Xbox · 2001
Halo: Combat Evolved
The launch-defining Xbox shooter that paired the Master Chief's campaign with the first-party multiplayer that outlived it.
- Publisher
- Microsoft Game Studios
- Format
- DVD-ROM
- Genre
- First-person shooter
- Released
- 2001
01
Overview
Players control the Master Chief during a battle on the ringworld installation known as Halo, fighting the Covenant and a second threat revealed during the campaign. The original Xbox release pairs its single-player story with local split-screen and System Link multiplayer. It did not include built-in Xbox Live play.
02
Why it matters
Halo anchored the original Xbox launch lineup and showed how well a first-person shooter could work with a console controller. Its rechargeable shields, two-weapon limit, vehicle combat, cooperative campaign, and local multiplayer influenced many shooters that followed.
03
The physical edition
A typical complete North American retail copy contains the DVD-ROM, the game case with printed spine, and the instruction booklet, while region and release-specific variations in packaging, inserts, or included bonus content can differ. Check the edition's box and booklet rather than assuming every regional copy matches the same layout.
04
Playing it today
The retail disc runs on an original Xbox and supports campaign, split-screen play, and System Link; it has no native Xbox Live mode. Halo: The Master Chief Collection offers an updated route on newer Xbox hardware and PC.