HALO
Front Cover
Medium:
DVD-ROM
Release Date:
11/9/2001
Date Imported:
4/25/2006
List Price:
$49.99
Publisher:
Microsoft UK Ltd (UK software Brand)
Studio:
Microsoft UK Ltd (UK software Brand)
Label:
Microsoft UK Ltd (UK software Brand)
ESRB Age Rating:
Mature
Features:
Platform: Xbox ESRB Rating: Mature Genre: Action/Adventure
Platform:
Xbox
EAN:
0659556745165
UPC:
659556745165
Description:

Amazon.com Review More often than not, when a game is in development for more than three years, it does not live up to the hype. Bungie's Halo is the exception. Not only does it meet expectations, it greatly exceeds them. This sci-fi first-person shooter is a nearly perfect blend of gameplay, graphics, and sound.

The story revolves around the conflict between humans and an alien race known as the Covenant. The aliens have discovered a powerful artifact--on the ring-shaped planet called Halo--that will shift the balance of power, and it's up to the player to stop them. In addition to several first-person-shooter levels, the game offers numerous opportunities to engage in vehicular combat. Both the enemy and allied artificial intelligence are extremely impressive. Enemies will use the terrain and layout to put you in tight spots. Allies will know when to cover and aid you. For instance, if you hop into a jeep, an ally will know to jump in and man the turret on the back of it.

The graphics are exquisitely detailed, but only move at 30 frames per second rather than 60. The sound effects and voice acting are superb. The level design is among the best ever; most of the game is engaging and challenging without being frustrating. There's also high replay value thanks to the built-in single-player, cooperative, and deathmatch modes.

Much like the outstanding GoldenEye 007 for Nintendo 64, Halo raises the bar for console first-person shooters. All console action games will be measured against Halo for years to come. --Raymond M. Padilla

Pros:

  • Outstanding game design
  • High replay value
  • Impressive AI
Cons:
  • Several maps are used multiple times
  • Save functions could have been better implemented
  • Graphics move at 30 frames per second, not 60

Amazon.com Product Description This action shooter takes place on a mysterious alien world. It offers a combination of team-based first-person-shooter gameplay (reminiscent of Tribes) and third-person vehicle combat elements. Gameplay kicks off with the player heading down to the planet's surface in a troop carrier, à la Aliens. As the player and fellow marines exit, the remaining troopers form a flank in reaction to an oncoming onslaught of human and alien enemies.

It's this smart AI system that makes for a noticeably unique gameplay feel. Another very nice feature is the seamless transition into vehicular elements. As you venture through mission objectives, a variety of enemy flyers and on-ground buggies are yours for the taking. Come across a vehicle and the camera will pull back to a third-person view as you strap in and motor through crossfire. A co-op mode allows a friend to join you in the single-player missions. For chaotic fighting action, up to four players can duel in split-screen deathmatch mode or link systems for LAN play. However you choose to hero your way through Halo: Combat Evolved, the action should break in your new Xbox in explosive style.

Product Description The explosions will light up your living room. Halo is a sci-fi shooting match that lets you experience first-hand a mysterious alien ring-world. Loaded with combat, Halo will have you fighting on foot, in vehicles, inside and outdoors with Alien and Human weaponry. Your objective is to uncover Halo's horrible secrets and destroy mankind's sworn enemy, the Covenant. Fight the Covenant in dozens of missions as you discover the virulent secrets of Halo. Your many goals include attacking enemy outposts, raiding underground labs for advanced technology, rescuing fallen comrades, stealing alien vehicles and weaponry and sniping at enemy forces.