Halo: Campaign Evolved, the 25th-anniversary remake of Xbox's most iconic shooter, arrives at a time of turmoil for Xbox's gaming division. Developed by Halo Studios using Unreal Engine 5, it modernizes the classic while sparking debate about whether the original's unique charm has been diluted.
Opening misgivings give way to nostalgia
The opening level, where supersoldier Master Chief defends a spaceship, originally a masterclass in explosive action, now features needlessly expanded cutscenes and explanations. However, after that initial stumble, the focus shifts to what remains unchanged: a tense, adaptable, and challenging single-player experience rarely seen in modern shooters.
Intelligent enemies and replayability
The imposing Elites remain among the cleverest foes, barking orders, flanking, and adapting to assaults. Each death leads to a remixed firefight, ensuring endless replayability. On higher difficulties like Heroic or Legendary, constant adaptation is required. The Hunters still inspire the same muscle-memory reaction: fleeing.
The Flood and co-op chaos
The mid-game Flood levels, criticized as a boring zombie shooter, are improved by new waypoints that guide players through the maze-like Library. In co-op, the game becomes less tactical and more chaotic, especially with vehicles, transforming the experience. Playing split-screen with a partner evokes the same joy as hundreds of hours spent with friends as a teenager.
Trade-offs and performance
While the remake looks prettier with Unreal Engine 5, it loses the original's early-00s sci-fi aesthetic and unique visual identity. Performance issues arise, particularly in split-screen, where slowdowns occur. Additionally, modern online account linking and server connections add friction absent in 2001.
Despite these flaws, the core gameplay remains intact. According to the review, “Campaign Evolved is a perfect, modernised introduction to everything that was great about the 00s-style first-person shooter” for younger players, while serving as a welcome return trip for veterans. Halo: Campaign Evolved is out now.
