OK, I'll come right out and say it. Halo 2 definitely lives up to the hype. In almost every way possible does the sequel surpass its predecessor. That's not to say it's not worth the buy, far from it. It's just that the single player is a little lacking. Let me explain. Halo, one of the launch titles of the XBOX, was praised in so many ways that almost every player bought the game. The game was so praiseworthy because it was multiplayer right from the box, had a very in-depth story to it, and had so many secrets and goodies that players continued to come back for more. For some, the euphoria never really wore off. Halo 2 caused the same effect with players (almost) at the same time around the world on November 9, 2004 when Bungie, the makers of Halo and Halo 2, raised the bar for gaming producers and players alike. Players now expect more from publishers, and the competition needs to play "catch-up." Once again, the multiplayer is still there, but there is almost twice as much there due to the inclusion of XBOX Live. Players need not wait for gamers to clear their schedules, because the world is right there. For those who can't get (or don't have) XBOX Live, Halo 2 still does not disappoint. Granted, the first player campaign is a tad shorter than Halo's story mode, but it still has what it takes. Gameplay gets a 10. Many of the same elements from Halo have returned and the (SPOILER, DATA OMITTED) ties everything together. Not only that, but the multiplayer modes are quite flexible. The added elements only serve to make the game that more enjoyable. Not only that, but the game does make it very easy for rookies to get going. Graphics get a 10, since Bungie pulled a major overhaul on the engine. It's almost like the engine isn't the same. Sound is a nine. Although the musical score has been performed almost by scratch, the sound effects for some former weapons remain, but hey, that only adds to the familiarity. The value behind the game is a full ten for me, but non-XBOX Live players may only get an eight out of this, so a nine is what was marked. Take my word for it, though. Halo 2 is worth every copper cent you pay for it. Personally, I enjoy the Action FPS genre, and the game heads full tilt to my choice of a 10. Halo 2 is certainly not a game you want to miss out on. As it is a continuation of Master Chief's story against the war on the Covenant, when you're not beating the tar out of alien scum, your friends are taking the wrong end of a shotgun. You know you want it.
By Madskillz999 | Review Date: Dec 23, 2005 | XBOX
I'm finally ready with the review of this awesome game! First off, this is obviously the sequel to the hugely popular initial Halo game. You are Master Chief, a space marine who is sent out to battle the enemies. You... Read Full Review
Halo 2 is a worthy sequel to Halo. While the story does lack in some parts, overall, the game is still excellent, one of the best games ever. To get the bad points out of the way, i didn't like the single player campaig... Read Full Review
