GAME: Halo 2

Following the destruction of the Halo, the Master Chief returns to Earth. But as he lands, a Covenant assault begins on Earth itself...


The first Halo game was the reason to own an Xbox. Perhaps because of that weight of expectation, the sequel is very similar to the original. This time the action starts on Earth and the opening scenes are fantastic fun to play through, as you battle aliens through traffic tunnels and on the streets. The artificial intelligence of your opponents (as well as those fighting alongside you) has improved. You can’t just sit out of range and snipe, as the creatures you’re shooting at will move into cover and those around them will be alerted.

Where the Halo series beats other first-person shooters is in its realistic tactics. Rather than picking up every weapon you come across you can only hold two types of weapon at once. This forces you to choose carefully – do you hold onto something to snipe with, go for blasting power or hang onto the sword for melee action? In addition, you can now carry a weapon in each hand for double the death.

As well as the missions as Master Chief, you also play some levels as a Covenant figure called The Arbiter, which adds depth to the game. While this isn't a huge leap from the original, some nice additions keep it as playable as ever.

Buy Halo 2 at Amazon.co.uk or Amazon.com