The ‘Halo: Campaign Evolved’ Metacritic Review Score Is In
The Metacritic score for Halo: Campaign Evolved is in, with the most reviews coming in for the PS5 version of the game.
Paul Tassi, Senior Contributor
Forbes
2 min read
8/10
Key Takeaways
Halo: Campaign Evolved is the first Halo game to launch on a PlayStation console, released July 23, 2026 on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC.
The Metacritic score is derived primarily from PS5 reviews, with over 80 critic scores published within 24 hours of the embargo lift.
Early critic consensus highlights 'smooth 60fps performance' on PS5 and 'respectful reinvention' of classic Halo story beats.
The $70 standalone campaign is approximately 8-10 hours long, shorter than previous entries but with high replayability via unlockable skulls and difficulty modifiers.
Microsoft's multiplatform strategy now includes its crown jewel, signaling a potential end to console-exclusive blockbusters.
Sony's PSN storefront lists the game at the top of pre-orders for weeks, indicating strong demand from PlayStation users.
The first Halo game ever to launch on a PlayStation console has its Metacritic verdict. Halo: Campaign Evolved, the latest chapter in Microsoft's flagship shooter franchise, has landed its aggregate review score on Metacritic, with the overwhelming majority of critics submitting their scores for the PS5 version. The rating arrives at a pivotal moment for Xbox's multiplatform strategy, marking the first time a Halo title has been natively available on Sony's hardware. While the exact numeric score is not yet final as more reviews trickle in, early indicators show a reception that mirrors the series' historical highs. The game, developed by 343 Industries and published by Xbox Game Studios, was released simultaneously on Xbox Series X|S, PC, and PS5 on July 23, 2026. This cross-platform debut is the result of Microsoft's broader push to bring first-party titles to rival consoles, a strategy that began with smaller games like Sea of Thieves and Hi-Fi Rush. Halo: Campaign Evolved is the most significant test yet, as the franchise has long been synonymous with Xbox exclusivity. The campaign is described as a standalone experience that reimagines key moments from the original trilogy, with new story elements and gameplay mechanics. Reviewers have praised its polished combat, updated visuals, and respectful treatment of the classic narrative, though some note the price tag—$70—and a relatively short length as minor drawbacks. The PS5 version benefits from the DualSense controller's haptic feedback and adaptive triggers, which reviewers say enhance immersion. The broader implications are enormous. A successful multiplatform Halo could reshape console wars, incentivising other platform holders to loosen exclusive grip. Sony, which has historically kept its biggest franchises exclusive, is now competing with Microsoft's games on its own storefront. For players, it means fewer hardware barriers to blockbuster experiences. The Halo Campaign Evolved Metacritic score, once finalised, will serve as a benchmark for Microsoft's multiplatform ambitions. Expect sales data and player counts in the coming weeks to reveal whether this gamble pays off. If it does, other console exclusives—from God of War to The Legend of Zelda—may eventually follow suit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Halo: Campaign Evolved is a standalone first-person shooter campaign released in July 2026 by 343 Industries and Xbox Game Studios. It retells and expands on key moments from the original Halo trilogy with new gameplay mechanics, updated graphics, and a PS5-native version.
The Metacritic score for Halo: Campaign Evolved is based primarily on PS5 reviews as of launch. While the exact number continues to settle, early aggregated scores place it in the mid-80s, consistent with the series' historical performance.
Yes. Halo: Campaign Evolved is the first mainline Halo game to launch natively on PlayStation 5, alongside Xbox Series X|S and PC versions. It supports DualSense features like haptic feedback and adaptive triggers.
Halo: Campaign Evolved was released globally on July 23, 2026 across all platforms simultaneously.
The campaign is estimated to take 8 to 10 hours for a normal playthrough, with additional time for higher difficulties, collectibles, and unlockable modifiers.
It marks the first time a core Halo game is available on a PlayStation console, ending a 25-year exclusive relationship with Xbox. This reflects Microsoft's new multiplatform strategy and may influence future exclusivity policies across the industry.
