Halo Games in Order: A Parent’s Guide to Safe Gaming

The Halo franchise has not only redefined the first-person shooter genre but also set new standards for storytelling in video games. Since its inception, Halo has captured the hearts and minds of gamers worldwide, turning casual players into devoted fans. If you're a gamer, a Halo fan, or someone looking to experience the series for the first time, this guide will take you on a chronological journey through the Halo universe, including the newest Halo game. For parents, we’ve also created a kids-friendly guide for Halo games, and we recommend using FamiSafe to ensure kids’ safety and provide parental control.

Halo is a science fiction video game franchise created by Bungie and now owned by Microsoft. It follows the story of the Master Chief, an augmented super-soldier, and his fight against alien forces known as the Covenant. The series has expanded to include novels, comic books, and other media that all contribute to its rich lore.

The first Halo game, "Halo: Combat Evolved," was released in 2001 for the original Xbox console. It quickly became one of the best-selling games on the platform and received critical acclaim for its gameplay mechanics and immersive world-building. Its impact can still be felt today, influencing countless other games and earning a timeless place in gaming history.

In this section, we will explore the best Halo games released throughout the franchise's history, showcasing their unique contributions to the series and what makes each title stand out. From the groundbreaking mechanics of the original game to the engaging narratives of later releases, these titles collectively define the essence of the best Halo game experience. Join us as we delve into each game in chronological order, highlighting their significance within the Halo universe.

1. Halo Wars (2531)

• Developer: Ensemble Studios
• Release Date: February 27, 2009
• Platforms: Xbox 360 (Definitive Edition: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PC)

Released on February 27, 2009, Halo Wars was developed by Ensemble Studios. Unlike its predecessors, this game took a different approach with a real-time strategy format. Available on Xbox 360 and later on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and PC as the Definitive Edition, Halo Wars takes place in 2531 and focuses on the conflict between the UNSC and the Covenant. Players command fleets and armies, offering a fresh perspective on the Halo universe.

2. Halo Reach (2552)

• Release Date: September 14, 2010
• Developer: Bungie
• Platforms: Xbox 360

Halo Reach, developed by Bungie, was released in 2010 and serves as a prequel to Halo: Combat Evolved. Set in 2552, the game tells the story of the Noble Team, a group of Spartans fighting to defend the planet Reach from the Covenant invasion. The emotional storyline and intense gameplay made it an instant classic among fans.

3. Halo Combat Evolved (2552)

• Release Date: November 15, 2001
• Developer: Bungie
• Platforms: Xbox

The game that started it all, Halo: Combat Evolved, was released in 2001. Developed by Bungie, it introduced players to the iconic Master Chief and the rich lore of the Halo universe. Set in 2552, players battle the Covenant on the mysterious ringworld known as Halo. The game's revolutionary mechanics and gripping story laid the foundation for the entire series.

4. Halo 2 (2552)

• Release Date: November 9, 2004
• Developer: Bungie
• Platforms: Xbox and PC

Halo 2, released in 2004, continued the story of Master Chief. Developing the conflict between humanity and the Covenant, Halo 2 introduced dual-wielding and online multiplayer, revolutionizing console gaming. The game's cliffhanger ending left fans eagerly awaiting the next installment.

5. Halo 3 ODST (2552)

• Release Date: September 22, 2009
• Developer: Bungie
• Platforms: Xbox 360

Halo 3: ODST, released in 2009, offers a unique perspective on the events of Halo 2. Instead of playing as Master Chief, players control an Orbital Drop Shock Trooper (ODST) navigating the Covenant-occupied city of New Mombasa. The game's noir atmosphere and engaging storyline made it a standout title.

6. Halo 3 (2552 - 2553)

• Release Date: September 27, 2007
• Developer: Bungie
• Platforms: Xbox 360

Halo 3, released in 2007, was the epic conclusion to the original trilogy. Set between 2552 and 2553, the game sees Master Chief return to finish the fight against the Covenant and the Flood. Its groundbreaking multiplayer and polished campaign solidified Halo's status as a gaming juggernaut.

7. Halo Spartan Assault (2554)

• Release Date: July 18, 2013
• Developer: Vanguard Games / 343 Industries
• Platforms: Windows Phone 8 and PC

Halo Spartan Assault, a top-down shooter, was released in 2013. Developed by 343 Industries and Vanguard Games, it takes place in 2554, bridging the gap between Halo 3 and Halo 4. Players control Spartans Palmer and Davis as they battle Covenant forces, offering bite-sized missions perfect for mobile and PC gaming.

8. Halo 4 (2557)

• Release Date: November 6, 2012
• Developer: 343 Industries
• Platforms: Xbox 360

Released in 2012, Halo 4 marked the beginning of a new trilogy developed by 343 Industries. Set in 2557, the game explores Master Chief's relationship with his AI companion, Cortana, while introducing a new enemy, the Prometheans. The game's updated graphics and deeper narrative were praised by fans and critics alike.

9. Halo Spartan Strike (2552 - 2557)

• Release Date: April 16, 2015
• Developer: Vanguard Games / 343 Industries
• Platforms: iOS, PC, and Windows Phone

A sequel to Spartan Assault, Halo Spartan Strike was released in 2015. Spanning events from 2552 to 2557, the game offers another top-down shooter experience, focusing on battles against Covenant and Promethean forces. It's a fun addition to the Halo saga, perfect for short bursts of gameplay.

10. Halo 5 Guardians (2558)

• Release Date: October 27, 2015
• Developer: 343 Industries
• Platforms: Xbox One

Halo 5: Guardians, released in 2015 and developed by 343 Industries, takes place in 2558. The game features both Master Chief and a new protagonist, Spartan Locke. The dual perspectives and enhanced multiplayer modes provided a fresh take on the series, though its story received mixed reviews.

11. Halo Wars 2 (2559)

• Release Date: February 21, 2017
• Developer: Creative Assembly / 343 Industries
• Platforms: Xbox One

Following the success of the original, Halo Wars 2 was released in 2017. Developed by Creative Assembly and 343 Industries, the game returns to the real-time strategy format. Set in 2559, players command the Spirit of Fire crew against the Banished, a new faction. The game's strategic depth and engaging storyline made it a worthy successor.

12. Halo Infinite (2560)

• Release Date: December 8, 2021
• Developer:343 Industries
• Platforms: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and PC

The latest installment, Halo Infinite, was released in 2021. Developed by 343 Industries, it takes place in 2560 and sees Master Chief facing a new threat, the Banished, on the expansive Zeta Halo. The game's open-world design and refined mechanics have been praised, making it a must-play for any Halo fan.

The Halo series, while renowned for its captivating storytelling and engaging gameplay mechanics, also contains significant elements of violence and mature themes that are integral to its narrative depth. This includes intense combat sequences, complex character relationships, and moral dilemmas that can be quite thought-provoking. It's essential for parents to thoroughly understand the content of the games and consider these factors when making informed decisions about their suitability for their children. The games are rated M for Mature, which indicates that they are intended for players aged 17 and older, highlighting the importance of parental discretion and guidance in navigating such content. Engaging with this franchise can offer valuable insights into storytelling and game design, but it also requires a critical approach to the themes presented. For more information, parents should look into Halo games' age ratings to make informed choices.

If you do decide to allow your children to play Halo, considering the appropriate age for Halo, there are a few steps you can take to make the gaming experience safer for them:

1. Familiarize yourself with the game's content:

Take some time to research and understand the mature themes and violence present in the game. This will help you better gauge whether it is appropriate for your child.

2. Set limits on gameplay:

Limiting the amount of time your child spends playing Halo can help prevent overexposure to its content. Consider setting a timer or establishing a rule for when they can play.

3. Use parental controls:

Many gaming devices and platforms have built-in parental control settings that allow you to restrict certain features, such as online multiplayer.

4. Monitor online interactions:

If your child is playing Halo online, be aware of who they are interacting with and what they are saying. Remind them to never share personal information and report any inappropriate behavior or language.

5. Have open communication:

Talk to your child about their gaming experience and any concerns you may have. Encourage them to come to you if they encounter anything that makes them uncomfortable. By taking these steps, parents can help ensure that their children can enjoy the exciting world of Halo while also staying safe and responsible. With its engaging storytelling and intense gameplay, the series continues to captivate players of all ages, making it a beloved franchise for years to come.

To keep your kids safe from potential risks while playing Halo, check out Wondershare FamiSafe! This amazing tool allows you to monitor your kids’ activities on their devices in real time, so you always know what they’re up to and how long they’ve been using a specific app or the device overall. If they exceed their designated screen time, the app or device gets blocked instantly, giving you peace of mind for the day! But that’s not all! FamiSafe also filters out inappropriate content from browsers to ensure your kids are safe online. Check out this video we prepared to guide you on how to block Halo on your kids’ devices.

Want to dive deeper? Here’s a quick look at some of FamiSafe’s standout features:

1. Screen Time

Worried about tech addiction? This feature lets you set screen time limits for your kids’ devices or specific apps. For instance, you might allow just 2 hours on school days and extend it to 5 hours on weekends. This way, your kids can enjoy their devices while still focusing on their studies! 

2. Activity Report

Curious about your kids’ online activities? The Activity Report shows what apps they’ve used and which web pages they’ve visited. This means you don’t have to hover over them all the time to keep tabs on their playtime!     

3. App Blocker

Need to limit access to certain apps? This handy feature lets you block specific apps with just a tap, ensuring your kids can’t access them when they shouldn’t be.   

4. Location History

Stay informed about your kid’s whereabouts with the Location History feature! You can view their location history for the past 30 days and see their current location in real time. This way, you can rest easy knowing where they are, whether they're at school or hanging out with friends they met online. With Wondershare FamiSafe, you’re not just keeping an eye on your kids—you’re helping them navigate the digital world safely!

In the world of gaming, few franchises have had the lasting impact of Halo. Its blend of immersive storytelling, groundbreaking gameplay, and memorable characters makes it a standout series. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the Halo universe, there's never been a better time to jump in and experience the adventure. Explore the Halo series today, play Halo online for free, and become part of a community that spans the globe.

Q: Can I play Halo on different gaming platforms?

Yes, Halo games are available on Xbox, PC, and mobile devices.

Q: Are the Halo games appropriate for kids?

The ESRB has rated most Halo games as "Mature" due to violence and language, making the Halo game rating age-appropriate for older players. However, there are also options for parents to adjust settings and enable content filters in some of the newer titles.

Do I need to play the previous Halo games before starting a new one?

While each game in the series builds upon the overall story, they can also be enjoyed as standalone experiences. However, playing the previous games may enhance your understanding and appreciation of the overall narrative.

Q: Can I play Halo with friends?

Yes, many Halo games offer multiplayer options for both online and local co-op gameplay.