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. PriscillaS.
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    This game rocks. IMHO, it offers the best FPS experience to date. The reviewer from Cinescape is obviously unqualified for the job.
  2. DinoF.
    Nov 16, 2004
    7
    [***SPOILERS***] Great game with fantastic scenery and set pieces, however I thought the plot was no where near as good as the first, with the biggest plot twist being the unexpected ending just 10 hours into the game as things were beginning to heat up! Unlike the first game there where no massive and unexpected plot twists (who can forget the unexpected appearance of the flood in the[***SPOILERS***] Great game with fantastic scenery and set pieces, however I thought the plot was no where near as good as the first, with the biggest plot twist being the unexpected ending just 10 hours into the game as things were beginning to heat up! Unlike the first game there where no massive and unexpected plot twists (who can forget the unexpected appearance of the flood in the first game), or dramatic ending as the Halo explodes and the covanent and humans drop their weopans and make up that made the game feel like it was a complete story.... Although visually stunning and with the incredibly high production values, the game really delivered more of the same with some extra weopans, vehicles and enemies. I was a bit disapointed to find that the flood storyline was re used, and if it were not for the online part of the game, I would question what exactly Bungie have been doing all this time ? When this game ended I was absolutely stunned. The game just ended leaving me in a state of disbelief and like other reviewers I was actually expecting the game to continue after the credits as I could not believe that was it !! … Expand
  3. EvanC.
    Nov 17, 2004
    10
    Awesome! This game... goes beyond the reaches of space. (no pun intended) Definitely one of the best games I've played in my 7 years of gaming... Even better than the first 1000000/10
  4. ZakneomSpartax
    Nov 17, 2004
    10
    I passed all level of Halo 1, and for me Halo 1 was the best game on Xbox, but now a new game is number one. Halo 2 is the perfect sequel of Halo 1. I passed the level easy and normal of the Halo 2 and its awesome. Watch out xbox live!!
  5. BenL.
    Nov 18, 2004
    10
    Incredible Game.
  6. Kabootle
    Nov 18, 2004
    9
    The good definItely outweighs the bad. Some repetitive level design is a bit of a problem but some of the great cinematic feelings of some of the levels make them easily forgetable. Legendary sets a whole new level compared to the old halo and multiplayer is going to keep me busy for a very long time. Graphics aren't the greatest for cutscenes but are very nice for xbox and the music The good definItely outweighs the bad. Some repetitive level design is a bit of a problem but some of the great cinematic feelings of some of the levels make them easily forgetable. Legendary sets a whole new level compared to the old halo and multiplayer is going to keep me busy for a very long time. Graphics aren't the greatest for cutscenes but are very nice for xbox and the music is a thing of beauty. One other minus is the plot. But if you're like me, you're just playing campaign to get skilled for multiplayer.… Expand
  7. JohnH.
    Nov 19, 2004
    10
    I think that this game is the best 1st person shooter since goldeneye on the nintendo 64. I have never been so impressed with the quality of design in my life. GET 'ER DONE!
  8. AndresM.
    Nov 19, 2004
    10
    A great game, don't miss it!!!
  9. AaronL.
    Nov 19, 2004
    8
    I have to say this is the best game of the year for a first person shoot-m up. I loved the fact that you confiscate a vehicle that is being driven by an enemy. I also appreciate that they evened out the weapons (pistol, sword) and you can use them all. What other game allows you to use what the enemy was actually trying to kill you with. I also enjoyed the CO-OP multi-player version. Very I have to say this is the best game of the year for a first person shoot-m up. I loved the fact that you confiscate a vehicle that is being driven by an enemy. I also appreciate that they evened out the weapons (pistol, sword) and you can use them all. What other game allows you to use what the enemy was actually trying to kill you with. I also enjoyed the CO-OP multi-player version. Very smooth and the action never ends. I liked the fact that I was able to use the arbiter. Switch of senory and great commentary from the foot soldiers. The only real problem that I had was the game was to short with a blah ending (compared to the first). I need more hours of game play to rank this game any higher. For those who ranked this game anything lower need to get off their high horse and admit that this is the best 1st person shoot-m up game of the year (except for Halo 1 but that was 3 yrs ago so it doesn't count, so get over it.)… Expand
  10. NakedClam
    Nov 21, 2004
    5
    I've only played single-player mode thus far, but to date, I'm thoroughly underwhelmed. The story line is interesting enough, but I think I'd rather have read the book than wasted so many hours of my life for such a lame ending. The entire game was only about as long as one chapter of the original HALO, and the graphics are really no better. I do like the additional I've only played single-player mode thus far, but to date, I'm thoroughly underwhelmed. The story line is interesting enough, but I think I'd rather have read the book than wasted so many hours of my life for such a lame ending. The entire game was only about as long as one chapter of the original HALO, and the graphics are really no better. I do like the additional vehicles though. All in all, this game was NOT worth the two year wait. Unless multi player is better, I'll be returning this one to the store...… Expand
  11. JamesW.
    Nov 21, 2004
    6
    Umm well. wot the helll was that. i like fps games , and u can find me playing pretty poor games until i complete them, but. i couldn't wait to play halo 2, although i wasn't the biggest fan of halo. i still thought halo 2 would be fantastic. but it was just repetitive and boring. there is always the feel that the game has been rushed just to make deadlines. a game that had soUmm well. wot the helll was that. i like fps games , and u can find me playing pretty poor games until i complete them, but. i couldn't wait to play halo 2, although i wasn't the biggest fan of halo. i still thought halo 2 would be fantastic. but it was just repetitive and boring. there is always the feel that the game has been rushed just to make deadlines. a game that had so much potential, has become an almost exact copy of number 1. and if you want a game that really deserves 10/10. check out half life 2 on pc.… Expand
  12. Daniel
    Nov 20, 2004
    10
    HALO.When the word first hits you, the definition of absolute classic comes into mind but now Bungie have come up with a new definiton.Greatest xbox game ever to have been released.Halo 1 was awesome but Halo2 has beaten it in every way.Flawless,if not perfect execution and well worth the wait.what made it even better is new graphics,dual weapon wielding and energy sword.There could never HALO.When the word first hits you, the definition of absolute classic comes into mind but now Bungie have come up with a new definiton.Greatest xbox game ever to have been released.Halo 1 was awesome but Halo2 has beaten it in every way.Flawless,if not perfect execution and well worth the wait.what made it even better is new graphics,dual weapon wielding and energy sword.There could never have been a better sequel.A high 10 but the rating option doesn't go any higher.My favorite game.Keep it up guys!!!… Expand
  13. Mr.Chicken
    Nov 20, 2004
    10
    The first Halo is still one of the greatest games ever and Halo 2 improves on it in nearly every category. Don't miss it.
  14. FoxFactor
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    Single play started great, but my jaw hit the floor at how shortly we were leaving earth. and as i was lifting my jaw, the game ended with a b**** slap in my face. Multiplayer on the other hand... Bungie, you guys did something magnificent on the multiplayer.
  15. ChrisS.
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    If you're expecting campaign levels like Halo 1 had, you will have to adjust. You are now thrown into some real world type environments. It's easy to get lost and there aren't nearly as many waypoints as there should be. Some points in the game I was finding myself running in circles because I had no idea what to do. Also there are a lot of times where you sit in the same If you're expecting campaign levels like Halo 1 had, you will have to adjust. You are now thrown into some real world type environments. It's easy to get lost and there aren't nearly as many waypoints as there should be. Some points in the game I was finding myself running in circles because I had no idea what to do. Also there are a lot of times where you sit in the same room while enemies come, you kill them, enemies come, you kill them over and over and you never know when it will end. I prefer moving along through maps than having to sit in one room clearing endlessly. I hate the new pistol. If you used the pistol a lot in the first one for multiplayer, you will be disappointed with the new one. You can't really do the 2 headshot kill like you used to be able to. I really don't like having to play as the covenent guy throughout the game. It's not as much fun and you can never tell who is a good alien and who's a bad one. I ended up killing all my helpers by accident on several occasions. Overall though, this game rocks and the multiplayer is sweet. You might as well just buy it because all your friends have it and they will whoop your --- if you suck. … Expand
  16. PandaSlayer
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    This game by far contains the best multiplayer options available in the world to date. however some poor features drag this game down, but still a must buy game
  17. JamesH.
    Nov 22, 2004
    9
    The phenomenal hype that surrounded this release meant that some people were always going to feel a sense of disappointment when a computer game, no matter how good, failed to change their lives. Those of us who were able to resist the temptation of allowing our expectations to run wild and to maintain a degree of objectivity when playing will have enjoyed a truly great game. The The phenomenal hype that surrounded this release meant that some people were always going to feel a sense of disappointment when a computer game, no matter how good, failed to change their lives. Those of us who were able to resist the temptation of allowing our expectations to run wild and to maintain a degree of objectivity when playing will have enjoyed a truly great game. The graphical and sound quality are, at times, breathtaking and the campaign gameplay (best experienced in Co-Op) improves (if not excessively) on the original. If Halo 2 is the last in the Halo series then the ending of the game could be seen as a huge disappointment by some. The new depth that Halo 2 brought to the Halo universe and the cliff-hanger ending mean that, for me, it is now inconceivable that Halo 3 will not follow this title. All this aside, the enduring joy of this game is in the incredible multiplayer experience (especially on Xbox live). When people reminisce about Halo 1, part of the nostalgia relates back to the great multiplayer experiences that they had with it. The same is likely to be true of Halo 2 and IMO this is the area of the game where the lasting judgement on Halo 2 will be made. To summarise, the campaign mode gets an 8 and Xbox live multiplayer a definite 10 … Expand
  18. TomA.
    Nov 24, 2004
    10
    WOW, This amazing game has lived up to all expectations, anyone rating this any lower than 8 must have a serious problem. What a bombshell, The Arbiter is a playable character. The storyline is ace, I thought the graphics were spot on, the only criticism I could give would be its rather easy, evn on Herioc, but this is cancelled out by its amazing and in depth multiplayer modes. WOW!
  19. TheSoup
    Nov 24, 2004
    7
    Overrated, the campaign is incredibly repetitive. Does anyone else remember when the plot was supposed to be Master Chief defending Earth form the covenant? That lasted about two levels then back to another halo. Also the legendary difficulty has changed form challenging to virtually impossible. Furthermore the dual wielding has completely unbalanced the weapons.
  20. Rav
    Nov 25, 2004
    10
    There are so many Gamecube lovers out there who have given this game a bad rating. GC owners, i wonder if u have an internet connection, b/c halo 2 on xboxlive is the best thing ever. Friends and internet connection, if u dont have either that probably why you have a gamecube. Halo 2 is simply amazing, game of the year...easily.
  21. Userguy
    Nov 28, 2004
    9
    After playing and beating the first Halo, I couldn't wait for the prequel. Just the first game chalked out about 135 hours for me, and thats not including multiplayer. Not much later after Halo 2 came out I got it, and was amazed. Well really amazed, and then a tiny bit disappointed. Halo 2 is amazing, the graphics, the AI, everything. I love all the new weapons as well as the After playing and beating the first Halo, I couldn't wait for the prequel. Just the first game chalked out about 135 hours for me, and thats not including multiplayer. Not much later after Halo 2 came out I got it, and was amazed. Well really amazed, and then a tiny bit disappointed. Halo 2 is amazing, the graphics, the AI, everything. I love all the new weapons as well as the vehicles. I have to say, those rock. But as for the new covenant members, I have to say, that I didn't like them. In my opinion, I think the original covenant troops were better, way better. The flying guys were just weak and annoying, and distracted me from the battle. They seemed more like mutant rejects than members of the covenant, so it kind of disappointed me there. The furry strong guys were pretty bad also, they are mostly beefed up versions of elites, and I prefer elites anyways, they are better looking and cooler... Mostly I didn't like them because they mostly melee and fuck up my screen whenever I get hit. That was bloody annoying. The prophets were just freakly looking and extremely weak. I didn't really see them as strong enough (or religious enough) to lead the whole covenant. A bunch of arbitors would have been excellent leaders ^^. Yeah, so I would have prefered the original covenant crew. I have to say I have another pretty funny complaint... I seriously think the shields are too powerful... In Halo 2, the enemies and allies alike seem a bit too beefed up; it takes forever for any of them to die, including yourself. I really think they should gave you weaker shields and make the enemies a bit weaker. Its not who has the strongest weapons and shields, its who has the best tactics. Halo was much better, where you had to keep more cover and lay down some fire. By the way, I'm not talking about easy, I'm talking about normal and hard. I also kind of miss the assult rifle, it was such a kickass weapon instead of the smg which just shoots willy nilly. Double weapons was a good idea, I love having double mags ^^. The levels and cutscenes were pretty good, but in my opinion Halo is still much better. There really wasn't much of a good story and plot to this sequel compared to the original. Half the time, you have no idea why the hell you are doing shit, and how it influences the story. Also, the maps in Halo 2 are way smaller and shorter than its original. I remember travelling through a shitload of maps before even finishing a level in the first Halo. In this game, all the maps are pretty tight and dark, and you never really come across any large environments. That was kind of disappointing. One thing that I can't help but be proud of is the AI. Daaamn! I remember in the first Halo, the marines kept stepping behind my warthog and getting run over. But now, they can drive vehicles!!! I always wanted them to do that. I also like being able to play the covenant missions. Those were pretty kool. I would suggest a better storyline though and better maps. Nothing so far in Halo 2 can match the last level of the game, or half the maps at that. THe only thing that is better in Halo 2 right now would have to be the multiplayer maps which just kick ass. IN short, Halo just kicks the ass of Halo 2 so far in storyline and maps, but I have to say, in multiplayer, Halo 2 just shines... I'll go play Halo now, and then play my friends in Halo 2!… Expand
  22. TorH.
    Nov 29, 2004
    10
    This is the best damn game to come out for the XBOX since the first Halo! So to all you haters out there...there must be something wrong with you...because the campaign alone is amazing...the multiplayer on XBOX Live is undescribable it's so awesome...
  23. MarkC.
    Nov 4, 2004
    9
    Man the d-wield is gonna be nice.
  24. BobM.
    Nov 4, 2004
    10
    IT ROCKS!
  25. DanJ.
    Nov 4, 2004
    10
    Best game eva!!! Bungie kicks ass.
  26. RichardT.
    Nov 6, 2004
    10
    This game will be the benchmark for ALL 2nd generation X Box (or PS2) games. I have seen nothing else that comes close to delivering what this game will.
  27. JamesM.
    Nov 8, 2004
    10
    The penultimute [Ed: huh?] gaming experience on any platform.
  28. TerryB.
    Nov 8, 2004
    6
    Same as the first one. New levels. 6 on 10
  29. CraigS.
    Nov 9, 2004
    5
    My initial thoughts are that it is to similar to Halo1, little or no improvement in graphics. Can hardly expect it to live up to the hype - the first version was the ultimate...and still is in my opinion. Damn.
  30. JeffA.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    To say the graphics, sound, controls and storyline are superb is an understatement. Halo 2 is by far the best video game on any platform. Peroid. Bungie spent three years and 6000 making this game...and it shows.
  31. MickT.
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    Without a doubt the best shooter devised by man, top notch graphics, excellent gamesply and a killer story to boot. Online gripe is with somewhat dodgy cutscenes.
  32. J2DaZ
    Nov 9, 2004
    10
    How come the Euro reviews are the lowest for Halo 2? Just curious. Fantastic game! XBOX Live, WHOOO!
  33. TonyThePirate
    Nov 9, 2004
    5
    TOO MUCH HYPE!!!!! I don't know what the big deal is but Microsoft sure did a great job in marketing. And, people sure got suckered into it. There are way better games out there.
  34. Propchecy15
    Dec 11, 2004
    7
    It is sad i never thought halo 2, would be so depressing after the 2years and a half of waiting for halo 2 to come out and beat it on the 11th pissed me off i found it way to short, and the storyline sometimes pisses me off they count one level as 4 in the beggining menu and the first level is actually a movie i was really ticked at bungie the dual wielding is cool, new vehicles, but the It is sad i never thought halo 2, would be so depressing after the 2years and a half of waiting for halo 2 to come out and beat it on the 11th pissed me off i found it way to short, and the storyline sometimes pisses me off they count one level as 4 in the beggining menu and the first level is actually a movie i was really ticked at bungie the dual wielding is cool, new vehicles, but the glitched movies really got to me. in all i thought this game wasnt as good as it could have been but the multiplayer is fun. too bad no bots.… Expand
  35. AustinR.
    Dec 13, 2004
    10
    Hands down, the most legendary game in history!
  36. BobJ.
    Dec 16, 2004
    10
    Best game period.
  37. ZackJ
    Dec 27, 2004
    10
    I think is game is awesome 'cause of the double wield weapons. I think one of the flaws was that the life meter is now harder to see, but the shield is better. I really don't like the grenades; they are too weak. This game owns ''Mech Assault 2 : Lone Wolf''.
  38. Arthur
    Dec 28, 2004
    9
    While the single-player game lacks a phenominal story, it serves as a great practice for the game's real gem: multiplayer action. The game is easily worth buying just to be able to play with three friends or up to fifteen online. With infinate multiplayer modes and an enormous Live community that's growing each day, you will get Live as soon as you play this game.
  39. Kevlar
    Dec 3, 2004
    9
    First of all, from a video game veteran's standpoint this game succeeds in everyway, shape, or form that a video game should. For all you whiners, you are what I would call hype-aholics. Granted this game came out as a sequel but to compare a game only to it's predecesor is wrong. There were so many crappy 1st person shooters that for one completely playable as a self-contained First of all, from a video game veteran's standpoint this game succeeds in everyway, shape, or form that a video game should. For all you whiners, you are what I would call hype-aholics. Granted this game came out as a sequel but to compare a game only to it's predecesor is wrong. There were so many crappy 1st person shooters that for one completely playable as a self-contained unit to come out and to be playable on an almost life-long scale (ie mulitplayer options) then the game is truly great....in my opinion. The complexity of the story arc and the characters alone dwarfs that of hordes of preceeding FPS games. … Expand
  40. JAYU.
    Dec 5, 2004
    8
    In HALO 2 you have no health meter. Thats bogus! the fuel rod gun was lacking too. i have no room to complain because i got it for $20.oo. but for all you who don't, there is no way you should pay more than $30.oo. And yes, the human pistol stinks!!!
  41. KennyH.
    Dec 9, 2004
    8
    It's a good game, but the single player is boring as hell, and the multiplayer maps are worse than the first game (fun, nevertheless)
  42. ChristinaN.
    Jan 13, 2005
    10
    This is the best game ever made.
  43. JEmMYK.
    Jan 16, 2005
    10
    Sweet game.
  44. DanL.
    Jan 19, 2005
    10
    Simply the best game on the xbox.
  45. M.S.
    Dec 22, 2005
    6
    After playing this game on all of the difficulties (Yes even Heroic and Legendary level stuff) I felt absolutely abbandoned. This was one of the most non-thrilling, straight-foward, technically underwhelming, and totally monotanous games I have ever played! I am sorry but there was simply no gameplay variation, there was no logic in the level design waht's so ever, the weapons were After playing this game on all of the difficulties (Yes even Heroic and Legendary level stuff) I felt absolutely abbandoned. This was one of the most non-thrilling, straight-foward, technically underwhelming, and totally monotanous games I have ever played! I am sorry but there was simply no gameplay variation, there was no logic in the level design waht's so ever, the weapons were boring and all felt very much the same when I used them (Except the sword which was kick ass), the sound track bugged the hell out of me (Although Incubus was perfect), the story-let's face it-is perhaps the most worthless piece of game motivation I have ever seen, and may I mention that Halo 3 better improve upon this..this was high level crap. Compaired to games such as Half-Life 2 (10), Far Cry (7), Doom 3 (9), and Quake 4 (7), it pails and shivers. I already stated exactly why I disliked this indulgent crap...sub par graphics, atrocious story, unexciting level design, tedium...but why a six? Well because the mutli-player is the best thing to happen to FPS games...if you have a bunch of friends with Xbox's and cables..throw a party and play this game! It is the most fun you will have with a group of friends on the Xbox. It elevates on so many levels here. The extention of Maps is also a fine purchase for those who really don't give two shits about the single player...like me after I played through it.… Expand
  46. FrankieB.
    Jan 24, 2005
    9
    Cinescape really dont know what they're talking about. If you look at thier website, it shows games like Sharks Tale, and Mario Party Six, getting a better review than Halo 2. Come on. Come ooooon. You may not like Halo 2 but it far surpasses games like Leisure Suit Larry, Vampire, and Taiko Drum Master. Give me a break. The only thing that bothered me in this game was playing with Cinescape really dont know what they're talking about. If you look at thier website, it shows games like Sharks Tale, and Mario Party Six, getting a better review than Halo 2. Come on. Come ooooon. You may not like Halo 2 but it far surpasses games like Leisure Suit Larry, Vampire, and Taiko Drum Master. Give me a break. The only thing that bothered me in this game was playing with that Covinent scum. You go from killing all Covi bastards to sympathizing, and sparing Covi bastards.… Expand
  47. Jake
    Jan 27, 2005
    10
    Pretty sure it is one of the best games ever.
  48. JonathanZ.
    Feb 14, 2005
    7
    You can tell right off the bat that Halo 2 is going to be different from it
  49. AnthonyR.
    Feb 24, 2005
    8
    Like all xbox users, i believe that halo is a must have for anyone. But their are some things in this game that really annoyed me. First off, when you get to a cut scene u see the outlines then the textures later, also legendary is practically impossible to beat, and i was really dissapointed that it just a fight to save earth, and thats all you did was stay on earth and try to destroy Like all xbox users, i believe that halo is a must have for anyone. But their are some things in this game that really annoyed me. First off, when you get to a cut scene u see the outlines then the textures later, also legendary is practically impossible to beat, and i was really dissapointed that it just a fight to save earth, and thats all you did was stay on earth and try to destroy the covenient from taking it over. Another thing that got me upset was taking the roles of two people, to me that was just flat out stupid and not well thought, but the xbox live is very solid. Its fun for anyone who loves halo, but dont get me wrong i love halo & halo 2 but to me it doesnt desirve a 10, and the people that say it does are getting the game way too much credit, get a life… Expand
  50. 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.
  51. JordanH.
    Apr 11, 2005
    10
    Crazy awesome.
  52. Wongit
    Apr 11, 2005
    7
    It's good...but i seriously SERIOUSLY think this game is way overhyped
  53. MystaKool
    Apr 19, 2005
    10
    I'm giving Halo 2 a 10 out of 10, simply because it's the first game since I was about twelve years old that has kept me home, in front of the tube, controller in hand, for hours at a time (I'm 25 now). Honestly, I cannot say much for the campaign mode, because I've not played it all too much, but let me just say that multiplayer mode, Xbox live style, is absolutely I'm giving Halo 2 a 10 out of 10, simply because it's the first game since I was about twelve years old that has kept me home, in front of the tube, controller in hand, for hours at a time (I'm 25 now). Honestly, I cannot say much for the campaign mode, because I've not played it all too much, but let me just say that multiplayer mode, Xbox live style, is absolutely brilliant. I've read through the reviews here and I've noticed that alot of people are saying "Oh, there's no skill involved", or "It's a run-n-gun game" or "You just circle each other with dual SMG's", but the beauty of this game is that you can play it any way you like. Yes, you can run around and shoot at everything that moves, or you can get into circle-strafes with opponents, etc., but you can also situate yourself in a key position, and wait to strike. You can crawl around, under the eye of the radar, and sneak up behind a sniper (or anyone), you can zoom in with your scope and find out where your enemies are. You can ambush your opponents, or attack from above. You can bounce grenades around corners, you can snipe, you can drive vehicles. The gameplay is so involved and dynamic. Best part, you can play on a team, and can communicate with your teammates via the xbox communicator headset. "Hey, watch out, he's behind you!" or, "The bomb's up in the tower, watch for the turret" or "He's hiding around the corner with the shotgun" - All of you who are giving this game a low rating are simply not taking the time to appreciate its subtleties. Yes, there are alot of younger people who play this game, but that's no reason to stray from it. Kids like video games! Why wouldn't they? Kids like GAMES! I think it's fine to play online against anyone, and chances are, those young kids are going to take you to the cleaners. It's a great game! If you don't have it, get it! And for those of you who balk at the "lack of skill required" - let me show you the skills required - send me a friend invite so I can ..what do they call it...pwn...you?… Expand
  54. GordonU.
    Apr 19, 2005
    6
    In attitudes(relations) to campaign, levels are ridiculously long, plot (site) is soft, and is sincere in some parts a history would be more provided, if the huge aperture of plot (site) only admitted, instead of some awfully invented case. Recurrence (copy) - opinion - numbing. I find myself visiting rooms (place) of looking 20 minutes for a silly output(exit), it or is latent, behind of In attitudes(relations) to campaign, levels are ridiculously long, plot (site) is soft, and is sincere in some parts a history would be more provided, if the huge aperture of plot (site) only admitted, instead of some awfully invented case. Recurrence (copy) - opinion - numbing. I find myself visiting rooms (place) of looking 20 minutes for a silly output(exit), it or is latent, behind of a cautious corner, or in a stable (labyrinth) of tunnels, shoots also ladders, doing(making) the game more upsetting (more sad) both intense than entertainment and a relaxation. As soon as I really leave, I have returned with my exclusive (preferable) weapon, shooting the same guys who are many times not changing. Similarly to display on the green screen, the background changes, and it - about it. My account receives all his(its) items(points) (points) from a way of the multiplayer which I still feel, wonderful and... Anyhow more senseless than the halo 1. As a whole, rather unfavourable.… Expand
  55. VladmirB.
    Apr 19, 2005
    10
    I enjoy this game very much. It has forced me to have very big excrements when I am killed. Unfortunately, I cannot enter in bathing quickly enough, and frequently times are compelled to get in failure on my couch. You cannot receive human expenditure (waste products) from a leather(skin). I tried unsucessfully many times. I shall contact with Bungie.net to my account (bill) of clearing. I enjoy this game very much. It has forced me to have very big excrements when I am killed. Unfortunately, I cannot enter in bathing quickly enough, and frequently times are compelled to get in failure on my couch. You cannot receive human expenditure (waste products) from a leather(skin). I tried unsucessfully many times. I shall contact with Bungie.net to my account (bill) of clearing. Why they would do(make) video game which is so difficult to remove me from? I play this game constantly, without rest, before my crash of a body (body). Awakening from the miss(passing) to find my trousers polluted, and my dead head of the owner (master), is very unpleasant really!!… Expand
  56. 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.
  57. AkiraBlue
    May 19, 2005
    10
    I enjoy halo 2 alot because it take more than skills to play this game. It also relies on team work and tactics. In addition it has alittle of realism integrated with sci-fi.
  58. JimmyT.
    May 28, 2005
    6
    This is a decent FPS and nothing more. It has good graphics and audio, but it does not make up for the mediocre gameplay. It is a decent game smothered in tons of hype.
  59. Jazzbo
    Jun 17, 2005
    5
    Biggest pros: lifelike graphics, story, changing viewpoints, destructable environment, vehicle usage (and being able to steal one in motion), split-screen mulitplayer customization Biggest cons: The ending. I felt like they just stopped somewhere in the middle of telling the story.
  60. 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
  61. 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
  62. EddieP.
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    This game is f...king great man to all those that gave this game a low score must be on something other than drugs or sniffing something other than crack. I like the way you use the guns in this one I wish they had it where you could switch to your other gun with out having to drop the two guns in your hand other then that this game is great I can't wait for part 3 to come out.
  63. KirkD.
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    The incredible thing about Halo 2 is well....everything. The game just consumes you throughout every aspect. I wasnt disappointed with the length of the game only because it was so good that I am willing to go back and play it again and again. Also it is the best multiplayer game I have ever played. The online is just incredible and it is just plain fun to play period. Even though I am The incredible thing about Halo 2 is well....everything. The game just consumes you throughout every aspect. I wasnt disappointed with the length of the game only because it was so good that I am willing to go back and play it again and again. Also it is the best multiplayer game I have ever played. The online is just incredible and it is just plain fun to play period. Even though I am already itching for Halo 3, Im sure ill be just fine with this until the day comes. This is one for the ages.… Expand
  64. GabeY.
    Nov 13, 2004
    10
    This game is AWESOME!!!! Just playing it for a couple hours at my friends house made me addicted. Much harder than the first, but using the duel wield kicks ass!
  65. CameronS.
    Nov 14, 2004
    10
    Best Game Ever. Bettered Halo in most repects, but the melee attacks are not as fluid as before in the combat, and its too damn short. Also Bungie offered so many more vehicles than what they gave. Great fun, but I think perfection will wait for Halo 3.
  66. 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
  67. Jelly_Bean_Man
    Nov 15, 2004
    8
    Come on people. This is not the super super super super...(you get the point) game you all think it is. It's like Microsoft got so high off it's power that it ignored the people that claimed there was something wrong with the first game and just continued making Halo 2. It's makes me wonder if they made them both straight after the other without listening to people's Come on people. This is not the super super super super...(you get the point) game you all think it is. It's like Microsoft got so high off it's power that it ignored the people that claimed there was something wrong with the first game and just continued making Halo 2. It's makes me wonder if they made them both straight after the other without listening to people's complaints. Now, you're probably wondering, why did I give this game an 8. Well, I didn't say it was a bad game. On the contrary, the multiplayer is excellent, and the use of vehicles is very smart thoroughout the game, so is the A.I. However, the same problems emerge from the last game. Balance issues: you can murder someone by hitting them with a pistol but not die after being shot with an machine gun 3000000 times. Level layout: the same repetitiveness and not enough freedom in the single player mode suffer even more in the second game. Also, the story ending is crap, I'm sure even the most addicted Halo fan will agree to that. It makes people not want to replay the single player mode ever again. For multiplayer though, Halo 2 stands with the biggest of them. However, I believe Unreal and Half Life just handle things better, not like the big-headed people at Microsoft, who believed the first people who said it was the greatest game ever and never listened to anyone else afterward. However, if it is storyline and single player you're looking for, get Unreal 2, not Halo. All in all, the Halo brainwashed people will enjoy this indefinitely, but for the people who actually think, rent this before you get it, see if you can overlook the giangantic gripes some people have.… Expand
  68. AramisG.
    Nov 15, 2004
    7
    [***SPOILERS***] I own just about every system and I would say am only a fan-boy of good games not of systems. This game was good and I enjoyed it, but I also think it is down right negligent to give any game you can beat in 6 hrs (while literally walking through the last levels) a 10 out of 10. I really, really wish gaming magazines would address the overly short gaming problem for what[***SPOILERS***] I own just about every system and I would say am only a fan-boy of good games not of systems. This game was good and I enjoyed it, but I also think it is down right negligent to give any game you can beat in 6 hrs (while literally walking through the last levels) a 10 out of 10. I really, really wish gaming magazines would address the overly short gaming problem for what it is no matter what franchise they are reviewing. Here is my review: Pros 1. A really solid story (except for the ending and some plot holes). 2. Great addictive gameplay augmented by cool weapons. 3. I really enjoyed being the arbiter, even more than being Master Chief. 4. Some of the vistas in this game are really breath-taking and add a feeling of urgency to the mission at hand. 5. Minimized combat with the Flood (they are really just annoying gun fodder compared to the Covenant). Cons 1. Way to short. I am really done with games that are over just when you are beginning to enjoy them. 2. This game looked way better in pictures. It still looks good, but I was expecting better. (What is up with the Brutes looking like overweight country bears instead of their original gorilla-esque design?) 3. Not much else to do except shoot at enemies or drive. Other than a few new enemy types (snipers & drones) it is the same as Halo 1. 4. The AI is over-hyped (In order for my AI comrades to be smart enough not to walk out into sniper fire I have to sacrifice my own shield strength?). 5. This game still has incredibly repetitive level design. There are still millions of pointless corridors and long drawn out chases. … Expand
  69. 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.
  70. Michael
    Nov 16, 2004
    10
    Best game out for Xbox.
  71. JohnC.
    Nov 16, 2004
    9
    I used to hate halo now I am a big fan of it.
  72. NathanT.
    Nov 17, 2004
    5
    Come on people. i dont care how good it is, nothing is worth a ten unless JESUS himself came and made a game and a system to run that game. honestly, there are flaws in every game. nothing is perfect and halo 2 is no exception. seriously, all u halo fan-boys, quit smokin crack and realize that there are flaws to every game and halo 2 isnt that great neways. not the masterpiece everyoneCome on people. i dont care how good it is, nothing is worth a ten unless JESUS himself came and made a game and a system to run that game. honestly, there are flaws in every game. nothing is perfect and halo 2 is no exception. seriously, all u halo fan-boys, quit smokin crack and realize that there are flaws to every game and halo 2 isnt that great neways. not the masterpiece everyone wants u to believe, eh?… Expand
  73. Guardian
    Nov 19, 2004
    7
    This is a awesome game. The dual guns the energy sword. Awesome. But the game is just to short. This game is pretty much only good when you have X-box live.
  74. Niko
    Nov 21, 2004
    10
    Veri kuud keim. kuud kraphiks änd saunds änd multipleier änd tms.
  75. ZakA.
    Nov 21, 2004
    10
    One if not da sickest game eva.
  76. SteveB.
    Nov 21, 2004
    7
    [*** SPOILER***] Good action, great story, cool weapons, great characters... but... TOO D*MN SHORT !!! When MC says he's here to "finish the fight" but then the credits roll, I was INSULTED.
  77. StephenS.
    Nov 23, 2004
    10
    It lived up to expectations with a more frentic and less repetitive single player. LIVE plays as good as it gets and the MP maps are a must!
  78. BigD
    Nov 29, 2004
    7
    Good Game. Didn't live up to the hype as far as I'm concerned. I wouldn't go as far as some people to say that I'm trading my X-box for a PS2, but it's not as good as I hoped. A few things that come to mind that were disappointing to me were: 1.) I was hoping there would be more battling on earth. I thougth the main plot of the game was going to be the Covenant Good Game. Didn't live up to the hype as far as I'm concerned. I wouldn't go as far as some people to say that I'm trading my X-box for a PS2, but it's not as good as I hoped. A few things that come to mind that were disappointing to me were: 1.) I was hoping there would be more battling on earth. I thougth the main plot of the game was going to be the Covenant invading earth. So I figured there would be more action on the city streets and buildings of earth cities. Instead we are back on alien planets and mother ships like the original Halo. 2.) When I play Halo, whether it's the first Halo or Halo 2, I am playing to kick ass with Master Chief, not to spend half the game playing as a character that is an enemy of the humans. This was a major disappointment for me. Some people I know weren't bothered by that, but it rubbed me wrong. The game is still a good entertaining game and worth the money to me, but I was definitely expecting a little more.… Expand
  79. Dbl90
    Dec 11, 2004
    8
    So far, reading all the reviews, I've seen three things. The first, is that it is a perfect game, the second it is a terrible game, and the third that it doesn't matter how good it is, the developers tried. I'd like to inform you that they are all wrong. To walk down memory lane, the original Halo was a great game, even the non-FPS lover would probably eventually have to So far, reading all the reviews, I've seen three things. The first, is that it is a perfect game, the second it is a terrible game, and the third that it doesn't matter how good it is, the developers tried. I'd like to inform you that they are all wrong. To walk down memory lane, the original Halo was a great game, even the non-FPS lover would probably eventually have to admit its brilliance. I had high expectations for Halo 2...along with the dread of a long time gaming tradition...the bad sequel. The fact that it is a sequel, and most people know the original, I shall point out what has changed. Halo 2 has some pretty intresting new features, the most novel of which is playing as an elite, with cloaking. I quite enjoyed dual weilding, especially needlers, and brought a good deal of variation to the game, even though one could not melee while not dual weilding. Also, I quite liked the intoduction of of the plasma sword, and the brute shot, which made melee combat somthing that was a possibility. The vehicles now start taking visual physical damage when shot. The sound and graphics are pretty nice, and the companion marines you take with you can be funny, although I have to admit one of the voices really ended up getting to me. Where this game really comes through, is in the multiplayer, and although I think perfer the levels in the original halo, the fact that Halo 2 is live enabled makes it great. No more having to call everyone I know to see if they could drop by to play multiplayer. The only downside is that Halo multiplay is definately not geared twoard a small group, and some levels are just too rediculously big and unweildy for two, three, or even four. Apart from these small innvations I can't really say there is too much going for this game. I really don't like how the weapons were redone, maybe it is just personal taste, but my whole style of gameplay from the original Halo was really messed up with my favorite weapons becoming quite useless. The story line, while starting off pretty intrestingly, end up bieng a bit stale, and it is the typical lrun and gun style game. The highest incentive for replay is the differant difficulty modes, which unlike in most games, make quite a big deal of differance. Go from easy to legendary....and you'll probably throw your controller down cursing when you try to melee that elite to death. The removal of any proof that one beat the game on legendary removes any bragging rights, which, is somwhat of a loss. The game shines through, but it isn't a revultion in the FPS , it isn't a classic like the orginal halo, and maybe it is a bit worse , but this is by all means not a bad game. Definately worth a rental, this is one of those games everyone else has, and probably would serve somone much better to go to play a friends copy. This deserves to be recognized as one of the better consol FPSs of the year, but does it deserve a us to serenade it with praises night and day? I think not. Dbl90… Expand
  80. CameronE.
    Dec 15, 2004
    10
    Halo 2 is a great game. yes you should buy it for your self, a friend or for your kid/kids.
  81. PerryL.
    Dec 15, 2004
    10
    I am sure most of the people who have rated this game are PS2 people, this game is amazing and definitely worth buying if you like FPS.
  82. JosephC.
    Dec 17, 2004
    8
    Halo 2 is an awesome game. While it is a bit too short, and not as good as Halo: Combat Evolved, it still delivers as a game.
  83. 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.
  84. Aznkyd
    Dec 25, 2004
    8
    This game is extremely fun in split screen, system link or online...but the story campaign wasn't that excitting. I got soo fustrated that grunts seem to have fully-automatic plasma pistols....they shoot at u like crazy in every lvl..the storyline wasn't that good either..but it was a great experience...
  85. BobG.
    Dec 26, 2004
    10
    One of the best game eva. cant be one of the classic though like the original halo. And it doesnt have that halo feeling anymore. It has the I want to kik alien ass all the way to their galaxy feeling. Still good though.The reason I gave it a 10 becuz it has new weapons, and some of the old ones got upgraded like rocketluancher and other stuff other then the pistol a.k.a magumn, newOne of the best game eva. cant be one of the classic though like the original halo. And it doesnt have that halo feeling anymore. It has the I want to kik alien ass all the way to their galaxy feeling. Still good though.The reason I gave it a 10 becuz it has new weapons, and some of the old ones got upgraded like rocketluancher and other stuff other then the pistol a.k.a magumn, new veichles like the new warthog and FINALLY u could use the wraith. I could go on for days of how this game rox but i leave it short. masterchief would need a weapon for halo3 i dont disappoint me BUNGIE!!!… Expand
  86. JohnnyC.
    Dec 26, 2004
    6
    Omfg...this game is not all dat good.the ending was horrific,and the multiplayer is so noobish!the only thing that is ok on here is mayb xboxlive.and another thing.WTF WHERE THE ATV'S?!
  87. JeffP.
    Dec 31, 2004
    10
    it is the best graphic i have seen since halo 1 and i know what i am saying when i say Halo 2 is the best game off the year and just might be for many more.
  88. Justinavery7074
    Dec 4, 2012
    10
    A top 5 game of all time for me. I could play this for hours and I would never get tired of it. Even if I got hungry and weak, I wouldn't find a faullt with this game. It's revolutionary. It's just one of those "perfect" games.
  89. 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.
  90. drlowdon
    Jun 8, 2013
    8
    Upon its release Halo quickly established itself as the original Xbox's killer exclusive and this highly anticipated sequel arrived three years later amongst huge fanfare. Fortunately, while it did not exactly reinvent the FPS genre, it more than lived up to the hype providing an excellent evolution of the close to flawless original. Single player, co-op play and online Vs modes are allUpon its release Halo quickly established itself as the original Xbox's killer exclusive and this highly anticipated sequel arrived three years later amongst huge fanfare. Fortunately, while it did not exactly reinvent the FPS genre, it more than lived up to the hype providing an excellent evolution of the close to flawless original. Single player, co-op play and online Vs modes are all accounted for and anyone that enjoys the FPS genre won't be disappointed with what they find here.… Expand
  91. Sparta123
    May 22, 2011
    10
    This is just about the best Halo ever made. I mean seriously, there have been Halos after this, Halo 3, Halo ODST, and Reach. But from all of the Halos I've played, (which are Halo 2, Halo 3, and Halo: Reach) this one is the best.
  92. ijy101
    Apr 12, 2015
    10
    Trying to be as unbiased as I can about this game, but over the years Halo 2 has wormed its way into my heart as one of the best games I have ever played. As a first person shooter the controls and core mechanics are an updated and improved upon version of Halo Combat Evolved which gives you more ways to kill aliens than before! But in all seriousness it's not the gameplay, or theTrying to be as unbiased as I can about this game, but over the years Halo 2 has wormed its way into my heart as one of the best games I have ever played. As a first person shooter the controls and core mechanics are an updated and improved upon version of Halo Combat Evolved which gives you more ways to kill aliens than before! But in all seriousness it's not the gameplay, or the multiplayer that makes this game so great, it's the immense and absolutely incredible story. The contrast of Master chief returning as a hero and Thel Vadamee (The Arbiter) returning in disgrace. The way Master Chief does what he always does kicks ass and saves the day, but then The Arbiter introduces himself as Master Chief's opposite. Through a twisting tale of redemption and betrayal we get a first hand look at the mysterious enemy The Covenant that we certainly didn't get in the first game. Through all this the Arbiter becomes the symbol of the Sangheili rebellion, we see the beginning of the downfall of the covenant as well as the Profit of Truth's true nature and motivations. The game brings our two heroes together and forces bitter enemies to become cold allies in a great storytelling arc. Now an issue with this game as a standalone game is the cliffhanger ending, because of this it opened itself to success or failure from a writing standpoint based on how Halo 3 turned out. Because Halo 3 concluded the story well and brought everything to a close it forces us to look at the entire trilogy as a whole and I would say that in the greater context Halo 2 looks to shine the greatest of them (especially with the Anniversary version). Looking back I would describe this as a perfect game, it's so much more than just another first person shooter it's an epic masterpiece.… Expand
  93. J_Khan
    Nov 10, 2015
    10
    Probably my favourite games of all time. The campaign was amazing and a turn for a more serious tone from halo 1. Multiplayer was revolutionary for its time and infinitely fun. Music was excellent and really set the tone while the graphics for it's time were also incredible. Generally one of the greatest games of all time.
  94. Schlafanzug
    Feb 11, 2013
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is the one of the best shooter games of all time, and the best game in the Halo series. Halo 2 is kind of the filler game between halo:CE and Halo 3. Halo 2 has the player play was Master chief (The main character from all of the good halo games) and as the Arbiter. I really liked how they allowed you to experience both sides of the game lore. You saw the struggle to save humanity, and the insanity behind the prophets great journey. Fight along side elites and grunt and riding in phantoms was awesome. My favorite part about Halo 2 was high charity. The city is huge and looked awesome. Oh, and you cannot forget about the amazing soundtrack.... Was just great..… Expand
  95. predator3
    Nov 11, 2011
    10
    This game is hands the down the best game ever. I don't care about Zelda, Call of Duty, or even the other Halos when this game is brought up. It is so good it is at it's own level of phenomenal. One of the best stories I have ever played. The multiplayer is great and Bungie is the GOD of video games and Microsoft is amazing. People can disagree with me but I know right now a ton of peopleThis game is hands the down the best game ever. I don't care about Zelda, Call of Duty, or even the other Halos when this game is brought up. It is so good it is at it's own level of phenomenal. One of the best stories I have ever played. The multiplayer is great and Bungie is the GOD of video games and Microsoft is amazing. People can disagree with me but I know right now a ton of people who agree with exactly everything I have said in this post.… Expand
  96. 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
  97. potatoes351
    Aug 13, 2012
    8
    Halo: Combat Evolved was always going to hard to follow up and Halo 2 almost manages it. The sprawling environments return, so do the covenant, so does the flood in fact so does everything. It feels like a copy and paste at times with very few gameplay changes and very few variations in environment. However what it does well is it brings the intergalactic war well and truly home and turnsHalo: Combat Evolved was always going to hard to follow up and Halo 2 almost manages it. The sprawling environments return, so do the covenant, so does the flood in fact so does everything. It feels like a copy and paste at times with very few gameplay changes and very few variations in environment. However what it does well is it brings the intergalactic war well and truly home and turns up the epicness to 11. Invading giant mobile covenant bases, assaulting a hanging city before it falls into the depths below and a story to bonkers that you get far too in over your head and it feels right! Halo 2 is by no means as good as Halo:CE but it damn well comes close.… Expand
  98. 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
  99. TheSquirrel
    May 5, 2012
    8
    Halo 2 adds several mechanical achievements over Halo:CE, as well as continues the incredible story arc the first began. What is loses is the originality of the first without introducing enough new elements to feel completely fresh. This is understandable, considering what a feat the first game was and how soon after this game was released. Again, graphics and controls stand up well,Halo 2 adds several mechanical achievements over Halo:CE, as well as continues the incredible story arc the first began. What is loses is the originality of the first without introducing enough new elements to feel completely fresh. This is understandable, considering what a feat the first game was and how soon after this game was released. Again, graphics and controls stand up well, even after a considerable amount of time. The Soundtrack from any Halo game is incredible, and this one is no different. For the completionist, this game on Legendary is, in my opinion, the hardest of all the Halo games, CE to Reach. Overall, a great continuation that just failed to deliver enough new material to be the greatest.… Expand
  100. Chubbychaser
    May 7, 2012
    10
    Amazing game. Bungie really did an Awsome job with halo 2. It has the best soundtrack in the series, and introduced some exiting gameplay elements like boss fights and hidden skulls to find. I really enjoyed the master chief's new suit of armor as well. No longer will you have to look all over the levels for health packs. Your mark vi completely brings you back to full health and negatesAmazing game. Bungie really did an Awsome job with halo 2. It has the best soundtrack in the series, and introduced some exiting gameplay elements like boss fights and hidden skulls to find. I really enjoyed the master chief's new suit of armor as well. No longer will you have to look all over the levels for health packs. Your mark vi completely brings you back to full health and negates fall damage. I will continue to play this game untill the day I die. I will play it with my future children as well.… 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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