Which Halo to Start First? A Definitive Guide for New Spartans

The Halo universe is vast, rich, and filled with unforgettable moments. Deciding where to begin your journey can feel daunting, but fear not, recruit! The best starting point for most players is Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary. This remastered version of the original game offers a blend of classic gameplay with updated visuals, providing a solid foundation for understanding the lore and gameplay mechanics that define the series. It also introduces you to Master Chief, the iconic protagonist, and sets the stage for the epic saga that unfolds.

Why Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary is the Ideal Starting Point

While some might argue for a chronological approach, starting with Halo: Reach, there’s a significant advantage to experiencing the games in release order, at least initially. Here’s why:

• Introduction to Core Mechanics: Halo: Combat Evolved establishes the fundamental gameplay loop of the series: tight gunplay, strategic use of vehicles, and challenging enemy encounters. Learning these mechanics in their original context provides a greater appreciation for how the series has evolved.

• Understanding the Lore’s Foundation: This game introduces the key factions: the UNSC (United Nations Space Command), the Covenant, and the mysterious Forerunners. Experiencing the discovery of the Halo ring and the ensuing conflict firsthand creates a stronger connection to the overarching narrative.

• Classic Halo Experience: While the Anniversary edition offers enhanced graphics, it allows you to switch back to the original visuals, offering a glimpse into the game’s historical significance. This provides valuable context for understanding the series’ evolution and impact on the gaming industry.

• Avoid Spoilers: Starting with later entries like Reach can spoil crucial plot points and character arcs from earlier games, diminishing the impact of those reveals when you eventually play them.

Follow-Up Games After Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

Once you’ve completed Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary, follow up with these:

1. Halo 2 Anniversary: Continuing the story, Halo 2 expands on the lore, introduces new characters, and features a compelling dual-protagonist narrative. The Anniversary edition offers stunning visual updates, elevating the experience.

2. Halo 3: Concluding the original trilogy, Halo 3 delivers an epic finale to the Human-Covenant War. Its gameplay refines the established mechanics and features iconic battles and set pieces.

3. Halo 3: ODST: A side story set during the events of Halo 2, ODST offers a different perspective, focusing on the elite Orbital Drop Shock Troopers. Its somber tone and unique gameplay mechanics make it a worthwhile addition to the Halo experience.

4. Halo: Reach: Now, with a solid understanding of the Halo universe, you can appreciate Halo: Reach. This prequel tells the story of Noble Team and the fall of Reach, a pivotal event that sets the stage for the original trilogy. Its tragic narrative resonates more deeply when viewed through the lens of the established lore.

5. Halo 4: Beginning a new trilogy, Halo 4 introduces new enemies, explores the evolving relationship between Master Chief and Cortana, and delves deeper into Forerunner lore.

6. Halo 5: Guardians: Continuing the story of Halo 4, Halo 5 introduces Spartan Locke as a playable character alongside Master Chief. The game focuses on the hunt for Master Chief and explores complex moral dilemmas.

7. Halo Infinite: The latest installment, Halo Infinite, acts as a soft reboot of the series, returning to open-world exploration and focusing on the core gameplay elements that made Halo famous.

Considering Other Halo Games

While the core numbered entries and their direct spin-offs (ODST and Reach) offer the most essential experience, consider these other Halo games if you become invested in the universe:

• Halo Wars 1 & 2: Real-time strategy games set in the Halo universe, offering a different gameplay perspective.

• Halo: Spartan Assault & Strike: Top-down twin-stick shooters that explore smaller stories within the broader Halo canon.

Halo FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

1. Should I play Halo in chronological or release order?

Generally, playing in release order is recommended, at least for your first playthrough. This allows you to experience the story as it was originally intended, avoiding spoilers and appreciating the evolution of the gameplay. The exception may be experienced players who specifically want to experience the Halo story in the order that it occurred.

2. Is Halo Infinite a good starting point for newcomers?

While Halo Infinite attempts to be accessible to newcomers, it’s best to have some familiarity with the previous games, especially Halo 5: Guardians. The story builds upon previous events, and understanding the context enhances the experience. You can catch up by watching plot summaries if needed.

3. Do I need to play Halo 3 before Halo 4?

While Halo 4 begins a new story arc, playing Halo 1-3 provides a richer understanding of the characters, factions, and overarching lore. You can start with Halo 4, but you’ll miss some of the nuances.

4. Which Halo game has the best multiplayer?

The answer to this question is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, Halo 2 is widely considered to have some of the best multiplayer in the series, while Halo 3, Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo: Reach also have large fanbases.

5. Is it better to play Halo Combat Evolved with the Anniversary visuals or the original graphics?

For a first-time player, the Anniversary visuals are generally recommended. They provide a more visually appealing experience while still allowing you to switch back to the original graphics for comparison.

6. How old is Master Chief in Halo Infinite?

Master Chief is 49 years old biologically in Halo Infinite, which takes place in 2560. He was born in 2511.

7. What is the best Halo game mode?

Team Slayer is a classic and widely popular Halo game mode, emphasizing team coordination and map control.

8. Is Halo Infinite hard for beginners?

Halo Infinite can be challenging for beginners, but its sandbox gameplay and variety of weapons and equipment offer opportunities to learn and adapt. Focus on mastering the core mechanics and working as a team.

9. Should I play Halo Infinite on Legendary difficulty for my first playthrough?

While playing on Legendary offers the most challenging and rewarding experience, it’s generally not recommended for first-time players. Start on Heroic or Normal to learn the game mechanics and story before tackling the highest difficulty.

10. What is the strongest Spartan?

While many skilled Spartans exist in the Halo universe, Master Chief (John-117) is widely considered the strongest and most effective, due to his exceptional skills, augmented abilities, and unwavering dedication.

11. What is the best place to start learning about the Halo lore outside of the games?

Halo: The Fall of Reach is an excellent starting point for delving into the Halo lore. It provides the backstory of the Spartan program and the events leading up to the first game.

12. Is Cortana in love with Master Chief?

The relationship between Cortana and Master Chief is complex and multifaceted. While there’s no explicit romantic declaration, their bond is incredibly strong, and Cortana’s actions often suggest a deep love and devotion to Master Chief.

13. What is the difference between a Spartan II, III, and IV?

The difference between the generations of spartans is the augmentation process each generation goes through. For example, the Spartan IIs are kidnapped as children and put through a very brutal training process.

14. Are the Halo Wars games canon?

Yes, the Halo Wars games are considered canon within the Halo universe. They offer valuable insights into the history and events preceding the main series.

15. Does it matter if I play the co-op mode campaigns to understand the full storyline?

No, the co-op mode campaigns are not necessary to understanding the main storyline.

Embrace the Journey, Spartan!

Embarking on the Halo journey is an exciting adventure. Starting with Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary provides the best foundation for understanding the universe, characters, and gameplay mechanics that make the series so beloved. Whether you play solo or with friends, the Halo saga offers countless hours of engaging gameplay and unforgettable moments. As you explore the rich narratives and compelling characters within the Halo universe, consider the educational aspects of gaming highlighted by the Games Learning Society, which explores the intersection of games and learning. Visit GamesLearningSociety.org to learn more about how games can be used as tools for education and engagement. Now go forth and show the covenant that you mean business, Spartan.