. Unfortunately, the ending made me want to scream, i've already cursed Bungie via email. When is Halo 3 due??!! Now back to practising on Legendary before inviting the mates around for multiplayer madness.… Expand
  10. MattR.
    Nov 15, 2004
    9
    This game is sooo coool! i would have given it a 10 if bungie didnt lie to us about all that stuff like....the atv, peeking around conors, sprinting, doing combo mele attacks, the 4 different types of warthogs and being able to shoot out lights and hide in the shadows. there was not 1 light that i could shoot out. oo ya and that third granade. that wasnt in it either.
  11. JohnC.
    Nov 16, 2004
    9
    I used to hate halo now I am a big fan of it.
  12. AlexBigbottom
    Nov 16, 2004
    9
    Well, I am a big time halo fan. So you can probbably guess my reaction when I heard the game was coming out. I was thrilled! So the same hour I read the news i pre ordered it. This was in septembER so i started reading the halo novels. I was like i cant wait!! So the big day is here and i have my copy i race home i popped it in and it was great. A few days later when i was really in the Well, I am a big time halo fan. So you can probbably guess my reaction when I heard the game was coming out. I was thrilled! So the same hour I read the news i pre ordered it. This was in septembER so i started reading the halo novels. I was like i cant wait!! So the big day is here and i have my copy i race home i popped it in and it was great. A few days later when i was really in the game, i notiCed great things like graphics new wepons dual weiding vehicals and playing as the Arbiter! (an elite)arbiter is cool but master cheif is still cooler. a few days later i killed taturus the bad guy and a cut scene came and i was like YES THE END CUT SECENE!!!! i watched it and then guess wat? no ending. jut master chief talking to this old fool. hes like (the old guy) were are you going and cheif says to finish off this fight. and there are the credits. i stare at the screen dumb struck. 80 F***ING BUCKS (i bought collecters edition) AND I DONET EVEN GET A FREAKING ENDING?!?!?!? dont get me wrong I love halo and all you guys at bungie but CCCCOME ON! not even a frikin ending?!? this game is great an I highly reccomend buying this game. Thank you. (i would have given this a 9 and a half i cant because it only goes like 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10.)… Expand
  13. JamesD.
    Dec 21, 2004
    9
    This is one of the best games ever. there are somethings that i did not like about it which is why i didnt give it a 10 but if some minor changes were made to this game it would be the greatest game ever.
  14. KevinY.
    Nov 14, 2005
    9
    I love this game. The story could've been better, and the pistol has been dumbed down. Other than that great game. And this is coming from a guy who doesn't have X-Box Live. I highly recomend this game.
  15. Incarta
    Feb 10, 2014
    9
    Halo 2 ramps up the drama but manages to stay a good shooter. It gets the balance right. Halo 2 introduces duel wielding for the first time in the series and is unique in story mode for letting you play as both the hero master chief and anti hero arbiter.
  16. TheQuietGamer
    Mar 6, 2011
    9
    Halo 2 did what I thought was impossible it improved upon what Halo: Combat Evolved did, it improved on gameplay, story, sound, and graphics, and created the best multiplayer experience ever that set the pace for games like the Call of Duty and Battlefield series, in my personal opinion this is the best in the Halo series, the only reason this does not get a perfect 10 is that there is noHalo 2 did what I thought was impossible it improved upon what Halo: Combat Evolved did, it improved on gameplay, story, sound, and graphics, and created the best multiplayer experience ever that set the pace for games like the Call of Duty and Battlefield series, in my personal opinion this is the best in the Halo series, the only reason this does not get a perfect 10 is that there is no more multiplayer, but this is still a absolute must play.… Expand
  17. Watermelon789
    Jul 10, 2011
    9
    This is where the multiplayer started getting hype. Thanks to Bungie doing an almost perfect game, no other game have made an addictive multiplayer game. Halo 2 kicked ass back then, and it still does.
  18. CarsonRGB
    Oct 3, 2011
    9
    Story: 7
    Characters: 8
    Graphics: 8
    Setting: 8
    Multiplayer: 10
    Soundtrack: 10
    Audio: 9
    Gameplay: 10
    Re-Playability Value: 9
    Fun Factor: 9

    Score: 8.8/10
  19. HellzAssassin
    Sep 9, 2014
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Halo 2 was a gigantic improvement from Halo: Combat Evolved, and that's extremely commendable because Halo: Combat Evolved was a masterpiece in itself. It's difficult to improve something when the original was nearly perfect. (Look at Bioshock 2 for an example of failed improvement.)

    Halo 2 might not have had the best story, but the fun factor the game offered was outstanding. The game was especially fun with couch co-op. It's also good to mention that this is the only Halo game where you play on the Covenant's side. Halo 2 also has the longest Halo campaign to date. Now, every game has it's flaws, and Halo 2 isn't spared from them. As mentioned before, story-wise, you get absolutely nothing done in the game. You discover a Halo ring, and prevent it from firing. That's pretty much the gist of it. Because of that, the 15 chapter campaign (again, longest Halo campaign to date) was pointless. However, it was still interesting. I guess you could say that the entire game was just a lead-up to Halo 3. The ending of the game was also not very great. But let's just put all of that behind and focus on what made Halo 2 such a success: Halo 2 took all of the fun from the first Halo, brought it over and enhanced it. Halo 2 all in all was loads of fun, and in the end isn't that what a game is supposed to be?    … Expand
  20. Mako5
    Feb 26, 2012
    9
    Halo 2 is one of the greatest games ever created. The story was much different than it's superior predecessor, but nonetheless Halo 2 left any other game in its day in its wake. The gameplay was solid, fluid, and realistic. Graphics were good for its day, and the game in its self was extremely addictive and fun! The world of halo explodes into a massive science fiction epic where you neverHalo 2 is one of the greatest games ever created. The story was much different than it's superior predecessor, but nonetheless Halo 2 left any other game in its day in its wake. The gameplay was solid, fluid, and realistic. Graphics were good for its day, and the game in its self was extremely addictive and fun! The world of halo explodes into a massive science fiction epic where you never know what is going to happen, and you are left at the edge of your seat until the final seconds of the game. Level designs were great and very creative! I enjoyed the variety, and the multiplayer is arguably the bar-setter for every other game to date. A great campaign, and a great multiplayer experience. A superior game and a delivering sequel.… Expand
  21. watithink123
    Aug 26, 2012
    9
    This game is the sequel to one of the best game of all time! Great campaign, really fun missions and you can play as the Arbiter in some missions. Multiplayer is just amazing and improved on the multiplayer (BT). And halo 4 will be awesome, HALO FTW!!!!!!! Halo 2 9.6/10
  22. inglorios
    Jun 22, 2012
    9
    A fantastic and welcome addition to the Halo universe. The gameplay has changed in a very positive way with the ability to dual wield and the addition of the sword. For fans of the original, get the sequel.
  23. AOLfloppydisk
    Nov 2, 2012
    9
    Awesome game, improvement over the first in some ways. The only reason I dinged it down a notch was because I hated the missions when you were forced to be an alien, I rushed through them and didn't enjoy them at all. Multiplayer was also awesome, loved the introduction to the BR in this game.
  24. glitchmaster
    Dec 6, 2013
    9
    better then the first one in my view but still have the feeling that the levels arren't changing at all there's not much variety between rooms
    the campaign itzelf is good you play again with masterchief and for the first time with a sanghieli called arbiter now you can explore new dimensions of gameplay with too different story working their way together
    +:cool looking sights +:good    better then the first one in my view but still have the feeling that the levels arren't changing at all there's not much variety between rooms
    the campaign itzelf is good you play again with masterchief and for the first time with a sanghieli called arbiter now you can explore new dimensions of gameplay with too different story working their way together
    +:cool looking sights
    +:good campaign
    +:awesome characters
    +:multiplayer options
    -:dark rooms
    -:no variety in levels    … Expand
  25. JUANPANB
    Sep 2, 2013
    9
    Es un gran juego, después de su primera parte HALO COMBAT ENVOLVED(RECOMENDADO) estuve ansioso por jugar su segunda parte HALO 2, me sorprendió como un gran juego persiste en su gran variabilidad de juegos y sigue aun así siendo un muy buen juego sin des meritar las excelentes gráficas que para ese año eran y son muy buenas.
  26. FreedomFighters
    Jan 24, 2019
    9
    "Halo 2" had me rather excited at first glance. While I had felt that the original game "Halo: Combat Evolved" had aged to at least some degree, I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and pretty much a lot of people had been telling me that "Halo 2" was easily the best one in the franchise. And, well, it's a bit too early to judge because I still have a whole three games left to get through, but"Halo 2" had me rather excited at first glance. While I had felt that the original game "Halo: Combat Evolved" had aged to at least some degree, I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and pretty much a lot of people had been telling me that "Halo 2" was easily the best one in the franchise. And, well, it's a bit too early to judge because I still have a whole three games left to get through, but nonetheless, "Halo 2" definitely improves on the first one.
    "Halo 2" retains the fun gameplay and fluid controls of the first game: it still feels as smooth as ever, and though some of the changes are minuscule, getting to finally use the Energy Sword was neat, and let's not forget how game-changing "Halo 2" was for online multiplayer. If nothing else, it definitely revolutionized in that regard. Also, the game's story even has a cool dynamic by allowing you to switch between controlling Master Chief and the Covenant. Having that ability to switch between the two sides definitely made the story more interesting to me, and while some were frustrated by the cliffhanger ending, I think it was rather satisfying. Beyond that, the presentation has been made so much better: the audio is one again wonderful, but the visual design has been made so much better, and having played the "Halo 2 Anniversary" edition on the Xbox One, the facelift definitely makes the game look better. What's more impressive, though, is that the old visuals still look like they haven't aged a day, and they still look rather good. The cutscenes are also cinematic and wonderful to look at, and all in all, the game packs quite a punch.
    Unfortunately, I'm still not finding "Halo" to be a 10 out of 10 experience with this game, and it's not because the campaign is too short, because I thought it was satisfying enough with its length. I think my big issue that's holding the game back is that, while it was revolutionary for its multiplayer and was still fun to play, I have some qualms with the campaign, ranging from the somewhat repetitive level design (it was sometimes even hard to tell I was playing a different mission or in a different level because some of the maps looked so similar) to the fact that, while it's still a joy to play, "Halo 2" doesn't do a whole lot different from the first game. Where the first game revolutionized in its general gameplay, "Halo 2" merely sticks within the formula and makes only minuscule changes, resulting in a game that is still a blast, but not quite boundary-pushing for a sequel.
    Still, though, "Halo 2" is a pretty amazing adventure, and it's certainly a sequel that improves on the previous title nicely. Sure, it's not an entirely new experience like the first one was, but the extra polish ultimately leads to a very well-made FPS title that certainly has earned its distinction as one of the Xbox's best.
    Final rating: 9 out of 10 "Awesome"    … Expand
  27. BaconConoisseur
    Nov 8, 2013
    9
    Halo 2 succeeds in raising the stakes and pushing further into the human races battle for survival. It has new weapons, new characters, and even gives us more insight into the covenant. Microsoft pushed up the release date for Halo 2 and it shows throughout the game. Characters and textures blink in late in cut scenes, brutes take ridiculous amounts of damage without flinching, and aHalo 2 succeeds in raising the stakes and pushing further into the human races battle for survival. It has new weapons, new characters, and even gives us more insight into the covenant. Microsoft pushed up the release date for Halo 2 and it shows throughout the game. Characters and textures blink in late in cut scenes, brutes take ridiculous amounts of damage without flinching, and a cliffhanger ending tops it off. Even with all that this game still manages to be one heck of an awesome experience.… Expand
  28. Jern
    Sep 9, 2015
    9
    The campaign was good but not perfect. The multiplayer however is 11/10. Matchmaking, teamwork, gameplay are revolutionary. With the release of Halo 2 Anniversary you can see how well ahead of its time it was. All it needed was a graphical tweak.
  29. ReviewScope
    Apr 24, 2017
    9
    While Halo: Combat Evolved changed the landscape of console FPS games, Halo 2 popularised online multiplayer for consoles, and changed the world of gaming forever. Campaign was also pretty good.
  30. jacob4
    Apr 28, 2018
    9
    An incredible epic follow up sequel to the first original game! Halo 2 provides almost the same things from the first game but bigger, better, and with more weapons and vehicles! Halo 2 also has the unique game play of playing the story from two different unique characters point of view. The battles are fun and intense and this game does a good job at immersing you into the awesomeAn incredible epic follow up sequel to the first original game! Halo 2 provides almost the same things from the first game but bigger, better, and with more weapons and vehicles! Halo 2 also has the unique game play of playing the story from two different unique characters point of view. The battles are fun and intense and this game does a good job at immersing you into the awesome cinematic journey Halo takes you on! Despite the game having some what of an anti-climatic ending, Halo 2 is still must play sequel that worth the time and adventure.… Expand
  31. jelikey
    Oct 23, 2016
    9
    This is where the multiplayer started getting hype. Thanks to Bungie doing an almost perfect game, no other game have made an addictive multiplayer game. Halo 2 kicked ass back then, and it still does.
  32. FajarSany
    Oct 11, 2015
    9
    At the end of 2004 when the first time I played this game on my XBox, I was so fascinated with graphics and gameplay. Really real as animated films. Until now, this is still best games ever with good graphics, gameplay, and story.
  33. CineAutoctono
    Jul 21, 2017
    9
    Halo 3 was a very good video game that is part of this incredible franchise, the story, the gameplay, and the graphics were great, just as now it is still a classic.
  34. RedStarGamer275
    Nov 17, 2016
    9
    Halo 2 was an excellent sequel to the very successful Halo: Combat Evolved. It's story not as good at the original but it's was still a very good solid story. It did a good job of carrying the story of Halo forward in a good direction. I won't spoil it. The high point of the game and why it was the best selling game on the Original Xbox was the online multiplayer. The multiplayer wasHalo 2 was an excellent sequel to the very successful Halo: Combat Evolved. It's story not as good at the original but it's was still a very good solid story. It did a good job of carrying the story of Halo forward in a good direction. I won't spoil it. The high point of the game and why it was the best selling game on the Original Xbox was the online multiplayer. The multiplayer was revolutionary for it's time. Online gaming on consoles really wasn't a thing until Halo 2 came along and popularized it. I spent so many hours and days on the multiplayer from 2004 till 2007. Then I went back and forth between Halo 2 and Halo 3 as they both had wonderful online multiplayer's. Then in April of 2010, all of Original Xbox's servers were shut down including beloved Halo 2. I devoted all my time on Halo 2 online multiplayer on the last week, Then it was gone. *Sigh* We'll never have an excellent online multiplayer like Halo 2 or Halo 3 again.… Expand
  35. NAYKEN
    Dec 16, 2022
    9
    How can a disgraceful game be a masterpiece by a company with almost no gaming experience. The answer to Halo 2 is let's get into the review. Actually there are no incredible things to say, there is a game that came out as a result of fixing everything that was bad in the previous game. What was this bad thing? reasons ? Mechanics, section designs and repetitive gameplay. First of all,How can a disgraceful game be a masterpiece by a company with almost no gaming experience. The answer to Halo 2 is let's get into the review. Actually there are no incredible things to say, there is a game that came out as a result of fixing everything that was bad in the previous game. What was this bad thing? reasons ? Mechanics, section designs and repetitive gameplay. First of all, let's start with the mechanics and gameplay. The game is still limited to using a maximum of two weapons, and this is the basis of the game, especially the company prefers this design, but this time, too many weapons have been added to the game and they are all different and effective. This is where the section designs come into play. Unlike the previous game, we see a large and detailed map, not a closed box anymore. This map affects the gameplay incredibly with different sections and detailed designs until the end of the game. The weapons and vehicles you use are in harmony with the section designs, and everything in the game including the music. Unlike the previous game, Halo 2 is really a competitor to the FPS games we call masterpieces. Undreal gold, Quake 2, even almost half life 2 game is not as good as Half life 2 in certain aspects. Actually, what I want to talk about is not important. there is one more issue Multiplayer.O Since yun did everything very well, it is very effective in Multiplayer gameplay, even at a level that can continue to be played even for many years. Unreal tournament 2004 looks like a great competitor. As for the result, we have a game that can be one of the best games ever, if a little more effort is made. As for the grade 94/100… Expand
  36. eva3si0n
    Jun 28, 2019
    9
    Stunning shooter. Passing remaster in 2019 a game looks is fresh and is first-class. And to a gameplay of this game of 15 years! On how many idea of Bungie were breakthrough. An ideal example of the sequel on the rayena with Uncharted 2. Addition of Arbiter as igrogy character the excellent course, it shows the game Universe on the other hand. The only thing that causes disappointment, isStunning shooter. Passing remaster in 2019 a game looks is fresh and is first-class. And to a gameplay of this game of 15 years! On how many idea of Bungie were breakthrough. An ideal example of the sequel on the rayena with Uncharted 2. Addition of Arbiter as igrogy character the excellent course, it shows the game Universe on the other hand. The only thing that causes disappointment, is the open torn-off final. What happiness that in Halo: I can begin with The Master Chief Collection at once the 3rd part)… Expand
  37. draxlink
    Apr 1, 2017
    9
    The best game of Halo saga!! Halo 2 is amazing, good history, good graphics, excellent controls and the action never stop after this game Halo saga fell in bad games, boring history and nothing to enjoy! Bungie we miss you con Halo saga
  38. LoganFazbear
    Sep 3, 2018
    9
    Halo 2 in my opinion is probably not as good as Halo: Combat Evolved, but it is pretty darn close. If perhaps the difficulty for the game was maybe tweaked a little bit and such, then it would probably be just as good as Halo 1. But while the game is more difficult than Halo 1, it is still a fun experience. And it's no wonder how Master Chief is still an icon in video games today!
  39. SparkzPlayzGame
    Jan 20, 2018
    9
    The next installation in the Halo Series, it is great like its big brother combat evolved

    Graphics=9.5, AMAZING FOR THE TIME, So good Music=10, STILL EPIC LIKE CE Story=10, Just like CE, EPIC Story and amazing Replayability/Length=9, Worth it so good Gameplay=8, Very good, BUT **** HIGH CHARITY ON LEGENDARY IS SOOOOOOO **** HARD, very hard on legendary but fun, especially the    The next installation in the Halo Series, it is great like its big brother combat evolved

    Graphics=9.5, AMAZING FOR THE TIME, So good
    Music=10, STILL EPIC LIKE CE
    Story=10, Just like CE, EPIC Story and amazing
    Replayability/Length=9, Worth it so good
    Gameplay=8, Very good, BUT **** HIGH CHARITY ON LEGENDARY IS SOOOOOOO **** HARD, very hard on legendary but fun, especially the multiplayer

    This leads to a grand total of .......

    93!

    Very fun and worth the experience, do it and you wont regret it    … Expand
  40. halo124
    Apr 3, 2019
    9
    This game has the best campaign cut scenes but however great you make the weapon sandbox, you cant get past the fact that the difficulty settings in this game are unfair and for once i am not saying that because i am trash at the game. I have 2 problems with this game but there are 200 positives starting with the best part of this game the boss battles which i can not spoil but they areThis game has the best campaign cut scenes but however great you make the weapon sandbox, you cant get past the fact that the difficulty settings in this game are unfair and for once i am not saying that because i am trash at the game. I have 2 problems with this game but there are 200 positives starting with the best part of this game the boss battles which i can not spoil but they are better than the warden eternal and 343 guilty spark. Another positive are the flood and to be honest i hated the flood in Halo CE probably because of the library level and rocket launcher flood but in this game they added a lazer which lets you cut off body parts which is so satisfying the flood will become the best enemy to fight. Now the bad stuff which starts with the difficulty and one of many examples of this is there are one shot kill sniper jackels which have such good aim competitive players would have about as much chance as the master chief vs a single grunt. The other problem is a spoiler so i can not say it here. The master chief collection does have this game with improved graphics and a multiplayer so i would recommend playing it on there. The multiplayer of this game is worth buying the game without the campaign and for a halo game you know its good but the multiplayer has got one huge problem as button combos are in the game and are very annoying… Expand
  41. JohnnyS89
    Mar 14, 2019
    9
    Design, levels, weapons, gameplay, online multiplayer, campaign. It can't be beaten.
  42. Dperks
    Dec 23, 2021
    9
    Halo 2 is a fantastic sequel that takes everything from CE that worked and improves on it and then adds so much more. Gunplay is a lot smoother and still feels great today. Vehicles feel much better to handle AI across the board have been improved and the soundtrack is just iconic. Visually the game looks a lot better like its really impressive for a OG Xbox game to look like this and theHalo 2 is a fantastic sequel that takes everything from CE that worked and improves on it and then adds so much more. Gunplay is a lot smoother and still feels great today. Vehicles feel much better to handle AI across the board have been improved and the soundtrack is just iconic. Visually the game looks a lot better like its really impressive for a OG Xbox game to look like this and the anniversary graphics also look a lo better then its CE counterpart. Along with all these improvements to the core gameplay and presentation the story has been made so much grander in scale with the audience getting to see how the covenant operate and really humanize the enemy a bit. Being able to play as the covenant was also a genius move. Considering that the actual development for the finale version of Halo 2 was about 10 months the fact that this game is as good as it is and for its time has such a grand story to it is really impressive. But considering that development time it would explain why at times the game can be a little glitchy at times. Its almost never anything game breaking and again given that time to make the game the fact the game runs so well is astonishing. If I had to find complaints for the game it would be that the inclusion of boss battles were very underwhelming and unnecessary because there just not really fun to play. Flood levels are still the weakest levels granted their still not nearly as bad as the Library in Halo 1. And the difficulty is a lot more unfair in this game and if you've ever played the legendary you know what I'm talking about as Halo 2 has one of the most difficult legendary modes in the entire series. Honestly that's probably the biggest thing for me keeping it from a 10 for me if these issue had time to of been addressed then maybe although the ending is notorious for being a big cliff hanger although that's not as big a deal now seeing as you can readily play Halo 3 today. One last note the multi[layer is also still a ton of fun today to play. Overall the game is amazing and its defiantly one of my favorite games of all time and I look forward to playing through it again and again with people I know to make them experience it to.… Expand
  43. draken3581
    Dec 18, 2018
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is it people. The first game showed the world that first person shooters can be done on consoles. Halo 2 together with xbox live showed the world the shape of things to come in terms of multiplayer gaming. Technically the most beautiful game on the Xbox and one of the top games that take advantage of the original hardware they were developed for. The whole idea of "late generation" games that look twice as good on the same hardware. Gameplay improvements as well, with better and faster disc loading, improvements in weapon design and handling (dual yielded weapons). And a great story. ***Spoiler follows*** I will forever remember the moment I was watching the cut-sequence with the Arbiter in the dropship, and only moments later the game gave me control of him, I couldn't believe that for that mission (and several after that one) I was controlling that awesome character and really viewing the story from two completely different points of view. The story did build up quite nicely but did not give the hyper climactic ending I would have expected but the overall experience was top-notch. The AI also appeared incredibly polished and engaging, reacting to my tactics and having character and substance. Best of its generation.… Expand
  44. LuckyDrum
    Jun 10, 2019
    9
    Uno de los mejores juegos de la saga. La historia es una de las mejores y el modo multijugador mejora bastante a su predecesor.
  45. JesterTRT
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    Much has improved since 1, this game was even better! Still had some of the reskin maps of the first game. Going through several sections, just to see its the same old map you've just gone through. But they did much better, they added way more unique maps with this game, than the first one. New maps, new weapons, new characters and great addition to the story! (The story is really theMuch has improved since 1, this game was even better! Still had some of the reskin maps of the first game. Going through several sections, just to see its the same old map you've just gone through. But they did much better, they added way more unique maps with this game, than the first one. New maps, new weapons, new characters and great addition to the story! (The story is really the biggest part of Halo for me, the part that keeps me absorbed into the series.)… Expand
  46. ofenderz0
    Jul 25, 2021
    9
    Some of the best storytelling and world building the series has offered. I will say that the level design is my least favorite in the trilogy for feeling more linear. Such an amazing game.
  47. byAEG7
    Dec 8, 2021
    9
    After Halo CE set the foundation of the Halo franchise, Halo 2 comfortably and solidly managed to expand and improve the series with its second attempt. Halo 2's more earth focused missions and twists around its plot make this game one of the best in the series. An amazing title that managed to improve in almost every category its predecessor and redefine the fps genre on its own.
  48. Burdo24
    Nov 4, 2019
    9
    The campaing was amazing and the soundtrack impeccable. The multi-player is very addicting. The shooting mechanics and the characters are perfect. I have beaten this game so many times.
  49. Dylan117
    Jul 4, 2020
    9
    Master chief is back kicking double the amount of ass than before. I liked ALMOST everything about this game. Strongest story in the series, revolutionary multiplayer. The legendary is impossible no-deaths you die from sniper jackals as SOON as you spawn in. But I'm willing to disregard that because of such a good multiplayer and campaign.
  50. jake17
    Oct 17, 2020
    9
    one of my favorite multiplayer shooters to play with friends but the only problem is I don't like it as much as the first and would rather play that.
  51. Sygurd
    Aug 18, 2020
    9
    Un juego que toma lo visto en el Halo 1 y lo potencia a más y mejor, con una historia atrapante que crece todo el universo más allá de lo esperado. El juego que sin lugar a dudas asentó todo lo que el 1 abrió y construyo las bases a nivel argumental de toda la saga. Mi calificación: 9.3/10
  52. Skurttish
    Dec 21, 2020
    9
    An improvement over Halo: CE in nearly every way.

    The biggest improvement was in the story—it was very interesting. It did a great job of fleshing out and expanding the Halo universe, something I loved. The gameplay was the same great, classic Halo FPS. Don’t fix what ain’t broken. The graphics were good, certainly good enough to do the job, and the cutscenes looked really great.    An improvement over Halo: CE in nearly every way.

    The biggest improvement was in the story—it was very interesting. It did a great job of fleshing out and expanding the Halo universe, something I loved.

    The gameplay was the same great, classic Halo FPS. Don’t fix what ain’t broken.

    The graphics were good, certainly good enough to do the job, and the cutscenes looked really great. Finally, the music and sound never got in the way (although I didn’t like the bits that sounded like they could have been from a Phil Collins outtake—stay away from acoustic percussion, Halo, and stick to synthesized sounds! It fits the genre better).

    I did take off one point, and it was because the game was too difficult. There were some sections that were overly challenging. But other than that, it’s a game I absolutely recommend.    … Expand
  53. MacMountainGoat
    Sep 27, 2020
    9
    This game takes everything great about the first game and makes it that much better. Smoother, more weapon options, and even adds more story and character development. It creates that great alternative perspective, making you empathize with the enemy. If you liked the first game, you have to like this one as well.
  54. Jonathon30388
    Jul 3, 2020
    9
    A great edition to the halo franchise, although there are oversights. Still a great game
  55. Cjmolina007
    Jul 21, 2020
    9
    As someone who didn't own an original Xbox back when this came out, I didn't understand all the hype about Halo 2. When I finally played it with the updated graphics I now see why everyone was obsessed with this game. The campaign and it's technical aspect was SO much better than the first game it actually made me forget about it at one point. Great story with intense segments, makes thisAs someone who didn't own an original Xbox back when this came out, I didn't understand all the hype about Halo 2. When I finally played it with the updated graphics I now see why everyone was obsessed with this game. The campaign and it's technical aspect was SO much better than the first game it actually made me forget about it at one point. Great story with intense segments, makes this one of my favorite Xbox game. Do I even need to dive into the multiplayer? You and I both know it's freaking great and extremely fun. Long gone are the days when we had this and the original Call of Duty multiplayer.… Expand
  56. Yaboihasataco
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    Halo 2 was a great sequel to halo CE. The campaign featured many new elements and has the best story in the franchise. The inclusion of the arbiter was a great twist and he is a great character. The cliffhanger was perfect for hyping up halo 3 and is so epic. The multiplayer in Halo 2 was also great and innovated by making Xbox live solidified. Just an overall great game.
  57. Justareviewer21
    Jul 19, 2020
    9
    This game is so **** cool, than i don’t even go to say more, just that keep the levels of quality and 343i failed to achieve bungie level of excellence of the OG halo games
  58. 2002003
    Aug 1, 2020
    9
    Es un excelente juego pa mi gusto su historia y su multi, tal me gusta que fuese implementado pantalla divida y me metí mucha hora de mi vida y disfrute mucho ese juego y la música de inicio una obra de arte
  59. RoninNinjaXL
    Sep 25, 2020
    9
    GREAT GAME WITH A BADASS SLAP CERTIFIED

    Story: 10
    Gameplay: 9
    ost: 9
    Characters: 10
  60. wiredspore44
    Dec 28, 2020
    9
    Great follow up to a perfect Xbox launch title. The level design feels a lot more restrictive than the first game and it feels a little jarring that it ditched the open world style from the original. The arbiter was also a cool addition to the halo series.
  61. HectorDelaRocha
    Aug 28, 2021
    9
    The only reason it is not a 10 is because on higher difficulties the game feels very unfair. Very hard to pass certain sections without cheesing it out. Great story, great gameplay and IMO the best soundtrack in the series, even Halo 3's.

    Multiplayer was the best when it released and on the MCC is still great and the reason to purchase it.
  62. CFMCritic
    May 16, 2021
    9
    I never fancied getting an Xbox console because there's no reason to but i have to admit the halo franchise is a very unique and special one. Halo 2 is quite a sequel itself, it kind of remined me of the godfather part II, just like that movie Halo 2 is a sequel that is superior to its predecessor but it's a bit messy and convoluted in its narrative. Halo 2 ia a perfect story-driven firstI never fancied getting an Xbox console because there's no reason to but i have to admit the halo franchise is a very unique and special one. Halo 2 is quite a sequel itself, it kind of remined me of the godfather part II, just like that movie Halo 2 is a sequel that is superior to its predecessor but it's a bit messy and convoluted in its narrative. Halo 2 ia a perfect story-driven first person shooter with expert writing and iconic characters. The cut-scenes are well-directed and the soundtrack is fabulous. The middle game in the legendary Halo trilogy is a must-play for every first person shooter fan out there.… Expand
  63. KaleSungurCrane
    Nov 19, 2020
    9
    OVERALL - 91%

    Gameplay - 9/10 Graphics (for time) - 8/10 Story - 9/10 Game Length - 7/10 Characters - 9/10 Level/Area Design - 7/10 Atmosphere - 7/10 Sound Effects - 7/10 Soundtrack - 7/10 Replay Value - 8/10 Improved upon the first Halo technically and massively increased the franchise. I really enjoyed Halo 2 but preferred the story and levels on Halo and preferred the    OVERALL - 91%

    Gameplay - 9/10
    Graphics (for time) - 8/10
    Story - 9/10
    Game Length - 7/10
    Characters - 9/10
    Level/Area Design - 7/10
    Atmosphere - 7/10
    Sound Effects - 7/10
    Soundtrack - 7/10
    Replay Value - 8/10

    Improved upon the first Halo technically and massively increased the franchise. I really enjoyed Halo 2 but preferred the story and levels on Halo and preferred the multiplayer of Halo 3.    … Expand
  64. Aldo_Glz
    Dec 27, 2020
    9
    Maybe better than the first game. But I did not love it that much. The campaign is great, showing us both sides of the conflict.
  65. RTCWFAN
    Jul 6, 2023
    9
    Halo 2 was a perfect successor for the overwhelming Combat Evolved. From campaign to multiplayer (local and online), everything is very polished. Not as groundbreaking as the first part, but still one of the best Xbox shooters. Overall rating: 9.4.
  66. J0hnnybuster
    Apr 17, 2021
    9
    Halo 2 is one of the most badass games of all time. It is possibly one of the best sequels to a videogame as it feels very new but also goes extremely well with the original. It was the first game that took on a movie-like style. Playing as the chief has never felt better

    The game also has a brilliant rock soundtrack that adds to the already amazing atmosphere. The level design is not    Halo 2 is one of the most badass games of all time. It is possibly one of the best sequels to a videogame as it feels very new but also goes extremely well with the original. It was the first game that took on a movie-like style. Playing as the chief has never felt better

    The game also has a brilliant rock soundtrack that adds to the already amazing atmosphere.

    The level design is not great, as most levels are on linear paths which was not impressive compared to halo ce.

    The legendary difficulty is also horrendously unfair and is only for people looking for a rage fest.

    The multiplayer is very fun and has amazing maps that have even been remade in later games and you can spend hours with your friends in it.

    Overall, this game is a must play.    … Expand
  67. CloudStrife05
    Aug 19, 2021
    9
    There is one small feature that was added to Halo 2 that was awesome and that was, for the first time you could have duel weapons.
  68. AlcoholicGoat
    Mar 27, 2022
    9
    Amazing campaign. Arbiter is the best character in the series. This was so ahead of its time in 2004
  69. L3Fari0us
    Nov 20, 2021
    9
    This review is tailored to people who are thinking about playing Halo 2 for the first time and as such will be subjected to today's standards.

    Halo 2 is for many the defacto Halo experience and I would have to agree. All the complaints I seemed to have with Halo: CE have been fixed in its sequel, which is even more surprising when you take into consideration that Bungie had to crunch a    This review is tailored to people who are thinking about playing Halo 2 for the first time and as such will be subjected to today's standards.

    Halo 2 is for many the defacto Halo experience and I would have to agree. All the complaints I seemed to have with Halo: CE have been fixed in its sequel, which is even more surprising when you take into consideration that Bungie had to crunch a lot to get the game done in time. Everyone knows the massive failure that was Halo 2's E3 demo, yet they prevailed.

    The combat stays intact, giving the player more weapons and the ability to dual handle guns, that while niche, contributes a lot to the power fantasy that Halo 2 desperately needs.
    The graphics, by today's standards, aren't the best, but there is a notable improvement from its prequel, undoubtedly pushing the hardware of the OG Xbox. The art style is still a classic and it feels distinct to Halo.
    The soundtrack is very well executed and there are some pieces that I'll never forget. The same can be said for the narrative. Halo 2 makes up in spades for the lack of narrative in Halo: CE. The story has various twists and from the moment the first cutscene starts, I was immediately hooked and taken aback because I wasn't expecting such a major shift in the way the game told its story. The game, in my eyes, delivered the best campaign out of every single entry in the franchise, that to this day, is still undefeated. Were it not for its controversial ending, the story would have been perfect.
    The mission design is a step up from Halo: CE (since you don't traverse around the same looking rooms for a whole level, now), however there are some sections that ask you to defend a single part of the map for a set amount of time, that sometimes drag longer than you'd like them to.
    To this day there are some glitches associated with multiplayer, that for some offered a new layer of skill gap, while to others, made the online experience less entertaining. To me, they aren't very important.

    Overall, Halo 2 is, without a doubt, the essence of what Halo is. In my eyes, it was the best one out of the original trilogy, which is funny, since it definitely was the worst one for Bungie, the developers, due to massive amounts of setbacks they faced.    … Expand
  70. Dudeman15
    May 5, 2022
    9
    Played it with the MCC. Took everything Halo 1 did and put it to the next level. Aged well, is still fun. Play this with your best friends. The remastered is astonishing. Cool fun.
  71. GamerDadIsBad
    Mar 26, 2022
    9
    My favorite in the Halo series especially multiplayer.

    Dual needlers dominated!

    Still play this with the nephew on The Master Chief Collection.
  72. trinovatic
    Dec 11, 2022
    9
    No se si es mi favorito o no pero que maravilla, una gran mejoría en la campaña a comparación de la primera entrega y el online fue de los pilares de xbox live en ese tiempo.
  73. LuanAmorim
    Dec 6, 2022
    9
    Halo 2 - não tem muito oque dizer já que ele melhora quase tudo em relação ao primeiro. A história é melhor; a ambientação está incrível; o jogo continua desafiador; a jogabilidade é melhor e conta com novas mecânicas incríveis; os gráficos são bons para a época; a trilha sonora e a dublagem melhoraram muito também; tem maior variedade de armas e inimigos; o protagonista e os personagensHalo 2 - não tem muito oque dizer já que ele melhora quase tudo em relação ao primeiro. A história é melhor; a ambientação está incrível; o jogo continua desafiador; a jogabilidade é melhor e conta com novas mecânicas incríveis; os gráficos são bons para a época; a trilha sonora e a dublagem melhoraram muito também; tem maior variedade de armas e inimigos; o protagonista e os personagens estão bem mais cativantes. As únicas coisas que me incomodaram mesmo foi: o fato de não ter legendas in game, só tem legendas em cutscenes o que é bem ruim e tem alguns cenários que são bem claustrofóbicos, algo que me incomodou em vários momentos. Mas sem dúvidas é um jogo ESPETACULAR merece o selo "Must Play"!… Expand
  74. Parrabam
    Jan 30, 2023
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Es de los mejores titulos de Halo y de los FPS en general, la historia es de las mejores, y con la integración de jugar como uno de los enemigos y descubrir lo que pasa del otro lado de la guerra y sin quitarle protagonismo al Jefe Maestro es increible. Las armas y vehiculos estan bien balanceados y dan la oportunidad de usar todo.
    El Multijugador es de los mejores, ahora se puede jugar como uno de los elites y personalizar los colores y los emblemas, con modos y mapas variados, y con la oportunidad de jugar online.    … Expand
  75. ZackH25
    Apr 2, 2023
    9
    This game has amazing story, amazing combat and great level design. Very smart giving us two perspectives of the Masterchief and the Arbiter. The multiplayer was also amazing for its time as well. The only flaw I see with this game is the fact the legendary mode is a bit broken as the enemies have way too much health and can one hit you- Second weakest entity in the game.
  76. Lelo_Oficial
    Aug 25, 2023
    9
    O jogo pega tudo que era bom no primeiro e melhora, Halo 2 é incrível, uma obra de arte que deve ser apreciada por todos, história excelente, gameplay excelente, personagens excelentes, definitivamente um jogo memorável.
  77. Samwisethesmall
    Apr 13, 2023
    9
    Brilliant. The first level is one of the best set pieces i've played in all games. Great game to play with a friend.
  78. JerradH.
    Nov 9, 2004
    8
    In terms of console FPS games, it can't be beat, particularly in terms of multiplayer. However, if you're like me and are also a PC gamer, you'll likely find UT 2004's multiplayer to be far more satisfying in almost every way. So good game, but extraordinarily overrated due to most of its base being console only players.
  79. DamonC.
    Nov 19, 2004
    8
    Halo 2 was a great game but not as good as most expected. To start off the campaign isn't any better than the first one which i didnt think was good. It is repetitive and just boring. If you are a die hard single player gamer this game is not worth it. Now on the other hand if you have XBOX live or just love playing multiplayer you should get this game. The maps, artilery, guns and Halo 2 was a great game but not as good as most expected. To start off the campaign isn't any better than the first one which i didnt think was good. It is repetitive and just boring. If you are a die hard single player gamer this game is not worth it. Now on the other hand if you have XBOX live or just love playing multiplayer you should get this game. The maps, artilery, guns and variety of game types are outstanding. Though i think the multiplayer is great they made a few mistakes. On XBOX live you cant even pick your own game type you are randomly put in a game. WHICH SUCKS. Also 16 player halo isnt as good as people would think its more like you respawn you shoot you die. So if you like halo you will like Halo2.… Expand
  80. C.E.P.N.
    Jan 14, 2005
    8
    The first Halo game was a wonderful challenge in Legendary and a well crafted, choreographed, knitted, and even operatic experience in Easy mode. A well made 'chapter' in the Masterchief saga. I was drawn in emotionally and intellectually. Weapons and abilities were consequential to the expanding and evolving story and not for their own qualities. It became 'necessary' The first Halo game was a wonderful challenge in Legendary and a well crafted, choreographed, knitted, and even operatic experience in Easy mode. A well made 'chapter' in the Masterchief saga. I was drawn in emotionally and intellectually. Weapons and abilities were consequential to the expanding and evolving story and not for their own qualities. It became 'necessary' to use a charged Plasma pistol to take down an Elites' shielding in Legendary, for example. The game had that crucial beginning, middle, end in good storytelling with 'subtle' hints to something more. It ended with satisfaction and at the same time enticed furture adventures. Time constraints in the first games release perhaps put restraints on the 'intellectual' and more emphasis (as most 'artists' will testify) on the perceptual and heart. I am confident that the qualities inherent in the team that crafted the first game are still there. But these were not allowed to shine forth in Halo 2. Fame and success carry with it that malignant quality 'arrogance'. If unaddressed and not checked and within a 'closed' setting, can lead to an intellectual incest. A reactionary condition arises. And grandiosity. Was Halo 2 more about Microsoft and Bungies relations to it? Certainly the next installment of Halo is being tied to the next Microsoft console. Was it really about Bungies relationship with all the interested players who enjoyed Halo 1 and continuing that relationship? This game was fragmented with a hard and open ending. I did enjoy the dramatic device of juxtaoposing the hero and the fallen of the opposing races as a way of dovetailing and weaving the two games together and I was excited and hopefull. But from there the story never really 'fleshed out'. I was anticipating the Online experince until trusted people who are 'gamers' and spend a good amount of time on Xbox Live suddenly quit. One was disgusted by the behaviors and attitudes of players in other Clans, which means not enough monitoring. "Art" is the outward manifestation of loving, giving, caring. Not sensationalistic pushing of the envelope. It doesn't seek ulterior motives or hidden agendas. That's for advertisers, auto designers, and charlatans. Bungie first has a responsibility to themselves in the best possible way, their vision in 'making', to those who spend their time and money seeking an enveloping game experience and story, and not in 'trying to rule the world"(from the back of the instruction manuals of both games). Halo1 was a captivating and multifaceted gaming experience. Halo2, while retaining good game mechanics, overall had the feel and tone of self-indulgence and doubt. Can you at Bungie not afford to break from Microsoft? Time to grow!… Expand
  81. Nibbsy
    Feb 24, 2005
    8
    Has any other game been more the victim of its own hype? For me, one of the beauties of the first Halo was that I expected nothing from it and it delivered so much. (I only bought an xbox as an after thought shortly after getting a Gamecube but as soon as I booted up Halo the 'Cube didn't get touched for months). Halo 2 on the other hand carried such enormous weight of Has any other game been more the victim of its own hype? For me, one of the beauties of the first Halo was that I expected nothing from it and it delivered so much. (I only bought an xbox as an after thought shortly after getting a Gamecube but as soon as I booted up Halo the 'Cube didn't get touched for months). Halo 2 on the other hand carried such enormous weight of expectation that disappointment was probably inevitable on some levels. That said, contrary to the very misguided or plain daft people who give it scores of 1 (?) Halo 2 is an undeniably first class video game. In almost all respects it is head and shoulders above almost every other xbox action game. However, its key failing is that it is too similar to the first game and for this reason it doesn't have the "wow" factor that Halo engendered. The storyline is more intrusive than Halo's but paradoxically less coherent and engaging. Basic gameplay is very sound and the production values are as high as expected but there are just too many times when the whole thing feels like a slightly glossier retread of the original (which would be fine of course if the original had never existed!). Overall for me Halo 2 lacked the spark of brilliance that made Halo my favourite game in 20 years of gaming but it is nevertheless a very fine game.… Expand
  82. MarioL.
    Apr 8, 2005
    8
    This game is pretty fun on solo. If you have Xbox live this game can be pretty damn addictive. I recommend this game to all those people who like "Tom Clancy" like games. you can be very sneaky.
  83. JMyst
    May 9, 2005
    8
    I cannot get enough of multiplayer, if it were only multiplayer this game would deserve a 20. Unfortunately we also have the shoot and move, unstrategic and short single player missions! It took me two days playing 2 hours a day to beat this game on Normal. Very easy, only died twice (jumping off ledges). The storyline was incomplete and made me scared of whats to come. I didnt even get I cannot get enough of multiplayer, if it were only multiplayer this game would deserve a 20. Unfortunately we also have the shoot and move, unstrategic and short single player missions! It took me two days playing 2 hours a day to beat this game on Normal. Very easy, only died twice (jumping off ledges). The storyline was incomplete and made me scared of whats to come. I didnt even get the dramatic effect when Cortana said "Another Halo". I was like awww man more flood, dangit.… Expand
  84. JasonS.
    Jun 10, 2005
    8
    The gameplay totally sucks, but if you get xbox live it really makes up for it. hate the gameplay, love it on xbox live.
  85. Dr.Worm
    Oct 11, 2006
    8
    This and Halo 1 get everything about FPS gameplay right, but just doesn't do anything new and the characters are and story are pretty lame. To be honest, I HATE Master Chief and would rather play as Cortana.
  86. TristanB.
    Nov 14, 2004
    8
    Just like Halo this game is really awsome and a lot of fun to play. The only problem is the game is lacking in play time. Compared to the first Halo this game was short and it cut off without warning. The things I did like in this game was the larger variety in weapons, the amount of interactivity with the field and the vehicles, and of course the look of the game. The plot of the story Just like Halo this game is really awsome and a lot of fun to play. The only problem is the game is lacking in play time. Compared to the first Halo this game was short and it cut off without warning. The things I did like in this game was the larger variety in weapons, the amount of interactivity with the field and the vehicles, and of course the look of the game. The plot of the story was also a lot better but still not enough game play time.… Expand
  87. D.Z.
    Nov 14, 2004
    8
    Buy it for the xbox live but please dont buy it just for the single player. it's sooo plain. nothing new from the original. plus the texture loading problem in cutscenes is like someone scratching across the blackboard. it's horrible! i think i am the only one that is not rationalizing my purchasing decision.
  88. J.J.King
    Nov 22, 2004
    8
    Great game aside from a lackluster single player campaign, but who cares about sp when you ve got stellar multiplayer via xbox live?
  89. RyanG.
    Nov 22, 2004
    8
    I loved this game overall cin. are great gameplay was awsome wasn't as much action as there was in number 1 im a little dissapointed that they took the pistol out but it was pretty cool that you could throw boxes around and onlines great its deffenatly better than counter strike.
  90. DudeSweet
    Nov 23, 2004
    8
    I think it was worth the wait becuase online play is unreal even thought halo 1 did almost beat it in that subject....the whole game was short and the levels were long even though when u played basically 1 u were playin 5. It was pretty good though i did like it. i love online play thats worth it.
  91. EfeB.
    Dec 16, 2004
    8
    Halo 2 is very similar to the first game and that is good in most ways. it tries to out do the first game by complicating events and stories and whatever, thats not so good. the good thing with the first one was that it was so simple. now, you can play as the elite alien race, and back to master chief and back to the aliens and those ugly zombies are back...pretty confusing. the maps areHalo 2 is very similar to the first game and that is good in most ways. it tries to out do the first game by complicating events and stories and whatever, thats not so good. the good thing with the first one was that it was so simple. now, you can play as the elite alien race, and back to master chief and back to the aliens and those ugly zombies are back...pretty confusing. the maps are pretty, the action is amazing. some levels have you flying banshee's and its done alot better this time around. vehicles get damage very nicelly, all the physics and rag doll deaths are cool. weapons are better too, duel wielding is nice but not amazing, because throwing granades remains crucial. the uzi like gun is fun and makes the action seem "earthly". havent finished but i am not dying to play it over and over like i did the first halo...maybe we are all used to this halo series, so not much of a shock there. i play battlefront star wars...now, that's a masterpiece!!!! … Expand
  92. OlgaG.
    Dec 27, 2004
    8
    Not as addictive as halo once was. they removed and modified weapons that work, example the assault rifle which by the way my favourite weapon replaced it with a battle rifle which feels like a beretta handgun with burstfire, pistol 2nd most fav. weapon replaced it with a magnum with a fast fire rate not very accurate in aiming, shotgun third fav weapon in halo1 they changed the fire rateNot as addictive as halo once was. they removed and modified weapons that work, example the assault rifle which by the way my favourite weapon replaced it with a battle rifle which feels like a beretta handgun with burstfire, pistol 2nd most fav. weapon replaced it with a magnum with a fast fire rate not very accurate in aiming, shotgun third fav weapon in halo1 they changed the fire rate into a very slow innefective against the brutes, flood, covenant. Smg is very useless weapon it sounds like a tiny firecracker. The most blasphemous thing they did was dual weapon, crucial part of halo1 was shoot then hide to reload, but halo2 it was shoot and shoot and shoot, using needler and plasma rifle was best combination for dual weapon pity i aint feelin the dual weapon. the death of masterchief why did they introduce arbiter, arbiter seems to outshines masterchiefs traits and new weapons, with stealth camouflage the marines doesnt , difficult for marines to approach a wraith in heroic mode compared to arbiters stealth camo its more forgiving to play. if it aint broke dont fixed, too many changes in marines scarce ammo like deus ex2 same problem. dont like to keep changing weapons becoz its always depleted. the biggest mistakes is dual weapon, tell me how can i throw a grenade if im using a dl wp by the time i switched to a sigle wp the enemy already scattered, how can they overlook the crucial elements on halo1 gameplay. the adrenaline rush you feel in halo1 is gone, why? becoz the weapons in halo2 doesnt feel right its not equally exciting while using the assault rifle in halo1, you could really feel the weapon(this feels right) final word, bad changes, dual weapon big no no no, adrenaline rush type of weapon is gone.… Expand
  93. JackP.
    Dec 6, 2004
    8
    Good Graphics, fantastic gameplay, repetitive and bland level design... multiplayer should have had A.I. bots.
  94. BrandonB.
    Dec 6, 2004
    8
    This game was good. But I don't think it was as good as the first one. The levels on the game were change completly and it change the way halo was. They also change some of the weapons and how they work. They did great on the graphics. The biggest disapointment was the story. They story and it's ending was horrible. I think the online play makes up for it all though. Good game This game was good. But I don't think it was as good as the first one. The levels on the game were change completly and it change the way halo was. They also change some of the weapons and how they work. They did great on the graphics. The biggest disapointment was the story. They story and it's ending was horrible. I think the online play makes up for it all though. Good game but not as good as hoped:(… Expand
  95. ShaunM.
    Nov 5, 2005
    8
    Most overrated game ever. If you want one of the best shooters ever, go seek out Doom, Quake II, or Perfect Dark. The only thing that keeps people playing it is the online competition... not the game itself. Any game could have done this had it been introduced in the same manner on a console with such wide online support.
  96. Marshmallow
    Aug 17, 2005
    8
    To be quite frank the game shouldn't be rated a highly as it is. There are some major glitches, cheaters and hackeres online and really crap respawn points. The gameplay doesn't really improve that much on the original.
  97. AxelD.
    Jul 13, 2007
    8
    I hate the online feature of this game to the full extent of the word...i only gave this game an 8 because of the extremely fun single player+cooperative play make this game worth having simply because of the storyline...little dissapointed because they took out my only weapons that i use...the pistol+scope and the assault rifle+nice big Covenant destroying clip...if you liked halo 1 then I hate the online feature of this game to the full extent of the word...i only gave this game an 8 because of the extremely fun single player+cooperative play make this game worth having simply because of the storyline...little dissapointed because they took out my only weapons that i use...the pistol+scope and the assault rifle+nice big Covenant destroying clip...if you liked halo 1 then this game is worth playing at least.… Expand
  98. JackB.
    Jul 9, 2007
    8
    I gave it an 8 because when you played as The Arbiter, you always had to fight the flood and they took the scope away on the pistol.
  99. Marc.D.
    Sep 28, 2007
    8
    I recently played this game after I got myself a 360. Therefore, my review of the game is decidedly influenced by the arrival of newer and flashier games like Gears. That said, Halo 2 stands as a fine example of videogames as an interactive medium for storytelling. The epic sci-fi plot boasts a wonderfully rich narractive and succeeds in engaging the player on some many levels. The single I recently played this game after I got myself a 360. Therefore, my review of the game is decidedly influenced by the arrival of newer and flashier games like Gears. That said, Halo 2 stands as a fine example of videogames as an interactive medium for storytelling. The epic sci-fi plot boasts a wonderfully rich narractive and succeeds in engaging the player on some many levels. The single player admittedly lacks innovation. However, it takes many elements of the FPS genre, adds in a deep level of strategy and meshes it with the ace plot. Like everyone else has been saying...Halo 2 is about the multiplayer. And this is where is ruled until Gears arrived on the scene last year. Check it out if you haven't...then jump straight into Halo 3. After completing the second installment...you'll be compelled to finish the fight.… Expand
  100. StephenB.
    Nov 10, 2004
    8
    I like all the options, teams, graphics, Storyline, and Vehicle Damage in multiplayer mode. I hate the Star wars looking covenant, the ultra high jumping, no fall damage, and the lack of medium and small multiplayer maps. I honestly don't know why they went gung-ho on the HUGE stuff> but not very many people like it. The disappointment hurts a lot, but I still think that it's I like all the options, teams, graphics, Storyline, and Vehicle Damage in multiplayer mode. I hate the Star wars looking covenant, the ultra high jumping, no fall damage, and the lack of medium and small multiplayer maps. I honestly don't know why they went gung-ho on the HUGE stuff> but not very many people like it. The disappointment hurts a lot, but I still think that it's way better than Halo Combat Evolved, it just doesn't seem like the same game at all. I still love the game and believe that it will eventually catch on and it will be the best game once it does.… 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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