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A complete Mac port of Microsoft's popular first-person shooter that spawned an award-winning franchise

A complete Mac port of Microsoft's popular first-person shooter that spawned an award-winning franchise

Vote: (1,035 votes)

Program license: Trial version

Developer: Destineerstudios

Version: 2.0.4

Works under: Mac

Vote:

Program license

(1,035 votes)

Trial version

Developer

Version

Destineerstudios

2.0.4

Works under:

Mac

Pros

  • A deep and exciting singleplayer campaign that's also memorable
  • Fast-paced multiplayer experience that everyone can enjoy
  • Graphics at the time were high end and unparalleled in gaming

Cons

  • Graphics from almost 20 years ago don't impress today
  • The Halo universe was immersive, but the story wasn't all that deep
  • Fans of other FPS franchises might not be as impressed with Halo: CE

Halo: Combat Evolved is a first-person shooter that defined the genre. Undoubtedly, few franchises are more synonymous with shooters than Halo and its universe. The original game follows Master Chief as he fights the Covenant and the Flood. Combat Evolved released back in November 2001, so it's a basic shooter compared to today's titles. Nonetheless, nostalgia and fun gameplay make this title relevant right now.

First-Time Players Experience A Brand New World

When players launch Halo: Combat Evolved, they're greeted with epic theme music. The first minutes of the game involve crash landing on a foreign planet. Before players can take in the environment, they're assailed by enemies they've never seen before. Combat Evolved provides an awe-inspiring introduction to the franchise's world, and the action and wonderment don't let up until the very end of the game.

A Game Filled With Many Weapons, Enemies, and Locations (And More)

The original Halo includes a variety of weapons, enemies, and locations. Players won't find themselves disappointed in the extensive campaign and immersive story. Without a doubt, Combat Evolved produces a groundbreaking experience that millions of people haven't forgotten since. Graphics from 2001 look lackluster based on today's games, but the game looked incredible at the time of release.

A Game That Still Holds Up and Plays Well Today

Halo: CE provides the same level of fun and excitement today. Both the singleplayer campaign and multiplayer modes are packed with action. In simple terms, players won't find themselves bored with this title. It doesn't matter whether they're reimmersing themselves in the story or fighting against friends in multiplayer. Halo lacks the bells and whistles of today's games, and players shouldn't expect those features here.

Combat Evolved is like a lot of other shooters from the early 2000s. Players cannot sprint, and the original Halo didn't feature dual-wielding weapons. Also, Halo never included interactive worlds, instead opting for big set pieces to run through. Perhaps the main charm of Halo is its nostalgia. The first Halo game probably evokes stronger feelings in players than the first Call of Duty or the first Gears of War.

The Final Verdict on Halo: Combat Evolved

In the end, Halo: Combat Evolved is still worth playing today. People might continue to revisit the game 10 years from now as well. A high-definition version of the game is available as well. Still, Combat Evolved remains an incredible experience even without the best graphics in the world. A better first-person shooter with frenetic, fun gameplay from the early 200s might not be available.

Pros

  • A deep and exciting singleplayer campaign that's also memorable
  • Fast-paced multiplayer experience that everyone can enjoy
  • Graphics at the time were high end and unparalleled in gaming

Cons

  • Graphics from almost 20 years ago don't impress today
  • The Halo universe was immersive, but the story wasn't all that deep
  • Fans of other FPS franchises might not be as impressed with Halo: CE