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
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  1. AbsoluteZero
    Sep 23, 2002
    10
    It has changed my life...
  2. GaborA.
    Nov 11, 2003
    10
    Campaign mode is well done and exciting but falls in the same pit as many FPS before it like Golden Eye as in the enemies are not challenging just merely endless. However, just like Golden Eye this Halo is the best multiplayer experience out there. Nothing compares and if for nothing else the single player mode can be used for practice for the ingenious mulitplayer mode.
  3. TheFounder
    Nov 12, 2003
    10
    This game has the best multiplayer and Campaign mode ever! Half life blows, and the people who dislike it, can't fathom this game, or have the skill to play it! People can acoused that the missions are repetative, but they don't look deeper. When you enter a house in saburbia you will find one thing: they are repetative. You need to realize that you won't find another game This game has the best multiplayer and Campaign mode ever! Half life blows, and the people who dislike it, can't fathom this game, or have the skill to play it! People can acoused that the missions are repetative, but they don't look deeper. When you enter a house in saburbia you will find one thing: they are repetative. You need to realize that you won't find another game thats make you think damn it! When you have five Elites, and two squads of Grunts shooting at you from every angle you'll appriciate this game. If any of you Halo-Haters have the balls, play it on Legendary. They "stupid AI" will tear you a new assh.le! Then latter in the game the Flood come into play! And as for Multiplayer, bots ruin FPS's! They are repetative drones, that take away the fun, and make the game droll. Halo, forces you to find other people, and "interact" with them. I know that the gamming comunity has problems with that sometimes too. You will never have more fun in you're life until you play a 16 person team Slayer game, with Rockets! As for the story line, it's bad ass! The implications of the Covenant, and the creation of Halo is amazing! The Flood don't look like anything I've ever seen before. Half-Lifes parasites are different, and for all you people out there: if Halo isn't original with the Floods design, the neither is Half-Life, or Doom, or any other FPS. You can attribute the designs to Aliens, and Aliens to Gigers works. What you need to look at is this: they are called the Flood, and they earn that name by overwhelming you and riping you to shreds! There is not another game that can offer gameplay that makes you feel like you're in combat! What other game has a fucking tank, or a warthog that you and you're friends can ride? Half-Life? NO! Where else can you fight enemies that will tear you to shreds, and use TACTICS! Half-Life? NO! Halo is the best game FPS wise, hands down, and without question. When Halo II comes out, nothing will stand before it! Besides Fable comes out around that time too! Half-Life II will be a small shade of grey compared to both these games! I have to reinterate: if Halo is a 10, then Halo II is 11! … Expand
  4. BrianK.
    Nov 13, 2003
    10
    BEST GAME EVER!!! it would've been better though if they would've had bots in multiplayer!! Still best game ever!!!
  5. DustinK.
    Nov 19, 2003
    10
    I have one thing to say to anybody who gave this game anyless than a 10 eat the poo, I mean really that rating just tells me that you lack the skill that it takes to master a game like that. I want to see you take on the flood and the covenant on legendary mode and tell me its easy i guarantee that you cannot beat any one level in less than an hour. Oh yeah and anyway i think we need to I have one thing to say to anybody who gave this game anyless than a 10 eat the poo, I mean really that rating just tells me that you lack the skill that it takes to master a game like that. I want to see you take on the flood and the covenant on legendary mode and tell me its easy i guarantee that you cannot beat any one level in less than an hour. Oh yeah and anyway i think we need to get a little multiplayer going so i can eat you for lunch just to make me feel better about you pathetic rating skills.… Expand
  6. NickD.
    Nov 26, 2003
    10
    Obviously a 10. I agree I think we should get some multiplayer going. Anybody play XBC?
  7. AlexR.
    Oct 13, 2003
    10
    This is by far the greatest first person shooter of all time, I challenge anyone to try and find a better game, just wait for the sequel, it will blow your mind!
  8. MasterChief
    Oct 14, 2003
    10
    What is wrong with those who gave it below 10. It's either they've never played Halo before or they just gave it a random score. Perfect level designed made it superior to any other game ever made. Now I admit Starcraft RTS was superb but Microsoft has topped Blizzard with this thriller. But there is something I dont get. Even FIFA 2003 has been realeased as a "classics" game What is wrong with those who gave it below 10. It's either they've never played Halo before or they just gave it a random score. Perfect level designed made it superior to any other game ever made. Now I admit Starcraft RTS was superb but Microsoft has topped Blizzard with this thriller. But there is something I dont get. Even FIFA 2003 has been realeased as a "classics" game but Halo has not and it's still $99.99 at some places. Apart from that it was the best hundered bucks I've ever spent. I'll be playing it for years to come and not get bored of it. The only thing that will stop me from playing halo is the Cd Snapping. 8.8 overall score is an underrating.… Expand
  9. BitBurn
    Nov 7, 2003
    10
    What a ride. Beautiful graphics, wicked storyline and phenomenal multiplayer support.
  10. GeoffS.
    Dec 23, 2003
    10
    What are you guys smoking?!?!?! Halo is one of the best games in the history of the world. The single player is amazing, but it doesn't even begin to scratch the surface. I don't know how many countless hours I have spent playing 2v2, 4v4 or 8v8 halo with system link. It is pure heaven. Someone name a better multiplayer console game. Go ahead and try, its impossible.
  11. Legendary
    Dec 29, 2003
    10
    Everyone who gave this game something below the green levels is a sh..head. This game is great.
  12. SerenePhoenix
    Feb 18, 2003
    10
    Excellent, multiplayer is fun although slightly lacking...
  13. MichaelN.
    Feb 21, 2003
    10
    Let's just say that i thought about it at work, on the train to and from work, at home, asleep and at meal-times.....if i could remember to eat......the only thing i could think about was: "How am i going to get out to the other checkpoint?...." I made it back to the pickup (at the end of the game) with 2 seconds to spare on the clock......i let out a howl worse than anything living Let's just say that i thought about it at work, on the train to and from work, at home, asleep and at meal-times.....if i could remember to eat......the only thing i could think about was: "How am i going to get out to the other checkpoint?...." I made it back to the pickup (at the end of the game) with 2 seconds to spare on the clock......i let out a howl worse than anything living in the forests of transylvannia! I rest my case.… Expand
  14. RiccardoV.
    Mar 22, 2003
    10
    Simply beautiful!
  15. Echohammer419
    Mar 28, 2003
    10
    Super Game! Even though some gamplay is repetitive, the addictive level of this holy grail of games won't make you think twice about how great this is. It is superpurb. Nothing like playing against 15 other friends. As a matter of fact, that's exactly what I'm going to do right now. Buy it! You WILL NOT BE DISAPOINTED. I GUARRENTEE IT!
  16. AnthonyH.
    Apr 26, 2003
    10
    I've half finshed this game so far. i love this game beacuse you could get the enimes car's,weopons,and grenades. this game is too easy' but cool!
  17. MikeO.
    Apr 27, 2003
    10
    This is the closest game to perfection, there is nothing like it and I onlt hope that Halo 2 can at least match it's uniqueness.
  18. Mkus23
    Jul 31, 2003
    10
    I would LOVE to see the 10 games that "Michael" considers to be classics for the Gamecube. None approach Halo in any arena, least of all the overhyped and overrated Metroid Prime or Zelda Windraper. Stinks to be jealous, eh?
  19. Ofurbiznaz
    Jul 31, 2003
    10
    This come comes as close as i've ever seen to being perfect. With an original story line, impressive AI, amazing graphics, and in your face action Halo proves that it deserved the Game of the Year award and it is still the best game around. The only game that could possibly be better would be Halo 2...which is something i cant wait to be released.
  20. JonathonW.
    Aug 15, 2003
    10
    two words, Super Sweet!
  21. PramodJ.
    Aug 25, 2003
    10
    This game is DEFINITELY the best game ever!!!! John H., Ricky, and Jimmy are probably into ps2, which is good, but not better then XBOX!!!
  22. ElijahH.
    Oct 12, 2004
    10
    This is by far, The best game i have EVER played! I cant wait till Halo2 comes out! only 27 days, 6 hours, 33 Minutes and 18 Seconds! Sandman
  23. MattZ.
    Jan 13, 2004
    10
    The game got 26 100 up top... thats a rediculous score. an all around awesome game.
  24. JustinM.
    Jan 18, 2004
    8
    Don't get me wrong I like Halo, but I just didn't find it to be that amazingly great. i liked half-life a lot better. i would give half-life a nine and lliked it a little better than halo so i give halo an 8. just not enough weapons and i also thought some of the levels got boring.
  25. RazorX.
    Oct 19, 2004
    10
    This game is so awesome! I've still haven't gotten bored of it after, 3 years!
  26. JoshB.
    Mar 21, 2004
    10
    This game is the best thing ever!!! Single player is bomb! System link multiplayer is better than anything!! No joke!! Playing system link Halo is better than a girlfriend!!!
  27. Bob
    Jul 14, 2004
    10
    Good Points Blood.
  28. GalnT.
    Jul 28, 2004
    10
    It is awesome!
  29. TobyM.
    Aug 28, 2004
    10
    Wow this game is the best i have played in a long long time and the second halo is even better when i heard it was coming out i reserved my copy rite away.
  30. KevinH.
    Feb 21, 2005
    7
    The game is fun at first but after a while it just gets repetative. I would rather play a game that keeps my intrest longer. I agree with how the controls are wonderful, the graphics are great, and I don't even mind shooting the same enemy that is a different color. It just gets, boring. Still a good game to buy but don't set your hopes too high.
  31. JonM.
    Jun 25, 2005
    7
    A good game, beautiful settings, but after two or three times through, it gets boring, thus the 7.
  32. 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.
  33. 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.
  34. 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.
  35. 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!
  36. 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.
  37. 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.
  38. 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.
  39. 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.
  40. 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!
  41. 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
  42. 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
  43. PaulK.
    Dec 17, 2001
    10
    Awesome detail in 1 player mode. More fun in multiplayer than should be allowed by law!!! Best game ever played.
  44. ChristopherB.
    Dec 19, 2001
    10
    The most fun I've had in a game! The amazing story, graphics, sound, attention to detail, AI, etc. combine to make the whole MUCH greater than the sum of its parts. Halo simply puts you there.
  45. BrettB.
    Dec 27, 2001
    10
    Amazing, one of the best games, if not the best game, ever produced to this day.
  46. JustinJ.
    Dec 14, 2002
    10
    Damn this is the best damn game I've ever played, i dont think they'll ever make a game this good until halo 2 comes out. this game is the reason why i got xbox, without this game xbox would just be crap.
  47. FatChowmein
    Dec 17, 2002
    10
    Awesome. With movies, games, books, I look for the entertainment that leaves a lasting impression. Remember the first time you saw the T-Rex scene on Jurassic Park, Star Wars (1977), Indiana Jones, the first 20 min of Saving Private Ryan, the "I'll be back" scene in Terminator, the first time you played Castle Wolfenstein, Doom, Duke Nukem, etc? Remember the first time you Awesome. With movies, games, books, I look for the entertainment that leaves a lasting impression. Remember the first time you saw the T-Rex scene on Jurassic Park, Star Wars (1977), Indiana Jones, the first 20 min of Saving Private Ryan, the "I'll be back" scene in Terminator, the first time you played Castle Wolfenstein, Doom, Duke Nukem, etc? Remember the first time you encountered the flood? Bloody magnificent. A must have that should be the first title bought with the first purchase of the Xbox. Now, if I could only find a cheat to unlock the tank throughout the entire game...… Expand
  48. Chels
    Dec 29, 2002
    10
    This is a above an beyond game!!!! this is why i bought the xbox console!!!! I cn't wait for the sec. one!!!!!
  49. WilleN.
    Nov 25, 2003
    10
    This game gets more and more fun everytime you play it and when Halo 2 comes out it will kick ass. No game will never compete against Halo nothing will be better than this game and to all those people that gave it lower than 10 what the hell is wrong with people. Maybe its just that you don't have an Xbox and never did played Halo oer maybe you don't know what is a good First This game gets more and more fun everytime you play it and when Halo 2 comes out it will kick ass. No game will never compete against Halo nothing will be better than this game and to all those people that gave it lower than 10 what the hell is wrong with people. Maybe its just that you don't have an Xbox and never did played Halo oer maybe you don't know what is a good First Person Shooter.… Expand
  50. LeighM.
    Nov 26, 2003
    10
    Perfect First Game For The Xbox! A Must Have.
  51. CorT.
    Nov 19, 2004
    10
    Made me glad I never followed thru with suicide and lived long enough to experience this game.
  52. GeorgeP.
    Dec 24, 2004
    10
    Even the glitches are fun!
  53. 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
  54. aspentitan
    Aug 2, 2020
    9
    19 years and the game still holds up IMO. This game was way ahead of its time and everyone should own this or at minimum complete the campaign. Here we have a game with great science fiction, a decent story, a linear but quite open game style, lots of choice in how to proceed within the game, interesting different areas and weapons, pretty decent visuals and sound effects and great AI19 years and the game still holds up IMO. This game was way ahead of its time and everyone should own this or at minimum complete the campaign. Here we have a game with great science fiction, a decent story, a linear but quite open game style, lots of choice in how to proceed within the game, interesting different areas and weapons, pretty decent visuals and sound effects and great AI that's different with different settings and virtually bug free with nonstop action from start to finish. How can you rate it any less than 9 or 10?. I however am being cruel with a 9 rating perhaps unjustly because I feel a few more tweaks could have improved the game. I would have preferred better sound options, especially to remove background music and to have a little extra differentiation in the feel of the weapons and weapon loading. This game truly is a masterpiece and one of very few retro games I think that deserve this praise. As I replay on heroic level I'm pretty impressed at the design and layout of the levels it is clear the game was overly play tested before release. The game is challenging by well placed design ideas and shows the love the game designers had for this game.… Expand
  55. 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
  56. JHango
    Jul 27, 2017
    9
    Classic! Very good history, graphics and gameplay!
    I can't understando how metacritic accepts reviews givin 0 and 1 to this game. It's a shame. Poneys detected
  57. 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
  58. drlowdon
    Jun 28, 2021
    8
    With their entry into the home console market Microsoft needed to produce a game that would convince PlayStation owners to pick up their console, and that game was Halo. Players take on the role of a super soldier known as Master Chief as he fights against the alien empire known as the Covenant.

    The large levels and intelligent AI of the enemies offered battles on a scale that had never    With their entry into the home console market Microsoft needed to produce a game that would convince PlayStation owners to pick up their console, and that game was Halo. Players take on the role of a super soldier known as Master Chief as he fights against the alien empire known as the Covenant.

    The large levels and intelligent AI of the enemies offered battles on a scale that had never been seen before, and the multiplayer (both online and offline) was also thoroughly enjoyable. The only let down was the indoor levels that stripped the game down to a dull corridor shooter on a few too many occasions.    … Expand
  59. CarsonRGB
    Oct 3, 2011
    9
    Story: 8 Characters: 8 Graphics: 8 Setting: 8 Multiplayer: 10 Soundtrack: 10 Audio: 8 Gameplay: 10 Re-Playability Value: 8 Fun Factor: 9 Score: 8.7/10 = A
  60. Sachi
    Dec 9, 2011
    10
    Halo is an amazing game that is a legend. Everything about the game is near perfect. The graphics for the time are great, the sounds are solid and playabiltity is just great too. The story of Halo is just amazing and very interesting, Halo has one of the most interesting campaigns of any FPS to date that I greatly enjoyed. The game is really amazing. The only flaws I see are that sometimesHalo is an amazing game that is a legend. Everything about the game is near perfect. The graphics for the time are great, the sounds are solid and playabiltity is just great too. The story of Halo is just amazing and very interesting, Halo has one of the most interesting campaigns of any FPS to date that I greatly enjoyed. The game is really amazing. The only flaws I see are that sometimes the objectives are not clear and this can be downright frustrating at times, the melee is very ineffective too so this was irksome but these are minor complaints. Overall, Halo is a great game that is addictive and fun to play that you will remember as a classic. Breakdown for "Halo: Combat Evolved": Presentation: 9.5, Graphics: 8.5, Sound: 9.5, Playability: 9.7, Lasting Appeal: 9.7, Verdict: 9.7 out of 10 "Amazing"… Expand
  61. Ins3ktz
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    Absolutely brilliant in every sense of the word. This game is not only the best Halo ever made, it's easily the best shooter ever made in general (Right up there besides Half Life 2).
  62. theranger555
    Nov 8, 2011
    10
    this game is pretty much the reason to own an Xbox multiplayer is fun but you cant play online but its still good when you've got some mates round the campaign is amazing it can also be played with 2 people which will give you some memories i just remember tipping the warthog over about 16 times and my mate saying how good he was at driving and that he should drive this is the perfect mixthis game is pretty much the reason to own an Xbox multiplayer is fun but you cant play online but its still good when you've got some mates round the campaign is amazing it can also be played with 2 people which will give you some memories i just remember tipping the warthog over about 16 times and my mate saying how good he was at driving and that he should drive this is the perfect mix of vehicle combat and on foot combat you can buy it on Xbox 360s games on demand feature accessible through Xbox live… Expand
  63. RECON-UK
    Apr 15, 2017
    5
    It's certainly a decent game on the surface, however it is not worthy of the 10/10 mark.
    A lot of the game recycles it's self, places look very similar and you feel like you are not really progressing up until the point you come to the flood.
    The flood is an interesting twist and i really enjoy playing against this enemy type, however noticeably they almost always attack in a set    It's certainly a decent game on the surface, however it is not worthy of the 10/10 mark.
    A lot of the game recycles it's self, places look very similar and you feel like you are not really progressing up until the point you come to the flood.

    The flood is an interesting twist and i really enjoy playing against this enemy type, however noticeably they almost always attack in a set formation with the same enemy types thrown in.

    There is a part in the game where you meet the flood almost every time you move forwards and they will first try to get you from behind, it's not smartly done, too predictable and just becomes tiring and repetitive.
    Then you get to the end point of the game which is just a great showcase to show how piss poor the controls are for the warthog.

    I played this on my OG XBOX through component leads and it looks great sadly not the best experience gameplay wise.

    I'm being generous with this score.    … Expand
  64. Vode
    Oct 31, 2014
    10
    A classic and such a great game after all these years. Combat is just so fun and the AI is still better than most modern shooter, there are a lot of different enemies as well. Multiplayer is glorious.
  65. potatoes351
    Aug 13, 2012
    10
    Halo: Combat Evolved is what made the xbox what it is, it also defined console FPS's from there on out. A fairly simple run and gun gameplay mechanic with no fancy extras other than a futuristic setting makes people think, what's the fuss about? As soon as you take Halo out of its console setting it dies, as a PC shooter it would fall flat but also its the levels and story. You play as theHalo: Combat Evolved is what made the xbox what it is, it also defined console FPS's from there on out. A fairly simple run and gun gameplay mechanic with no fancy extras other than a futuristic setting makes people think, what's the fuss about? As soon as you take Halo out of its console setting it dies, as a PC shooter it would fall flat but also its the levels and story. You play as the Master Chief, a SPARTAN II super soldier created by the UNSC and the last of your kind. You are attacked by the ruthless alien forces of the Covenant and crash land on a nearby planet shaped like a ring. However you soon learn it is not a planet but a weapon to ensure the greatest threat in the universe is kept at rest through unthinkable circumstances. You play in huge outdoor environments with giant metal structures towing above you and rolling hills as far as the eye can see. This gives the combat a tactical approach using the living environment rather than barricades or a door, the game is alive as you play and you can feel it.… Expand
  66. watithink123
    Dec 25, 2012
    9
    Halo CE has a amazing campaign and amazing story witch is the best story and campaign in a halo game. I loved every mission and one of the best fps campaigns I have ever played. This game has a amazing world around you and kept me interested in the campaign. Multiplayer is good in halo 1 but no online multiplayer and also I didn't like how little weapons there are, but its their first gameHalo CE has a amazing campaign and amazing story witch is the best story and campaign in a halo game. I loved every mission and one of the best fps campaigns I have ever played. This game has a amazing world around you and kept me interested in the campaign. Multiplayer is good in halo 1 but no online multiplayer and also I didn't like how little weapons there are, but its their first game so they learned and made weapons and multiplayer bad-ass in halo 2. Halo CE will never,ever be forgotten and I don't think any Halo campaign, from Halos now or Halos in the future will ever beat the campaign. Halo: Combat Evolved 9.1/10… Expand
  67. HARBING3R
    May 25, 2012
    10
    The beginning of a legacy, one of the best games id ever played. Halo is the best xbox original from the story to the graphics its the game that started it all
  68. ci4o759tyg235p0
    Jul 27, 2012
    9
    Halo combat evolved was such a great fps for the xbox. The graphics are top notch, especially for a game that was made in 2000, the campaign is long, compelling, and challenging, the versing and co op is fairly good too, overall, a great buy for xbox gamers
  69. AOLfloppydisk
    Nov 2, 2012
    10
    This is the game that got me into FPS, the campaign was the first to get me going and I've thought since playing this game that this needs to be an epic film. Everything about it is polished and classic, even until the climactic car ride at the end. Also, have spent countless hours shooting up friends via local multiplayer slayer. Awesome game, perfect in my opinion.
  70. TheGamer31
    Sep 18, 2013
    8
    While I do think that this game is insanely overrated for what it is, it isn't a bad game. Don't listen to all of the people saying that it's the most revolutionary FPS game out there, it's not, but also don't listen to the people who say it is a horrible game. Go pick up this game, although I recommend the PC version, the Xbox version isn't bad so go pick it up and have a blast!
  71. emoney
    Nov 28, 2012
    9
    Simply astonishing, when this game first came out i was just a little boy and my first boner came from this game. I jerked off to this game everynight for the longest time.
  72. glitchmaster
    Dec 6, 2013
    9
    for the time that it is made in i must give this game a 9 even do it's not perfect
    i still enjoy the game and it's already 12 years ago when it was made
    it's just awesome the weapons are great just sad you can't pick up the energy sword or fuel rod cannon campaign is awesome a very good story too +:awesome campaign +:a good story +:multiplayer options -:levels are kinda the same you    for the time that it is made in i must give this game a 9 even do it's not perfect
    i still enjoy the game and it's already 12 years ago when it was made
    it's just awesome the weapons are great just sad you can't pick up the energy sword or fuel rod cannon
    campaign is awesome a very good story too
    +:awesome campaign
    +:a good story
    +:multiplayer options
    -:levels are kinda the same you have the feeling that you are running in circles
    -:too much dark rooms    … Expand
  73. BradySmith
    Feb 22, 2014
    10
    In terms of story, graphics, gameplay, and overall presentation Halo was quite simply jaw dropping when it was first released. To this day it's still an awe inspiring achievement. Very few games, even critically acclaimed titles, have a story as finely crafted and multifaceted as Halo. It must be said that Halo is one out of probably a mere 5 games that could make an easy transitionIn terms of story, graphics, gameplay, and overall presentation Halo was quite simply jaw dropping when it was first released. To this day it's still an awe inspiring achievement. Very few games, even critically acclaimed titles, have a story as finely crafted and multifaceted as Halo. It must be said that Halo is one out of probably a mere 5 games that could make an easy transition into the film medium while still remaining high quality. Peter Jackson must have recognized this, for he was once planning on doing so. Over the satisfying campaign you'll get to use iconic weapons and vehicles, explore an incredible world, listen to a truly haunting musical score, and experience one of the most transcendent finales in gaming history. A masterpiece indeed.… Expand
  74. je117
    Jan 9, 2022
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It is a really good game for its time, but the weakest of the Bungie Halo games. Halo CE is basically like the original Star Wars film: they invented most of the ideas that were later refined, but technically not as impressive as later works. I think a lot of fans view this game with nostalgia, I personally don't because I grew up in the 360 generation, so I have more nostalgia for Halo 3 and Reach. I am mostly critiquing this game from the perspective of someone who played through for the first time in 2021. The game just isn't that fun compared to the sequels. The first few levels are really good (Silent Cartographer is one of the GOAT Halo levels), but when the flood arrive the game become kind of meh. 343 Guilty Spark (the level) works well as a plot device but isn't actually very enjoyable to play through. The Library is an absolute chore to complete. Two Betrayals is a good level because it has has lots of vehicles and space to use them. Keyes isn't that great and to be honest when playing The Maw I just wanted it to end. IMO Halo CE suffers because it's sandbox isn't that great and you only get to experience it on levels like Assault on the Control Room and Two Betrayals. It also suffers due to a relatively boring and slow plot, and the sense of isolation in the second half of the game (to be fair, this might be considered a good thing by some people, but not my cup of tea personally). All of the awesome characters like Johnson, Foehammer, and Keyes die or go missing, and you're just left with Cortana and occasionally Guilty Spark. Compare this with Halo 2 where you have a full cast and a much richer story, more developed characters and factions, greater sandbox, and less repetition between levels.

    Yeah so to sum it up, Halo CE is a game that deserved a 10/10 in 2001, but hasn't aged terribly well. It deserves credit for starting off such a great series and it has its moments, so my score is 8/10, although I'm tempted to give it a 6.5 based solely on its merits as a standalone game to play in the year 2021.    … Expand
  75. StarTangelo
    Feb 10, 2013
    10
    It's an amazing game! Resembles the XBox game "Halo".
    It's an amazing game! Resembles the XBox game "Halo".
    It's an amazing game! Resembles the XBox game "Halo".
  76. shprea
    Jun 26, 2013
    9
    Over the years, the Halo franchise has grown into a Goliath of sorts. It has gained an insane amount of popularity, however I've never really cared much about it. I played Halo 3, and that was okay. Halo Reach was a decent game too, but they never felt spectacular.

    However, I decided to go back and play the original. The original game Halo: Combat Evolved is by far my favorite game in    Over the years, the Halo franchise has grown into a Goliath of sorts. It has gained an insane amount of popularity, however I've never really cared much about it. I played Halo 3, and that was okay. Halo Reach was a decent game too, but they never felt spectacular.

    However, I decided to go back and play the original. The original game Halo: Combat Evolved is by far my favorite game in the franchise. Even after playing through later iterations, I can still say that this game is the best. The game is comprised of very open maps, excellent story elements, great mechanics, and outstanding music. You really can't go wrong with this game.

    I can see why this game sold Xboxs so well. I definitely recommend it.    … Expand
  77. Blahguy126
    Feb 27, 2013
    10
    This easily stands among games like HL2 and BioShock for being the greatest FPS of all time. The original Halo game was better on the PC than the Xbox, but it's a great game either way with lots of surprising plot twists within an engaging plot. I love the level design, the brilliant AI, the originality, almost everything about this game is perfect. I only have one complaint, and that'sThis easily stands among games like HL2 and BioShock for being the greatest FPS of all time. The original Halo game was better on the PC than the Xbox, but it's a great game either way with lots of surprising plot twists within an engaging plot. I love the level design, the brilliant AI, the originality, almost everything about this game is perfect. I only have one complaint, and that's that the gameplay towards the end of the game can feel a bit repeditive.… Expand
  78. HiCriticism
    Mar 4, 2013
    10
    The game that defined first-player shooting and FPS multiplayer action. The game which defines itself in the very fact that its own company of development fails at replicating (besides Halo 2, all games proceeding thereafter continually have failed to set any substantial significance to the series) the game's original qualities.
  79. Friendzie
    Jan 7, 2014
    10
    It's really too bad to see people coming back in recent years to slap a review of 0 on the original Halo. This game came out in 2001. If you limited yourself to only purchasing console FPS games from 2001 and earlier, what would you rather play? Maybe Goldeneye on the N64? Maybe Doom, but that's not even in full 3D since you can't aim up or down. The bottom line is that for its day, thisIt's really too bad to see people coming back in recent years to slap a review of 0 on the original Halo. This game came out in 2001. If you limited yourself to only purchasing console FPS games from 2001 and earlier, what would you rather play? Maybe Goldeneye on the N64? Maybe Doom, but that's not even in full 3D since you can't aim up or down. The bottom line is that for its day, this was the best FPS you could play on a console by a very large margin. It's hard to debate that. It *is* still a lot of fun to play if you enjoy the genre, and deserves all the acclaim it gets.… Expand
  80. gstiker5
    Aug 29, 2013
    10
    This is the first truly modern FPS the graphics are dated but where amazing back then and the story is really,really good and while Mass Effect has come out since back then it was unmatched the controls,level design is was unparalleled but still impressive and it is very long for a FPS campaign these days and the multiplayer was unmatched and still among the best and the start to the bestThis is the first truly modern FPS the graphics are dated but where amazing back then and the story is really,really good and while Mass Effect has come out since back then it was unmatched the controls,level design is was unparalleled but still impressive and it is very long for a FPS campaign these days and the multiplayer was unmatched and still among the best and the start to the best FPS series ever along with Half-Life… Expand
  81. JohnWitten
    Aug 12, 2013
    8
    I've got to say, the first Halo game revolutionized gaming in many more ways than one, and it has only provided good things for the series it has since created. Halo: Combat Evolved has excellent musical scores haunting its every moment, a pretty well-created multiplayer following and almighty deathmatch capabilities for its time, and a driving narrative following in the footsteps of whoI've got to say, the first Halo game revolutionized gaming in many more ways than one, and it has only provided good things for the series it has since created. Halo: Combat Evolved has excellent musical scores haunting its every moment, a pretty well-created multiplayer following and almighty deathmatch capabilities for its time, and a driving narrative following in the footsteps of who we now dub merely 'The Chief'. This was the first adventure of The Chief and Cortana, and boy was it an epic one. We now have met The Chief time and time again, but it is from his first adventure that we can really draw our conclusions about just who he is as a character, and how he always finishes the job- even if we might never see his face or here anything other than his smart and short dialogue. This is The Chief's story, and nothing can detract from that. The gameplay flows, the enemies are believable in life and death, the weapons feel greased and ready to fire, the sound quality is superb, the story is pretty well thought out and quite original, and only a few minor inconveniences and glitches can take away from the experience.… Expand
  82. savagejoe444
    May 26, 2013
    10
    The original Halo is definitely something to play on Xbox! Learn how the franchise began and see the coolest hero in gaming history: Spartan 117-The Master Chief! Yes, Halo Combat Evolved is a true original.
  83. busbfran
    Dec 7, 2013
    10
    Halo is what defined a first person shooter, halo set the mark for all games, halo is a true classic. After more then 12 years later Halo is one of the most talked about games of all time. Master chief is one of the most recognising characters in video gaming and this will continue due to the stealer series that fans just can't get enough of. Halo is a intriguing world that is a must forHalo is what defined a first person shooter, halo set the mark for all games, halo is a true classic. After more then 12 years later Halo is one of the most talked about games of all time. Master chief is one of the most recognising characters in video gaming and this will continue due to the stealer series that fans just can't get enough of. Halo is a intriguing world that is a must for all gamers. The relationship between contarma and chief is unbeatable and by the time the journey is over you will feel like a true bad ass.… Expand
  84. Blondz
    Jul 24, 2013
    10
    Halo is a legend and is base for all FPS to come after, however none (even including half life 2) have ever got ever remotely close to this, it has graphics, gameplay and story
  85. JUANPANB
    Aug 6, 2013
    10
    ESTE 10 LO PONGO POR UNA SOLA RAZÓN: PERFECCIÓN Y ORIGINALIDAD; NOS LLEVA A UN MUNDO Y UNA HISTORIA TOTALMENTE FUERA DE LO COMÚN Y ADEMAS NOS MUESTRA LA CAPACIDAD QUE TIENE MICROSOFT DE IMPRESIONAR.
  86. GameChanger16
    Jul 5, 2013
    9
    Halo: Combat Evolved nearly perfected the first person shooter genre. In fact, it defined the genre. Bungie took everything from all the other classic FPS games like Doom, Quake, and Goldeneye 007 into one tremendous game. With great weapons, multi-player, and fun factor, Halo is the killer app that pretty much sold all Xbox consoles.
  87. iddqd4
    Jan 23, 2018
    10
    Специалистам из Bungie удалось создать ИИ противников, с которыми даже сегодня в переиздании интересно сражаться. Отличная игра.
  88. theeDarkhorse
    Apr 10, 2014
    10
    Polished. Its solid like Quake but updated for the next generation. Couldnt ask for more

    Halo:REACH updated the game engine. Play that for the next leap
  89. MIDP
    Nov 9, 2015
    9
    Great game. Amazing atmosphere with a story that makes you want to keep playing more and more.
    The thing that I love the most about the game, and a deal breaker for me was, the fact that you could play the story mode CO-OP.
    That is probably the only real reason that I really got into the game in the first place!
  90. GamerSpin
    Feb 1, 2014
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. This is an awesome game! i don't understand why people say this game is borring? it is an real awesome game. it has an awesome storyline and a really good gameplay. I love so much this game!… Expand
  91. DarthRevan2552
    Sep 17, 2013
    10
    A truly elite title from beginning to end. This game has it all, gameplay, story, atmosphere, it's nearly perfect and probably the best out of all of the Halo games. I highly recommend picking it up.
  92. Mr_NoFace
    Sep 13, 2013
    8
    i don't know why i love this game so much but i even play it to this date its a fun shooter full of new ideas what made it beat most of its competition i guess, in the story your the last one of the Spartans left what are super solders you go on a adventure to stop the covenant what are the alien race attacking the humans but on your adventure you fight more then just them, the world ofi don't know why i love this game so much but i even play it to this date its a fun shooter full of new ideas what made it beat most of its competition i guess, in the story your the last one of the Spartans left what are super solders you go on a adventure to stop the covenant what are the alien race attacking the humans but on your adventure you fight more then just them, the world of halo is big and great so when your plodding along it feels like your not on earth looking for the next tescos it feels like your exploring an unknown world… Expand
  93. Slick-Z
    Sep 13, 2013
    9
    Accounting for 2001 it had a great campaign, amazing multiplayer with great maps (including the famous Blood Gultch). It was the pioneer for competitive shooters on console and has one of the greatest world designs ever. It's weaknesses lie in it's overuse of the same textures in the world and the crouching control mechanics (move the stick fully towards a direction and you move whileAccounting for 2001 it had a great campaign, amazing multiplayer with great maps (including the famous Blood Gultch). It was the pioneer for competitive shooters on console and has one of the greatest world designs ever. It's weaknesses lie in it's overuse of the same textures in the world and the crouching control mechanics (move the stick fully towards a direction and you move while standing, move it slightly and you move while crouching)… Expand
  94. darkendslaya
    Oct 11, 2013
    10
    Such a great game in the fps genre which really revolutionized it for the better. Reviewers giving it a zero are clearly haters who have not played it and are unfit to vote on any gamin review web site. Saying it's a zero would mean it's and unworkable piece of crap, when it's, clearly not, just look at the critic reviews.
  95. AGK
    Dec 31, 2013
    9
    this game is awesome! I had so many good memories with this game and I am still having good memories with this godlike game, go bungie and halo forever!
  96. artardmoshea
    May 25, 2019
    8
    18 Years late to the party but I've finally arrived.

    There is still alot of good in this game, but there is also a tonne of stuff that wouldn't fly now at all. The shooting and the guns in this game are still amazing, I was astounded at how much variety there is in the guns and how the game really forces you in a good way to use all of them. Most shooters I tend to stick to one or    18 Years late to the party but I've finally arrived.

    There is still alot of good in this game, but there is also a tonne of stuff that wouldn't fly now at all.

    The shooting and the guns in this game are still amazing, I was astounded at how much variety there is in the guns and how the game really forces you in a good way to use all of them. Most shooters I tend to stick to one or two guns and I went in to this game with that mentality and I was getting a bit upset at the lack of ammo; it forced me to changed the way I play and that was refreshing, especially given how old this game is.

    The story was a bit underwhelming, i was expecting more from this legendary game.

    The graphics are fairly dated, that's fine, it's an old game.

    The levels are pretty boring and there is so much repetition and reusing levels, I found it really grating to play through the same levels over and over, felt lazy.

    I don't like the vehicles at all, avoided using them and almost didn't finish the game based on how awkward the warthog is to control, after reading up on it a bit I finally figured it out and it's so unintuitive how they determine those controls I really can't even believe it made it into the game. It's mind boggling that they give so many control options for every other aspect of the game yet they don't let you change those driving controls at all.    … Expand
  97. JudgeMathew
    Mar 29, 2014
    9
    Never was there a first person shooter which controlled well on a video game console. The genre was at its prime on P.C. and that's how it was expected to remain. Halo: Combat Evolved was one of few reasons to actually own the original Microsoft X-BOX. For the first time, controls involving a first person shooter and video game console were not awkward and worked rather well. Only issue toNever was there a first person shooter which controlled well on a video game console. The genre was at its prime on P.C. and that's how it was expected to remain. Halo: Combat Evolved was one of few reasons to actually own the original Microsoft X-BOX. For the first time, controls involving a first person shooter and video game console were not awkward and worked rather well. Only issue to be existent is the lack of vehicular combat. A revolutionary game, that's what Halo: Combat Evolved is.… Expand
  98. BaconConoisseur
    Nov 8, 2013
    10
    This is one of my favorite FPS games. It may seem a little empty by today's standards, but it was way ahead of the curve and laying the groundwork for future FPS games when it came out. The weapons all have their strengths and weaknesses. The story is engaging and paves the way for one of the best epic trilogies of all time.
  99. MrJurgens
    Nov 6, 2013
    10
    This game is the one that started it all. It brought us even greater Halo games, those being Halo 2, Halo 3 and even Halo: Reach. The multiplayer on the PC is still up, so go get this game and experience the awesomeness of the first Halo game.
  100. Deadoolx125
    Nov 7, 2013
    10
    Deffintley one of the best Xbox games besides maybe halo 2 but besides this game has shaped the way fpses are played and for that we should give it endless prase
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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.
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