Halo Wars: Definitive Edition

A lot of fun to play modded. Base game gets boring after a bit.

"Forge is down".

Xbox 360 classic. Runs well on PC, even a potato. Great turn-your-brain-off simplicity but enough complexity for strategy and scratching the RTS itch. Good Campaign story. Recommend using a controller. Wait for sale.

Multiplayer with friends on legendary will have you questioning your life choices at first but you'll have fun figuring it out.

Ensemble really captured the look and feel of Halo well and translated it to a new genre back in the day. They will be missed.

Love this game. Its simple, but it adds so much to the Halo Universe, that if you like Halo you do yourself a disservice by not giving it a try

It has been ages since I found a game to hold my interest and this was very entertaining. I only completed it on normal, but will be going back in for more. Nice game to pass the time and easy to pick up.

I may only have 3 hours but goddam this game is wonderful 10/10 great models of stuff and the bases look so good

Fun RTS game with decent story line. Wait to have it go on sale.

amazing game worth the purchase 100%

It's a bit clunky, It's a bit old but still has that good old halo feel to it.
The visuals, the unit's, the music all got that old halo goodness
Shame we're probably never gonna get a third

Very fun casual rts. If you are new to the genre, this is a great introduction.

I remember playing this on Xbox 360 in 2009 (it was apart of the 360 bundle at the store). I spent my first 5 games not realising that to upgrade my technological level I needed to upgrade/build more reactors... I got smoked after about 10 mins into each match (I didn't play the story/tutorial).

Anyways, skip to 2025 and this is still one of my favourite RTS games, despite how bare-bones it is compared others in the genre. Nothing compares to the feeling you get at having 2 Scarabs and 10 engineers, or an army of Superhawks and Vultures.

My only gripe (if you can call it that) is that there were not enough 3v3 maps. (c'mon, they could've made more than 4 of them!!!)

Anyways, a solid 10/10 - also runs perfectly on the SteamDeck

I played this game as a kid. Mechanics are great, still has a community, and it's so satisfying to play. I wish they would make a Halo Wars 3 for PC.

Holds up well for its age. Multiplayer pretty sparse. Campaign and skirmish worth the price

Halo is a great setting for an RTS, but... this just ain't it. I don't consider myself a hardcore RTS player or anything but this game is so basic and easy it feels like something you'd buy for your grandma if you wanted to get her into RTS games.

Love the halo franchise, this game doesn't disappoint.

Short Campaign, easy, never really challenges you.

Not a huge fan of a single unique unit per mission in the second half. That you can't use in others.

Game is clunky and not made/redesigned with PC in mind.
- Cant see stats of units
- Cant read upgrades once bought
- Cant read what abilities units have
- Zoom is garbage and very zoomed in even when you zoom out at max
- Esc doesnt open the main menu
- Oh half the flood buildings dont get auto attacked which is really dumb
- Also flood is just obnoxious with regening buildings.

Pros
- Cinematics are pretty good
- You get to see more scifi stuff which is always a +
- Story is ok


The fact Halo Wars 2 is still not on Steam is dumb.

its a good experience and easy to get use to the controls.

How to stall a scarab for 5 seconds
500 odsts

The pathing drives me insane sometimes, but still pretty good regardless!

It is like raid shadow legends but halo. You can do anything!

great little game, still the 2nd best cutscenes of all the halo games after HW2, and a super smooth port. cant get a multiplayer game though

I had thousands of hours on this game back on xbox 360 this is hands down one of the best rts games of all time. Its a shame its near impossible to find games online anymore, but if your a fan of rts games I cant recommend this game enough.

Not for everyone.
Hardcore RTS fans might find it poorly made, but as a Halo fan I love it.

The game runs well and feels very smooth to play for when it was made, combined with the fact it goes on sale often makes it a great game to pick up if you enjoy halo

Drop hw2 on steam

Positives
-Its controls and game play are simple and easy to follow. There are only 2 primary resources that you require and both are super easy to build. Anyone can get into this.
-Various troops that look great and play as you'd expect. Scarabs. Scorpions, and Spartans are powerhouses that feel great to send into battle and wipe out most enemies.
-Enjoyable story that takes place before the main events of the HALO series. No annoying characters, and cinematic's are well done/acted.
-Entirely playable on an Xbox controller or keyboard. I played the entire game on controller and had no problems.

Negatives
-Campaign is fast, it took me less than 6 hours to complete on normal mode and I'm not even that great at RTS's.
-Online play does not seem to work which really hinders its longevity. I tried many times to find a match but nothing. It only seems to work with direct invites to buddies which really sucks if your friends don't have it.
-Small army sizes as it was originally intended for console.

Conclusion: It's great but only on a deep sale, I do not see it worth the full price when there's no online abilities and a short campaign. Not much else to do besides the main story and some skirmishes with AI teams.

as far as functionality is concern the game runs perfectly, works with steam friends and supports mouse and keyboard without issue. there's still some hold over from the fact it was made for console, but nothing that'd get in the way of enjoying it.

I played the demo back when it originally came out on the 360 but never got around to it until a recent sale. Even though the gameplay is simple (probably the simplest RTS I've played), it's fun to build bases and watch units battle it out. Most missions have an interesting gimmick too, to keep things feeling fresh (except Dome of Light, that mission blows cheeks).

i played a lot of rts . this game dont like others u cant build anywhere u want u cant increase ur population ( has limit) and just 2 faction with small number of troops but story and stroy telling are great i have never seen like this before in rts game add great soundtrack to it

If your looking for a game with incredible complexity and a near unlimited amount of strategy this is not it.

What Halo Wars does accomplish is a simplified easy to learn and use RTS experience with a nice Halo sink on top. the story is cannon and fits into the broader universe and while simple the games do feel fun and enjoyable. i only have 2 hours on the steam version but me and a few friends had spent 100+ hours just in fighting the AI alone. overall a great game and i think it is the better experience over the Halo Wars games

Honestly I would be pretty bummed to buy this game for full price. Its kind of a crappy port that's clearly designed for consoles, making the controls very intuitive and clumsy on PC. For example, you can't A move, tab through units, individually activate unit powers, etc. Additionally, units have horrible pathing and get stuck on each other constantly. The graphics aren't too pretty to look at it either compared to most games from that time. Gameplay wise it is very mediocre, not offering as much complexity as most RTS games. Which makes sense considering most RTS are designed for PC. The story is there, I guess. Nothing special but nothing horrible either. If you've played any Halo game before you already know all the main beats and none of the characters were particularly interesting. You've got the generic female scientist, knockoff Cortana, no nonsense admiral, and cocksure marine.

You can get 8 or so hours out of the campaign mode though, so if you can get it on sale and are a Halo fan I would recommend it. Its just very mediocre and doesn't have much shelf life, so curb your expectations.

Halo Wars is a pretty good RTS set in the halo universe. The story of the game isn't very good and the gameplay isn't to complex. A pretty cool idea to have different styles of games in the Halo setting that aren't first person shooters. This a game that you should buy on deep discount if you want to play it yourself.

Cool stuff. Had low expectations going in (knowing I could return it), but am enjoying it. Replayed Mission 4 a lot until I lernt online about all of the Base options. Really need to optimize the bases, who knew? Then finished Mission 4 1st try, woowoo.

The graphics are cool, the story & gameplay engaging, and the PC controls are no problem.
It's a keeper !!

Halo Wars was born as an attempt to create a real-time strategy game exclusively for consoles. In the past, some developers tried bringing RTS games to consoles, such as Warcraft for the PSX or Age of Empires 2 for the PS2. However, since these games were originally designed for PCs, they carried a level of complexity that worked well with a mouse and keyboard but didn’t always provide a great experience on a controller.

With that in mind, Halo Wars was developed as a console-first RTS. Ensemble Studios (RIP) did a great job, in my opinion, bringing RTS concepts to consoles while simplifying mechanics to create a fun experience. They significantly reduced the amount of micro-management required in traditional RTS games. While many RTS veterans might see this as a downside, it can be a great way for newcomers to enter the genre with a controller. For example, the game only has two resources to manage, and there’s no concept of workers/builders as seen in games like Age of Empires or Warcraft. Your base is a static structure with six slots where you can build constructions to manage your military and economic resources.

For civilizations, the game keeps things simple as well. There are two races (UNSC and Covenant), and each has three different "heroes" with unique abilities. So, overall, the gameplay is quite streamlined.

However, this simplicity doesn’t make the game “bad.” On the contrary, it makes the game more dynamic and fun to play, especially on a controller. And speaking of that, this game feels like a perfect fit for controllers. I played the entire campaign on my Steam Deck and had an amazing time, as I was able to enjoy the game in short bursts.

The story is solid—neither exceptional nor poor. It’s completely separate from the main Halo saga and serves more as fan service. If you’ve played the main saga, it’s a nice-to-know addition, but it’s not essential IMO. The campaign is short, but I don’t see that as a drawback—it feels like the ideal length. There are 15 chapters, each taking around 30–45 minutes to complete.

So, is this game for you? If you’re an RTS veteran seeking a complex, competitive game, the answer is definitely no. You won’t feel challenged due to the game’s simpler structure, and the multiplayer scene is nearly dead.

But, if you’re trying to get into the RTS genre, this is a great game. The simpler mechanics make it an excellent entry point for newcomers. If you’re a Halo fan, it’s also a great game. While it doesn’t have the best story in the franchise, it’s a solid one. If you’re looking to play an RTS on a controller or handheld device, this is one of the best options available right now. The short campaign chapters also make it perfect for short play sessions.

In my opinion, it’s impossible to recommend this game to hardcore RTS fans who love the complex micro-management found in StarCraft or Age of Empires. However, if you’re open to a different take on the genre, want to play with a controller, or explore more Halo lore, I highly recommend this game. It’s a solid experience.

I REALLY liked it, *but* the inability to zoom the camera, the troop ai's threat range being way too big for them to be easily controlled, and the only options being on-screen troops or ALL troops make it a pass for me. I'll probably pick it up again in the future but I'm not entirely invested with those things. Maybe these are just holdovers from it being a console port?

They do not have any servers live for multiplayer matchmaking. if you have a group of friends then you can do it on skirmish otherwise, think again.

Just as good as I remember, if not even better since I can actually grasp the mechanics properly as opposed to little 9yo me lmao

Entry level RTS mechanics but quite satisfying in execution and given the love and attention to detail expected in a franchise of this calibre - I was messing around in skirmish for a while against the AI just experimenting and I noticed that the 'Elite Honor Guard' (?) unit that the Prophet gets has a very cool, unique set of animations for killing other enemy elite units (Spartans, namely) - lots of little things like this add a level of quality and polish that help mask what is an otherwise very basic, almost designed-to-the-point, entry level RTS game mechanically. You're probably never going to NEED to move 8 different unit groups of troops across the battlefield, but I guess, you could? If you really wanted to? It's not age of empires or other RTS games where specific units might have exclusive counters in other specific units and instead uses a general rock-paper-scissors type balance, this, though, honestly working in the games favour as with only 2 factions and 6 'characters' playable, the roster is quite limited, although each of the 3 characters on each side or faction has a unique unit or two, and differences in passive benefits and active abilities, outside of this the UNSC play like the UNSC and the Wort Wort Wort play like Wort Wort Wort. The story is your typical halo "as camp as starship troopers but twice as serious". There's really not much 'game' here in terms of replay-ability outside of skirmishing the AI unless you're keen on multiplayer against other players and if starting this in 2025 I imagine you're going probably going to get the welcome you expect as a new player in a somewhat hyperspecific 10 year old game - you're going to be beat like a runaway slave.

Even better than I remember, fun gameplay and a control scheme that translates really well to mouse and keyboard. If you ever played with controller when this originally released on the console then you'll already have a decent grasp at control here. Co-op campaign is fun, skirmishes with friends and strangers is fun. I like Halo Wars.

May not be made or supported by bunjie but is still a good game.

10/10 would genocide all rebels from the map again.

...Oh, and I guess stop the covenant too. That's probably important.

Halo Wars is a solid and approachable real-time strategy (RTS) game that brings the epic Halo universe into a new genre. While it may not satisfy hardcore RTS veterans, it’s a great entry point for newcomers or fans of the franchise looking to experience the lore in a new way.

The game’s biggest strength is its simplicity. Unlike more complex RTS titles, Halo Wars keeps things streamlined, focusing on building bases, training units, and engaging in large-scale battles. The controls, designed for consoles, translate surprisingly well to PC, making it easy to jump in and start commanding armies without feeling overwhelmed.

The campaign is fun and engaging, offering a classic Halo storyline with memorable characters, cinematic cutscenes, and plenty of fan service. Playing as the UNSC Spirit of Fire against the Covenant feels true to the franchise, and the mission variety keeps things interesting. While the story isn’t groundbreaking, it adds depth to the Halo universe and delivers some great moments.

The unit design is another highlight. From Warthogs and Scorpions to Spartans and the Arbiter, every unit feels distinctly Halo. The rock-paper-scissors mechanics are simple but effective, and commanding massive armies in battle is undeniably satisfying.

However, the game’s simplicity can also be its drawback. The depth of strategy is limited compared to other RTS games, and hardcore fans of the genre may find the mechanics too shallow. Multiplayer is fun but lacks the complexity and variety that make other RTS titles shine.

Visually, the game holds up well, especially in the Definitive Edition, with improved graphics and performance. The soundtrack and voice acting are excellent, capturing the iconic feel of the Halo series.

Halo Wars may not revolutionize the RTS genre, but it’s a well-made, accessible, and fun experience that’s perfect for Halo fans and casual strategy players. It’s a great way to explore the Halo universe from a new perspective.

Rating: 7/10 – A simple but enjoyable strategy game for Halo lovers.

This was a good cheap RTS game that brings back nostalgic memories of my childhood. It offers a unique twist to the Halo franchise, blending the series’ signature sci-fi warfare with the strategic gameplay of an RTS game.

Unlike traditional Halo games that focus on first-person shooting, Halo Wars puts players in the role of commanders, controlling large armies in real-time battles. Players can manage units, base-building, and resource gathering. The game’s controls are optimized for the Xbox controller, making it accessible for console players, although it’s a bit different from what you’d expect from a typical RTS on PC.

There’s a strong emphasis on tactical unit placement and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of different unit types, from infantry to vehicles to air support. The game also includes heroes, special units with unique abilities that add another layer of strategy.

I believe it's a perfectly good rts that, in my opinion, is a spiritual continuation of battle for middle earth 1's game play and the only thing that is wrong is that it was built with controller in mind leading the controls to suffer as i will always believe that rts games require the keyboard and mouse and they just don't work with a controller. Now bring halo wars 2 to steam already Microsoft, it's already on pc it can't be that difficult. Maybe it might need patching, but it shouldn't be locked to windows store.

El juego está bueno. Las misiones son re contra repetitivas. La historia jamás me chupó más un huevo que otra cosa. Es divertido jugar un RTS por ahí diferente al resto, pero que decir... Está en la escala del "Safa?", un poquito más abajo de "Safa" ajsjsjajaja, un poronga, pero me dió nostalgia lo tenía en la xbox, si me lo di vuelta, es bastante cortito. Lo recomiendo nomás si querés por ahí jugar un RTS diferente o bien te gusta la saga de Halo, no hay otras razones. 5/10

A chill RTS game set in the Halo Universe, covering events and stories that take place before the main series. It’s pretty fun to play and easy to 100% for achievement hunters.

The multiplayer is mostly dead, so the 2–3 achievements that require a second player can be a bit annoying to get. However, you can try to find people in the Community Hub and ask for help since the related achievements are easy to do.

Quirky RTS with an overall solid campaign

Fun to play with friends and has a good campaign.

ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT ON IT

As someone who’s been playing Halo since I was a kid, this is a great RTS game that offers a great story, lore, and game play while staying true to the spirit of the original games..

Reminds me of AoE II, but with aircraft and tanks. 10/10

Most nostalgic game for me, just wish we had more players in 2025