There once was a common belief that “FPS games are for PC.” The title that boldly shattered this stereotype and established the FPS genre on home consoles was indeed, Halo: Combat Evolved. Now, in 2026, the unexpected announcement of a remake coming to PlayStation 5 has generated significant buzz among fans. The very fact that this game, originally a flagship title for the Microsoft-developed Xbox, is finally advancing to the Sony camp symbolizes a shift in the industry. The remake is based on the 2001 campaign mode but will feature graphics and controls befitting the latest hardware, along with the addition of new content—a lavish specification. This will undoubtedly be nostalgic for those who played it before and a fresh experience for those new to the title.

One of the greatest achievements Halo left in FPS history is the establishment of controller operation. In a genre that previously relied on PCs, this game introduced the control scheme that is “taken for granted now”—left stick for movement, right stick for camera control, and triggers for attacking. This intuitive interface allowed anyone to immediately immerse themselves in the game, paving the way for comfortable FPS enjoyment on home consoles. Furthermore, it introduced the system where armor automatically regenerates if the player hides to avoid attacks, an element that is now adopted by many modern FPS titles. In short, the DNA of Halo is firmly embedded in the fundamental design of today’s FPS games.

The name Halo is derived from the “gigantic, ring-shaped artificial structure” that appears in the game. This monumental structure is central to the story, and players uncover the truth behind this mysterious “Halo” amidst a war between humanity and alien life forms. This world, which fuses mythology with science, and religious symbolism with military sci-fi, transcends the framework of a mere shooting game and gives players a deep sense of immersion. Moreover, the relationship between the protagonist, Master Chief, and the AI, Cortana, shines as a major emotional pillar of the narrative, and the character of Master Chief, who possesses a silent stoicism and strength, remains a special figure for many gamers today.

The reason the Halo series, which boasts over 34 million copies sold worldwide, is called not just a hit but a “legend” lies in its innovation and high level of polish. Every element is meticulously composed: the combat design achieves an exquisite balance between strategy and reflexes, the map design is cleverly laid out while remaining open, and the music and sound effects enhance tension and excitement. As the series progressed, the story became more complex and the systems more refined, but the origin of everything is this very first Halo: Combat Evolved. In that sense, this remake is not just a refinement; it also holds value as a “return to the origin,” marking where the FPS genre truly began.