Halo 2 Anniversary is a 2014 science fiction first-person shooter action video game developed by 343 Industries, published by Microsoft Studios.  Serving as a remake to 2004’s Halo 2 and released for the Xbox One; the story follows Master Chief and Cortana who lead humanity in the conflict with Covenant while alternately following the Arbiter who must prevent civil war within the Covenant.

Positives:

• Great graphics
• Great voice performances
• Great score
• Highly competitive
• Good story
• Memorable characters

Negatives:

• Linear campaign

Campaign: Features a very immersive campaign that not only is extensive but actually has two paralleling storylines.  The first story follows Master Chief and Cortana who lead the UNSC forces against Covenant forces.  The second storyline follows the Arbiter who is tasked with seeking out a heretic before he can incite civil war.  There are some great characters and the focus on those characters are well worth the experience. (4 out of 5)

Gameplay: It’s good going to war with the Covenant with an assault rifle in one hand a few grenades on the other.  The enemy NPCs are competent but do pose a great challenge on higher difficulties. (3 out of 5)

Graphics: Developers were actually kind enough to allow players to switch between the graphics of the Xbox version to the updated at will.  The cinematics are just amazing.  They have depth and keep the story engaging. (4 out of 5)

Score:  The score is great.  Not only are the graphics done well but they are reinforced by a great cast as well as great sound effects and music.  The soundtrack doesn’t disappoint keeping to what made Halo 2 awesome while making it feel more vibrant. (4 out of 5)

Replay Value:  Halo‘s replay value has always lay in its multiplayer and this remake is no exception.  The online is definitely as competitive as ever and the various modes keep it engaging.  The campaign is good but most players won’t risk a second play through without bumping up the higher difficulty or searching for the hidden objects on each level. (4 out of 5)

The Verdict: In the end, Halo 2 Anniversary is just an epic experience.  The game picks up the slack set by the original by implementing more content as well as revamped graphics that looks amazing while also featuring a great story, terrific score, challenging gameplay, and a competitive multiplayer.  Halo 2 Anniversary gets 4 out of 5.