Halo: Campaign Evolved has arrived, bringing Master Chief and Cortana back for a reimagining of the original 2001 campaign with enhanced visuals. For those new to the series or returning after a long absence, navigating the challenges of this classic first-person shooter can be daunting. This guide provides key insights to help players get the most out of their experience.
Difficulty and Engagement
When starting out, players are advised to stick to the Normal difficulty setting. The remake, much like its predecessor, presents a significant challenge. Enemies deal substantial damage, and concentrated fire can quickly deplete shields, potentially leading to one-hit KOs for Master Chief. While Heroic and Legendary difficulties offer greater challenges for subsequent playthroughs, the Easy setting is best avoided as it can trivialize encounters and diminish the overall experience. Experimenting with higher difficulties is best reserved for later playthroughs, perhaps with friends or unlocked skulls.
Tactical Use of Weapons and Abilities
While the Master Chief's iconic assault rifle and magnum are reliable, players should not overlook the utility of Covenant weaponry. Alien weapons, such as the plasma rifle, are particularly effective at stripping enemy shields. The plasma pistol, when charged, can stun vehicles, making them easier targets or even allowing for boarding maneuvers, a feature returning from Halo 2.
The remake also introduces new elements and reintroduces abilities from later Halo titles. The SMG and a usable energy sword are among the new additions. Players can also utilize Sentinel laser cannons, salvaged from defeated flying robots, to effectively combat Flood enemies. The Needler Rifle, encountered later in the campaign, is noted for its considerable power and is highly recommended for acquisition.
Leveraging Allies and the Environment
Master Chief's enhanced mobility, including a sprint function, means that strategic retreats can be as valuable as direct confrontation. In challenging levels like The Library, opting to disengage and reposition can be crucial for survival, especially on higher difficulties. Sometimes, not every enemy needs to be eliminated to progress.
Players can also strategically utilize allied NPCs. Soldiers, when equipped with powerful weapons like rockets or sniper rifles, can become a formidable force, especially when positioned in a Warthog or tank. These allies possess infinite ammunition, allowing them to sustain heavy firepower.
Game Mechanics and Progression
New players might miss certain control shortcuts. While the game introduces some, like holding up on the D-pad for the flashlight, others are not explicitly taught. For instance, holding down on the D-pad allows players to drop their current weapon, a useful tactic for co-op play where a teammate might need a specific firearm.
To ensure progress is saved, particularly on higher difficulties, players are encouraged to intentionally trigger checkpoint saves. After completing a difficult encounter, moving back slightly and remaining stationary can prompt an autosave before proceeding to the next challenge. This tactic can be essential for overcoming particularly arduous sections.
Unlocking Content and Post-Game Activities
The game includes bonus missions that, while set before the main campaign's events, offer a different experience with new weapons and enemies. These are recommended as a post-game reward rather than early content, as they differ significantly from the core campaign.
For those seeking to unlock additional content, finding at least three hidden skulls will activate Remix Mode. This mode allows players to replay levels with altered enemy and weapon spawns, offering a fresh challenge. A straightforward skull can be found early in the game by navigating to a catwalk in the first room of the initial level. It is advised to complete the main campaign before diving into Remix Mode.
Finally, a post-credits scene awaits players after the campaign concludes. While it offers no spoilers here, it is brief and primarily relevant to those familiar with the broader Halo series.