Selecting the top ten levels from the expansive Halo franchise is no small feat, especially given the sheer number of memorable moments spread across its numerous titles. The challenge lies in narrowing down such an impressive array to just a handful of standout experiences, but here we go!
For this compilation, I have considered levels from all principal first-person shooter Halo games. Interestingly, most selections come from what I regard as the pinnacle of the series, with a heavier lean on the beloved original trilogy. Unfortunately, Halo 5 didn’t make the cut.
10 The Sequence
Halo: Infinite
We begin our countdown with ‘The Sequence’ from Halo: Infinite. In an impactful opening scene, Master Chief’s AI companion, the Weapon, asks dramatically, “Are you okay?” This marks a poignant moment where Chief openly confronts his weaknesses following a defeat by Atriox.
Your objective is to infiltrate the Command Spire by activating various terminals around the area, each defended by different Banished forces. What sets this level apart is its variety; you can choose to engage directly using an assault rifle or employ the Grappleshot to commandeer Banshees as you progress.
Importantly, this level also deepens the relationship between Master Chief and the Weapon, transforming her from a mere sidekick to a character with depth and emotion.
9 Tsavo Highway
Halo 3
Next up is ‘Tsavo Highway’, the thrilling third mission in Halo 3. Set against the backdrop of Tsavo, Kenya, this mission begins after Master Chief and a squad of marines escape the UNSC base known as Crow’s Nest.
With the Covenant now threatening Earth and the Prophet of Truth excavating a portal to the Ark, Master Chief’s task is clear: secure a path to confront this looming threat. This mission brilliantly combines vehicle combat—particularly involving Brute choppers—with traditional weapons, allowing for a dynamic gaming experience.
Moreover, this level signifies a crucial shift in humanity’s fight against the Covenant, moving from defense to offense, exemplifying the evolving dynamics of war.
8 Exodus
Halo: Reach
‘Exodus’ follows immediately after a significant loss within Noble Team, plunging players into a desperate race to regroup with surviving Spartans while securing New Alexandria.
This mission draws on the darker narrative of Halo Reach, as players defend civilians against a menacing Brute onslaught. The urgency to shield the innocent, despite the knowledge of impending failure, creates an emotionally charged atmosphere.
Fast-paced urban warfare with close-quarters combat enriches the experience, making this level exhilarating, especially for skilled DMR users. Plus, who doesn’t love the thrill of soaring through the skies with a jetpack?
7 Metropolis
Halo 2
Set in New Mombasa, ‘Metropolis’ presents a thrilling urban combat scenario within Halo 2. It begins with players receiving a tank from Sergeant Johnson, tasked with eliminating a threatening Scarab located across a bridge.
What truly elevates this mission is its scale. Despite the abundance of large scale battles in modern gaming, experiencing this level in 2004 was remarkable—an unforgettable mix of chaos and beauty as you charge into battle.
Taking down massive foes like the Scarab solidifies your role as a powerful entity within the gameplay, giving players a thrilling sense of accomplishment.
6 Pelican Down
Halo: Infinite
‘Pelican Down’ stands out in Halo: Infinite as a particularly enjoyable mission. In this sequence, Master Chief’s pilot, Echo 216, becomes grounded due to a Banished anti-air fortress, which leads to a gripping narrative arc on Zeta Halo.
This level marks an essential story development that strengthens the bond between Chief and Echo 216, while also offering players an unprecedented sense of agency with the ability to tackle objectives in various ways—be it stealthily or with all-out aggression.
Whether you prefer to ambush your foes using stealth or unleash chaos, ‘Pelican Down’ shines as an adaptable and thrilling experience, solidifying its place in Halo history.
5 Coastal Highway
Halo 3: ODST
In the gritty atmosphere of Halo 3: ODST, ‘Coastal Highway’ encapsulates the raw human cost of war. Unlike previous titles, you play as a mere soldier, making every encounter feel incredibly tense and perilous.
As the final mission of the game, it brilliantly balances feelings of hopelessness and wit, delivering a uniquely poignant experience. The grim settings and characters add depth, yet you ultimately find a way to succeed, culminating in a reunion with the iconic Sergeant Johnson.
4 Tip of the Spear
Halo: Reach
In ‘Tip of the Spear’, you join a massive UNSC counteroffensive on Reach, launching into chaotic combat alongside Kat. The mission focuses on destroying anti-aircraft guns and breaching a Covenant spire.
Engaging in extensive warfare with diverse terrain invites players to commandeer Covenant vehicles and unleash destruction from the skies using a Falcon. The thrill lies in the combination of tactical objectives and exhilarating gameplay, leading to a heartbreakingly inevitable conclusion as everything spirals out of control.
3 Long Night of Solace
Halo: Reach
‘Long Night of Solace’ is an unforgettable level where players assault a launch facility to reclaim it from the Covenant. The excitement escalates as you transition into thrilling space dogfights, a first for the series.
This fast-paced sequence captures the essence of Halo Reach’s dark narrative perfectly. The urgent tempo mirrors the escalating stakes, emphasizing the dwindling resources humanity faces.
In this mission, the emotional weight of Jorge’s sacrifice adds a poignant layer of tragedy, reminding players of the high cost of war as the Noble Team fights to buy humanity time.
2 The Covenant
Halo 3
‘The Covenant’ from Halo 3 is a powerful epic that showcases a grand offensive. Not only is this level full of action, but it also marks a pivotal moment in storytelling: it’s the first time players take control of UNSC aircraft.
The evolution of Master Chief’s relationship with the Arbiter deepens here, as they unite against a common enemy, culminating in a dramatic showdown with the Prophet of Truth and an intense battle alongside the Flood.
With stunning music and a gripping plot, this level encapsulates the essence of Halo while delivering unforgettable moments that resonate with players.
1 The Silent Cartographer
Halo: Combat Evolved
Claiming the top spot is ‘The Silent Cartographer’ from Halo: Combat Evolved, a truly pioneering level in game design. Released in 2001, this mission was groundbreaking, offering an expansive, open gameplay structure that allowed players tactical freedom.
Even by today’s standards, it remains influential. This mission’s blend of exploration, combat, and coherence laid the groundwork for future titles in the series, making it an essential part of the Halo legacy.
Ultimately, ‘The Silent Cartographer’ stands as a testament to the innovative spirit of Bungie and 343 Industries. It’s a perfect example of why the Halo series continues to captivate players worldwide.
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