Halo on the X Box
 Apr 8th, 2002
(Apr 14th, 2002)
Advantages:
straightforward control system, wide variety of challenges
Disadvantages:
time - consuming, addictive
Recommendable:
Yes
Detailed rating:
Gameplay/Playability
Graphics
Sound
Value for Money
more
  MarkKerr
About me:
I'm 45, married with two teenage girls. Originally from Newcastle, now in Kent but still passionate ...
Member since:23.01.2001
Reviews:101
Members who trust:28
Review rated by 19 Ciao members on average: helpful 
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Halo is the only real time strategy game available for the X Box at release. A Sci-Fi extravaganza, with a good plot and logical plot progression.
It has a range of difficulty options, from easy to legendary, so is suitable for the novice and experienced game player alike. The game is split into stages, with each stage having several underlying objectives, all of which must be completed to progress. If there is a moan to be had about this game, it is that it is very linear - each objective must be achieved, in set order, to progess further. Game controls are easy to master, but once you begin to come across the range of vehicles that must be used, you will find them initially tricky to control. Don't fear, as with all good games, the controls do very quickly become instinctive.
There are a range of weapons available, including pistols, needlers (which are like offensive nail guns!), plasma rifles, sniper rifles (extremely used for preserving your skin, allowing you to pick off your target from a safe distance), shotguns (very effectiveagainst humanoid enemies) and rocket launchers (which become vital when going up against enemy vehicles). Grenades come in 2 types - plasma and fragmentation - and will stick to the enemy so they cannot escape. Weapons are dropped by enemies, but won't always be fully loaded or charged. You may have to hunt around for additional ammunition which can be found lying around. A word of warning, all these weapons may be used against you too! You may also capture and use enemy gun emplacements - good when there are hordes of enemies streaming towards you. Also useful here is the fact that you may suddenly benefit from back up in the form of Marines - do not rely them too heavily though, as they are extremely gung ho and tending to be more brave than thoughtful. There are a range of protective to be found, including stealth camouflage, and over shields to reduce the damage you are suffering. The life span of these, however, are limited, so don't count on them to offer too many advantages.
All vehicles are equipped with on board weapons, and are extremely useful when you want to move quickly. Vehicles include the jeep like 'Warthog' to flying weapons such as the 'Ghost' and the 'Banshee' - each have their own idiosyncracies and differing control methods. There are several points in the game where vehicles must be 'obtained' and used to achieve your objective, whether it be to take out enemy vehicles or to access specific locations. Regular checkpoint allow you to progress steadily but not too easily, and the challenge just keeps mounting. Graphics (your untimely death can be spectacular e.g. If you are on a ledge, you may see yourself being blown off it by a well placed rocket or grenade and flying through the air to your untimely death.
The soundtrack is superb, extremely atmospheric and can act as warning to be alert. In addition, enemies can be spotted on your radar, to allow you to plan your assault or ambush. This should ensure you don't rush headlong and unprepared into an unwinnable situation. A truly well developed, well crafted game for the serious player, recommended wholeheartedly and without reservation, despite my (very) minor gripes.
If Sci-Fi is your thing, then this really is a must buy.If this is what the X Box is capable of at launch, then the future really is bright.
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28.04.2002 18:37
It doesn't matter if it's a short op. if you manage to get all the details in their but you haven't achieved that in this op.
11.04.2002 23:37
Sorry for the H but this was too short. If you edit it and email me I'll rate it again for you..LL