Forget everything you have read about Halo being a typical First Person Shoot-em Up !! This is not your typical FPS, and after you have read this review, you will understand why !!

So, now I've got your attention, that is exactly what Halo doesąą.huh ? I hear you say. From the moment you switch on your X-Box and the main menu comes up, you just know you are going to be here for awhile playing. Make sure you have a drink, some food and have already been to the toilet, because once you startą.you will not be moving from your seat.

The hype surrounding this game is all true.

Now, onto the gameąą

You have several options ranging from a single player campaign mission to multi-player death matches. You can even play campaigns multi-player which by the way is fantastic. I first played this game with a friend and decided to go Co-Op on a campaign. You create your own soldier, give it a name and what colour it's armour is. The colour doesn't matter for a campaign but I assume it does for the Death Matches.

Once, you have created your character you then have to choose your level of difficulty. There are four in total ranging from Easy to Legendary. Personally I would start with normal if you want some sort of challenge and that is exactly what I did with my friend.

The controls are very easy to get used to and they eventually become second nature as you progress further into the game. Unlike other FPS's like Doom, Unreal Tournament etc etcą.Halo transports you into a science fiction universe fresh out of a Hollywood movie. The story line is detailed with complex characters and cunning enemies. The A.I. of the aliens is unbelievable. They hide if you shoot at them and miss and they gang up on you when you least expect it.

Back to the gameą..In multi-player, one would expect some sort of slow-down like in most games, Halo offers speed thru-out. No lag, no delays and no graphic distortion. It is rather remarkable considering you can go anywhere you like even if the other player goes in the totally opposite direction.

Again, unlike other FPS'są..you can't just go in to an area and start shooting and hope to survive. Not in this game !! For starters, you can only carry two weapons out of a multitude of human and alien weaponry, so choose wisely. Stealth is important in this game if you want to make your life easier when invading a alien stronghold. You will eventually start to use only the weapons you like and personally...I love the Sniper-Rifle !! Zoom in and see a close up of the enemy before you let fly one of your bullets into their chest or head. Weapons range from semi-automatic pistols and needler guns to the fierceą..rocket launchers & flame throwers.

Still think it's like a normal FPS ?

If you do then this will change your mind. Vehicles !! Yep, that's rightą..on some missions you get to drive or fly jeeps, skimmers or even alien crafts. This is brilliant in two or more player mode as one gets to drive whilst your friends ride shotgun or even controls the turrent guns.

Last but not least, Halo has internet gaming options. Form a team or battle it out Death match style via intense split screen.

Overall, In my opinion this game is worth every pound you have spent. The single player game is harder enough to last for awhile (depending on what level you have chosen) plus the option to play over the internet, will make this one game you do not want to have without in your collection.

Big Thumbs Up to Bungie Software on such an excellent launch title !!