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. ShutUp
    Sep 7, 2007
    10
    All the people who vote this game below a ten is just stupid. This game is absolutley amazing and you cannot go wrong with it. Looking at some of these other geeks reviews I was just stunned about what these nerds said. I would love to see someone make a better shooting game than Halo. Its not possible. This is game sets a bar for what other shooting games should be aiming for.
  2. 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.
  3. messiah
    Oct 17, 2009
    10
    wow...this game completely blew my mind. Not only did it deliver a intense campaign and an epic story line, but the muliplayer alone is worth buying the game. Take some advice from me: Messiah is a total jackass and you should not listen to him. This game is completely original.
  4. AB
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    This game is amazing. Jealous PS2 fanboys (like Kevin C.) may not think so, but it is.
  5. Halo2Combatiner
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    This is defintly the best game out there.The online graphics are incredible especialy when u blow up a veicle. I would recomend this for violent players ;)
  6. ChickenMouth
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    Crazy nice. a few things about it disappointed me. but still deserves more than a 9.
  7. GatorB.
    Nov 10, 2004
    10
    Amazing online play. Zero lag after 20 matches. Hey, its Halo 2. Did you ever doubt it?
  8. GingerBreadMonkey
    Nov 10, 2004
    10
    To be honest, this is the best console FPS ever made. Anyone who gives this game a low score is just plain nieve. It is brilliant. I am no fanboy, but christ I am becoming one. Bungie have excelled themselves by producing one of the most immersive games ever made. Take this with a grain of salt, multiplayer is great fun, but the single player experience blew me away. Halo2 has exceeded To be honest, this is the best console FPS ever made. Anyone who gives this game a low score is just plain nieve. It is brilliant. I am no fanboy, but christ I am becoming one. Bungie have excelled themselves by producing one of the most immersive games ever made. Take this with a grain of salt, multiplayer is great fun, but the single player experience blew me away. Halo2 has exceeded the hype by my accounts. Hype generally means the game is going to let you down, not with Halo2. You don't have to look at all the acclaim that game is getting to realise how good it is. All you have to do is play it. If you still think it is worth '0', then you should sell your xbox and become a moron.… Expand
  9. Pancake
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    Are you all nuts there is no way this game should be below a 9.5 ever. the graphics are great and there are so many awesome weapons and gameplay is awesome.
  10. SpudShastings
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    There is no game out in the world better than this game. And that right there at the end of that sentence was a period. Period.
  11. StuM.
    Nov 12, 2004
    8
    Fantastic game. But I do feel robbed in terms of visuals. Ramping up the resolution in cut-scenes and then popping back to a medium -low res in actual gameplay doesn't do it for me. Sound design is great but the music is, to be honest, bland, uninspiring and pretty predictable. This will play much better on it's PC release. A great game, but in no way what the Hype Machine predicted.
  12. SnapDragon
    Nov 12, 2004
    8
    I've been a hardcore Halo 1 gamer for some time now, and I was immediately disappointed by the Halo 2 multiplayer experience. What happened to the pistol? Where does skill come in? Now it is almost entirely rapid fire weapons which take little to no skill to use effectively. The maps are asymmetrical and confusing, making CTF games and communication difficult. Not to mention there I've been a hardcore Halo 1 gamer for some time now, and I was immediately disappointed by the Halo 2 multiplayer experience. What happened to the pistol? Where does skill come in? Now it is almost entirely rapid fire weapons which take little to no skill to use effectively. The maps are asymmetrical and confusing, making CTF games and communication difficult. Not to mention there are practically no small maps like Wizard or Longest. And even the game interface lacks its old charm; quickly selecting a game and choosing profiles becomes tedious and time consuming. Halo 1 was simple but it had style. Why not just bring back Halo 1 with x-box live and more maps? The new weapons and enhanced graphics are great for single player, but when you finish the campaign what are you left with?… Expand
  13. TomD.
    Nov 12, 2004
    8
    The game is great but what happened to the game play in the trailers? Seems like they changed a lot, and is Sergeant Johnson alive again? The graphics are great, the sound is great, but the story line and ending have much to be desired.
  14. AkhilK.
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    THE BEST GAME EVER! I cant express this enough. Any gamer, casual and hardcore alike should be able to appreciate the awesomeness that is Halo2. The story touches you on every level. The best looking game even (espcially in High Def. Man oh man!) The multiplayer will hook you forever. The idea of stats on www.bungie.net is simply amazing. You can watch screenshots of the game you have EVERTHE BEST GAME EVER! I cant express this enough. Any gamer, casual and hardcore alike should be able to appreciate the awesomeness that is Halo2. The story touches you on every level. The best looking game even (espcially in High Def. Man oh man!) The multiplayer will hook you forever. The idea of stats on www.bungie.net is simply amazing. You can watch screenshots of the game you have EVER played! Please, go out and buy this game. For the sake of gaming in you all!… Expand
  15. 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.
  16. Daz
    Nov 14, 2004
    10
    Firstly the single player part of Halo 2 is fantastic. I've almost finished the game and it's taken me well over 10 hours on the normal setting (one particular checkpoint took me over one hour alone). The weapons, graphics, vehicles and baddies are all first rate. The online game is slightly different... There are 3 options for you to choose from:- 1. You can set up your own Firstly the single player part of Halo 2 is fantastic. I've almost finished the game and it's taken me well over 10 hours on the normal setting (one particular checkpoint took me over one hour alone). The weapons, graphics, vehicles and baddies are all first rate. The online game is slightly different... There are 3 options for you to choose from:- 1. You can set up your own game and invite your 'friends' to join you in a game that you make the rules for 2. You can join one of your 'friends' games 3. You can let bungie place you in a game where the the players are approx the same ability as you. My big criticism of this is that if you want to play quickly(and not particularly with friends) you choose option 3. These games are very good BUT after every game has finished you have to find another game which can take about 3 -4 minutes (or more). I think this is a lot of time to wait between games. I wish there was an option like on PGR2 where you can just join a random game set up by people who aren't your 'friend'. i enjoyed this in PGR2 as it meant that i was 'meetin' new people each time i played. I underestand why Bungie have set up the match maker games, but i do not wish to wait 3 -4 minutes to play a 5 - 10 minutes game. This takes some of the polish off a cracking game.… Expand
  17. SeanS.
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    [***SPOILERS***] Okay, i may be the only one who says this, but i actually liked the ending. i liked the whole "empire strikes back" style cliffhanger that just leaves you feeling like you have unfinished business. think how weird you would feel if halo 2 actually provided you closure on the entire story. you'd feel cheated that one of the biggest stories since final fantasy vii had[***SPOILERS***] Okay, i may be the only one who says this, but i actually liked the ending. i liked the whole "empire strikes back" style cliffhanger that just leaves you feeling like you have unfinished business. think how weird you would feel if halo 2 actually provided you closure on the entire story. you'd feel cheated that one of the biggest stories since final fantasy vii had just been summed up in two discs and you had been left to enjoy multiplayer. also, i have to say that i WAS disappointed that certain things didn't make it into the game that were talked about. however, i am giving this game a 10 based on the game itself, not on what had been talked about ahead of time. if i was rating it based on expectations, i would have to give it something like a 13. as it is, it's still the best game out there.… Expand
  18. ZachR
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    [***SPOILERS***] This is truly an amazing game. A step above Halo: Combat Evolved. Halo2 takes place after Halo: Combat Evolved. The Covonents are waging war with Earth on Earth. But wait, what is this? The Covenent have made another Halo? Commander Keys's daughter sees it herself. So many characters return, Master Cheif, Johnson, the Flood and Guilty Spark makes an apperance for us[***SPOILERS***] This is truly an amazing game. A step above Halo: Combat Evolved. Halo2 takes place after Halo: Combat Evolved. The Covonents are waging war with Earth on Earth. But wait, what is this? The Covenent have made another Halo? Commander Keys's daughter sees it herself. So many characters return, Master Cheif, Johnson, the Flood and Guilty Spark makes an apperance for us as well. So many secrets so this wonderful game. Graphics: 10/10 No question here. Bungie has worked 3 years on this masterpiece, alot has been put into improving already great graphics. Sound: 9/10 Bam! Bing! Zing! Every sound in this game is great. From the sound of a machine gun turret firing to the music, this game has it covered. Gameplay: 10/10 Best FPS ever? Possibly! It plays like HALO (thats a good thing). Overall: 10/10 HALO+cool new weapons, vechules and more+XBOX live+fantastic replay value+multiplayer= ONE OF THE GREATEST GAMES EVER! Zach's Official Score: 98 ---(scores are rounded to nearest whole number in individual ratings so a 9.5= a 10 and a 9.2 would be a 9)… Expand
  19. LuisTrigo
    Nov 7, 2004
    10
    All I know is that halo 2 has a great story line, and the ending is what made it priceless. I think ps2 sites like gamespot need to get a clue as well, I mean who gives a game a 9 on the graphics for the cinimatics when they give San Andreas a 10 when its probably the most crappy graphis I have ever seen. I am just glad this site has a good grip on what games are suppose to be rated. GO HALO 2!
  20. MichaelC.
    Nov 8, 2004
    10
    Yeah, some friends got a copy of this one early (legally of course)... So far I was only able to play the multiplayer portion of the game, but what I experienced was incredible. Improved graphics, sound, and environments are only the tip of the iceberg. With as skeptical as I usually am, I can whole-heartedly say that this part of the game is a tenfold improvement over the original. Throw Yeah, some friends got a copy of this one early (legally of course)... So far I was only able to play the multiplayer portion of the game, but what I experienced was incredible. Improved graphics, sound, and environments are only the tip of the iceberg. With as skeptical as I usually am, I can whole-heartedly say that this part of the game is a tenfold improvement over the original. Throw XBox Live functionality into the mix, and you have a multiplayer masterpiece. I really wanted to try out the single-player campaign, but I figured that I should wait until Tuesday when I grab my own copy and can really sit down with it. I did see it in action for a few minutes, and from what I saw and what people have told me about it, it appears to be just as mind-blowing as the multiplayer. Man, my grades are going to PLUMMET this semester!!!… Expand
  21. MarkM.
    Oct 18, 2004
    10
    I LOVE IT!!!!!!!
  22. AdamH.
    Nov 8, 2004
    10
    The best game i have ever played.
  23. 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.
  24. TheGamer
    Nov 9, 2004
    5
    Extremely overrated. This game dose not come close enough to all the hype. If this game completely sucked all the die hard fans would still give it a 10.
  25. MikeD.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    Sweet sweet game i love it
  26. RandyM.
    Nov 9, 2004
    9
    Halo 2 will own you!!!!
  27. Daz
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    Nearly finished this beast of a game. Is it the best game ever? Well it just might be... I've been playing games since 1983 and the sinclair ZX spectrum (and yes the yanks will not have heard of that machine) and i can't remember enjoying playing a game so much. The elements that come together to make the single player are out of this world. The graphics, the vehicles (i LOVE Nearly finished this beast of a game. Is it the best game ever? Well it just might be... I've been playing games since 1983 and the sinclair ZX spectrum (and yes the yanks will not have heard of that machine) and i can't remember enjoying playing a game so much. The elements that come together to make the single player are out of this world. The graphics, the vehicles (i LOVE the ghosts), the music, the guns are all superb. I do have to add that there are not many games where i've stopped playing just to look around for 30 secs because its just so beautiful. To sum up...the best game ever - maybe. The best XBOX game - without a shadow of a doubt!!!!… Expand
  28. MarlowD.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    I was on the Beta for this game (safe to admit now it is released) and I have played this game for hundreds of hours. With regard to the reviewer who gave this game a 2... well, let me see There isn't much to do in the single player game, that is true... unless you count battling cunning, tough enemies of many, many types with a wide range of weapons, alien and human, each with I was on the Beta for this game (safe to admit now it is released) and I have played this game for hundreds of hours. With regard to the reviewer who gave this game a 2... well, let me see There isn't much to do in the single player game, that is true... unless you count battling cunning, tough enemies of many, many types with a wide range of weapons, alien and human, each with strengths and weakness which vary as they are combined, in different richly modelled vehicles and on foot, all through widely varying environments that include spaceships, the great outdoors and a great range of buildings. Oh, and you have to save the world. If that isn't enough for you, then, Sir, I take my hat off to you. This game would challenge any mere mortal, not only in terms of difficulty but in sheer scope. Were you playing the same game as me?… Expand
  29. 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
  30. UlliJ.
    Oct 29, 2004
    10
    Halo 2 will blow minds. This is the best game since LOZ: Ocarina of time.
  31. RyanVanN.
    Oct 31, 2004
    10
    This game is awesome!!!!!
  32. OMARL.
    Aug 21, 2004
    10
    WOW!!!!
  33. 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.
  34. 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
  35. MattV.
    Feb 28, 2006
    10
    Halo 2 is an amazing game. The story line for it kinda sucks but who cares the multiplayer is awesome! Every Xbox owner should have this game.
  36. ChrisK.
    May 31, 2006
    7
    Halo 2 action is nothing more than just like the original Halo. Constantly fighting and poorly told stories, but that's not what all the good ratings come in. Players who enjoy a good bashing will like this game. The feel for the weapons are amazing and that's pretty much it. Getting a sticky grenade onto your opponent from fifty feet away is a pretty damn good feeling. The Halo 2 action is nothing more than just like the original Halo. Constantly fighting and poorly told stories, but that's not what all the good ratings come in. Players who enjoy a good bashing will like this game. The feel for the weapons are amazing and that's pretty much it. Getting a sticky grenade onto your opponent from fifty feet away is a pretty damn good feeling. The reason for all those good ratings you see, aren't because the players overrate the game. It is because they enjoy it and Halo is quite fun. I do recommend this game to anyone who is not up to date and spoiled by next-generation graphics and visual effects.… Expand
  37. AlecB.
    Sep 25, 2006
    10
    X-Box was only created to play two games and that is Halo and Halo 2.
  38. Adrian
    Sep 18, 2007
    8
    While the presentation, gameplay, and graphics technology definitely make Halo 2 a quality product, its poor storyline's execution and repetitive nature stop it from being truly outstanding.
  39. SanzeeBoy
    Jul 29, 2009
    10
    Revolutionary and fantastic in every way possible. Only adds to the success of this wonderful franchise. It hurts me to see Messiah rating all the Xbox titles so low. I wonder why?
  40. 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.
  41. CaoB.
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    It's the best game to come to the console ever and will be for years to come.
  42. MikeW.
    Nov 11, 2004
    7
    This is by far the most overhyped game ever. First of all I wasn't a huge fan of the first game, it was bogged down by weak multiplayer, mediocre campaign mode, and an overall lack of style. It was a game that had so much potential but in the end fell flat on its face. Halo 2 is better, but only in little tiny technical ways. Graphics, sound, and enemy A.I. But the game has this if This is by far the most overhyped game ever. First of all I wasn't a huge fan of the first game, it was bogged down by weak multiplayer, mediocre campaign mode, and an overall lack of style. It was a game that had so much potential but in the end fell flat on its face. Halo 2 is better, but only in little tiny technical ways. Graphics, sound, and enemy A.I. But the game has this if it ain't broke don't fix it mentality to it. Only problem is it just blatantly overlooks problems from the first game. Though it isn't a complete waste, it has good enough core gameplay to make it worth buy. But if you want a mind blowing gaming experience go someplace else.… Expand
  43. 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
  44. BradS.
    Nov 11, 2004
    10
    The genious of this game doesn't lie within its brilliant single-player campaign. Or its breathless Multiplayer modes. It lies within all of us. Who somehow feel that playing this game makes us better. Bungie has made the game of Halo into a world phenomenon for many years to come.
  45. DeeToo
    Nov 14, 2004
    10
    Not perfect, but brilliant and with a wildly imaginative story. IMO, one of the great sequals in entertainment history. Kudos to Bungie for pushing the boundaries of what is possible and yet also retaining the distinctive character of the original HALO. Yes, I agree there are some technical glitches, etc., but there are moments in this game that I can't get out of my mind and Not perfect, but brilliant and with a wildly imaginative story. IMO, one of the great sequals in entertainment history. Kudos to Bungie for pushing the boundaries of what is possible and yet also retaining the distinctive character of the original HALO. Yes, I agree there are some technical glitches, etc., but there are moments in this game that I can't get out of my mind and can't wait to encounter again. As good as THE CHRONICLES OF RIDDICK, BUTCHER BAY looked, HALO 2 is ten times more addictive and incredibly fun to play. … Expand
  46. 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
  47. 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.
  48. ArkonBlade
    Mar 11, 2011
    3
    wow this was and maybe one of the biggest dissapointments in a sequel ive ever had the misfortune of playing. the good of this game can be sumed up very fast .controls are tight and graphics where great in there day and that would be it. every thing els about this game falls flat on its face . the story starts out kinda intresting then you start playing as the arbator which was likewow this was and maybe one of the biggest dissapointments in a sequel ive ever had the misfortune of playing. the good of this game can be sumed up very fast .controls are tight and graphics where great in there day and that would be it. every thing els about this game falls flat on its face . the story starts out kinda intresting then you start playing as the arbator which was like WTF!!!! i dont wana play as this **** i want to play as the master chief . i wouldnt have minded if it was a seperate campahn mode i could pick from the start but no it jumps back and forth and its HORRABLY annoying. then there is the wepons balance OMG! they just took a huge dump on that all the wepons ammo got cut by 1/2 or 2/3 of what they use to hold on top of that they gimped alot of the old guns. remember how sweet the pistol was? yeah now you might as well shoot spitballs as the enimy. the old machine gun use to be a pretty solid wepon to use now they tossed that for the gimp little smg which is like shooting a FKin BB gun. the enimy AI has takin a major dump . the brutes are complete idiots they just charge you over and over and over and never stop . so you eather get cheap killed up against a wall or you jump up on some thing high and laugh at them as they run into the object over and over again like a retard tryin to hump a door knob on speed. the ending is one of the worst in gaming history . it pretty much sets you up to what you think will be the final mission only to give you a big F U wait 3 damn years to play the next one HAHA dumbass . now you would think ok well the online will be awsome right i mean that was one of the coolest things about Halo 1 was how bad ass a multiplayer game it was . well WROOOOONG!!!! another Epic fail by bunjie . first off im not sure how many maps there are but i can say this much i played the same 2 FKin maps for 10 hours and thoose 2 maps sucked. this games search set up SUCKS and suck HARD! now toss in how the wepons where all gimped and you have a piss poor pathetic waste of a online game . people giving this any thing higher then a 7 ... try to defend that . you cant . this game sucks end of story.… Expand
  49. williamwiggles
    Nov 13, 2010
    7
    Worst Halo. Multiplayer is OK, but it has the worst campaign, and a weird place balance. For the real Halo's, check out Halo: Combat Evolved, or Halo Reach. For something different, try out MW2 or Black Ops.
  50. AI88
    Nov 27, 2010
    10
    Halo 2 is an excellent game. It's not quite as good as the first one, but what is? This game has a great campaign and awesome multiplayer. I got this game as a Christmas present back in 2005 and I'm still playing it! You know a game is good when it doesn't grow old even after 5 years.
  51. TheChiefOfCOD
    Dec 22, 2010
    6
    I think Halo 2 lost some of its score when they deactivated Xbox Original Live. The campaign still delivers, its epic but sometimes there are those "Where do i go?!?!" moments. Graphics are really good for Xbox, and the voice recording is good too. I think that they still could of worked on the graphics.
  52. spadenx
    Jan 13, 2012
    6
    A disapointing sequel. I didnt like the new look that the game had and it didnt really fit well with me. The story was a little too similar to the first game. It was interesting playing on the covenant side and it was easily the best part of the campaign. Multiplayer was fun but besides an updated look, It didnt really have much different from the first game's multiplayer.

    It was an ok    A disapointing sequel. I didnt like the new look that the game had and it didnt really fit well with me. The story was a little too similar to the first game. It was interesting playing on the covenant side and it was easily the best part of the campaign. Multiplayer was fun but besides an updated look, It didnt really have much different from the first game's multiplayer.

    It was an ok game but very disapointing.    … Expand
  53. 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
  54. Jmsbpp
    Jul 20, 2013
    3
    Un total asco de juego unos estupidos con traje apretadito matando simios disfrazados.................................................................
  55. memus
    Jan 25, 2021
    5
    Meh. Quite a letdown after CE.

    Pros: + I played Anniversary edition. And it has two great advantages: the cutscenes are great and the level actually look better in the remaster (in CE I preferred the original mode) + The opening level is great. Both visually and gameplay wise. + The soundtrack is epic. As in any Halo game, I assume. Cons: - An awful encounter design. There are    Meh. Quite a letdown after CE.

    Pros:
    + I played Anniversary edition. And it has two great advantages: the cutscenes are great and the level actually look better in the remaster (in CE I preferred the original mode)
    + The opening level is great. Both visually and gameplay wise.
    + The soundtrack is epic. As in any Halo game, I assume.

    Cons:
    - An awful encounter design. There are too many enemies in small spaces. So in the second half of the game I preferred to run away instead of fighting enemies. And that's not a great review for a shooter game.
    - I didn't like Arbiter mission. They don't make the plot that much better (it's very similar to CE). But he's weaker then Master Chief and his stealth is lame.    … Expand
  56. JoshLuck1995
    Sep 9, 2014
    10
    There are probably some minor faults in this game but it doesnt stop me giving it a 10, i was young and this was one of many of the first games i played and it is special, i have special memories of this game and is and always will be my favourite Halo game. 10/10.
  57. Barrack_Osama
    Feb 6, 2015
    10
    this game was great! it continued the combat evolved story and added dual wielding. the story was great, they added new characters. halo 2 was the most played purchased game on Xbox ever. the campaign was great and so was the mulitiplayer with even maps and guns. Overall, great game
  58. TatsMcGee
    Sep 8, 2018
    7
    Halo is an iconic series that I want to play them all and I will play them all. I played the first one a couple months ago, now I just played 2 and I plan on playing Halo 3 next month. I don’t want to burn out and play all of them back to back but I do want to play Halo 2, 3, ODST, 4 and 5 this year so I need to get busy.

    In case you don’t know what the Halo series is, it’s a    Halo is an iconic series that I want to play them all and I will play them all. I played the first one a couple months ago, now I just played 2 and I plan on playing Halo 3 next month. I don’t want to burn out and play all of them back to back but I do want to play Halo 2, 3, ODST, 4 and 5 this year so I need to get busy.

    In case you don’t know what the Halo series is, it’s a First-Person Shooter. The multiplayer is very popular but I have no interest in that, I care about the campaign which is very well done. I can confidently say that the Halo series is one of the best shooters that I have ever played.

    The First Halo didn’t have an overly interesting story but the 2nd one, they definitely took the time to come up with an interesting story to go along with the game. I played this on the Master Cheif Collection and it’s seems like a good port but I didn’t play the original so I don’t know.    … Expand
  59. 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
  60. Broyax
    Apr 11, 2017
    6
    Globalement une suite très honnête, (un peu) plus belle mais plus spectaculaire... mais sans réelles nouveautés non plus. Contrairement au premier, les niveaux sont assez variés et plus équilibrés. Le doublage VF est bon et l'ambiance inimitable et "curieuse" est toujours là (sans oublier la musique). Jouabilité Halo fidèle à elle-même certes maniable mais victime de ses choix discutablesGlobalement une suite très honnête, (un peu) plus belle mais plus spectaculaire... mais sans réelles nouveautés non plus. Contrairement au premier, les niveaux sont assez variés et plus équilibrés. Le doublage VF est bon et l'ambiance inimitable et "curieuse" est toujours là (sans oublier la musique). Jouabilité Halo fidèle à elle-même certes maniable mais victime de ses choix discutables (deux armes seulement, vie qui remonte toute seule). L'histoire réserve quelques surprises... pas toujours les bienvenues et la fin apparaît quelque peu bâclée.… Expand
  61. frederik1478
    Mar 27, 2020
    7
    It has it's good moment but there is just too much bad levels you can really feel that they didn't have enough time
  62. Thwompthing
    Feb 20, 2022
    10
    Halo 2 took Halo to another level and introduced what online multiplayer was capable of. Halo 2 was revolutionary and to give it anything less than a 10 would be uncivilized!
  63. coquedepor
    Dec 16, 2019
    6
    + multiplayer
    + weapons
    +playability
    + art
    - storyline hard to understand
    - Caotich combact experience
  64. Peter19
    Sep 16, 2019
    7
    Probably my favorite war shooter multiplayer game, i can't tell you how great the moment i got this game and looking at the graphics
  65. Cingleon
    Nov 27, 2021
    10
    The best halo for me. Great story,levels,weapon,and cortana. I'm was sad when i watched a story in halo 5, and i hope 434 will change it to better side in halo infinite. 10/10 halo 2
  66. Brayancodova
    Aug 23, 2020
    10
    Es un juegazo clasico me encanta el universo Halo es uno de los mejores fps que e jugado buen trabajo spartans!.
  67. 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.
  68. FabricioNery
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    Jogo fora de série, um marco para geração, gameplay maravilhoso e ótima história.
  69. JakubTyszko
    Feb 14, 2021
    3
    Continuation of a boring game of mindless shooting. Story is like written by kids.
  70. DiegoLegarreta
    Aug 26, 2021
    0
    Excelente diseño de niveles, excelente soundtrack y excelente historia. Muy emotiva
  71. Tork202
    Jun 3, 2022
    10
    Шедевральная игра, отличная всем, игра заслуженно имeет статус бесптлеера первого Xbox , в игре xopoшо все, минусов нет.
  72. R.S.
    Jan 3, 2005
    5
    Ok people... i mean really was it that great. Ok to let you know my history... I bought the Xbox only to play halo back when it first came out, yes I admit it was one of the better first person shooters out there well considers consoles only I would say it was the best. so yes I was anticipating Halo 2, I couldn
  73. 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.
  74. TonyC.
    Jan 5, 2005
    5
    The game was very repetitive and dull, although it had some interesting features like taking control of ghosts and wraiths, etc.. the overall gameplay was repetitive and many of the map designs were similar and dull. No real challenges or obstacles single player mode = 3 rating. The online play is much better, it is random maps and random the game and map selection is lacking. But once The game was very repetitive and dull, although it had some interesting features like taking control of ghosts and wraiths, etc.. the overall gameplay was repetitive and many of the map designs were similar and dull. No real challenges or obstacles single player mode = 3 rating. The online play is much better, it is random maps and random the game and map selection is lacking. But once you get in the game and play it is fun. Sometimes in team battles part of your team will leave and it makes the teams so unfair you can't win and takes the fun out of the online experience. Overall online experience nothing really new or exciting Online play is definately better than single player mode. Online rating = 7, however it gets old and repetitive quick as well.… Expand
  75. 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.
  76. JesseS.
    Jun 19, 2005
    7
    A good game, but highly overrated. The graphics are nice, with some nice character models and environments. However, they tend to repeat themselves. The gameplay is that great, addictive Halo that we all remember. However, the Arbiter missions are quite boring and disappointing, and you end up feeling like you're doing the same mission you were doing some time earlier. The thing that A good game, but highly overrated. The graphics are nice, with some nice character models and environments. However, they tend to repeat themselves. The gameplay is that great, addictive Halo that we all remember. However, the Arbiter missions are quite boring and disappointing, and you end up feeling like you're doing the same mission you were doing some time earlier. The thing that really shines in this game is the multiplayer. Expect it to be a great experience, but its not the giant God that everyone makes it out to be.… Expand
  77. 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
  78. JeroenVR
    Nov 16, 2004
    7
    Just like Doom 3 , this game was too heavily anticipated. I didn't like the first Halo, and I barely like Halo 2. The graphics are nice, story is rather good but man, Halo doesn't suck me into the game, like Burnout 3 or Medal Of Honor : PA. Its seems that all most-wanted games are disappointing: Doom 3, Halo 2, GTA San Andreas, NFS Underground 2 ( don't even get me started Just like Doom 3 , this game was too heavily anticipated. I didn't like the first Halo, and I barely like Halo 2. The graphics are nice, story is rather good but man, Halo doesn't suck me into the game, like Burnout 3 or Medal Of Honor : PA. Its seems that all most-wanted games are disappointing: Doom 3, Halo 2, GTA San Andreas, NFS Underground 2 ( don't even get me started on this amazingly stupid game, and yes I am a race fan). I hope it will not be the same for Half Life 2.… Expand
  79. D.C.
    Nov 10, 2004
    5
    HYPE!!! HYPE!!! HYPE!!! lots of HYPE. HYPO 2 oh I mean HALO 2 was the biggest Video Game Hype in forever. HALO the first one was a better game, for the simple fact that it was the first of it's kind. Part 2, yeah may have more things in it but was it really worth people standing in line in the freezing cold for hours HEEEEEECK NO!!!! The Master Chief should get a name change to Super HYPE!!! HYPE!!! HYPE!!! lots of HYPE. HYPO 2 oh I mean HALO 2 was the biggest Video Game Hype in forever. HALO the first one was a better game, for the simple fact that it was the first of it's kind. Part 2, yeah may have more things in it but was it really worth people standing in line in the freezing cold for hours HEEEEEECK NO!!!! The Master Chief should get a name change to Super Master Cheif because he is Unbreakable. He can jump on top of almost anything, fall from the sky and all this with out a scratch. Glitching is a problem to, empty chairs one second, then bam the whole Marine Core the next. Why was it pushed back is the question of the year or should I say three years. I gave the game a 5 because of XBOX Live, THATS ALSOME. My last words are HYPE!!! HYPE!!! HYPE!!!. Can't wait for Underground 2.… Expand
  80. 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
  81. MattP.
    Nov 21, 2004
    7
    Very overrated. I expected tight action with frantic spinning and alot of "oh jesus!" and I got it. But the fights were either way too long or way too short and the ending was the most bitter slap in the face I've experienced in gaming.
  82. TomC.
    Nov 9, 2004
    5
    I am extremely disappointed with this game as is most of the fraternity I live in. I gave it a low rating b/c of the high expectations I had for it. The game resembles too much a computer game first of all and though XBOX is basically a computer, none of the previous games have resembled comp. games. The fact that pistol zoom is gone and that everything feels 10x smaller is already a I am extremely disappointed with this game as is most of the fraternity I live in. I gave it a low rating b/c of the high expectations I had for it. The game resembles too much a computer game first of all and though XBOX is basically a computer, none of the previous games have resembled comp. games. The fact that pistol zoom is gone and that everything feels 10x smaller is already a problem. Also, the fact that everything moves at the speed of light is another problem. The game feels like it was only built for xbox live. The fact that we had to wait three years for this is pretty sad in my opinion as the improvements are extremely minimal.... an extra few weapons and options... really nothing spectacular.… Expand
  83. 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.
  84. SariD.
    Dec 22, 2004
    6
    Yes yes and yes we know this game suffered mostly by way of hype-bomb syndrome. Essentially the creative marrow of Bungie's Mac based jumped ship halfway through this project and the Microsoft bigwigs stepped in and said that this is going to be the game that will serve as the ramp to get consumer kids onto Xbox Live. Because of that chapters of the game that would have made the game Yes yes and yes we know this game suffered mostly by way of hype-bomb syndrome. Essentially the creative marrow of Bungie's Mac based jumped ship halfway through this project and the Microsoft bigwigs stepped in and said that this is going to be the game that will serve as the ramp to get consumer kids onto Xbox Live. Because of that chapters of the game that would have made the game more substantial and meaningful in a Star Wars operatic way were lobotomized. The most dissapointing thing of all is that this is going to be the last Halo release on Xbox 1 and yes you will need to buy xbox2 to see how the trilogy ends in Halo3. … Expand
  85. JonW.
    Dec 2, 2004
    10
    This game is godly, and woulda been better if some of the multiplayer levels woulda been left in. coagulation is a way better upgrade, mostly because you can hide better from alotta snipers now. I love this game, and everybody who cant at least appreciate it... a mushroom slap to the face.
  86. SaketR.
    Jan 11, 2005
    5
    Hype can make or break a game, from a marketing perspective Microsoft did everything right with this title, but unfortunately the same cannot be said about the final product, which by an measure is no where near breathtaking. Quite simply, I feel conned into buying a game which can only be enjoyed by a minimum of 4 people at a time, and needs a Broadband connection or regular visitors. As Hype can make or break a game, from a marketing perspective Microsoft did everything right with this title, but unfortunately the same cannot be said about the final product, which by an measure is no where near breathtaking. Quite simply, I feel conned into buying a game which can only be enjoyed by a minimum of 4 people at a time, and needs a Broadband connection or regular visitors. As has been said by many others, the single player mode is totally underwhelming. Poor game design, recycled levels, slightly polished graphics and incredibly short, this game is a black mark when compared to the good effort that was Halo 1. Regardless, the multi player is better than most; only if you can manage 3 people to come over at a minimum. Some of the weapons are too powerful while others are remarkably weak. There seems to be no justice to anyone in this game: Sales have been too much, the public has been conned, and finally all the reviewers have been overrating, this is not the messiah of all games, oh no, its simply the snake which tempted all and ended up doing nothing but ill.… Expand
  87. 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
  88. AmazingBen
    Jan 26, 2005
    10
    I don't usually buy into the hype of games, and Halo 2 was no exception. I enjoyed the first installment, but I have to admit I was a little suspicious of all the 100s the gaming magazines were giving it. Let me say this much: this is the best game on the Xbox. Many people trashed on the story and particularly the ending. I must disagree. I think the game definitely had an epic feel I don't usually buy into the hype of games, and Halo 2 was no exception. I enjoyed the first installment, but I have to admit I was a little suspicious of all the 100s the gaming magazines were giving it. Let me say this much: this is the best game on the Xbox. Many people trashed on the story and particularly the ending. I must disagree. I think the game definitely had an epic feel to it and even the ending left you pumped up for the third installment. In short, Halo 2 is the "Empire Strikes Back" of the Halo legacy. The graphics are amazing, the levels are cool and the ability to dual wield brings a whole new dimension to the game. Buy it, and you will never regret it.… Expand
  89. ViasubRosa
    Jan 31, 2005
    10
    WARNING: this game is not for the occasional gamer or less and definitely not for those nausiated by FPS games. I found this game to be a "sit at the edge of your seat while blasting your opponents away, then getting smacked from behind and cursing your head off!" kind of game. Then again, that's more like what happened to me earlier while I was playing. The fact is that this game is WARNING: this game is not for the occasional gamer or less and definitely not for those nausiated by FPS games. I found this game to be a "sit at the edge of your seat while blasting your opponents away, then getting smacked from behind and cursing your head off!" kind of game. Then again, that's more like what happened to me earlier while I was playing. The fact is that this game is for those who want to play, enjoy playing, and look forward to palying it some more. If this doesn't suit your style of gaming, then let it be.… Expand
  90. Jacob
    Jan 30, 2005
    10
    This is truly the one of the best first person shooters ever.It has great gameplay, an interesting story continuation from the original, although the ending was fairly disappointing.
  91. DaveS.
    Jan 3, 2005
    10
    This was the best game of the year, according to gamestop. I am tired of little n00bs, like half of you people, who don't know how to properly rate games.
  92. KevinB.
    Jan 5, 2005
    10
    Dis game rocks! I play it every day wether im shootin up those tiny grunts or tearin the monkey people to pieces.
  93. D
    Jan 9, 2005
    10
    Halo 2. There is not another game that gives you chills down your spine when you say the title. This was the most anticipated game ever in the videogame industrie. This game definatley lived up to its hype, and in my opion it passed that hype. Many people believe that GTA: St. Andraes is a much better game. I say GTA made 115 million dollars in a week......not bad. Halo 2 on the other Halo 2. There is not another game that gives you chills down your spine when you say the title. This was the most anticipated game ever in the videogame industrie. This game definatley lived up to its hype, and in my opion it passed that hype. Many people believe that GTA: St. Andraes is a much better game. I say GTA made 115 million dollars in a week......not bad. Halo 2 on the other hand sold 125 million dollars in a day.........amazing. I think the thing that attracts people most to Halo 2 and Halo 1 is not just the great guns, storyline, vechiles, enimes, online play,etc. It is the amazing entertainment of throwing a plasma grenade into a bunch of covenet then continuing to flank the others while your soliders are cleaning up the stragliers. Also there is no other game that can give "chills" down your spine while entering a battle, and there is no other noise like "oh-oh-oh-oh-oh-oh" The thing I love most about Halo 2 is that it brings all of the fun from Halo 1, but it times it by 10. There are also new features for Halo 2 such as duel wielding, the ability to steal a ghost or any other veichale from your enimes or your friends, heat seaking missiles, just to name a few. After you finish the campian mode (which really is amazing, but i dont want to say anything because it might spoil the game) there is a bunch of other things to do. Such as, the online play, it really is amazing, the fun of you and your buddies getting in warthogs, ghosts, and banshees and atacking your friends base then when you finally get there flag the challenge of running away while rockets and bullets are zooming by your head is pricless. Even if you dont have Xbox live you can play split screen with up to 4 players. Now while this is not as entertaing as Xbox live it still does have its advantages. They are, being able to see the person you are playing and knowing them personally, the ablillty to braging rights around the people you see everyday, but my personal favorite is the victory dance you can do when you end your friends killing spree with a rocket demolishing the wartghog hes been in for 3 hours. So, in conclusion me and the other 100 million people would probally agree that this is the greatest game to ever be made. There once was a line in the Offical Xbox Magazine that stated that Rockstar had said that Halo 2 will "never come" and "if the game does come out it will be the greatest game to ever be seen, but of course no such thing can be done" they also were stated saying that "Even if Halo 2 does come out Bungie could never put all of the things they say will be in the game by November 9" In Halo 2's comerical they show everything in the game and then at the end of the comerical they say "To all those that said this day would never come what are they to say now"… Expand
  94. ChrisB.
    Jan 9, 2005
    6
    With all the praise that was being dumped on this game, I thought I'd pick it up for my Xbox. Wow. I feel sorry for people who only play FPS games on a console. This is supposed to be the best game ever made? Please. When judged against it's genre peers on the PC, Halo 2 is very average. The gameplay is linear, repetitive and the much-vaunted story seems incredibly superficial. With all the praise that was being dumped on this game, I thought I'd pick it up for my Xbox. Wow. I feel sorry for people who only play FPS games on a console. This is supposed to be the best game ever made? Please. When judged against it's genre peers on the PC, Halo 2 is very average. The gameplay is linear, repetitive and the much-vaunted story seems incredibly superficial. The graphics are nowhere near as good as this year's PC shooters such as Half-Life 2, Far Cry, or Doom 3. And the online play is very run-of-the-mill. Still, I can see why console gamers think this is an amazing game - it's easily one of the best shooters ever made FOR A CONSOLE. But best game ever? Not even close. Halo 2 isn't even in the top 5 for best game of the year, if all platforms are taken into account, and when judged against it's shooter-peers on the PC, it's no better than average.… Expand
  95. HappySquirrel
    Feb 1, 2005
    10
    I would almost think Half-Life 2 was a better FPS, until I played Halo 2's X-Live. The mutiplayer is hands-down the best! I have never seen a better competetive feel/edge to a game ! The lan-parties of old are obsolete, since you can meet your friends online, and have the old beat down quests of old! The imbalances of old were fixed too. The pistol cannot kill you from across the I would almost think Half-Life 2 was a better FPS, until I played Halo 2's X-Live. The mutiplayer is hands-down the best! I have never seen a better competetive feel/edge to a game ! The lan-parties of old are obsolete, since you can meet your friends online, and have the old beat down quests of old! The imbalances of old were fixed too. The pistol cannot kill you from across the level now. Also vehicle sniping w/ the pistol doesn't work too. You can also destroy vechiles, so no one can go forever in the ghost. No more health packs. The shotgun got a needed reduction, since it was used as a medium range weapon in the first game. Also, the Legendary mode in the old game was kinda weak. In Halo 2, you will get your ass-handed to you! Be prepared to sream in rage at the tv for hours on the new Legendary mode! More customizable options for multiplayer games. I could go on. Point is, it's not broken. Any style of weaponry can be countered with another! The only thing people bitched about was the story mode. People are weird, since nothing was broken about it, but then again this is Halo 2, and so much was expected from this game. People expected their own "fantisy" version of the game. A lot of people's complaints were directed towards playing as the Arbiter. Kinda ironic, since people bitched about not being able to play as Covies in the first game. And people are wrong about campaign too, it has the most EPIC feel of any game i've played. Halo was EPIC. Halo 2 delivers. Hands down the best console game this year! I'd almost say best game ever, but PC has World of Warcraft.… Expand
  96. 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
  97. 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!!! :) :) :) :)
  98. JohnS.
    Feb 4, 2005
    10
    I give the single player only an 9, but the multiplayer is above and beyond anything I've ever played. My friends and I (who usually play a different multiplayer game every month) will be playing H2 multiplayer for a couple of years at least. If they continue to add new maps, it'll be practically inexhaustible. Multiplayer is just that good.
  99. MarkW.
    Feb 7, 2005
    7
    Its amazing how many people call this game nearly flawless, then give it a 100% rating. It's honestly less than average. It has some decent movie clips that bring interest to an otherwise dull playing experience. If your not playing online there is no reason to buy this game.
  100. RichardD.
    Mar 21, 2005
    9
    Good Game..bad Levles..X Box Live..Perfect.
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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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