Where is the Best Place to Start with Halo?
The Halo franchise is a beloved series of science fiction first-person shooter games that has been entertaining gamers for decades. With so many games in the series, it can be overwhelming for new players to know where to start. In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to begin your Halo journey.
Play in Release Order
If you want to experience the story in chronological order, playing the games in release order is the way to go. This means starting with the original Halo: Combat Evolved, followed by Halo 2, Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, and finally Halo: Reach. This order will allow you to follow the storyline and character developments as they were intended by the developers.
Skip Halo 4 and Halo 5
While Halo 4 and Halo 5 are part of the series, they can be skipped without missing out on too much. These games were designed to be played as a separate storyline, and they don’t follow the original storyline as closely. Halo Infinite, the latest installment in the series, is a direct continuation of the Reclaimer Saga, making it a good starting point if you’re new to the series.
Play Halo: Reach Last
While Halo: Reach is part of the series, it’s best played last. The game’s storyline takes place before the events of the original Halo: Combat Evolved, and playing it out of order can be confusing. Playing it after the main trilogy will allow you to appreciate the characters and events in context.
Quick Start for New Players
If you’re new to the series and want to get started quickly, playing the games with the Quick Start option is the way to go. This option will allow you to skip the intro cutscenes and jump straight into the gameplay. You can still play through the campaign without worrying about missing out on important story elements.
Master Chief Collection
For new players, the Master Chief Collection is a great way to get started with the series. This collection includes remastered versions of the original Halo games, allowing you to play through the trilogy in a convenient and accessible way. The Master Chief Collection also includes online multiplayer, making it easy to jump into the action with friends.
Release Order Timeline
Here is a timeline of the Halo games in release order:
| Game | Release Year |
|---|---|
| Halo: Combat Evolved | 2001 |
| Halo 2 | 2004 |
| Halo 3 | 2007 |
| Halo 3: ODST | 2009 |
| Halo: Reach | 2010 |
| Halo 4 | 2012 |
| Halo 5: Guardians | 2015 |
| Halo Infinite | 2020 |
Conclusion
Starting with Halo can be intimidating, but by following this guide, you’ll be able to jump into the series with ease. Whether you choose to play in release order or skip ahead to Halo Infinite, there’s never been a better time to start your Halo journey.