Halo: Campaign Evolved Remake Revives Xbox Classic with Enhanced Graphics and Multiplatform Release

The title 'Halo: Campaign Evolved' presents a reinterpretation of the classic Xbox game, which was fundamental in revolutionizing shooter games and establishing Microsoft's console presence in the gaming scene in 2001. This new version promises to impress with its enhanced graphics and will also be available on PlayStation.

Xbox Launch Context

On November 15, 2001, Microsoft introduced its first gaming console, the Xbox. This device, whose name derives from the expression 'DirectX box,' featured an architecture based on PC hardware and was compatible with the DirectX graphics API, allowing for the execution of Windows games with minimal adaptations. This represented a distinct approach from the consoles of that era, which utilized proprietary chip systems, software, and development tools.

The Impact of Halo: Combat Evolved

Success came with one of the 19 titles released for the Xbox: Halo: Combat Evolved, developed by the American producer Bungie. Halo demonstrated that it was viable and enjoyable to play a shooter on a console using a controller, something previously predominant on PCs with a mouse and keyboard. Furthermore, the game featured attractive graphics, high-quality combat, and a well-constructed narrative.

Legacy and New Remake

More than a commercial success, Halo was a milestone that influenced numerous subsequent shooter games and gave rise to one of the industry's biggest franchises, accumulating over 81 million copies sold. Halo established itself as a symbol of the Xbox. Twenty-five years later, the 'Halo: Campaign Evolved' remake arrives, scheduled for release the following day (28th) for Xbox Series X/S, PC, and notably, for PlayStation 5. The production of this remake was entrusted to Halo Studios, part of Microsoft, utilizing the Unreal Engine 5 platform, which allows for the maximum utilization of UE5's graphical capabilities, resulting in remarkable environments and visual effects.

Technical Details and Gameplay

During tests conducted on PC, using an RTX 3080 Ti graphics card, a recurring issue known as traversal stutter was observed—a small visual glitch when crossing certain map points. However, this effect was considered relatively infrequent and did not cause significant disruption. One point of attention was the standard control, whose aiming proved slow and imprecise, simulating a microgravity environment. This issue can be resolved by adjusting the horizontal and vertical sensitivity to 6.0 and the aim acceleration to 8 in the configuration menus, which optimizes the experience. Another instability related to the controller was recorded during testing, with freezes occurring with both an 8bitdo Ultimate 2 and an Xbox 360 controller.

Content and Availability

The Halo: Campaign Evolved campaign has an approximate duration of ten hours and can be played solo or in cooperative mode with up to three companions. Even after 25 years, the campaign maintains its excellence, from the exciting opening sequence to the conclusion, considered one of the best endings in gaming history. The remake includes three additional bonus stages after completing the main campaign, which are also highly rated. However, the game does not feature a modern multiplayer mode with online battles. This means that after finishing the campaign, engagement may decrease, although it is possible to randomize enemies, weapons, and certain stage conditions. Due to these characteristics, the game is recommended for those who use the Game Pass service, where it is available for free. For shooter enthusiasts, it is considered essential both for its historical value and for demonstrating the qualities of a good shooter. The official launch of Halo: Campaign Evolved will take place on 7/28 for PC, Xbox Series X/S, and PlayStation 5, being free for Game Pass subscribers and also available for individual purchase for R$ 249.