Halo: Combat Evolved

 Xbox
User Score
8.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 3080 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 2,658 out of 3080
  2. Mixed: 180 out of 3080
  3. Negative: 242 out of 3080
Buy Now
Buy on

Review this game

  1. Your Score
    0 out of 10
    Rate this:
    • 10
    • 9
    • 8
    • 7
    • 6
    • 5
    • 4
    • 3
    • 2
    • 1
    • 0
    • 0
  1. Submit
  2. Check Spelling
view
per page
  1. steven14329
    Jun 12, 2011
    7
    When I first played Halo, I thought, cheesy space shooter with a generic badass main character and a **** story.... good gameplay, and playing with my friends was cool for a console game. I liked it enough. Nothing really special.... Now it's the most overrated game series of all time. Who knew?
  2. Rapter2011
    May 15, 2011
    10
    Why did Bungie make Halo for the Xbox? Why was this game designed like it was. Because it is one of the best games out there today! After a decade I still can not get enough of this game. The story is amazing, and the graphics, even today I still believe they are incredibly impressive. When you are playing campaign and a song with electric guitars in it starts. You know you are playing aWhy did Bungie make Halo for the Xbox? Why was this game designed like it was. Because it is one of the best games out there today! After a decade I still can not get enough of this game. The story is amazing, and the graphics, even today I still believe they are incredibly impressive. When you are playing campaign and a song with electric guitars in it starts. You know you are playing a deep, immersive game. This series will continue to break new grounds as being one the most innovative, fun, and just plain awsome series today.… Expand
  3. georgefinal
    Mar 29, 2011
    10
    halo totally changed the way i played videogames, it was so great that me and my friends were hooked for years, and still decide to play it in split screen once in a while just to remember how it was like... of course halo 2, 3 and reach managed to keep up the legacy, but the first game was so mind blowing i can't help but considering it a turning point in hardcore gaming
  4. Jobadkins
    Mar 18, 2011
    10
    Lets get something straight,of course it's one of the top rated game ever, not because of some hoax, but I've beat it on every difficulty setting and I can't tell you how in 30 years of gaming this is one of my favorite games and it holds up to now 2011.Halo Reach is of course the best Halo game ever (debatable),but this is the best game to me because it was made 10 years ago and still hasLets get something straight,of course it's one of the top rated game ever, not because of some hoax, but I've beat it on every difficulty setting and I can't tell you how in 30 years of gaming this is one of my favorite games and it holds up to now 2011.Halo Reach is of course the best Halo game ever (debatable),but this is the best game to me because it was made 10 years ago and still has the graphics and game play to make you want to beat it all over again.I'll tell you that playing this game on legendary setting, it is incredibly hard but super rewarding in the end.Forget about achievements and trophies you get now,the satisfaction you feel in this game out ways them and that's what made games so good in the past and to be honest,it's there with some games but it's not the same!Original Halo deserves a perfect 10 with no doubt about it!… Expand
  5. TheQuietGamer
    Mar 6, 2011
    9
    This game was a game changer, and one of the best FPSs in history, the tight gameplay, with graphics and sound which were phenomenal at the time, with a griping story set in a fascinating Sci-Fi world, and gameplay that never got repetitive, and some fantastic split screen multiplayer, set this game apart from every other, the only thing keeping this from a perfect 10 is the fact that it'sThis game was a game changer, and one of the best FPSs in history, the tight gameplay, with graphics and sound which were phenomenal at the time, with a griping story set in a fascinating Sci-Fi world, and gameplay that never got repetitive, and some fantastic split screen multiplayer, set this game apart from every other, the only thing keeping this from a perfect 10 is the fact that it's not as impressive today do to the new FPSs out there, that aside this still a game I HIGHLY recommend, a must buy.… Expand
  6. PP7Silenced
    Mar 5, 2011
    10
    Halo: Combat Evolved is a 2001 first person shooter title that took what Goldeneye 007 did for the genre on consoles and improved upon it to make the Xbox the primary platform for what would soon become the most popular genre in the industry. The game features everything a player would want in a shooter game. An epic single player campaign complete with a variety of weapons, vehicles andHalo: Combat Evolved is a 2001 first person shooter title that took what Goldeneye 007 did for the genre on consoles and improved upon it to make the Xbox the primary platform for what would soon become the most popular genre in the industry. The game features everything a player would want in a shooter game. An epic single player campaign complete with a variety of weapons, vehicles and enemies that keep you changing up your strategy and encourages you to try new things. The story draws you in and makes you want to know what happens next to the point that many gamers have stated that Halo was the first game they ever "pulled an all nighter" playing just to get the the end of the campaign. Then you can experience it all again with a friend in co-op or begin your addiction to the multiplayer component that is sure to have you spending many late nights (and early mornings) trying to best your friends a game of capture the flag or slayer. A title that revolutionized the industry and put Xbox on the map. Halo is a must play for any fan of the genre.… Expand
  7. Tubie
    Jan 19, 2011
    9
    I never actually owned this game but I played it from start to finish in one sitting with a friend in coop mode when it came out. Truly a masterpiece and a very compelling reason to own an xbox at the time.
  8. Pelu
    Jan 6, 2011
    4
    It's a plain shooter with stupid space characters, the same old weapons and a stupid plot. A lot of better games were seen on PC a couple of years earlier. But it has co-op, so it's not completely useless.
  9. ArkonBlade
    Dec 30, 2010
    9
    a near perfect shooter in its day that felt it raised the bar for FPS games unfortunitly this is the one and only good halo game in the series. the game starts as you waking up from cryo statis as the master chief a cyborg bad ass that can kick some covenent butt . the game has a great selection of guns and one of the few games where i just loved sniping in it. it felt so fluid and justa near perfect shooter in its day that felt it raised the bar for FPS games unfortunitly this is the one and only good halo game in the series. the game starts as you waking up from cryo statis as the master chief a cyborg bad ass that can kick some covenent butt . the game has a great selection of guns and one of the few games where i just loved sniping in it. it felt so fluid and just fun. it also has co op which really makes it a more enjoyable game with a friend . the story is so-so as you feel like you are in the middle of a story with out much informing you on whats been going on overal . the controls are solid and the health shield system i really liked . the real major draw back is there was no multiplayer unless you had a computer and played it on gamespy or xbox connect . if MS had set this game up for multiplayer when xbox live came out or even realsed a patch or a new halo 1.5 game with it i could almost seeing giving this game a 10.… Expand
  10. hydeks
    Dec 11, 2010
    10
    This game is a true classic in just every way! I remember getting this game when I bought a Xbox and I've been playing this series and loving many other shooters, just cause of this one game. Awesome story, gameplay, multiplayer...EVERYTHING! Do yourself a favour and BUY this one and keep it forever, arguably one of the best Halo games in the series.
  11. Lambda-11
    Nov 28, 2010
    10
    One of the best FPSs I've ever played, I started to play this game about 3 months ago, and even being a 2001 game, it still amazes me. The gameplay is almost flawless and the music is perfect. This game is epic. A must buy!
  12. AI88
    Nov 27, 2010
    10
    Halo Combat Evolved may be--no, IS the best game ever made. It has a great story, awesome gameplay, great graphics for a game from 2001, in summary, everything about it is great! I am still playing it, and its sequel, Halo 2, after several years. Halo 3, not so much.
  13. Alveron
    Nov 15, 2010
    9
    One of the all time best fps of all time. this game was amazing in its day and like unreal GOTY still has a large number of people who still enjoy the online action after all these years.
  14. Seriously
    Nov 13, 2010
    10
    This is my attempt at a helpful NO SPOILER review.
    With popularity you get hate. Halo has gained many fans over the years, but it has also gained many haters. The reasons that I have heard that people do not like Halo are its originality, itâ
  15. williamwiggles
    Nov 13, 2010
    10
    Welcome to 2010. This game has been out for 10 years, and to me, it goes on strong. Overall, doesn't beat MW2 or Black Ops, but still is epic. Halo Reach is better due to forge, and multiplayer, and etc., but forget it. Halo: Combat Evolved's campaign can't be beat. I would like to see CoD beat this campaign.
  16. seanj
    Jan 4, 2010
    10
    its now 2010. over the past 8 years numerous amazing titles have come out, and if it werent for this title chance is none of them would have the way they did. also, being so old this game is still better than most new games. i'll never forget playing through the levels on legendary with my freinds. simply... well a "legendary" title.
  17. Sablicious
    Dec 20, 2009
    0
    Halo either deserves a '10' or a '0': '10' if you base the score on sales; the game's capacity in attracting new gamers to this form of electronic entertainment; on the measure of how much of a camoufalging influence 'hype' can have on the actual quality of a product; and on the potential for single game to save a video game console. However, Halo either deserves a '10' or a '0': '10' if you base the score on sales; the game's capacity in attracting new gamers to this form of electronic entertainment; on the measure of how much of a camoufalging influence 'hype' can have on the actual quality of a product; and on the potential for single game to save a video game console. However, it's '0' if you predicate your score on gameplay, originality, grpahics, sound and replay value. Given McDonald's and 50 Cent sell like hotcakes, have fans up the yin-yang and account for the livelyhoods of inumerable people, it's obvious success and popularity don't always equate to quality. As a game, Halo fails horribly. As a marketing tool, Halo literally HAS a halo!… Expand
  18. J.S.
    Dec 16, 2009
    8
    The most overrated game of all time. It was a dumbed down, Perfect Dark with Perfect Dark's many feature or great AI. The storyline was extremely simple and short. It had a some decent style and art direction, but was mostly was often along the lines of Golden Eye's 'Aztec' theme; what an eyesore. The ending was very anti-climactic and sudden. This is certainly not one The most overrated game of all time. It was a dumbed down, Perfect Dark with Perfect Dark's many feature or great AI. The storyline was extremely simple and short. It had a some decent style and art direction, but was mostly was often along the lines of Golden Eye's 'Aztec' theme; what an eyesore. The ending was very anti-climactic and sudden. This is certainly not one of the greatest games of all time. Its very mediocre. I credit it for introducing us to The Flood and one of FPS gaming's best titles. Halo 2 and 3 are much better.… Expand
  19. ErikS
    Nov 3, 2009
    8
    8.5 Halo was one of those games that my friend owned before me and was the reason I bought an Xbox but once I really got into it I realized that once you get to flood theirs nothing to keep you going all the gameplay gets really repetitive. On the other hand multiplayer is the one reason I kept on playing (still to this day halo3 at friends) because I just loved to stick my friends with 8.5 Halo was one of those games that my friend owned before me and was the reason I bought an Xbox but once I really got into it I realized that once you get to flood theirs nothing to keep you going all the gameplay gets really repetitive. On the other hand multiplayer is the one reason I kept on playing (still to this day halo3 at friends) because I just loved to stick my friends with plasmas and talk !@#$… Expand
  20. JordanH
    Oct 22, 2009
    10
    Easily one of the most powerful games ever created. It has raised the bar for the FPS genre and given gamers on the fence a reason to get an Xbox.
  21. jesseR
    Oct 20, 2009
    9
    very addicting and has aspects that were taken away in halo 3 halo gets really hard on heroic and even normal but the gameplay expirience is worth it
  22. ChrisS
    Oct 13, 2009
    10
    One of the best games ever made. It single handedly made the Xbox what it is today and set standards for other First person shooters. Anyone who has voted lower than a 8 is either insane or just bias.
  23. BrandonH.
    Oct 12, 2009
    10
    This game is amazing. The first console shooter that I REALLY enjoyed. It was revolutionary for its time in that it brought so many things to consoles that have never been done before and did them very well. I don't understand how anyone could rate this game so low as a 2 or 0. My real rating for this game is a 9, but to offset the low scores I went ahead and put 10.
  24. MartinS
    Oct 6, 2009
    10
    This is the best FPS of all time! I should know since I've played COD, GOW, Counter-Strike, you name it, I've played it. All of those games put together will still be a piece of crap compared to Halo 1. If you hate this amazing game, you have either never played it or have terrible taste in games.
  25. SanzeeBoy
    Jul 29, 2009
    10
    This game changed the FPS genre forever. The negative user scores for this game to stem from nothing but fanboyism. The critics testify of Halo's divine legacy. You can believe 99% of Halo's fanbase, including professional critics, or the shrinking fanbase of Sony's playstation game console. Truly superb in every way possible. It doesn't take a genius to know a great This game changed the FPS genre forever. The negative user scores for this game to stem from nothing but fanboyism. The critics testify of Halo's divine legacy. You can believe 99% of Halo's fanbase, including professional critics, or the shrinking fanbase of Sony's playstation game console. Truly superb in every way possible. It doesn't take a genius to know a great game. The numbers prove it, and the gameplay proves it as well. Halo: CE has left behind a legacy which remains to this day.… Expand
  26. Legoman
    Jul 16, 2009
    10
    The best FPS game ever. Starting the 3D evolution of FPS games and still my favorite to others I have played. like the Doom series. Awesome!!
  27. RodericR
    Jul 11, 2009
    10
    My memories of this amazing game will not abate. It was absolutely stunning visually, perfect and addictive multiplayer, and I thoroughly enjoyed the extensive levels and story.
  28. JohnM
    Jul 6, 2009
    10
    This isn't just a first-person shooter. It is a new bar for shooters. Not raising the bar. It made its own. I honestly believe that this may be the best first-person shooter of all time, and it is certainly my new favorite.
  29. JamesH
    Apr 3, 2009
    9
    I've played a lot of PC FPS games (mainly single player) since the original Wolfenstein, Doom, Quake, Unreal, Half Life... I loved Half Life and the sequel because they really moved the whole genre on a notch and did things that you never thought a game of that type could do. Halo is like that and pushes the bar even further with an amazingly detailed vision of future warfare. I I've played a lot of PC FPS games (mainly single player) since the original Wolfenstein, Doom, Quake, Unreal, Half Life... I loved Half Life and the sequel because they really moved the whole genre on a notch and did things that you never thought a game of that type could do. Halo is like that and pushes the bar even further with an amazingly detailed vision of future warfare. I would say that the graphics are INCREDIBLE given the year and the power available in an old Xbox - wait until you get onto Halo itself and you look out from a clifftop over a sea that slowly curves up into space. Stunning, even 7 years later. AI is terriffc, with genuinely tricky enemies throughout. Sounds are superb also. The story, cut scenes and so on will be very much appreciated by lovers of proper science fiction like Larry Niven's Ringworld. If you've never played this game, it is seriously worth going out and buying an old 2nd hand Xbox!… Expand
  30. Messiah
    Mar 16, 2009
    0
    This game, brings nothing new to any game-style. Stole weapons, and multiplayer from unreal (yet everyone is still saying omg, halo is so innovative) The story line is normal, nothing great, nothing all too astonishing. Truely, subpar game, horrible graphics for 2001 (Counterstrike has just about as good graphics as this and it was made in what 1995-7?). True, probably one of the This game, brings nothing new to any game-style. Stole weapons, and multiplayer from unreal (yet everyone is still saying omg, halo is so innovative) The story line is normal, nothing great, nothing all too astonishing. Truely, subpar game, horrible graphics for 2001 (Counterstrike has just about as good graphics as this and it was made in what 1995-7?). True, probably one of the xbox's better titles, but then again, there are probably a bunch that can beat this, easily. Halo: Combat Stole-from-Unreal. Is probably the right name for it. Nothing really evolved from anything. The starting area in Halo is even a ripoff of a fps I played a long time ago. I'm pretty sure that it was also unreal.… Expand
  31. JohnP
    Feb 21, 2009
    8
    This game is an all-out blast. The storyline is incredibly unique and action packed, not leaving you without wide-eyes for the entire game. Multiplayer is a bit on the lax side, but is still fun none-the-less.
  32. ColinM.
    Feb 13, 2009
    7
    First of all, I have to say that I am NOT a Sony fanboy. Now that that's out of the way, I can honestly review this game. First of all, the graphics are really nice for its time. It rivals ICO and MGS2. The AI is really smart, but the enemies are just retarded. They look like something out of Ratchet and Clank or Mario. The story is okay, could have been better. Soundtrack is epic First of all, I have to say that I am NOT a Sony fanboy. Now that that's out of the way, I can honestly review this game. First of all, the graphics are really nice for its time. It rivals ICO and MGS2. The AI is really smart, but the enemies are just retarded. They look like something out of Ratchet and Clank or Mario. The story is okay, could have been better. Soundtrack is epic though. Now the vehicles... The Warthog for example, looks like its going to be really cool, until you drive it... The controls are freaking crappy. I crashed so many times trying to get to drive with out skidding all over the place. It just blew up, taking me down with it. The bosses are good. Overall, though, I liked the game. But its not nearly as good as it was hyped to be.… Expand
  33. Vire
    Jan 6, 2009
    0
    I'm been an FPS gamer for years and I figured Halo would be good when it came out. I heard a lot of good talk about it. Unfortunately, it was really just... crap. Some of the vehicles were fun for a few minutes, but beyond that the story is boring, the actual fighting is completely crap and really, it's just a poor game in general. This game is so hyped it's incredible. It I'm been an FPS gamer for years and I figured Halo would be good when it came out. I heard a lot of good talk about it. Unfortunately, it was really just... crap. Some of the vehicles were fun for a few minutes, but beyond that the story is boring, the actual fighting is completely crap and really, it's just a poor game in general. This game is so hyped it's incredible. It has a rating of 83 on PC as opposed to 97 on Xbox. Given that ALL FPS games are better on PCs, due to differences in controllers, I think this speaks for how smart console gamers are.… Expand
  34. O.C.
    Dec 27, 2008
    10
    Just a quick blurb about Halo CE: I love Half Life. Probably my 2nd favorite game of all time, 2nd to half life 2. I don't love Halo. Not a fan of the stoy, and just never really got into it. So, with that said, you cannot possibly deny that Halo was incredibly inovative and changed FPSs forever - for the better, usually. The rebounding health meter, stunning visuals and perfect Just a quick blurb about Halo CE: I love Half Life. Probably my 2nd favorite game of all time, 2nd to half life 2. I don't love Halo. Not a fan of the stoy, and just never really got into it. So, with that said, you cannot possibly deny that Halo was incredibly inovative and changed FPSs forever - for the better, usually. The rebounding health meter, stunning visuals and perfect execution of all facets of gameplay make Halo deserve a 10.… Expand
  35. Ragderal
    Dec 17, 2008
    0
    This game sucks, Brett is right nothing original. How can this game is one of the best fps, oh yeah i remember money makes every single human change their minds and guess what... MICROSOFT=Money.
  36. PatrickP
    Dec 3, 2008
    9
    This game is absolutely nothing short of amazing. An incredible story, insanely intelligent enemies, and huge levels. The lack of online play, and the short campaign is all that keeps this from getting a perfect 10.
  37. sdfdsafsgdsdag
    Nov 29, 2008
    10
    Oh? You want to know about innovation do you? How about a ground breaking regenerating health system - since a staple in modern FPS - vehicles affected by physics long before HL2 was released, a control system that STILL has to be bettered nearly 5 years later, and is now also a staple in all console FPS and I haven't even mentioned it's biggest innovation. Before Halo, console Oh? You want to know about innovation do you? How about a ground breaking regenerating health system - since a staple in modern FPS - vehicles affected by physics long before HL2 was released, a control system that STILL has to be bettered nearly 5 years later, and is now also a staple in all console FPS and I haven't even mentioned it's biggest innovation. Before Halo, console FPS had no story. Halo was to the console shooters what Half Life was to the PC ones. You say halo has no innovation?… Expand
  38. NateC
    Oct 25, 2008
    10
    Oh, this rating was easy. Definitely the most memorable of the series. Sure its options pale in comparison to Halo 2 or especially 3, but damn this game is still amazing. The graphics, story, AI, gameplay, and the multi-player. That alone made for fun with 16 friends (if you had the means of doing so) that lasted for hours on end. Single-player on Legendary is almost as memorable, as Oh, this rating was easy. Definitely the most memorable of the series. Sure its options pale in comparison to Halo 2 or especially 3, but damn this game is still amazing. The graphics, story, AI, gameplay, and the multi-player. That alone made for fun with 16 friends (if you had the means of doing so) that lasted for hours on end. Single-player on Legendary is almost as memorable, as it's definitely the way to play providing you don't suck at the game. So does this game deserve the 10 I'm giving it? Absolutely.… Expand
  39. Brett
    Sep 28, 2008
    0
    Come on. This game was second rate at best. Plain enemies, boring weapons with no orginality (oh a rocket laucher WOW) and vehicles that have the steering of a blind guy in a truck. Tell me one thing about this game that was original. At least Gears of War tried new things, they changed combat from the 'run directly at you foe, strafing from left to right to 'dodge' Come on. This game was second rate at best. Plain enemies, boring weapons with no orginality (oh a rocket laucher WOW) and vehicles that have the steering of a blind guy in a truck. Tell me one thing about this game that was original. At least Gears of War tried new things, they changed combat from the 'run directly at you foe, strafing from left to right to 'dodge' bullets' gameplay, to something original. As for Halo 2, who wants to play as the guys you fought in the previous game. FPS died when this game was released, yet it will live on in Half-Life, Doom and Team Fortress.… Expand
  40. WhoKnows
    Sep 23, 2008
    8
    Oke, don't understand me wrong now, Halo was a great shooter when it came out, but you should be realistic. Just because it was the first shooter on xbox doesn't mean it deserves a score of 100. Graphics were good for its days, but so were the graphics of DooM. Gameplay wise it could be best described as mixing Quake 3 with Call of Duty, not a bad mix but not a match made in Oke, don't understand me wrong now, Halo was a great shooter when it came out, but you should be realistic. Just because it was the first shooter on xbox doesn't mean it deserves a score of 100. Graphics were good for its days, but so were the graphics of DooM. Gameplay wise it could be best described as mixing Quake 3 with Call of Duty, not a bad mix but not a match made in heaven aether... It a good shooter, but not outstanding.… Expand
  41. MichaelF.
    Aug 23, 2008
    10
    Sorry Anonymous (considering you're probably scared you're going to get torn apart on here), but people don't care about the originality. People care about the gameplay.. and Halo: Combat Evolved pulled this off perfectly.
  42. TomC.
    Jun 25, 2008
    10
    Personally i think this is one of the best video games ever made end of.
  43. AaronM
    Jun 23, 2008
    9
    This was a great game. Not as good as the Half-Life series, but stiil very good. Then there was Halo 2 (crap), and Halo 3 couldn't fully recover. Ten years from now, we'll be saying "Remember the time when Halo was good?" 2001 - 2003 FTW!
  44. BrentV.
    May 30, 2008
    9
    This game is what To Kill a Mockingbird or Gone With the Wind are in the reading world! The story could've been a little better, but was still really engaging with the flood plot twist and all. One of the great things about this game is how the pistol was actually fun to use! I know it's 2008 and we have advanced A.I. but back then, this was what they called advanced and great This game is what To Kill a Mockingbird or Gone With the Wind are in the reading world! The story could've been a little better, but was still really engaging with the flood plot twist and all. One of the great things about this game is how the pistol was actually fun to use! I know it's 2008 and we have advanced A.I. but back then, this was what they called advanced and great graphics. If they'd made Crysis back then, it wouldn't be half the game it is now. Overall, a great multiplayer and single-player experience rocks this game off the charts!… Expand
  45. JohnN.
    May 26, 2008
    6
    Fun with friends, and that was about it.
  46. Marc.D
    May 4, 2008
    9
    Though time has provided us with a measure of objectivity with regards to the technical aspects, Halo still stands as a remarkable achievement in visual storytelling. The only comparable experience is Half-Life and its sequel . Like many have noted, the game has some annoying problems such as the dreadful level design of 'The Library' and some slowdown in heavy firefights. But Though time has provided us with a measure of objectivity with regards to the technical aspects, Halo still stands as a remarkable achievement in visual storytelling. The only comparable experience is Half-Life and its sequel . Like many have noted, the game has some annoying problems such as the dreadful level design of 'The Library' and some slowdown in heavy firefights. But for the most part, Halo is a classic and has withstood the ravages of time amazingly well.… Expand
  47. JohnE.
    Jan 27, 2008
    10
    Halo was the reason I bought an Xbox, and it still amazes me with its originality and overall sense of environment and level design. It used the best aspects of the Xbox and was an amazing start to a series that still captivates today.
  48. WilliamT.
    Jan 21, 2008
    9
    A triumph. Halo is one of the best games you'll find on the XBox even to this day. While it's not very deep and the later levels feel a tad recylcled, the solid story and action make it a classic and a blast to play.
  49. PerI.
    Jan 15, 2008
    10
    A kick-ass game which open my eyes for "smart" FPS-games.
  50. AdrienV.
    Jan 10, 2008
    6
    It was a rainy day. I bought it played it. Nothing great. Very simple, nothing very stand-out. When I bought half life 1 I stopped caring about graphics as much and i realised that there was not much to this game. Fun for an hour, then just drop it and buy something else.
  51. JH.
    Dec 18, 2007
    1
    And they said Assassin's Creed was repetitive? As FPS games go, this is atrocious. Particularly multiplayer where it's like fighting in a cardboard box... "Where are they hiding? Oh. Over there. That's because the levels are so small"
  52. FraserW.
    Dec 15, 2007
    8
    Incredible. I was fully a hater of this game prior to owning an Xbox. Without many games i asked my friends to loan me Halo and i fell in love. After my first kill with that pistol i neve quit until this pesky part with that flood disease, still great game.
  53. BenC.
    Dec 2, 2007
    9
    Amazing game with superb campaign and multiplayer. Only drawback is recycled levels.
  54. DavidV.
    Oct 8, 2007
    10
    Fantastic storyline and gameplay make this a very enjoayble game to play. One of the best games I've played on X-Box.
  55. NoahT.
    Oct 7, 2007
    6
    Halo 2 and Halo 3 are masterpieces of the first-person shooter genre and deserve the incredibly high scores they received, but Master Chief's first adventure is vastly overrated. Yes, the graphics are incredible, voice acting is top-notch and there quite a few innovative gameplay concepts thrown around. But what really kills this game is level design. You often visit a singular zone Halo 2 and Halo 3 are masterpieces of the first-person shooter genre and deserve the incredibly high scores they received, but Master Chief's first adventure is vastly overrated. Yes, the graphics are incredible, voice acting is top-notch and there quite a few innovative gameplay concepts thrown around. But what really kills this game is level design. You often visit a singular zone many, many times throughout your adventure, and the repetitive level design and enemies, not to mention the repetitive level design and enemies (oh yeah, did I tell you about the the repetitive level design and enemies?) are cause for frustration and disappointment. Skip this one and get the two sequels instead. They are far superior.… Expand
  56. BradleyH.
    Sep 28, 2007
    10
    Great game all around. It was definately a giant step forewars for the FPS genre and don't let anyone tell you differently.
  57. JoeM.
    Sep 25, 2007
    10
    A legendary game. People say that the hype for the game outwieghed the content, this happened in my experience with such games as San Andreas and Gears of War. But I never hyped for Halo because I never had an xbox, but then my mate slapped me across the face and I came to my senses. When I got it I was completely stunned, never had I played a game like it.
  58. PhilipH.
    Sep 24, 2007
    6
    Decent storyline and gameplay, but mostly just annoying. This game moved the genre forward, but it's a mere stepping stone. I don't care for the Halo franchise in general. Halo 2 should have never been made.
  59. Mr.Mellowguy
    Sep 18, 2007
    10
    Was able to master control scheme for FPS on a console, and a great backstory. It doesn't add many new features to FPS in general, but it combines all the best features extremely well.
  60. Adrian
    Sep 18, 2007
    9
    With a simple, yet engaging storyline (that is everything true science-fiction should be), interesting characters and settings, and an intense and frantic style of gameplay, Halo: Combat Evolved stands way out (and alone) among other first-person shooters.
  61. Warmonger
    Sep 5, 2007
    5
    I watched my friend playing this a few years back on Xbox and to be honest did not see what all the hype was about, the graphics we're very nice but the game play was shall we say.... shallow. With the impending arrival of Halo 3 I decided to try out the "original" on PC, least to say, I quickly became bored, only to quit a little more than half way through. I believe you should give I watched my friend playing this a few years back on Xbox and to be honest did not see what all the hype was about, the graphics we're very nice but the game play was shall we say.... shallow. With the impending arrival of Halo 3 I decided to try out the "original" on PC, least to say, I quickly became bored, only to quit a little more than half way through. I believe you should give a game a good run before you judge it but can now truly say..... this game does NOT deserve all the hype and adulation that has been placed upon it. In my mind it is nothing more than a Unreal, Halflife rip off, with very little originality. You only have to look at the similarities, for example: The enemies in the original Unreal and those in Halo, in fact thats the first thing that I noticed! "boy do these enemies look a lot like the Skaarj in Unreal" also, the headcrabs on the people in Half life bear a striking resembalance to the infected covenant and marine soldiers,coincidence? I think not! 5 is being kind to this game but after all... it does have good graphics!… Expand
  62. AlanT.
    Sep 1, 2007
    10
    An amazing game that does so many things right. Good graphics and an engaging story help set this game above the others. And if that wasn't enough, it has an incredible multi player that will give hours of enjoyment with your friends.
  63. robun
    Aug 10, 2007
    0
    Yeah... no. This game was not at all that great, i cant believe people compare it to the half life titles. The game offers no variety whatsoever, the multiplayer gets repetitive immediately after you finish your first match.
  64. Barry
    Aug 10, 2007
    8
    It's a top game, but what is all the god damn hype about? There's nothing actually here whatsover that makes it 'the best game ever made' or 'best fps ever made'. I can think of so many other games that deserve to be crowned the best, this doesn't. There just is not enough weapons or enemies in it. It can be very intense when theres loads of enemies It's a top game, but what is all the god damn hype about? There's nothing actually here whatsover that makes it 'the best game ever made' or 'best fps ever made'. I can think of so many other games that deserve to be crowned the best, this doesn't. There just is not enough weapons or enemies in it. It can be very intense when theres loads of enemies surrounding you on Legendary mode, but the slowness and repetativeness of the game lets it down big time. The areas outside are way too big aswell imo, with such a slow running Master Chief, what is the point? 8/10 maximum.… Expand
  65. gbarules2999Thompson
    Aug 8, 2007
    10
    Halo. Wow. Add the following ingredients: A thrilling multiplayer match, a more linear but still free map design, well developed AI, excellent action and great controls, a brilliant story, some of the best music in a game ever, and still serviceable graphics. What do you get? A modern classic.
  66. MickT.
    Jul 29, 2007
    7
    This game is truly the best FPS out there. Maynot have the most amazing graphics ever, but this game's weaponry and gameplay are truly fantastic. Although I've got a few minor complaints: The level design was repetitive, limited unique foes and is just a normal unrealistic run-and-gun shooter. The halo series is awesome. But after screwing up on Halo 2, Halo 3 doesn't stand This game is truly the best FPS out there. Maynot have the most amazing graphics ever, but this game's weaponry and gameplay are truly fantastic. Although I've got a few minor complaints: The level design was repetitive, limited unique foes and is just a normal unrealistic run-and-gun shooter. The halo series is awesome. But after screwing up on Halo 2, Halo 3 doesn't stand a chance. Unlike Halo2, This game actually has a well planned out story mode. Along with the multiplayer. Overall a fairly decent game, but definitely doesnt live up to all its hype. But this definitely comes second to Gears of War.… Expand
  67. Dave
    Jul 26, 2007
    0
    Oh... My... God people... this game SUCKS. Its not fun... they put absolutely no thought into this game. theres like 5 weapons, and 5 eneimies the whole game. WOW such good variety. Why does everyone like it.. it sucks. the graphics are good and all but its super-repetitive and not fun.
  68. JackB.
    Jul 9, 2007
    10
    An awsome shooter with nonstop action, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
  69. RobertS.
    Jun 25, 2007
    10
    If your playing a 3 vs 3 or more capture the flag game with a good strategy in your head on a good map, no game is better.
  70. LoganD.
    May 25, 2007
    7
    Halo makes a great first impression, but in the end it can't live up to all of the hype. Shameless cut-and-paste level design is abundant from start to finish, and quickly degrades into a run-and-gun corridor crawl. Halo is an above-average game, but it could have been much better.
  71. SamH
    Apr 2, 2007
    9
    This is an amazing game with a great story. But sometimes of the levels were a bit repetitive.
  72. MikeT.
    Mar 9, 2007
    10
    Only Ps2 and PC fanboys give this game under 7. This game revolutionized the way shooters work on consoles. The feel is just right for aiming, the ability to throw grenades at any time is ingenius, and the recharging health system is seen in more and more shooters all the time. Halo FIXED the console FPS genre. It has its faults, but its faults are outweighed by everything good it has Only Ps2 and PC fanboys give this game under 7. This game revolutionized the way shooters work on consoles. The feel is just right for aiming, the ability to throw grenades at any time is ingenius, and the recharging health system is seen in more and more shooters all the time. Halo FIXED the console FPS genre. It has its faults, but its faults are outweighed by everything good it has done. I do enjoy Half Life 2 more than Halo. But I cannot deny that Halo has had a huge impact on shooters, and will continue to have an impact for years to come.… Expand
  73. KipHT
    Mar 6, 2007
    10
    Halo is a classic. It is hands down the best game I have ever played. Even when you finish it in one final leap it keeps drawing you back. Oh, and the musical score... I could go on all day. Love the game.
  74. CarlC.
    Mar 1, 2007
    7
    A memorable game but the xbox controller completely ruins it. I like the feel of a mouse better.
  75. CourtneyS.
    Feb 12, 2007
    10
    Halo is definitely the best game I've ever played. Seriously. The graphics are amazing and the story was well planned.
  76. BenW.
    Feb 10, 2007
    1
    A dreadful game. The hype is all for nothing. Compared to a PC game its nothing even Daiktana is better than this. The sequel haven't improved on it either!
  77. AdamN.
    Jan 30, 2007
    0
    How rubbish is this? Where is this big hype about it gone? Oh yes, its shite. This is like another game, so ok it is a good game and can be fun, but it still isn't a amazing game that I should have been so its a let down so the vote should be a let down as well!
  78. Phate
    Jan 22, 2007
    10
    The graphics are amazing, the gameplay is intriguing and has a lot of depth unlike most other games...what else can I say? Go buy a copy of Halo!
  79. Somebody
    Jan 17, 2007
    2
    Run in a straight line shooting the "tough" AI. Just a re-hash of Doom and not as good.
  80. JOkuV.
    Nov 7, 2006
    10
    This is the best console fps ever, and rivals easily most pc fps's. Better than HL2.
  81. FredB.
    Oct 18, 2006
    10
    Might just be the best game of all time and I must say I have had the game for about 6 years and I still play it. It's one of those games that if you don't have it.... get it, if you have it..... keep it.
  82. Halofreak
    Oct 7, 2006
    10
    This is the best game ever I bought Xbox just for this game and I was glad when I did the srtory line is so good and the game never gets old.
  83. DeanK.
    Sep 20, 2006
    10
    This game is a very great game, the vehicles, campaign, mode and my favorite, multiplayer kicks .ss.
  84. lawl
    Aug 28, 2006
    9
    It's a great game, i remember it was one of the first xbox games i played when i first got it, the other was KOTOR 1, though i was still a kid back then, and i was afwaid of the fwood. only one problem was that it had no XBOX LIVE! The online PC version had horrible network and didnt work to well as well, but Halo 2 did great with XBL.
  85. MZ
    Aug 17, 2006
    10
    The combat system is amazing. Eventually, just the need to survive the waves of enemies is almost overwhelming. Satisfying from begining to end.
  86. Shug
    Aug 12, 2006
    10
    Okay mother.....s that hate this game... give me a decent reason this game blows. The campaign wasnt bad and there was no hype towards the campaign so it was what i expected. There was hype on the multiplayer and it has exceeded all the hype by far. It has executed more than expected. It is still to this the the most played xbox live game. And just because you are a computer gamer, doesntOkay mother.....s that hate this game... give me a decent reason this game blows. The campaign wasnt bad and there was no hype towards the campaign so it was what i expected. There was hype on the multiplayer and it has exceeded all the hype by far. It has executed more than expected. It is still to this the the most played xbox live game. And just because you are a computer gamer, doesnt mean every other ... game out there sucks. Hey there are more computer games out there that blow worse than any xbox game. So you can just shut the ... up!… Expand
  87. BoBBoBBy
    Aug 7, 2006
    5
    Aight it is plan and simple Single Plyaer is the MOST UNORIGINAL Sh.. EVER but on the other hand I have never had a more fun time killing my friends in multiplayer, both Halos shine in multiplayer but f.... WRECK in Campagn mode!
  88. DannyS.
    Jul 31, 2006
    10
    Awesome game at it's time. Just redefined the meaning of FPS.
  89. Paul
    Jul 21, 2006
    10
    Just an awesome game all round. Best part is how well the co-operative mode plays.
  90. BenS.
    Jul 19, 2006
    0
    How is this considered good?it was boring!
  91. JayP.
    Jul 19, 2006
    0
    Poor. Atrocious selection of weapons, and very limited unique enemies. The scenery has simply been multiplied a thousand times, so when you're playing campaign it feels like you're running through the same area again and again. Inferior shooter. Buy half-life instead.
  92. HebieJeebie
    Jul 15, 2006
    8
    It's fun, for sure, but not THAT fun. The outdoor levels totally rule but the indoor levels are extremely repetitive -- repetitive enough to warrant knocking a couple points of its score. Don't get me wrong -- I'm not a hater -- just being fair and honest. It seriously seems like the developers just wussed out on the indoor environments.
  93. ZacheryG.
    Jul 8, 2006
    10
    If you rate this game under a 10 you must like playstation and you need to get a life.
  94. CiaranG.
    Jun 20, 2006
    9
    Every aspect of this game is brilliant. Brilliant one player mode, brilliant online and offline multiplayer, brilliant music, good graphics.
  95. EricL.
    May 12, 2006
    10
    Incredible action, diverse environments and an engaging story make this a must have game. In particular, the first encounter with the Flood is creepy and tense, a complete, and welcome, surprise in the middle of the game. The only downside is the repetition of some of the action, though this is a very slight annoyance and in no way detracts from the overall achievement of Bungie.
  96. OisinD.
    Apr 18, 2006
    10
    A simply stunning game that reinvigorates the fps, there are times you feel cheated with the repeated level design but apart from that it is flawless.
  97. ShawnR.
    Apr 17, 2006
    10
    Easily the most innovative and groundbreaking FPS. Every new control scheme is influenced by it and the multiplayer is enjoyable for years.
  98. [Anonymous]
    Apr 13, 2006
    6
    its an OK game not nealy as good as Half Life that came out first.
  99. BillD.
    Mar 28, 2006
    5
    Overrated and actually just straight up boring. Good AI is the only saving grace because multiplayer is nowhere near as fun as everyone says. Play a PC shooter instead.
  100. MichaelA.
    Mar 12, 2006
    8
    I just have to say that this is one of the best games I have ever played! The graphics were good. The story was awesome. The characters were really cool. There was much variety in the weapons, vehicles, and other items. And finally, the boards were very creative. For those of you who don't have an X Box, buy one now and make sure that this will one of the first games you buy for this I just have to say that this is one of the best games I have ever played! The graphics were good. The story was awesome. The characters were really cool. There was much variety in the weapons, vehicles, and other items. And finally, the boards were very creative. For those of you who don't have an X Box, buy one now and make sure that this will one of the first games you buy for this system. I didn't give this a 10 because I need to leave room for improvement. Bungie, great job!… Expand
Page:

Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Xbox Game of 2001
1
#1 Most Discussed Xbox Game of 2001
1
#1 Most Shared Xbox Game of 2001

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
97

Universal acclaim - based on 68 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 68 out of 68
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 68
  3. Negative: 0 out of 68
  1. Xbox Nation Magazine
    100
    Halo is quite simply the closest thing we have ever experienced to a living, breathing alternate universe. [Jan 2002, p.72]
  2. GMR Magazine
    100
    The definitive reason to own an Xbox. [Feb 2003, p.95]
  3. Gamestyle
    100
    When you finally set down the controller the first time, and eventually hunger or exhaustion do force all of us to take a break, Halo has pulled you completely into its world and started one of the best sci-fi gaming adventures of all time.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »