Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

“Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary” is a spectacularly remastered version of the original “Halo” campaign, created in celebration of the 10th anniversary of one of the most beloved franchises in gaming history. With a bounty of new features including cooperative play over Xbox LIVE, a bundle of some of the most beloved multiplayer maps in “Halo” history reimagined for Xbox LIVE, new challenges and a new story to uncover, “Halo: Anniversary” is a must-have experience.

Features:

• Stunningly remastered campaign. Relive the award-winning adventure that defined “Halo: Combat Evolved” as one of the best games of the decade with breathtaking next-gen graphics and audio remastered for the Xbox 360. Engage in epic-scale battles against the backdrop of the eponymous “Halo” ringworld, and relive nostalgic memories with the ability to toggle Classic mode to play the original version.
• Online campaign co-op. For the first time, experience the story that started it all with a friend on Xbox LIVE and launch a cooperative assault against the Covenant, whether you live across the street or halfway around the world. [*Xbox LIVE Gold membership required for online multiplayer.]
• Classic “Halo” multiplayer maps reimagined. Wage battle on six detailed remakes of some of the most beloved “Halo” multiplayer maps of all time, and bring the fight to the Covenant on a stunning and resonant new Firefight map.1 Remastered in the “Halo: Reach” engine and inspired by maps from “Halo: Combat Evolved” and “Halo 2,” these iconic battlefields reignite the heart-pounding multiplayer action of the original favorites and let you relive epic confrontations like you've never experienced them.

Review by IGN
A great amount of love and care went into creating Halo Anniversary, and the new graphics engine, while not perfect, is an excellent addition to bring Halo players who missed out on the original ten years ago up to speed. Halo Anniversary’s cam­paign shortcomings are pretty apparent, but many of the elements that made the original Halo so great are here, from the great story to the tight combat and well-balanced weapons. If you can approach the experience with an open mind and are willing to take a few frustrating old-school design choices, and you’re fine with a ‘best of’ map pack versus a full redo, then this is a great way to bide the time before Halo 4. 8/10

IGN RATINGS FOR HALO: COMBAT EVOLVED ANNIVERSARY (X360)
8.5 Presentation
Halo has an awesome story, introducing gamers for the first time to characters like the Master Chief and Cortana and launching a beloved franchise on a great note.
8.0 Graphics
The new engine is pretty solid, but doesn’t look quite as good as many modern shooters, even Halo: Reach. However, as an HD remake, this is definitely a cut above most.
8.5 Sound
The timeless Halo soundtrack is here in great form in both original and re-arranged versions, and the voice work is well done.
8.0 Gameplay
The solid weapon balance and pacing return, but there are some frustrating issues with level layouts and navigation that make getting through the stages an occasionally frustrating experience.
8.0 Lasting Appeal
The campaign is pretty short, but the inclusion of online co-op gives you more reason to go back to it. The multiplayer is a blast, but will feel familiar to those who've played Reach exhaustively.
8.0
OVERALL
Great
(out of 10)