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. Jackthebrit
    Dec 2, 2012
    10
    I have done my halo 1 review and now it is time to move onto the best of the series. It is important to point out that I am only basing this review on the singleplayer as I didn't manage to play the multiplayer before it was shut down, shame because I heard it was the best in the series :/. Anyway onto the review, the games plot is great with some good voice acting and cutscenes added intoI have done my halo 1 review and now it is time to move onto the best of the series. It is important to point out that I am only basing this review on the singleplayer as I didn't manage to play the multiplayer before it was shut down, shame because I heard it was the best in the series :/. Anyway onto the review, the games plot is great with some good voice acting and cutscenes added into it, the gameplay is still as great as always and (again) the music and sound effects are where it is at, they went for an electric guitar in the music this time as opposed to the choir in the original and it pays off as it makes for great action music. 10/10 (I have redeemed myself for the halo 1 review)… Expand
  2. inglorios
    Jun 22, 2012
    9
    A fantastic and welcome addition to the Halo universe. The gameplay has changed in a very positive way with the ability to dual wield and the addition of the sword. For fans of the original, get the sequel.
  3. MarkyB
    Aug 17, 2013
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. An improvement on the first game. I enjoyed the Covenant parts of the game and I had no problem with the cliff-hanger ending. Needless to say that fans of the first game will enjoy this.… Expand
  4. loil90
    Mar 15, 2017
    2
    Halo 2 is one of the best games of all time, so why did I give it a 2? To understand halo 2 you must become the 2. Without the 2 you won't get the 2 ya know? They call it Halo 2 because you get 2 guns on this one, one for each arm. Combat Evolved was a very poor spin off and ODST didnt live up the hype to be a true successor. Play this one only because its the only good one. Just rememberHalo 2 is one of the best games of all time, so why did I give it a 2? To understand halo 2 you must become the 2. Without the 2 you won't get the 2 ya know? They call it Halo 2 because you get 2 guns on this one, one for each arm. Combat Evolved was a very poor spin off and ODST didnt live up the hype to be a true successor. Play this one only because its the only good one. Just remember you gotta be the 2 to get the 2 and if you aint the 2 you cant 2 the 2 ya 2?… Expand
  5. AOLfloppydisk
    Nov 2, 2012
    9
    Awesome game, improvement over the first in some ways. The only reason I dinged it down a notch was because I hated the missions when you were forced to be an alien, I rushed through them and didn't enjoy them at all. Multiplayer was also awesome, loved the introduction to the BR in this game.
  6. Iky009
    Jan 4, 2019
    8
    Só não supera o primeiro, como também vai expandindo mais, e mais seu universo assustadoramente incrível, um salto gigante em uma trama que só melhora a cada novo capitulo.
  7. TheGamer31
    Sep 18, 2013
    7
    For me this was a massive disappointment from the original Halo coming out a few years earlier. But don't ignore this epic AAA title, it is still worth a purchase. But again I recommend the PC version over the Xbox version.
  8. lpfan2000
    Dec 3, 2012
    10
    Greatest game i have ever played. Matchmaking in this game was so much fun, plus I would play hours on end with friends in private games. The campaign was awesome, you get to drive around in a tank, drop in a pod from space, survive a flood onslaught, basically anything you could want to do in a Halo game. NO game has had better multiplayer, and NO sequel has lived up to its name period.Greatest game i have ever played. Matchmaking in this game was so much fun, plus I would play hours on end with friends in private games. The campaign was awesome, you get to drive around in a tank, drop in a pod from space, survive a flood onslaught, basically anything you could want to do in a Halo game. NO game has had better multiplayer, and NO sequel has lived up to its name period. We wouldn't have GOW, COD, or any modern first person shooter without this game happening. Game summed up by emoney "This game will make your dick hard." Microsoft can GO TO HELL for taking off this games multiplayer and ruining the series with Halo 3 and 4. 3 wasn't bad but 4 is unplayable.… Expand
  9. glitchmaster
    Dec 6, 2013
    9
    better then the first one in my view but still have the feeling that the levels arren't changing at all there's not much variety between rooms
    the campaign itzelf is good you play again with masterchief and for the first time with a sanghieli called arbiter now you can explore new dimensions of gameplay with too different story working their way together
    +:cool looking sights +:good    better then the first one in my view but still have the feeling that the levels arren't changing at all there's not much variety between rooms
    the campaign itzelf is good you play again with masterchief and for the first time with a sanghieli called arbiter now you can explore new dimensions of gameplay with too different story working their way together
    +:cool looking sights
    +:good campaign
    +:awesome characters
    +:multiplayer options
    -:dark rooms
    -:no variety in levels    … Expand
  10. shprea
    Jun 27, 2013
    6
    This is probably the weakest of the main series Halo games. It's not bad, it just doesn't do much. The story is far weaker than the first Halo, the combat isn't much different, and the graphics are only a little better. The only improvement here is the multiplayer, however that alone can't make a game good. All around, it was disappointing.
  11. azgoodaz
    Mar 18, 2013
    10
    OMG I miss this game, this was the first game I modded in which so I can fly the Pelican. I love this game with a passion can really hoping they could bring the Dual make into the Halo Series.
  12. gstiker5
    Aug 29, 2013
    10
    First the campaign has added skulls and is thrilling but the story is not as good as the original and the ending isn't as disappointing as ME3's ending it ruins the campaign.
    While the campaign is worth a 7 the multiplayer is so strong and back then matchmaking didn't exsist and online console gaming was terrible bu this made it amazing
  13. AmateurRhythms
    Mar 26, 2013
    10
    After nine years and counting, Halo 2 still remains one of the best (If not the best) first person shooters of all time. The sequel to the 2001 hit "Halo: Combat Evolved" not only keeps all of the characteristics that made the first game great, but also adds new exciting features including the ability of hijacking vehicles, dual wielding, and multiplayer. Halo 2 looks pretty good for aAfter nine years and counting, Halo 2 still remains one of the best (If not the best) first person shooters of all time. The sequel to the 2001 hit "Halo: Combat Evolved" not only keeps all of the characteristics that made the first game great, but also adds new exciting features including the ability of hijacking vehicles, dual wielding, and multiplayer. Halo 2 looks pretty good for a 2004 game, but Halo is best known for its gameplay, not its graphics. To no surprise, Halo 2 is an amazing game that deserves to sit in every nerds collection.… Expand
  14. JUANPANB
    Sep 2, 2013
    9
    Es un gran juego, después de su primera parte HALO COMBAT ENVOLVED(RECOMENDADO) estuve ansioso por jugar su segunda parte HALO 2, me sorprendió como un gran juego persiste en su gran variabilidad de juegos y sigue aun así siendo un muy buen juego sin des meritar las excelentes gráficas que para ese año eran y son muy buenas.
  15. iddqd4
    Feb 12, 2018
    10
    В игре просто божественный саундтрек, все остальное тоже на уровне.
  16. tensoup
    Oct 6, 2013
    10
    A game with such an incredibly memorable online multiplayer that it far outweighs any problems within the campaign. Halo 2 multiplayer was the greatest combination of fun with friends and competitive play ever achieved in a console or PC game. For one to have not experienced the multiplayer of Halo 2 means they have missed out on what may possible be the best online multiplayer game of ourA game with such an incredibly memorable online multiplayer that it far outweighs any problems within the campaign. Halo 2 multiplayer was the greatest combination of fun with friends and competitive play ever achieved in a console or PC game. For one to have not experienced the multiplayer of Halo 2 means they have missed out on what may possible be the best online multiplayer game of our generation. The defining game of the xbox and many consoles to come.… Expand
  17. FreedomFighters
    Jan 24, 2019
    9
    "Halo 2" had me rather excited at first glance. While I had felt that the original game "Halo: Combat Evolved" had aged to at least some degree, I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and pretty much a lot of people had been telling me that "Halo 2" was easily the best one in the franchise. And, well, it's a bit too early to judge because I still have a whole three games left to get through, but"Halo 2" had me rather excited at first glance. While I had felt that the original game "Halo: Combat Evolved" had aged to at least some degree, I still enjoyed it quite a bit, and pretty much a lot of people had been telling me that "Halo 2" was easily the best one in the franchise. And, well, it's a bit too early to judge because I still have a whole three games left to get through, but nonetheless, "Halo 2" definitely improves on the first one.
    "Halo 2" retains the fun gameplay and fluid controls of the first game: it still feels as smooth as ever, and though some of the changes are minuscule, getting to finally use the Energy Sword was neat, and let's not forget how game-changing "Halo 2" was for online multiplayer. If nothing else, it definitely revolutionized in that regard. Also, the game's story even has a cool dynamic by allowing you to switch between controlling Master Chief and the Covenant. Having that ability to switch between the two sides definitely made the story more interesting to me, and while some were frustrated by the cliffhanger ending, I think it was rather satisfying. Beyond that, the presentation has been made so much better: the audio is one again wonderful, but the visual design has been made so much better, and having played the "Halo 2 Anniversary" edition on the Xbox One, the facelift definitely makes the game look better. What's more impressive, though, is that the old visuals still look like they haven't aged a day, and they still look rather good. The cutscenes are also cinematic and wonderful to look at, and all in all, the game packs quite a punch.
    Unfortunately, I'm still not finding "Halo" to be a 10 out of 10 experience with this game, and it's not because the campaign is too short, because I thought it was satisfying enough with its length. I think my big issue that's holding the game back is that, while it was revolutionary for its multiplayer and was still fun to play, I have some qualms with the campaign, ranging from the somewhat repetitive level design (it was sometimes even hard to tell I was playing a different mission or in a different level because some of the maps looked so similar) to the fact that, while it's still a joy to play, "Halo 2" doesn't do a whole lot different from the first game. Where the first game revolutionized in its general gameplay, "Halo 2" merely sticks within the formula and makes only minuscule changes, resulting in a game that is still a blast, but not quite boundary-pushing for a sequel.
    Still, though, "Halo 2" is a pretty amazing adventure, and it's certainly a sequel that improves on the previous title nicely. Sure, it's not an entirely new experience like the first one was, but the extra polish ultimately leads to a very well-made FPS title that certainly has earned its distinction as one of the Xbox's best.
    Final rating: 9 out of 10 "Awesome"    … Expand
  18. BaconConoisseur
    Nov 8, 2013
    9
    Halo 2 succeeds in raising the stakes and pushing further into the human races battle for survival. It has new weapons, new characters, and even gives us more insight into the covenant. Microsoft pushed up the release date for Halo 2 and it shows throughout the game. Characters and textures blink in late in cut scenes, brutes take ridiculous amounts of damage without flinching, and aHalo 2 succeeds in raising the stakes and pushing further into the human races battle for survival. It has new weapons, new characters, and even gives us more insight into the covenant. Microsoft pushed up the release date for Halo 2 and it shows throughout the game. Characters and textures blink in late in cut scenes, brutes take ridiculous amounts of damage without flinching, and a cliffhanger ending tops it off. Even with all that this game still manages to be one heck of an awesome experience.… Expand
  19. MrJurgens
    Nov 6, 2013
    10
    Great game! A must have. Halo 3 outdid Halo 2, but that was something expected it being developed by Bungie. You can never go wrong by getting Bungie-developed games.
  20. TheAscendantOne
    Aug 19, 2014
    10
    Halo 2 pioneered many grounds that laid the framework for today's FPS console gaming. The development of skill based ranking systems, smart playlists, multiplayer map design and gametypes. The multiplayer was revolutionary for its time - and this was all on top of a emotionally charged, non-linear plot campaign, with the most epic score to ever accompany a video game. Halo 2 came from aHalo 2 pioneered many grounds that laid the framework for today's FPS console gaming. The development of skill based ranking systems, smart playlists, multiplayer map design and gametypes. The multiplayer was revolutionary for its time - and this was all on top of a emotionally charged, non-linear plot campaign, with the most epic score to ever accompany a video game. Halo 2 came from a time when people put their heart and sole into developing video games because they cared about the player, before everyone was worried about your wallet. Bungie listened to the feedback of its players, patched its bugs, and released quality DLC that was worth the money.

    Thank you Bungie, this game was one hell of a ride.    … Expand
  21. everin
    Oct 1, 2015
    10
    Tier 1
    + Improves on the single-player and multiplayer gameplay of the first installment in every way
    + Defined near perfection in online matchmaking multiplayer play
    ? Some people find the narrative and inclusion of the Arbiter odd, but this and many other things showed a brave step forwards in the development of the franchise by Bungie
  22. Jern
    Sep 9, 2015
    9
    The campaign was good but not perfect. The multiplayer however is 11/10. Matchmaking, teamwork, gameplay are revolutionary. With the release of Halo 2 Anniversary you can see how well ahead of its time it was. All it needed was a graphical tweak.
  23. ReviewScope
    Apr 24, 2017
    9
    While Halo: Combat Evolved changed the landscape of console FPS games, Halo 2 popularised online multiplayer for consoles, and changed the world of gaming forever. Campaign was also pretty good.
  24. TheMasiMan1
    Nov 19, 2015
    10
    Halo 2 is an improvement on every aspect of the Halo franchise: Slighly better AI, new Xbox Live multiplayer, dual wielding weapons, a better Co-Op and better graphics. There are no weak areas in Halo 2. It is a milestone in the gendre that is FPS.
  25. jacob4
    Apr 28, 2018
    9
    An incredible epic follow up sequel to the first original game! Halo 2 provides almost the same things from the first game but bigger, better, and with more weapons and vehicles! Halo 2 also has the unique game play of playing the story from two different unique characters point of view. The battles are fun and intense and this game does a good job at immersing you into the awesomeAn incredible epic follow up sequel to the first original game! Halo 2 provides almost the same things from the first game but bigger, better, and with more weapons and vehicles! Halo 2 also has the unique game play of playing the story from two different unique characters point of view. The battles are fun and intense and this game does a good job at immersing you into the awesome cinematic journey Halo takes you on! Despite the game having some what of an anti-climatic ending, Halo 2 is still must play sequel that worth the time and adventure.… Expand
  26. safteygamerpro
    Jul 6, 2014
    10
    my personal favorite halo it had a great and bad-ass story it had revolutionary graphics for the time and the multiplayer. This game set the bar for fps multiplayer very fun even now so happy 343 is making it on the Xbox one.Overall great game no flaws just buy it on the Xbox one not the original
  27. jelikey
    Oct 23, 2016
    9
    This is where the multiplayer started getting hype. Thanks to Bungie doing an almost perfect game, no other game have made an addictive multiplayer game. Halo 2 kicked ass back then, and it still does.
  28. Retank
    Dec 12, 2014
    10
    This was the first game I ever played, and by far one of the BEST games I ever played. Lets say I was on an island for the rest of my life and I could only bring one game my choices would be this one, gta 5 or assassins creed black flag. I would not only recommend, it but I would say its a must have for halos.
  29. FajarSany
    Oct 11, 2015
    9
    At the end of 2004 when the first time I played this game on my XBox, I was so fascinated with graphics and gameplay. Really real as animated films. Until now, this is still best games ever with good graphics, gameplay, and story.
  30. dacritic82
    Aug 26, 2015
    10
    This review cover Halo 2: Anniversary included in the Master Chief Collection for XBox One.

    Before you think I'm all hyped about this game, you can check my review for the previous game, Halo CE. I gave it a 7 and I was very hard on it. Now, this is probably the best, or at least top 3, FPS I ever played. Everything I critiqued about the first Halo game has been greatly improved in    This review cover Halo 2: Anniversary included in the Master Chief Collection for XBox One.

    Before you think I'm all hyped about this game, you can check my review for the previous game, Halo CE. I gave it a 7 and I was very hard on it.

    Now, this is probably the best, or at least top 3, FPS I ever played. Everything I critiqued about the first Halo game has been greatly improved in this sequel.

    - Graphics and Music: they are really nice and the remastered version represents a major upgrade.

    - Story: while I considered that Halo CE had failed miserably at making the story interesting, Halo 2 hooks you from the very first minute with an amazing opening cutscene, and remains the same throughout the entire game. In addition to the great cutscenes, you play as a Covenant outcast, and you get to know the beauty of the Covenant cities, the complexity of their society, and how fragile this allegiance really is.

    - Gameplay: this time we have 15 missions which take between 30 and 45 minutes each. You'll change players between missions, so this will also help keep the game fresh.

    - Combat Mechanics: I considered this the weakest aspect of the previous Halo. I could say that this has been improved so much. Not only there are more weapons available, but now dual-wielding is also possible. Additionally, Master Chief's agility has been enhanced, which allows faster combat sequences. It's cool that you cannot throw grenades while carrying 2 weapons because, while being stronger on 1 on 1 situations, you have to be more careful when facing crowds.

    - Level Design: levels are varied and many of them have been designed with vehicles as the central element. From making your way through highways to combats in space. You even ride a tank through ancient ruins. During a considerable number of sequences we have different factions fighting each other. These are probably the parts I enjoyed the most. It really showed us how complex this universe is.

    - Enemies: We have basically the same enemies that we encounter the first time. Additionally we'll have to deal with the tough Brutes.

    - Weaponry: these are also the same we got in the first game, with a few exceptions. In my opinion, the weaker weapons have been balanced and now you can have fun with either of them.

    - Vehicles and Turrets: this is probably what I enjoyed the most about this game. I'm really glad to see a FPS in which vehicles are so important.    … Expand
  31. DariusX
    Mar 22, 2015
    10
    9.5 out of 10 a complete game has everything and is just EPIC................................................................................................................................................................................Play it if you haven't already
  32. Termin8ter
    Feb 7, 2016
    8
    Halo 2 is an excellent game, a worthy sequel to CE. The graphics have been improved massively, and the gameplay is much better too. There is a heap of new weapons, and Master Chief moves around quicker than he did in CE. The online multiplayer is an absolute blast too. Buy this game on the MCC if you have not already.
  33. UltraTektite
    May 27, 2016
    10
    Shooters don't get as good as this. Halo 2 improved on the already amazing Halo Combat Evolved in nearly every way.

    *More refined gameplay
    *More weapons
    *Better graphics
    *Better multiplayer
    *Better story

    This game was truly a masterpiece. Grab Master Chief Collection if you haven't played it yet.
  34. brettamax
    Jul 9, 2015
    10
    The only reason I have An xbox...the game is easy to play and has such a rich storyline. The weapons are easy to use, and the enemy looks great. One of my favorite games.
  35. Jarhead335
    Jul 31, 2015
    10
    While Halo 2 for the original Xbox may be fading from the public memory, it will never fully fade from mine. I remember as a tween the absolute and total madness I felt waiting for this game. It is to this day the game I desired the most before I got the chance to play it. I sunk days of my youth engaged in the second installment of one of video gaming's greatest franchises. With anWhile Halo 2 for the original Xbox may be fading from the public memory, it will never fully fade from mine. I remember as a tween the absolute and total madness I felt waiting for this game. It is to this day the game I desired the most before I got the chance to play it. I sunk days of my youth engaged in the second installment of one of video gaming's greatest franchises. With an absurdly great campaign somehow bettered by what, in my opinion, is the greatest multiplayer (both online and off) ever, Halo 2 is a Top 5 video game of all-time for me with no question, and may be number 1 with some reflection.

    If you think you're a gamer, and you want to know what gaming is in its essence, you owe it to yourself to play Halo 2 in its original, purest glory. It is nothing short of absolutely legendary.    … Expand
  36. njja02
    May 15, 2018
    8
    The ending was annoying, and playing as the Covenant was not as engaging as I was hoping, but it's still a great game. The combat and visuals are improved, but overall I didn't like it as much as CE.
  37. AsdaCheckouts8
    Oct 14, 2015
    10
    Halo 2 is a really good game. The graphics may be a little bit bad but only because the game was made in 2004. I would recommend Halo 2 because it’s not any 3rd person shooter like Call of Duty it’s different from that because it’s made up weapons, grenades, Armour, and different maps that are out of SC-Fi film.
    I would also recommend Halo 2 because even if you don’t play SC-FI games this    Halo 2 is a really good game. The graphics may be a little bit bad but only because the game was made in 2004. I would recommend Halo 2 because it’s not any 3rd person shooter like Call of Duty it’s different from that because it’s made up weapons, grenades, Armour, and different maps that are out of SC-Fi film.
    I would also recommend Halo 2 because even if you don’t play SC-FI games this would be a good game to get in to and enjoy. I would recommend this game to young kids and teenagers but adults can play it as well teenagers but it the game is mainly for teenagers.    … Expand
  38. spartanspear
    Nov 3, 2015
    10
    Halo 2 is so amazing. It has le gratest story ever and the BXR is dank. I love halo 2. The graphics is 1337. The campign is so memorable. I love halo 2. Halo 2 has the best maps in Halo and it is 420 times better than halo 4 and 5 combiened.
  39. TheRedFern
    Jul 8, 2023
    10
    The greatest Multiplayer game of all time, 1 and 2 are simultaneous and for me almost a singular experience. Loved this game, everything has already been said, but it is for sure in my top five games of all time.
  40. calibri
    Mar 30, 2016
    10
    Basically my parents were very irresponsible, they let me play Halo before i even went to kindergarten, but i can tell you, as a kid and now as i am older i still enjoy it. The fact that Halo CE was good shows that Halo 2 should be better, and it was, for the first time you could play as the opposite side as the Arbiter, the hero of the Covenant destined for death. But the beautiful recipeBasically my parents were very irresponsible, they let me play Halo before i even went to kindergarten, but i can tell you, as a kid and now as i am older i still enjoy it. The fact that Halo CE was good shows that Halo 2 should be better, and it was, for the first time you could play as the opposite side as the Arbiter, the hero of the Covenant destined for death. But the beautiful recipe of Halo is this, you see a gun, any gun alien or human, you can pick it up, you see a grunt charging you with a alien speeder, you can hijack it, you can fight your style, drive the warthog, or use the turret on the back, or ride shotgun with your plasma rifle. With a great story and many adventures, its no wonder why Halo literally carried the Xbox on its back.… Expand
  41. ElementPT78
    Jun 8, 2016
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. My favorite game of all time and undoubtedly the best game on Xbox and one of the best First Person Shooters of all time.

    Halo 2 nailed everything from the Single player campaign (Which IMO has the best story out of any Halo game) and the revolutionary and ground breaking Multiplayer. We got an in depth look at the Covenant and their goals and got to see that oh so sweet plot twist when the brutes over took the elites. As for the Multiplayer, do I need to explain? This game CREATED Xbox Live, nuff said.    … Expand
  42. Shadow1
    Jun 5, 2016
    10
    Maybe one of the best game on Xbox . Maybe best graphics on Xbox and amazing graphics in cutscenes, but in Shadow The Hedgehog and Sonic Riders is better . Halo 2 is most popular game on Xbox, this is bestseller on Xbox . In this game one of the best storyline on Xbox and this is amazing shooter, which the one of the best shooter about Halo and generally speaking . Halo 2 even better thanMaybe one of the best game on Xbox . Maybe best graphics on Xbox and amazing graphics in cutscenes, but in Shadow The Hedgehog and Sonic Riders is better . Halo 2 is most popular game on Xbox, this is bestseller on Xbox . In this game one of the best storyline on Xbox and this is amazing shooter, which the one of the best shooter about Halo and generally speaking . Halo 2 even better than Halo Combat Evolved, but Halo 4 is better . Poor 10/10 .… Expand
  43. kvnd
    Oct 6, 2021
    5
    Yeah, what can I say? I wasn't a huge fan of Halo: CE and this is pretty much more of the same, but improved in some ways (not as many endless gray hallways). I played the whole campaign in couch co-op with a friend, just like with the first Halo and we groaned our way through it again. The story was incoherent and boring, unfortunately I think I just don't have any interest in the HaloYeah, what can I say? I wasn't a huge fan of Halo: CE and this is pretty much more of the same, but improved in some ways (not as many endless gray hallways). I played the whole campaign in couch co-op with a friend, just like with the first Halo and we groaned our way through it again. The story was incoherent and boring, unfortunately I think I just don't have any interest in the Halo universe. Even more unfortunately, I'm not a huge fan of the gameplay, which doesn't leave much for me with this game besides the amazing CGI and music.… Expand
  44. dogii
    Aug 7, 2016
    10
    The game that bought me to the FPS genre and introduced me to the then-new multiplayer phenomenon. Ever since it was announced i was hyped to the brim constantly buying Xbox magazines and reading up the latest news of the game. And when it did release it lived up to pretty much all my expectations. The hype-train left the station and successfully arrived. The campaign, although a bitThe game that bought me to the FPS genre and introduced me to the then-new multiplayer phenomenon. Ever since it was announced i was hyped to the brim constantly buying Xbox magazines and reading up the latest news of the game. And when it did release it lived up to pretty much all my expectations. The hype-train left the station and successfully arrived. The campaign, although a bit blander than Halo Combat Evolved but it still kept me on the edge of my seat. The multiplayer was obviously the absolute highlight of the game. I drained hundreds of hours into the multiplayer with my friends. I was devastated when Microsoft shut down Xbox Live for the original Xbox. Overall without a doubt the greatest FPS of the Xbox.… Expand
  45. RedStarGamer275
    Nov 17, 2016
    9
    Halo 2 was an excellent sequel to the very successful Halo: Combat Evolved. It's story not as good at the original but it's was still a very good solid story. It did a good job of carrying the story of Halo forward in a good direction. I won't spoil it. The high point of the game and why it was the best selling game on the Original Xbox was the online multiplayer. The multiplayer wasHalo 2 was an excellent sequel to the very successful Halo: Combat Evolved. It's story not as good at the original but it's was still a very good solid story. It did a good job of carrying the story of Halo forward in a good direction. I won't spoil it. The high point of the game and why it was the best selling game on the Original Xbox was the online multiplayer. The multiplayer was revolutionary for it's time. Online gaming on consoles really wasn't a thing until Halo 2 came along and popularized it. I spent so many hours and days on the multiplayer from 2004 till 2007. Then I went back and forth between Halo 2 and Halo 3 as they both had wonderful online multiplayer's. Then in April of 2010, all of Original Xbox's servers were shut down including beloved Halo 2. I devoted all my time on Halo 2 online multiplayer on the last week, Then it was gone. *Sigh* We'll never have an excellent online multiplayer like Halo 2 or Halo 3 again.… Expand
  46. Untitled94
    Jul 15, 2021
    8
    A fantastic sequel that improved many things from the first game. It's not my favorite Halo game, but it's up there and still very fun to play to this day.
  47. eva3si0n
    Jun 28, 2019
    9
    Stunning shooter. Passing remaster in 2019 a game looks is fresh and is first-class. And to a gameplay of this game of 15 years! On how many idea of Bungie were breakthrough. An ideal example of the sequel on the rayena with Uncharted 2. Addition of Arbiter as igrogy character the excellent course, it shows the game Universe on the other hand. The only thing that causes disappointment, isStunning shooter. Passing remaster in 2019 a game looks is fresh and is first-class. And to a gameplay of this game of 15 years! On how many idea of Bungie were breakthrough. An ideal example of the sequel on the rayena with Uncharted 2. Addition of Arbiter as igrogy character the excellent course, it shows the game Universe on the other hand. The only thing that causes disappointment, is the open torn-off final. What happiness that in Halo: I can begin with The Master Chief Collection at once the 3rd part)… Expand
  48. Petethepig123
    Jun 28, 2018
    8
    Aside from the graphics, which are pretty dated by today's standards but were incredible for the time, Halo 2 is a FANTASTIC game! The story is one of my favorite Halo stories, and although it is hard on higher difficulties, if you are playing on easy or normal, pretty much anyone can play it and enjoy. I played the original Xbox version on a 360 via backwards compatibility, but if theAside from the graphics, which are pretty dated by today's standards but were incredible for the time, Halo 2 is a FANTASTIC game! The story is one of my favorite Halo stories, and although it is hard on higher difficulties, if you are playing on easy or normal, pretty much anyone can play it and enjoy. I played the original Xbox version on a 360 via backwards compatibility, but if the graphics are a problem, there is always the remastered version included with Halo: The Master Chief Collection on Xbox One. All the enemies are fun to fight, although personally, I thought the Brutes were more annoying than Jackal snipers. The Flood are in this game, but on the lower difficulties they are not THAT bad, and to me are pretty fun. The characters are all pretty likeable (Sergeant Johnson is my favorite), and it is cool that you do not just play as Master Chief, but also the Arbiter, a Covenant Elite. Both characters' storylines do intersect towards the end. The new weapons are also very fun. Although the assault rifle was removed, new weapons such as the battle rifle, the energy sword, the Carbine, the beam rifle, and the SMGs. Dual wielding of smaller weapons is a thing now, and it allows you to play around with cool weapon combos. The story is incredible, with many more characters and locations introduced, and it is probably my favorite Halo story. The new enemies are the Brutes and they are pretty cool, albeit frustrating at times. The biggest downfall is the cliffhanger ending, which will probably convince you to buy the equally awesome Halo 3. It has so much more of everything that was great about Halo: Combat Evolved. I could not recommend Halo 2 more.… Expand
  49. TopPopFop
    Jan 27, 2017
    10
    This, in all honesty, is definitely my favourite Halo game in the series, heck, I could even go as far as to say my favourite game of ALL time. This is my childhood (along with a few other games), I don't know where I would be right now if my father never bought the game and console. The story, the soundtrack, the gameplay, the multiplayer, EVERYTHING is fantastic. But, other than howThis, in all honesty, is definitely my favourite Halo game in the series, heck, I could even go as far as to say my favourite game of ALL time. This is my childhood (along with a few other games), I don't know where I would be right now if my father never bought the game and console. The story, the soundtrack, the gameplay, the multiplayer, EVERYTHING is fantastic. But, other than how great it is, I must talk about the flaws, on release, the game got a massive wave of hate from fans due to changes, such as the parts where you play as the Arbiter, or the several cut missions, and even the cliffhanger ending, and many other minor things (I might have missed a few major flaws). But, I as well as the community now a days, have changed our opinion on its flaws and now think of them as great additions, playing as a character on the other side of the fight was and still is great, and the cliffhanger ending, was just done perfectly, the cut missions though? Not so sure. Overall, definitely the best in the series in my opinion.… Expand
  50. Wake_loms
    Apr 27, 2017
    10
    Cuando al mercado llega una evolucion de un juego y es buena, es dificil mejorarla, pero en Halo 2 lograron mejorar la formula implementada en Halo, ademas de una calidad grafica mayor, crecen las opciones de jugabilidad tanto en la campaña como en el multijugador, un juego indispensable
  51. Tacticz
    May 29, 2017
    10
    Halo 2 in my opinion, is the best shooter on the sixth console generation. It is an excellent game. An amazing, lengthy campaign that improves upon the original. Halo 2 also has an excellent multiplayer mode that I put many hours into. Halo 2 is my favorite game on the original Xbox.
  52. SkeletonBones
    Aug 9, 2017
    8
    Halo 2 is the best part in the series in my opinion. She changed a lot in the multiplayer series of the Call Of Duty and this game has a great company for both one and two people, which is its chip and multiplayer for 4 players for a split screen
  53. LoganFazbear
    Sep 3, 2018
    9
    Halo 2 in my opinion is probably not as good as Halo: Combat Evolved, but it is pretty darn close. If perhaps the difficulty for the game was maybe tweaked a little bit and such, then it would probably be just as good as Halo 1. But while the game is more difficult than Halo 1, it is still a fun experience. And it's no wonder how Master Chief is still an icon in video games today!
  54. Alex_Pilgrim008
    Feb 5, 2019
    10
    "Halo 2" is perhaps the best game on the original Xbox. Released in 2004, it managed to improve upon its excellent predecessor in every way. This game was also the reason to sign up to an Xbox Live membership and join a clan. It's one of the very first console games to flourish online. This second installment certainly lived up to the hype. It featured a great story, terrific gameplay and"Halo 2" is perhaps the best game on the original Xbox. Released in 2004, it managed to improve upon its excellent predecessor in every way. This game was also the reason to sign up to an Xbox Live membership and join a clan. It's one of the very first console games to flourish online. This second installment certainly lived up to the hype. It featured a great story, terrific gameplay and unrivaled multiplayer. I would rate it with a 10 out of 10.… Expand
  55. DibbleChud
    Oct 19, 2017
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. TL;DR at the bottom for those with little time to spare :)

    Halo 2 is a weird game for me to talk about. Probably my least favourite out of the Bungie Halo games, it still has a lot going for it, even if it's disappointments are greater than that of the last game.
    I'd like to set off covering the one thing I never covered on the previous review that I feel needs to be talked about. Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori I'd kiss you if I didn't live 3000+ miles away. The soundtracks to ALL of the Bungie Halo games is incredible but the stand out ensemble of songs across all the Halo games has to be Halo 2. Be it the sombre but heroic 'The Last Spartan' or the insanely good 'Halo Theme Mjolnir Mix', the emotional 'Unforgotten' or Breaking Benjamin's utterly badass 'Blow Me Away' Halo 2's soundtrack is the soundtrack you'd want playing when you go save the human race from mass extinction, and this game really does make you feel like a badass whilst doing it. The people over at Bungie must've been watching one too many an action movie because they added a few new mechanics that would make you feel like king of the battlefield.
    Introducing: Dual Wielding and Vehicle Hi-jacking. These two new, revolutionary features will make you feel like the star of Die Hard IN SPACE. Running around wielding two SMG's and kicking people out of Ghost's and then running them over with said Ghosts feels better than anything from any game prior. In addition to these two criminally fun features comes a whole host of new weapons and vehicles for you to get your virtual hands on. 14 weapons, almost double that of the original games arsenal (and a heavily nerfed Magnum....a little too nerfed) and an additional 2 vehicles have been added to the roster bringing the total up to 6. Another feature added was more in-depth customisation. Whilst Halo CE featured the ability to change your armour colour, Halo 2 boasts the ability to change armour primary and secondary colours, edit emblems and even change race to an Elite! Something else I didn't cover in Halo CE mainly because I'm unfamiliar with Halo CE's multiplayer was its maps. The majority of Halo CE's maps were basic and symmetrical, however Halo 2 features more interesting, well designed maps as well as the return of the ever-famous Blood Gulch. This made it easier for people like the lovely folks over at Rooster Teeth to make more convincing settings for their hit machinima series Red vs. Blue. The final heavy hitter in terms of multiplayer was of course the ground-breaking implementation of XBox Live. Halo 2 proved to be one of the most popular online games ever made and still had an active online community AFTER the release of Halo 3 on the next generation consoles. Some die-hard fans even managed to keep Halo 2 matchmaking alive after the servers were shut off for a short amount of time. This die-hard dedication is what led other developers such as those behind the Call of Duty games to take heavy inspiration from Halo's matchmaking system and implement very similar systems into their own games. The multiplayer is arguably the best part of Halo 2 due too all of these boundary breaking features, however the story, whilst having it's issues, still manages to impress in some areas. Halo 2's story was built solely to make you fell like a hero. You'd survived lost and often times alone on an alien ring. You're now back on Earth (for the first few missions anyways) and saving humanity. There are many a moment where you feel like the most badass soldier since DOOM. Punching a Prophet in the face, taking down a scarab and my favourite feature, being the f***ing Arbiter! Taking control of everyone's favourite Elite is satisfying as all hell. Cutting flood into pieces with your energy sword alongside your covenant troops. It's all insanely fun. The story arc of the Brutes usurping the Elites was also a very good set up for Halo 3 and the Elite rebellion; and Tartarus, the best 'main villain' in a Halo game to date was always fun to hate.

    However, Halo 2's campaign is also where the weaker points begin to show. Halo 2 was infamously unfinished. It's E3 demos showed off features that simply weren't there, and it's ending will go down in history as one of the most rage inducing endings of all time, ending on that cliff-hanger that nearly had many a person throwing down their controller in rage. Halo 2 is also plagued with rendering issues. Textures take several seconds to load in rather than right away and in soame cases (at least in my experience) not at all. However, as I wasn't familiar with Halo 2 on its release, I didn't experience the disappointment and so that is where my problems with the game end.

    TL;DR
    Stunning Soundtrack
    Amazing Multiplayer that makes you feel like a badass
    Good maps
    Additional armour customization is welcome
    Fun but disappointing put together campaign
    Texture glitches
    Magnum now doesn't even have the capacity to kill a fly...

    Final Score: 8/10    … Expand
  56. ArkAngel_97
    Feb 15, 2018
    10
    My favourite Halo game ever, And the MCC version is amazing for single player still.
  57. JohnnyS89
    Mar 14, 2019
    9
    Design, levels, weapons, gameplay, online multiplayer, campaign. It can't be beaten.
  58. LeoChikis
    Jun 23, 2020
    10
    Halo is a great game, it was much better that I thought it would be, but Halo 2..... IS AMAZING
    For me is the best FPS of all time, it just feels so good to play, is really adictive and hard, really hard.
    Is just perfect, is my favourite Halo game and one of my favorite videogames eveer.
  59. Luan0212BR
    Jun 8, 2018
    10
    O melhor Halo.
    Ótima jogabilidade
    História fantástica
    Gráficos lindos pra época
    Multiplayer excelente
    Trilha sonora memorável

    Recomendo a todos comprarem a Master Chief Collection e jogá-lo
  60. PopeTheDope909
    May 14, 2019
    8
    Halo 2 like its predecessor innovated not only the franchise but the gaming industry as a whole. Halo 2 made big strides to the Halo franchise that had a long lasting effect(Online multiplayer that set the foundation for matchmaking systems in other Halo games and other games in general, expanding the Halo universe through its story, and having more features than Halo 1). Halo 2 also tookHalo 2 like its predecessor innovated not only the franchise but the gaming industry as a whole. Halo 2 made big strides to the Halo franchise that had a long lasting effect(Online multiplayer that set the foundation for matchmaking systems in other Halo games and other games in general, expanding the Halo universe through its story, and having more features than Halo 1). Halo 2 also took a few missteps that i and other people don't like(More linear missions than before, unfair legendary difficulty, slow pacing during some missions, jackel snipers, OP sword w/ unlimited ammo in multiplayer). As a whole Halo 2 is great, it may have some obvious flaws but you can look past those and enjoy this game Bungie crafted for us.… Expand
  61. Co-Odyssey
    Jul 7, 2018
    8
    Halo 2 is a major improvement from Halo: CE in a lot of ways, yet it is a step backwards in a number of ways. The graphics have improved, but at the cost of smaller and more linear levels. The weapon balancing is better, yet some weapons and features feel redundant. The multiplayer was amazing and still is for local play, but very few of the multiplayer maps properly utilize the gamesHalo 2 is a major improvement from Halo: CE in a lot of ways, yet it is a step backwards in a number of ways. The graphics have improved, but at the cost of smaller and more linear levels. The weapon balancing is better, yet some weapons and features feel redundant. The multiplayer was amazing and still is for local play, but very few of the multiplayer maps properly utilize the games vehicles. The story of Halo 2 has a higher focus on character development and world building yet it suffers from middle chapter syndrome. As a result Halo 2 stands with Halo 5 as one of the only two Halo games that really can't be enjoyed on its own. Halo 2 is still a major part of local competitive multiplayer scene, which is evidential of the impact this game has had on the multiplayer shooter through out the years.… Expand
  62. PalpetineSheev
    Mar 21, 2020
    10
    This! This is how you do a sequel! You expand on everything the original did without sacrificing anything in the process.
  63. Dperks
    Dec 23, 2021
    9
    Halo 2 is a fantastic sequel that takes everything from CE that worked and improves on it and then adds so much more. Gunplay is a lot smoother and still feels great today. Vehicles feel much better to handle AI across the board have been improved and the soundtrack is just iconic. Visually the game looks a lot better like its really impressive for a OG Xbox game to look like this and theHalo 2 is a fantastic sequel that takes everything from CE that worked and improves on it and then adds so much more. Gunplay is a lot smoother and still feels great today. Vehicles feel much better to handle AI across the board have been improved and the soundtrack is just iconic. Visually the game looks a lot better like its really impressive for a OG Xbox game to look like this and the anniversary graphics also look a lo better then its CE counterpart. Along with all these improvements to the core gameplay and presentation the story has been made so much grander in scale with the audience getting to see how the covenant operate and really humanize the enemy a bit. Being able to play as the covenant was also a genius move. Considering that the actual development for the finale version of Halo 2 was about 10 months the fact that this game is as good as it is and for its time has such a grand story to it is really impressive. But considering that development time it would explain why at times the game can be a little glitchy at times. Its almost never anything game breaking and again given that time to make the game the fact the game runs so well is astonishing. If I had to find complaints for the game it would be that the inclusion of boss battles were very underwhelming and unnecessary because there just not really fun to play. Flood levels are still the weakest levels granted their still not nearly as bad as the Library in Halo 1. And the difficulty is a lot more unfair in this game and if you've ever played the legendary you know what I'm talking about as Halo 2 has one of the most difficult legendary modes in the entire series. Honestly that's probably the biggest thing for me keeping it from a 10 for me if these issue had time to of been addressed then maybe although the ending is notorious for being a big cliff hanger although that's not as big a deal now seeing as you can readily play Halo 3 today. One last note the multi[layer is also still a ton of fun today to play. Overall the game is amazing and its defiantly one of my favorite games of all time and I look forward to playing through it again and again with people I know to make them experience it to.… Expand
  64. FotusKnight
    Sep 14, 2018
    10
    This is a worthwhile sequel for the previous game, Halo: CE. The game is published by Microsoft and developed by the same people who made the first game. BUNGIE. Boy, oh, boy! I never played this game when I was a kid, I played this game for the first time in 2014 in MCC. And Jesus, this game is still one of the best FPS's to this day! The amazing story that developed the lore of HaloThis is a worthwhile sequel for the previous game, Halo: CE. The game is published by Microsoft and developed by the same people who made the first game. BUNGIE. Boy, oh, boy! I never played this game when I was a kid, I played this game for the first time in 2014 in MCC. And Jesus, this game is still one of the best FPS's to this day! The amazing story that developed the lore of Halo universe, added dual-wielding, hijacking and weapon swapping with allies. NOT TO MENTION THE MULTIPLAYER! OH MY GOD THE MULTIPLAYER! New weapons such as Battle Rifle, Beam Rifle, Energy Sword and SMG's became one of the most iconic weapons of the series. Jesus Christ, don't even get me started on the actual Campaign. 15 levels, 13 of which are playable consist of Master Chief levels and new Arbiter levels where you play as.... AN ELITE! HOLY MOLY! This game let you discover the side of the covenant and make it a completely new and diverse experience. Amazing characters, memorable dialogue, incredible events, and that cliffhanger ending that made me want more! 10/10. Without a shadow of a doubt.… Expand
  65. Berik
    Aug 17, 2021
    4
    I tried finding the page for Halo 2 anniversary edition on the Xbox One, but couldn't find it. Therefore i'm posting my review here.

    After years of resisting the urge to buy a Xbox to play games like Fable, Halo and others i finally caved, and bought a Xbox Series S. Great console. And naturally i got a gamepass to play games, including Halo Master Chief Collection. Unfortunately the    I tried finding the page for Halo 2 anniversary edition on the Xbox One, but couldn't find it. Therefore i'm posting my review here.

    After years of resisting the urge to buy a Xbox to play games like Fable, Halo and others i finally caved, and bought a Xbox Series S. Great console. And naturally i got a gamepass to play games, including Halo Master Chief Collection. Unfortunately the experience has been quite disappointing.

    Halo: Combat Evolved was alright, though it feels dated by now. Sadly Halo 2 is faaaar worse off. This game **** sucks now. The story is a collection of horde mode stand off's. I've been shooting up hordes of enemies with less than stellar gameplay until some door opens, with little context as to what i'm supposed to do. Master Chief lands on a Halo ring, and boom! Another horde mode stand-off! What happened with this game in comparison to Combat Evolved? The levels in Halo 2 feel lazy.

    I tried to persuade myself in playing it longer, but i was getting so frustrated with these lazy moments where you are just waiting for a door to open, the world's longest tunnel with barely anything in it, and messy gameplay.

    I remember playing this game in 2007 at a friends house, and i was obsessed with it. So taking that memory in consideration, i think the game has aged too much and many games since then have improved beyond Halo 2 in 2004. Unfortunately that's no excuse in an anniversary edition, I give it a 4/10. I hate it.    … Expand
  66. AshleyJames
    Nov 17, 2018
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. A sequel to the 97 rated Xbox Exclusive, the game is a brilliant continuation of the Halo game before it. While Halo CE holds an amazing and captivating grasp on the player, Halo 2 releases that grasp and lets the player truly experience the Halo universe. The strong points of Halo 2 are the story, the gameplay, and the music.

    The story is phenomenal due to the expansion of the already in-depth universe established by Halo CE and its books released at the time. It manages to keep the plot interesting, while exploring new perspectives considered controversial by the player. Characters like Johnson are a pleasent re-introduction to the game, while Tartarus, Commander Keyes and The Prophets are refreshing, and help the game expand on character development even further. The missions seen from the angles of Master Chief and The Arbiter are both enjoyable, and they both manage to keep a different atmosphere throughout the story development. The perspective of Master Chief feels empowering, and provides the player with a sense of alarm and heroism throughout the game, while the perspective of The Arbiter gives the player a change in moral compass. The player will disagree with Arbiter's actions until they begin to explore the truth of the Halo ring's functions as the campaign goes on, giving the player a similar feel of power and heroism as the perspective of Master Chief does. This is a unique aspect which was rarely explored before Halo 2's lifetime. The story leaves you feeling either disappointed, or very excited, due to its controversial ending. The ending to some may be seen as a perfect set up to the next game, however others may see it as a lame cop out to entice the player in buying the sequel, Halo 3. While some points of the story do feel irrelevant to the task at hand, they don't feel irrelevant enough for the player to be angry or annoyed about.

    The Music Score, developed and composed by Martin O'Donnell, left me speechless and giddy, like a child at a candy factory. The music fits in well with its visual game cues, and it sets the atmosphere for how the game should be played. When the score 'Peril' began on the mission Delta Halo, I thought the game's ambiance couldn't get any better, however I was severely mistaken when the final mission, 'The Great Journey' cues the finale music mixed with aspects from the OST. It sounds nice, it feels right, not much else to comment on there.

    The gameplay leaves me with a bland taste in my mouth, but the aftertaste somehow gives me a more pleasant experience. Anyone who is playing this as their first Halo game will see the gameplay as a new experience and worthy of praise, however anyone playing from Halo: CE will see that the gameplay didn't innovate much in terms of its core mechanics. The introduction of duel-wield in a halo game was exciting, and still is, and there are points that the duel wield feature makes you feel like a super-soldier killing machine. Couple this with the removal of fall damage, and you can expect an unstoppable killing fest like no other.

    The multiplayer is a hit or miss experience, especially with the hit-area based shooting mechanic, instead of the use of actual projectiles. Going back to halo 2 from a newer title may be a frustrating experience for a lot of players because of this. The pace of multiplayer sometimes feels too slow, which I feel is something that other Halo games never managed to mistake.

    The level and map design is admittedly linear, and on rare occasions, disappointing. Some missions, such as Outskirts, Delta Halo and Regret don't feel linear. Unfortunately this does not make up for the lack of exploration possibilities in the rest of the game. The maps all have the same concept to them, leaving them with a dire need of re-design for good replayability. Overall, this is where Halo 2 loses a lot of its boy scout points.

    The sandbox of weapons and vehicles is bigger than that of Halo CE's, but more is not always better. Some weapons, like the Plasma Pistol and magnum, feel useless on lower difficulties, and only become useful when players are using the 'noob combo' for the legendary runthroughs of the game. Other weapons feel too powerful, with the large lunge distance supplied by the energy sword and the spamming capabilities of the fuel-rod cannon. These weapons can create an imbalance in multiplayer (or too easy of a gunfight in the campaign). The vehicles don't have as nice of a feel as the CE vehicles, and they either feel too responsive or not responsive enough. There is no in between.

    To finish, Halo 2 is a must-play experience and a brilliant Halo game, but it might leave some people expecting more as they play, which provides a large pool of disappointment and alien blood.    … Expand
  67. draken3581
    Dec 18, 2018
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is it people. The first game showed the world that first person shooters can be done on consoles. Halo 2 together with xbox live showed the world the shape of things to come in terms of multiplayer gaming. Technically the most beautiful game on the Xbox and one of the top games that take advantage of the original hardware they were developed for. The whole idea of "late generation" games that look twice as good on the same hardware. Gameplay improvements as well, with better and faster disc loading, improvements in weapon design and handling (dual yielded weapons). And a great story. ***Spoiler follows*** I will forever remember the moment I was watching the cut-sequence with the Arbiter in the dropship, and only moments later the game gave me control of him, I couldn't believe that for that mission (and several after that one) I was controlling that awesome character and really viewing the story from two completely different points of view. The story did build up quite nicely but did not give the hyper climactic ending I would have expected but the overall experience was top-notch. The AI also appeared incredibly polished and engaging, reacting to my tactics and having character and substance. Best of its generation.… Expand
  68. Serchvaz
    May 31, 2020
    10
    The campaign is great ,it has a good history and an excellent multiplayer,it takes the history to new places.
  69. LogTech
    Nov 19, 2020
    10
    Amazing Story, amazing mechanics, amazing level design, amazing art design.

    MASTERPIECE.
  70. Jersey_JOE
    Apr 30, 2021
    10
    BEST HALO EVER !!
    BETTER than the newer Halo games. Perfect gameplay mechanics,
    Perfect movement speed, Perfect in-game player features, etc.
    EXCELLENT MULTIPLAYER !! AWESOME GAME"."
  71. LuckyDrum
    Jun 10, 2019
    9
    Uno de los mejores juegos de la saga. La historia es una de las mejores y el modo multijugador mejora bastante a su predecesor.
  72. MYP
    Nov 1, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 is the ultimate sequel. It improved upon everything that Combat Evolved established. More levels, no recycled levels, you could interact with your marines and the AI of Marines was improved, a better Soundtrack, revolutionary story-telling, character arcs, Brilliant Cinematics. Halo 2 is "The Godfather Part II" of games.
  73. Brub
    Aug 8, 2019
    10
    This game is amazing, the gameplay is exhilarating, the music is top notch, and the story is as good as reading a book made from pure passion.
  74. JesterTRT
    Jan 17, 2020
    9
    Much has improved since 1, this game was even better! Still had some of the reskin maps of the first game. Going through several sections, just to see its the same old map you've just gone through. But they did much better, they added way more unique maps with this game, than the first one. New maps, new weapons, new characters and great addition to the story! (The story is really theMuch has improved since 1, this game was even better! Still had some of the reskin maps of the first game. Going through several sections, just to see its the same old map you've just gone through. But they did much better, they added way more unique maps with this game, than the first one. New maps, new weapons, new characters and great addition to the story! (The story is really the biggest part of Halo for me, the part that keeps me absorbed into the series.)… Expand
  75. ofenderz0
    Jul 25, 2021
    9
    Some of the best storytelling and world building the series has offered. I will say that the level design is my least favorite in the trilogy for feeling more linear. Such an amazing game.
  76. byAEG7
    Dec 8, 2021
    9
    After Halo CE set the foundation of the Halo franchise, Halo 2 comfortably and solidly managed to expand and improve the series with its second attempt. Halo 2's more earth focused missions and twists around its plot make this game one of the best in the series. An amazing title that managed to improve in almost every category its predecessor and redefine the fps genre on its own.
  77. Foggiest
    Feb 6, 2022
    10
    El primer halo que jugue fue este y es genial... espero tenerlo en físico para guardarlo en la coleccion
  78. Burdo24
    Nov 4, 2019
    9
    The campaing was amazing and the soundtrack impeccable. The multi-player is very addicting. The shooting mechanics and the characters are perfect. I have beaten this game so many times.
  79. xavamanx
    Jul 4, 2020
    10
    Halo 2 its still awesome game with awesome atmosphere (nut right now only like blockbuster /hero movie )the same awesome gameplay and have awesome multi-player !awesome graphics that will be look awesome in our time too!i think this game have only one minus-they dont add health for master chief and save only shield !i think ot was mistake!Anyway game 10/10 for me!recommend this game!/Halo2Halo 2 its still awesome game with awesome atmosphere (nut right now only like blockbuster /hero movie )the same awesome gameplay and have awesome multi-player !awesome graphics that will be look awesome in our time too!i think this game have only one minus-they dont add health for master chief and save only shield !i think ot was mistake!Anyway game 10/10 for me!recommend this game!/Halo2 -Это тоже потрясающее продолжение истории Master Chief во Вселенной Halo!Игра сногшибательна!очень крутой геймплей и мультиплеер,крутая атмосфера(но уже больше как блокбастер /боевик),крутая графика ,музыка !однозначно стоит в неё поиграть!рекомендую !!!… Expand
  80. Corvomortal
    Jun 19, 2020
    10
    El 2 mejoró muchas cosas,el gameplay como misiones genailes,todas ellas acompañadas de una inmersión increible,incluso contandonos la historia desde la perspectiva del enemigo nos da a entender como todo se va uniendose para llevarnos a lo que seria halo 3
  81. WilliamKotoco
    Jan 9, 2020
    10
    I don't think that is a perfect game, but this is almost it. One of the best exclusive games from Microsoft.
  82. GamerGoob100
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    One of the best games all time! Co-op campaign and multiplayer are near perfection
  83. Dylan117
    Jul 4, 2020
    9
    Master chief is back kicking double the amount of ass than before. I liked ALMOST everything about this game. Strongest story in the series, revolutionary multiplayer. The legendary is impossible no-deaths you die from sniper jackals as SOON as you spawn in. But I'm willing to disregard that because of such a good multiplayer and campaign.
  84. Caldan
    Nov 14, 2020
    10
  85. jake17
    Oct 17, 2020
    9
    one of my favorite multiplayer shooters to play with friends but the only problem is I don't like it as much as the first and would rather play that.
  86. anykey_
    Jul 22, 2022
    5
    Halo 2 - in my opinion turned out to be very similar. Well, that is the problem of the first part. But, it seems that the Bunges did not find the path that they need in Halo 2. Not to say that it’s completely **** Exactly what is the same. Even when playing as the Arbiter. 5 out of 10.
  87. LB_CO
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    "Halo 2" Is a grand follow up with enough action to beat out the original along with revoloutionary online capabilities.
  88. Sygurd
    Aug 18, 2020
    9
    Un juego que toma lo visto en el Halo 1 y lo potencia a más y mejor, con una historia atrapante que crece todo el universo más allá de lo esperado. El juego que sin lugar a dudas asentó todo lo que el 1 abrió y construyo las bases a nivel argumental de toda la saga. Mi calificación: 9.3/10
  89. yangfanhong
    Sep 17, 2020
    8
    As wonderful as the first game, and even with a far more intriguing story, Halo 2 made a great start of the following Halo series.
  90. Guo56
    Dec 14, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This was truly the best Halo game, it is just an amazingly told story with a brilliant main character in the Arbiter. His character ark was truly inspiring to watch as we the player see him grow as a “person”, and in the iconic “Tartarus, the prophets lied to us”, that is where his story is finally complete. Also Master Chief was at his coolest in this game, with the opening level ending with him riding a bomb into space. In general, everyone should play this masterpiece.… Expand
  91. MacMountainGoat
    Sep 27, 2020
    9
    This game takes everything great about the first game and makes it that much better. Smoother, more weapon options, and even adds more story and character development. It creates that great alternative perspective, making you empathize with the enemy. If you liked the first game, you have to like this one as well.
  92. BernardoUPoud
    Aug 23, 2020
    10
    Masterpiece. Excellent game, honestly ....
    Studio have done an incredible job.
    Graphics 9/10
    Story 10/10
    Characters 10/10
    Gameplay 10/10
  93. DestinyDoer
    Jun 26, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This game is as great as Halo: CE. The story did not get worse than the Halo: CE story. The story is very good. Some characters are not in the first Halo game. The characters in the game are great and they can be remembered.… Expand
  94. oOn3LastStaNDo
    Jun 22, 2020
    10
    Best Halo out of the whole series hands down. The fact that i still play it in 2020 is something that can literally only be said about this one game from that generation.
  95. Samuel150304
    Jul 14, 2020
    10
    Perfeito, simplesmente perfeito, que jogo, que franquia! Aguardo ansiosamente pelo Halo Infinite
  96. MANXMAN76
    Aug 31, 2021
    10
    This is by far one of my favorite games of all time and learning how the production of this game went I'm surprised that this held up with the introduction of dual-wielding and mounted guns as well as introducing so many new weapons and vehicles this game was put on the map with making over $125 million in 24 hours of launch and so much talk about it on the news i was so hyped
  97. Skamilo
    Nov 19, 2021
    10
    El mejor juego del mundo!! El mejor FPS de la historia y el mejor multi jugador sin duda alguna.
  98. Jonathon30388
    Jul 3, 2020
    9
    A great edition to the halo franchise, although there are oversights. Still a great game
  99. Kio22
    Sep 25, 2022
    8
    A good game that was obviously rushed and put out before it was ready, this is evident by how unbalanced the combat is with enemies, the abrupt ending, and shorter cut up levels compared to Halo: CE. That being said it has great music, amazing characters, good story, and solid level design. My only other gripe with this game is the weapons don't feel as hefty when you shoot them like Halo:A good game that was obviously rushed and put out before it was ready, this is evident by how unbalanced the combat is with enemies, the abrupt ending, and shorter cut up levels compared to Halo: CE. That being said it has great music, amazing characters, good story, and solid level design. My only other gripe with this game is the weapons don't feel as hefty when you shoot them like Halo: CE and they got rid of the assault rifle, but dual wielding is nice, overall felt it was a step down from Halo: CE.… Expand
  100. Cjmolina007
    Jul 21, 2020
    9
    As someone who didn't own an original Xbox back when this came out, I didn't understand all the hype about Halo 2. When I finally played it with the updated graphics I now see why everyone was obsessed with this game. The campaign and it's technical aspect was SO much better than the first game it actually made me forget about it at one point. Great story with intense segments, makes thisAs someone who didn't own an original Xbox back when this came out, I didn't understand all the hype about Halo 2. When I finally played it with the updated graphics I now see why everyone was obsessed with this game. The campaign and it's technical aspect was SO much better than the first game it actually made me forget about it at one point. Great story with intense segments, makes this one of my favorite Xbox game. Do I even need to dive into the multiplayer? You and I both know it's freaking great and extremely fun. Long gone are the days when we had this and the original Call of Duty multiplayer.… Expand
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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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