Halo: Combat Evolved (PC CD)

More often than not, when a game is in development for over three years it does not live up to the hype. Bungie's Halo is the exception. Not only does the game live up to the hype--it greatly exceeds it. This sci-fi first-person shooter--the Xbox's launch title, now ported to PC--is a near-perfect blend of gameplay, graphics and sound.

The story revolves around the conflict between humans and an alien race known as the Covenant. The aliens have discovered a powerful artefact--on the ring-shaped planet called Halo--that will shift the balance of power and it's up to the player to stop them. In addition to several first-person shooter levels there are numerous opportunities to engage in vehicular combat.

Both the enemy and ally artificial intelligence are extremely impressive. Enemies will use the terrain and layout to put you in tight spots. Allies will know when to cover and aid you. For instance, if you hop into a jeep an ally will know to jump in and man the turret on the back of it.

Graphics are exquisitely detailed, but only move at 30 frames per second rather than 60. The sound effects and voice-acting are superb. The level design is among the best ever; most of the game is engaging and challenging without being frustrating. There's also high replay value thanks to the built-in single-player, cooperative and death-match modes. --Raymond M Padilla

Halo, enhanced for play on the PC, contains all of the action-packed combat and thrilling gameplay that made the title a smash hit for video game fans everywhere. Armed with a brand new arsenal of weapons and vehicles, Halo delivers challenges and surprises, as well as intense online multiplayer competition exclusively for the PC, including new multiplayer maps.Halo transports you into a science fiction universe fresh out of a Hollywood movie, with a detailed, twisting storyline, complex characters and cunning enemies. Tackle missions any way you choose, be it storming an enemy base or taking the wheel or gunnery position in a variety of powerful vehicles. Vehicles range from stolen Covenant flyers to human tanks and more. Take the battle online with gamers from all over the world in a variety of individual and team based games such as Capture the Flag, Death Match, Oddball, King of the Hill, Race, and more. Includes brand new multiplayer maps in addition to all the classic originals. Crush enemies with a vast array of human or Covenant weaponry, ranging from the stealthy semiautomatic pistols and Needler to the fierce Rocket Launcher and Fuel Rod Gun. Fight the Covenant in a variety of missions as you uncover the dark secrets of Halo: attack outposts, raid underground labs for advanced technology, rescue fallen comrades, steal alien vehicles and weaponry, and snipe at enemy forces. Fights are seamless in Halos ultrarealistic indoor and outdoor environments. Hunt the Covenant continuously in a variety of single-player and multiplayer battles continuously. With the precision of mouse and keyboard support, play Halo like never before. Exploit high-end graphic cards with Halo in 1, 600x1, 200 resolution. Enemy troops yell out the front speakers, while friendly troops yell assistance from the side. Hear bullets fired from behind you and watch them strike targets ahead in total surround sound.This product is not for sale in Latin America.FeatureProduct FeaturesTechnical