Halo 2 OG Multiplayer Makes Surprise Return, And It's Free

The original Halo 2 multiplayer has returned in the best way and best of all, it’s free.

For me personally, when it comes to Halo multiplayer, especially during Bungie’s golden years, it doesn't get better than Halo 3, and to be fair, I’d say the same for its story campaign too.

However, when it comes to being revolutionary for the series with an added dose of nostalgia, it doesn't get much more important than Halo 2, originally released on the Xbox in 2004.

“Following the destruction of Halo, humankind experiences a short-lived victory,” reads the synopsis of Halo 2. “Eager for revenge, the Covenant launches a surprise attack on Earth, but they find themselves ill-prepared to defeat the UNSC’s home fleet and are forced to flee into slipspace.”

“When the Master Chief pursues his overzealous enemies, they discover yet another Halo ring, uncovering long-buried secrets, including an unlikely ally, that will dramatically alter the course of the Human-Covenant Conflict forever.”

While its story campaign wasn't online with its fantastic co-op, its multiplayer offering certainly was, and boy, does the Halo 2 online multiplayer bring back plenty of fond memories.

In 2004, sure, internet connections weren't what they are today. Sometimes it will feel like forever and a day to boot up, not to mention that there was always a good chance of disconnects mid-match, but when that action was constantly flowing, Halo 2 was fantastic.

You can still play Halo 2 online today courtesy of Halo: The Master Chief Collection on PC and modern Xbox consoles, which includes its co-op campaign. However, if you would prefer something more pure that reflects the days of yesteryear, then look no further than this awesome emulation.

“Play OG Halo 2 on Insignia via PC! Crossplay with OG Xbox Players!” tweeted HaloClassicHCH. “All-in-one Xemu Build: Halo 2 MP + DLC, UIX Dash, Insignia Setup Assistant & Guides! Download in replies.”

Speaking of Halo goodness being revived, after three years of hard work, a talented modder brought to life a free battle royale mode using Forge in Halo Infinite.

“Gonna install this later, pinning to come back and see any updates as well,” replied Akira_Suzukii to the tweet from HaloClassicHCH.

“I will be there!” declared WhyYouSoCampy.

As stated in the tweet above, you will need a PC to play this OG version of Halo 2, but hopefully, running it on your hardware won't be too demanding.

If it is too demanding, and you own an Xbox with Game Pass, you might as well play the remastered Halo 2: Anniversary, which is included in the aforementioned Halo: The Master Chief Collection.

In fact, the entire Halo series is included with Xbox Game Pass, so go and play them all, right now. You owe it to yourself.