I don't understand why so many people are getting so up tight about the graphics. Yes, they are important, impressive, make you go ooooh and ahhhhh, but they really aren't the most important. For example, I thought Gears of War looked impressive, but gameplay wise, I considered it quite repetitive. The same strategy worked throughout the whole game. With Halo (both 1,2 and 3), everytime I get online or play the campaign I find myself applying different strategies, using different weapons and getting a generally unique gaming experience. Anything from the map layout, to weapon placement, to the mechanics of those weapons, has been carefully thought out so everything has its uses, you just need to quickly realize what needs to be done in the immediate situation and apply it quickly. There is none of this, "I can hold a million weapons and have something for every situation." You choose your weakness and strengths based on what you carry and have to work with them. That is why I have always liked Halo.The graphics don't have to be the best. They just have to be good b/c the gameplay is second to none.