Halo Zero

"Halo Zero is a decent game but it could be better."

I remember seeing this game online and didn't think it was very interesting. Then, I downloaded it and gave it a try. As a matter of fact, I liked it. Sure, it's not really deep and compelling like the PC or Xbox version, but it does give some insight as to the fall of reach and some characters that were in the book.

The story starts off when reach is invaded and the Master Chief needs to evacuate. He makes it to the pelican but it gets shot down and the Chief then starts helping whoever he can. It gives some insight about the first Halo book, but it's really only on the first level.

Graphics- 8/10
The graphics really aren't bad for 2D. Sure, it's not anywhere near as good as the Xbox games, but still looks really good. You have all the characters from the first Halo which include the Master Chief, Sergeant Johnson, marines, grunts, jackals, Elites, and of course, Hunters. They maybe pixilated and 2D, but animate smoothly. There blood coming out of them when they die the shell casings, explosions and plasma shots look good and it just generates a really good look on the whole.

Sound- 7/10
There's really not much on the sound here. There's still the same good old Halo music in here and all the sounds from the weapons still sound the same…except that there's no voice acting. There's a script, just no acting. Why make a Halo game without acting?

Gameplay- 7/10
The game goes as follows. Go from point A to point B and kill everything in your way. You still get to fight all the traditional Halo enemies and receive the help of marines once in a while, but you just do the same thing over and over again. Sure, there's a warthog level every once in a while, but they are few and far between. All the traditional weapons are still here, and you can take covenant weapons. Except that there's no reload button or melee attack. Also, you can only carry one weapon, which makes it difficult since you can find any balance of weaponry to fight more efficiently. However, the multiplayer may keep players coming back for more.

In the end, Halo Zero is a fun fan-made game for PC and Xbox gamer's alike still looking for some more Halo fun, but it's just not all that it can be.

Reviewer's Score: 7/10, Originally Posted: 07/18/06