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Halo: CE Anniversary Preview - E3 2011

E3 11: Relive Master Chief's first adventure in HD

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Since backwards compatibility was always a hot topic for this generation of consoles, publishers have found creative ways to get around the problem. Some released downloadable classics, while others, like Nintendo and Sony, have began re-releasing their most popular franchises as an HD remake. This has worked out quite well for those who’ve never had a chance to play these games, and are now able to do so with improved graphics and on their next-gen consoles. Microsoft has now decided to follow up with an HD remake of their own, with Halo: Combat Evolved. Titled Anniversary edition, the game will feature the full Halo campaign just as players remember it – with a fresh new look.
 
During a quick demo presentation at E3, the executive producer of the game showed off a live demo of the game. The main motivation behind creating this remake was fan feedback, as this is the title that most wanted to see re-done. Halo has been completely graphically overhauled, bringing the latest HD textures and crisp visuals to the experience. Audio has also been digitally remastered, thus creating a whole new modern presentation for the title. The campaign itself will be identical, even with the much dreaded Library level. Though they could not reveal full details, the developers did mention that players will have certain tools available to them if they wish to get help progressing through the game’s tougher sections.
 
Halo CE Anniversary
 
One of the biggest fan concerns was that they wanted the remake to play like the original Halo, and developers did just that. The game actually runs the original code on the engine that powered the game, while a second engine has been overlaid on top to create a whole new experience. This allowed the game to play exactly as players remember, while looking and sounding completely new. There is even an option where players can, at a touch of a button, turn the game back to classic mode – and play Halo the same exact way it looked all those years ago. Switching between the classic and normal mode is instant and is a fun addition to the experience.
 
As any modern game, Anniversary promises to have achievements, as well as two player online and local coop play. Competitive Online play will be a separate component, running on the Halo Reach engine. That means that all the new perks, jetpacks, and weapons will be available in multiplayer. The 7 maps shipping with the game will be remastered from their original versions, though if players desire, they will be able to play vanilla layouts of these maps as well. That means same weapon locations, spawns, and chokepoints. Some maps will get touched up though, in order to accommodate new abilities such as jetpacks and weapons.
 
Halo CE Anniversary
 
Because the multiplayer will run on the Reach engine, the previously mentioned classic mode will sadly not be available. Still, with 7 classic maps from Halo 1 through 3, this will be a great opportunity to replay your favorites. The developers promise that more information on the remake will be made available during the Halo Fest in August. Perhaps the game’s biggest hurdles will be to promote the idea of HD remakes to the Xbox 360 audience that is new to the concept, as well as charging $40 for a single title while Sony and Nintendo remakes usually include multiple classics for the same price. As well, including just 7 maps seems like the developers are already prepared to release DLC so that you’re able to play more classic levels down the road. If you’ve never played Halo though, this looks to be a great pickup with nifty new features and a unique classic mode to boot. Watch for Anniversary edition to release on November 15th, only on Xbox 360.
 
 
Comments
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary box art Platform:
Xbox 360
Our Review of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
75%
Good
The Verdict:
Game Ranking
Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is ranked #830 out of 1957 total reviewed games. It is ranked #78 out of 103 games reviewed in 2011.
830. Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
831. Just Dance 3
Xbox 360
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Screenshots

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
12 images added Jun 11, 2011 16:59
Videos
Halo: CE Anniversary - Campaign Gamep...
Posted: Jul 24, 2011 15:37
Halo: CE Anniversary - Launch Trailer
Posted: Nov 4, 2011 13:01
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