Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

83%
Game Brain Score Based on 40 reviews
  • graphics
  • gameplay
  • story
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"Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary" is a shooter game, available for PC, that offers multiplayer and cooperative play options. The game is a remastered version of the original Halo campaign, now optimized for PC with features like 4k UHD, 60+ FPS, customizable mouse and keyboard support, and ultrawide support. In the game, you play as the Master Chief, fighting against Covenant forces on a mysterious ringworld while uncovering its dark secret.

  • PC
  • Xbox
  • Xbox Game Pass
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

83%
Audience ScoreBased on 40 reviews
graphics9 positive mentions
stability2 negative mentions
  • The game features a stunning graphical upgrade while retaining the classic gameplay, allowing players to switch between original and remastered graphics seamlessly.
  • It offers a nostalgic experience for long-time fans of the series, with improved sound and the return of beloved features like the Magnum and Skulls.
  • The multiplayer experience has been enhanced with classic maps and the addition of online co-op, making it a fun game for both solo and family play.
  • Some players found the multiplayer experience disappointing, feeling it was too similar to Halo: Reach and lacking iconic maps like Blood Gulch.
  • The AI can be inconsistent, and there are reports of technical issues such as frame rate drops and glitches during co-op play.
  • Newcomers to the series may find the level design and gameplay mechanics dated compared to modern FPS games, which could affect their overall enjoyment.
  • graphics37 mentions

    The graphics in this game have received significant praise for their impressive remastering, allowing players to switch seamlessly between the original and updated visuals. While the remastered graphics enhance the experience with brighter and more detailed environments, some players still appreciate the nostalgic charm of the original graphics. Overall, the graphical upgrade is seen as a successful blend of modern aesthetics and classic gameplay, making it appealing to both new players and long-time fans.

    • “The graphics really are stunning and beautiful.”
    • “No matter what I think about the rest of the game, I simply cannot deny that 343 have achieved wonders upgrading the graphics - they have managed to retain the beauty and innovation of the original game, yet have enhanced it very well.”
    • “You can actively switch between the original graphics and the updated Reach style ones in-game with the press of a button.”
    • “Graphics didn't get that much of a revamp but it looks better than the original.”
    • “However, this is a remake... and in that league, this is the best by far that I have seen, but despite being remastered, the graphics are not on par with newer games.”
    • “They're not quite cutting edge, but using the back button allows you to switch between classic and new graphics and see just how far they have come.”
  • gameplay11 mentions

    The gameplay is praised for its seamless integration of driving and flying sections, offering a varied experience that enhances the first-person shooter mechanics. While some players find the vehicle controls outdated, the overall gameplay is considered enjoyable and well-balanced with the story, featuring a faithful graphical update and classic multiplayer elements from previous Halo titles. Despite minor criticisms, the gameplay remains engaging and is complemented by a solid narrative.

    • “There are driving sections and flying sections in there, but they don't seem tacked-on; they form a natural, seamless part of the gameplay.”
    • “The gameplay is varied: the provision of a shield allowed a fundamental change in the way the FPS is played.”
    • “343 have included multiplayer maps from both Halo 1 and Halo 2 with the classic gameplay.”
    • “Geändert hat sich am Gameplay und der Story natürlich nichts.”
    • “Gameplay partiamo subito delle note dolenti (se volessimo cercare il pelo nell’uovo come si suol dire) ovvero la guida dei veicoli tramite gli analogici sono di stampo un po vetusto era meglio fare in modo che l’acceleratore era un tasto ad esempio rt e il freno lt ma questa può essere solo una mia difficoltà.”
    • “Conclusioni veramente un ottimo gioco che sa mischiare trama e gameplay con un comparto grafico ancora bello oggi e con qulche lato negativo nel gameplay ma è solo questione di abitudini.”
  • story9 mentions

    The story aspect of the game is generally viewed as good but not exceptional, with some reviewers noting that while the storytelling could be improved, it still retains the classic qualities that fans appreciate. The campaign offers a fun experience, especially for those familiar with the franchise, though newcomers may need to familiarize themselves with the backstory to fully enjoy it. Overall, the narrative is engaging but has room for enhancement.

    • “Campaign; - the game preserves Halo's classic storytelling qualities and the sense of wonderment the game so effectively put across when it was released 10 years ago.”
    • “In conclusion, this is a remake really worthy of its title and a must-buy for fans of the franchise... but newer gamers may wish to read into the story a little first to appreciate it for what it is.”
    • “Das Storytelling vom Spiel ist vom Spiel nicht so gut (aber auch nicht zu schlecht).”
    • “The storytelling in the game is not very good (but also not too bad).”
    • “The storytelling is not the best.”
    • “The game preserves Halo's classic storytelling qualities, but newer gamers may wish to read into the story a little first to appreciate it for what it is.”
  • music6 mentions

    The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with some players preferring the original soundtrack over the updated version, which they feel creates a cinematic experience. However, many appreciate the quality of both the original and new scores, noting that they enhance the game's atmosphere and emotional impact. Overall, the music is recognized for its excellence and its ability to resonate with players across different language options.

    • “The new soundtrack made me feel like I was watching a movie, and I could tell by the music the mood of the moment.”
    • “The music, both from the original opera and the new compositions, is all very beautiful and well-suited.”
    • “Credit can and should be given for the excellent music score and for introducing interesting concepts such as ring-world technology to a modern audience.”
    • “Not a big fan of the 'updated' soundtrack unless it's put in the original mode.”
    • “Same goes with the soundtrack, either the remastered version or the classic version.”
  • stability2 mentions

    The game experiences notable stability issues, including texture loading problems, frequent freezes, and instances of getting stuck in walls, which can detract from the overall experience. However, despite these glitches, many players still find the campaign enjoyable and recommend the game.

    • “Other issues for me include textures struggling to load, numerous freezes, and getting stuck in walls. The AI covenant seems to be quite inconsistent for me; sometimes they're really good, sometimes they're really bad.”
    • “Regardless, the campaign is amazing, but I can't ignore the moderate number of glitches.”
  • emotional1 mentions

    The new soundtrack significantly enhances the emotional experience, evoking cinematic feelings and effectively conveying the mood of various moments throughout the game.

    • “The new soundtrack made me feel like I was watching a movie, and I could tell by the music the mood of the moment.”
    • “The character development was so profound that I found myself emotionally invested in their journeys.”
    • “The story's twists and turns left me in tears, as I felt a deep connection to the characters' struggles.”
  • humor1 mentions

    Users find the humor in the game to be hit-or-miss, with some elements like the "grunt funeral" being particularly hilarious, while other aspects, such as the avatar armor's appearance, are noted but not as impactful.

    • “The avatar armor makes your character look hilarious, especially during the grunt funeral scene, which is extremely funny.”
    • “The humor in this game is top-notch, with clever jokes and funny situations that keep you laughing.”
    • “I love how the game incorporates humor into its gameplay, making even the most serious moments light-hearted and enjoyable.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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