Every so often, there's a game released that proves to be a benchmark in FPS gaming. For a long time, this came in the form of the Nintendo 64's Goldeneye, until 2001's Halo: Combat Evolved came along and changed the genre forever. Bungie's sci-fi franchise has gone on to spawn a number of spin-offs and sequels, but it was this original Xbox release that kicked it all off. Halo featured huge, open level design that really added to the feel that you were exploring new and exciting worlds. The story and setting were fascinating, with the plot taking twists and turns on the same level as any sci-fi blockbuster. Not only this, but the multiplayer offered some of the greatest split-screen and LAN fun of any FPS game ever released. Responsible for countless late nights and unproductive weekends, Halo: Combat Evolved had a huge impact on both narrative-driven single-player and fast, frantic multiplayer.
