Halo 2 (PC Games, 2007)

I've had Halo 2 for the X-Box for a while now, and while the matchmaking had it's pros and cons, it was acceptable.

Halo 2 Vista is a polished version of the original X-Box title. Introducing "Gaming for Windows Live" which is a Windows variant of X-Box Live, gamers are asked to either register a name or use their X-Box Live name via the Microsoft Passport system. (Entering the e-mail address you used when you signed up for X-Box Live) This is forced, you have to do this before entering the game. You can create a local profile but will only be able to do the Single Player campaign and LAN mode. Installation is a breeze, and if you choose, you can play the game while you install. That's about the only nice feature this game truly has though besides Achievements.

The gameplay is typical Halo 2. The campaign is exactly like the X-Box version, so it will have a familiar feel in that aspect. Those blessed with a nice gaming rig with find it to be a pleasantly smooth experience. You can take your pick as far as connecting an X-Box 360 controller or using the mouse and keyboard combo. As an equalizer I suppose, the controller has a slight auto-aim, allowing for a more precision shot. There is no auto-aim with mouse and keyboard, however it wouldn't be necessary to implement one, since it's already pretty precise.

Multiplayer has it's pros and cons. The gameplay is smooth, and the netcode is nice. Those who played Halo 1 PC used to have to lead their shots to actually hit the character. Halo 2 fixes that and now you can actually aim at the target. The majority of people use dedicated servers, so those used to X-Box lives matchmaking will feel lost and confused. There is no ranking system, just straight continuous game after game on dedicated servers. You can set it to join the next game, if you're worried that you'll join a game that's already lost.

Honestly, I do like the game. I really do. However it's only good for achievements and multiplayer. The servers currently are not that populated, but I supposed that will change when Vista becomes the norm and the game drops in price. If you're happy with the X-Box version of the game, you may not want to jump ship quite just yet. Give it some time.