Campaign
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary brings players back to one of the most iconic sci-fi stories in gaming. As the Master Chief, players are thrust into the battle between the United Nations Space Command (UNSC) and the alien Covenant, all set on the mysterious ringworld known as Halo. The game’s campaign remains largely untouched from the original but with enhanced visuals, remastered cutscenes, and new collectible elements like hidden Terminals, which provide extra lore, and skulls that modify gameplay.
The narrative is still one of the best in the FPS genre, featuring a great balance of action, mystery, and tension. Master Chief and Cortana’s dynamic adds depth, as Cortana provides critical insight into the ring’s history and the looming threat of the Flood. The reveal of the Flood remains a chilling moment, shifting the tone of the game from military sci-fi to survival horror.
However, the campaign follows a largely linear structure, which, while faithful to the original, can feel restrictive compared to later entries in the series. Some levels, particularly The Library, are criticized for repetitive design and backtracking. Despite these minor drawbacks, the campaign remains engaging, bolstered by strong storytelling, well-paced encounters, and a sense of grandiosity that defined the franchise.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Gameplay
Gameplay in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary retains the core mechanics that made the original a classic while introducing minor enhancements. The game’s gunplay feels tight and responsive, with an excellent arsenal of weapons ranging from the classic Assault Rifle and Magnum to Covenant weapons like the Plasma Pistol and Needler. The balance between weapon types ensures strategic decision-making, as players must adapt to different enemy encounters.
One of the standout features is the ability to switch between classic and remastered graphics in real-time. This allows players to experience the game in its original form or enjoy the modernized aesthetic without compromising gameplay.
Multiplayer is where the game truly shines. In addition to split-screen co-op, the introduction of online multiplayer expands the experience, allowing players to relive classic maps and modes. The inclusion of Firefight adds a layer of replayability, offering intense waves of enemies that become progressively tougher.
However, some elements feel outdated compared to later Halo entries. There are no armor abilities, sprinting, or advanced movement mechanics, making the gameplay feel slower for those accustomed to Halo: Reach or Halo 3. Additionally, while the Kinect integration allows for voice commands and analyzing objects, it doesn’t add much to the experience and feels unnecessary.
Hidden content such as video terminals adds valuable lore, but some players may have wished for additional features like new weapons, game modes, or expanded levels to truly elevate the anniversary edition. Despite these minor setbacks, the gameplay remains satisfying, offering a refined yet nostalgic FPS experience.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Production
The graphical overhaul in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is a significant improvement over the original, offering higher-resolution textures, enhanced lighting, and more detailed environments. The ability to toggle between classic and remastered visuals is a fantastic feature that highlights how much effort was put into modernizing the experience while respecting its legacy.
The level design, particularly the massive structures and open landscapes of Halo, remains visually striking. However, some interior sections feel repetitive, especially in later missions. The cutscenes are beautifully remastered, making key story moments feel more cinematic and engaging.
Sound design is another standout aspect. The revamped orchestral score by Martin O’Donnell and Michael Salvatori captures the grandeur and intensity of the game, from the iconic Gregorian chants to the pulse-pounding combat tracks. Weapon sounds and environmental audio are crisp and immersive, heightening the tension of firefights and exploration.
Voice performances are top-notch, with Steve Downes and Jen Taylor reprising their roles as Master Chief and Cortana, respectively. Their dialogue helps drive the narrative and solidifies their characters as some of the most memorable in gaming.
Overall, the production values in Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary successfully elevate the original experience, delivering a visually and audibly impressive package that stands the test of time.
Rating: 4 out of 5
The Verdict
In the end, Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is a faithful and visually enhanced remake of a genre-defining classic. While its linear campaign and lack of additional content may feel limiting, its strong gameplay, immersive atmosphere, competitive multiplayer, and stellar soundtrack make it a must-play for both newcomers and longtime fans. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary gets 3 out of 5.
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