1. Halo: Combat Evolved
The game that started it all, introduced gamers to the now iconic Master Chief, and ensured that Microsofts Xbox had a chance in the console market, Halo: Combat Evolved has stood the test of time, three direct sequels, three spin-offs and a remake to remain the greatest Halo game of them all. Before the days of fully-developed online multiplayer and downloadable content, Halo: Combat Evolved showed just how great an FPS games single player campaign can be. Playing the original Halo for the first time is a gaming moment engraved on my mind; stepping out of the escape pod and seeing the enormous ring for the first time; the horror of encountering the Flood in an underground structure; the delight of being able to use a scoped-pistol throughout the game as a main weapon. All of these things and more made Halo: Combat Evolved great. Every entry into the series since has paid tribute to these moments, without ever truly being able to better them. One of the original Halos greatest triumphs was how it got almost every element perfectly balanced: no gun was useless, offering countless solutions to every fight; tight corridor sections were followed by great open vehicle battles. The plot was simple but original, taking players from a human spaceship to the depths of an ancient experimental facility to the heart of an alien command cruiser. Setting the standard for the series, and shooters in general, will Halo: Combat Evolved be able to retain its spot at the top once titles 5 and 6 arrive. Only time will tell. What do you think? Is the original Halo still the best? Share your thoughts below.