Halo: Campaign Evolved is a gorgeous remake that feels both nostalgic and modern, combining stunning visuals with classic point-and-shoot gameplay. The 2026 version is the most comprehensive remake yet, completely rebuilt in Unreal Engine 5 with remade environments, cinematics, vehicles, characters, and weapons, as well as new motion capture, voice acting, and music. It also includes new prequel missions and a Campaign-Remix mode.
Master Chief's Makeover
The upgraded visuals are stunning in Unreal Engine 5, from Covenant waves on Halo's green highlands to tropical islands, desert levels, Forerunner structures, and the Truth and Reconciliation Covenant ship. Swamp-like Flood levels feel more remote and creepy. Halo Studios has faithfully retained the core designs of characters, vehicles, and weapons while giving them a massive visual overhaul.
Winning Formula
The gunplay remains simple yet satisfying, retaining the Halo feel without overmodernising. Driving the Warthog with joysticks feels primitive but keeps the original's charm. The game evokes memories of running out of ammo, long reload times, and the annoyance of fighting the Flood. Three new prequel missions add variety, including a space warfare mission.
Replay Remix
42 iconic Skulls unlock gameplay modifiers, including third-person mode and a Floor is Lava modifier. Collecting two Skulls unlocks Campaign Remix, which randomises enemies and effects in completed missions. The campaign is around 13-20 hours long, with co-op support for four-player online cross-play and cross-progression across Xbox Series X|S, PC, Steam, and PlayStation 5. On PC with an RTX 3070, the game ran smoothly at 60fps on high settings at 1440p with DLSS.
Overall Thoughts
Halo: Campaign Evolved is a superb remake that retains the magical feel of the original while adding new missions, modes, and modern features like cross-play. The PS5 version is PS5 Pro Enhanced with DualSense Haptics and Adaptive Triggers. Despite doubts about long-term replayability, the game is a breath of fresh air combining nostalgia and pure, basic gameplay. Rating: 5/5.
