Halo: Combat Evolved is now playable for free in your browser, complete with 128-player multiplayer

Halo: Combat Evolved is now playable for free. However, it’s not playable on an Xbox; it’s free via a web browser, and it even includes 128-player multiplayer matches.

The Halo franchise has been one of Xbox’s most valuable and popular properties ever since it made its debut in November 2001 alongside Microsoft’s console launch to rival SEGA, PlayStation and Nintendo.

That being said, the Halo series hasn't had the greatest deal of success under Halo Studios (formerly 343 Industries) after taking over from Bungie, and following another major Microsoft restructure, Activision has now been brought in to save the legendary Master Chief and friends.

How to play Halo: Combat Evolved for free in your web browser

This web browser port has been created by X user mitchellhynes.

In a tweet, Mitch not only demonstrated how it plays in a video but also revealed that it features split-screen co-op and multiplayer for up to 128 players. However, the latter is said to be “untested” at this stage, so it may have some kinks to iron out.

In a follow-up tweet, Mitch did warn that his web browser version of Halo: Combat Evolved does not work well on iOS and Android, but pointed out that there are other mobile versions available. So, it’s best to try this port on a PC.

Microsoft/mitchellhynes

After testing the web browser version of Halo: Combat Evolved, it is a little janky in terms of the frame rate, but it’s certainly very playable. However, I’ve not had the chance to give the multiplayer a test run just yet.

Regardless, it’s incredibly impressive that it’s possible to play the entire campaign like this. Though it is very likely that Microsoft may shut this profit-free project down in the future.

Other ways to play the official version of Halo: Combat Evolved

Should this web browser version of Halo: Combat Evolved be taken down, there are plenty of other avenues in which you can play this beloved first-person shooter classic. The easiest way is through Halo: The Master Chief Collection, which is also free via Xbox Game Pass on consoles and PC.

You can also play the 2026 remake, Halo: Campaign Evolved, powered by Unreal Engine 5, available on PC, PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X/S. Though, sadly, this version of the game features no competitive multiplayer, only co-op.

READ MORE: Halo co-creator slams Campaign Evolved as a 'misstep' for the franchise

Here’s what we said about Halo: Campaign Evolved

“The main game was exceptional, and the Remix mode adds so much replay value for both single-player and multiplayer playthroughs. It was only the prequel missions that I found to be a tad disappointing, but I wouldn’t go as far as to say they were bad or unenjoyable. I just wish they were a little bit more,” we said in our review, scoring it an “exceptional” 9/10.

“In many ways, I still think it’s a shame that we had to go all the way back to the beginning to get a truly excellent Halo game, but Halo: Campaign Evolved does give me hope for the future of this franchise.”