Halo: Combat Evolved makes a triumphant return on PC through the Anniversary edition within the Master Chief Collection. Priced at £7/$8 for standalone Halo or £30/$40 for the comprehensive collection, this release brings back Bungie’s classic shooter with a fresh touch. Despite the aging graphics and the 2011 paint job, Halo’s timeless smart shooter elements shine through. The level design, featuring Doom-like qualities, challenges players with diverse combat scenarios against the Covenant. The variety of weapons, although not entirely consistent, contributes to the engaging gameplay.
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| Halo Combat Evolved |
One standout is the iconic pistol, which, like Halo Reach’s DMR, can disrupt the weapon balance. However, the simplicity and effectiveness of the combat puzzles remain captivating. The ambiance of the levels, despite aging textures and blocky cliffs, manages to evoke a sense of wondrous unease. The contrast between lush exteriors and sterile interiors creates a unique atmosphere that has endured over the years.
The Anniversary edition introduces visual and audio changes, with completely redone models and textures. While some scenes benefit from the enhanced graphics, there are instances where the remaster’s saturation hampers the original tone. The reworked audio, especially the new gun sounds, highlights the subtle brilliance of Bungie’s original design.
A noteworthy feature is the ability to switch between remastered visuals and the original art, providing a glimpse into the past. However, the release inherits some missing effects from the 2003 port. Multiplayer, thankfully, remains intact, offering the classic experience with maps, weapons, and vehicles from the 2003 PC port.
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Despite lacking extensive modding capabilities, the Master Chief Collection’s matchmaking ecosystem ensures a complete multiplayer experience. For those familiar with the Gearbox port’s dedicated servers, the MCC’s matchmaking introduces new opportunities to explore maps and modes that were previously overlooked.
In essence, Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary on PC provides both newcomers and long-term fans with an opportunity to relive or discover the classic title. The game’s enduring appeal, smart shooter design, and enhanced multiplayer experience make it a worthwhile addition to the Master Chief Collection. Whether approaching it with fresh eyes or as a seasoned player, the journey through this iconic shooter promises excitement and nostalgia.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
1. How much does the standalone Halo: Combat Evolved cost?
– The standalone version of Halo: Combat Evolved is priced at £7/$8.
2. What is the cost of the entire Master Chief Collection?
– The complete Master Chief Collection, including Halo: Combat Evolved and other titles, is priced at £30/$40.
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3. Which developers worked on Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary?
– The game was developed by Bungie and 343 Industries.
4. On which platforms can I play Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary?
– The game is available on PC, and the review was conducted on GTX 1060 6GB, AMD FX-4130, 8GB RAM.
5. How many players can participate in the multiplayer mode?
– The multiplayer mode supports up to 16 players.
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6. What changes were introduced in the Anniversary edition?
– The Anniversary edition brought visual enhancements, including detailed models and textures, as well as audio updates. Players can switch between remastered visuals and the original art.
7. Is the original multiplayer experience preserved in the Anniversary edition?
– Yes, the multiplayer mode, including maps, weapons, and vehicles from the 2003 PC port, remains untouched in the Anniversary edition.
8. Does Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary support mods?
– The Master Chief Collection has limited modding capabilities. While lacking extensive mods, it provides a complete multiplayer experience through matchmaking.
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9. What is the appeal of Halo returning to PC with the Master Chief Collection?
– The Master Chief Collection offers a convenient way to experience the classic title, whether for newcomers exploring the iconic shooter or long-term fans reliving nostalgic moments. The enhanced multiplayer ecosystem adds a fresh dimension to the game.
10. Can I switch between remastered visuals and the original art in the game?
– Yes, players can toggle between remastered visuals and the original art with the tap of a button, providing a nostalgic look at the game’s original design.