Halo 2 Review

Consider too that the online infrastructure is primed for regular level downloads, and we may well yet see new variants of some classic Halo deathmatch arenas appear for download on Live, as well as improved matchmaking options and brand new maps. Consider also that Bungie is just the developer to take advantage of such an opportunity; their passion and commitment have already produced the standout online title of a console generation. Make no mistake, FPS fans: this is the game to sell Xbox Live.

And the thought of Xbox Live should, in turn, sell Halo 2, alongside the campaign mode. Those without Live, however, should still take heart; this is a game that, despite falling short of unfathomably high expectations, can still claim to be in the upper echelons of the year's triple-A titles.

Production values are never less than astounding throughout

Production values are never less than astounding throughout - from jaw dropping lighting to majestic character models, and vastly improved cinematic direction which effortlessly portrays the enjoyable screenplay. Sound too, is of the highest calibre; high quality voice talent used to bring life to humans, Covenant and more besides, backed up by a musical score that bounds between epic and pleasantly surprising. We defy anyone not to raise a smile when, in the heat of a pitched battle, sound will turn from loud organ music to a quaint little melody more reminiscent of wandering around the world of Albion in Fable, than fighting for your life on an artificial planet in deepest space.

And there are other considerable positives too. What was possibly the biggest flaw of the original Halo is answered here; The Flood are present, but their role downplayed and their intelligence upped to increase their entertainment value. Generally speaking, the entertainment offered even in Halo 2's most linear areas is arguably preferable to revisiting old areas in order to fight your way back out. Again, another major criticism of the original; again, another flaw addressed.

In truth then, for everything Halo 2's campaign does wrong, there are aspects which go above the vision of the original. The requisite AI is here, upped to new levels and thrust upon a new string of foes who add both to gameplay and story as a whole. It can also boast an improved weapon set, sophisticated urban level design and a greater sense of scale than ever before. Visually, aurally and cinematically, Halo 2 is a breathtaking experience, and - ending aside - is deserving of its place as one of the best games its system will ever play host to.

Ghost jacking. It's great when you pull it off.

Unfortunately, however, Halo 2 just doesn't deliver enough to top the importance of the original. That's not to say it is not a more complete package, or even, arguably, a better game. But it is by no means the definitive first person shooter of its generation that we were promised, and that disappointment weighs heavy. The emotion induced by the core campaign mode is simply a more stunted form of that which revolutionized the genre three years ago; a familiarity that breeds no contempt, but nonetheless fails to fire the spirit to such potent degrees.

This however, is juxtaposed against the towering technical achievement that is Halo 2's online multiplayer. It is a truly staggering addition to an already impressive production which skirts any doubts as to the viability of The Master Chief as a gaming figurehead, and Xbox as a brand synonymous with such classic games.

Ultimately, with Halo 2, we are not faced with the best game ever; possibly not even the unequivocal game of the year that its forebear undoubtedly was. However, its ability to do credit to its own lineage is also worthy of the renown in which many hold the Halo name. "Earth Will Never Be the Same Again", said the trailer. "Work Won't Matter Anymore", said the ads. And in the world of videogaming, that Halo 2 can hold its own post-hype credentials high enough to do these statements justice, is praise enough.