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Difference between revisions of "Halo 2"

From PCGamingWiki, the wiki about fixing PC games
(moved multiplayer note into key points, removed controller and Vista points)
(updated wiki link, game also doesn't use Bink)
(361 intermediate revisions by 100 users not shown)
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−
{{infobox
+
{{disambig|the original 2007 PC release|the remaster|[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]}}
−
|cover         = Halo_2_box_art_(PC).jpg
+
{{Infobox game
−
|developer     = [[Wikipedia:Bungie|Bungie Studios]] (Xbox)
+
|cover       = Halo 2 cover.jpg
−
[[Wikipedia:Microsoft Studios (game studio)|Microsoft Game Studios]] (Microsoft Windows)<br />
+
|developers  =
−
[[Wikipedia:Pi Studios|Pi Studios]] (PC editing tools and two new maps)
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Bungie}}
−
|publisher      = [[Wikipedia:Microsoft Studios (game studio)|Microsoft Game Studios]]
+
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Pi Studios}}
−
|release dates = May 17, 2007
+
{{Infobox game/row/porter|Hired Gun|Windows|ref=<ref>[https://www.halopedia.org/Hired_Gun Hired Gun - Halopedia, the Halo wiki]</ref>}}
 +
|publishers  =  
 +
{{Infobox game/row/publisher|Microsoft Game Studios}}
 +
|engines      =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/engine|Halo Engine}}
 +
|release dates=  
 +
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|May 17, 2007}}
 +
|reception    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|halo-2|72}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/reception|IGDB|halo-2|81}}
 +
|taxonomy    =
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization      | One-time game purchase }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes            | Singleplayer, Multiplayer}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing            | Real-time}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives      | First-person}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls          | Direct control}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres            | Action, FPS, Shooter}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports            | }}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles          | Automobile, Flight, Tank}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles        | Realistic}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes            | Sci-fi, Space}}
 +
{{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series            | Halo }}
 +
|steam appid  =
 +
|gogcom id    =
 +
|hltb        = 4262
 +
|lutris      = halo-2
 +
|strategywiki = Halo 2
 +
|mobygames    = 15499
 +
|wikipedia    = Halo_2
 +
|winehq      = 5212
 +
|license      = commercial
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{Series|Halo}}
 
  
−
'''Key points'''
+
{{Introduction
−
{{ii}} Multiplayer servers were going to be shut down on February 15, 2013<ref>http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/01/16/The-Halo-Bulletin-11613.aspx</ref> but this has been extended to June 2013.<ref>https://twitter.com/DavidEllis/status/301374494252101632</ref>
+
|introduction      =
−
{{++}} Modding tools provided on disk
+
 
−
{{++}} All the maps from the Xbox version and its' DLC are included
+
|release history  = It is a port of the 2004 Xbox game of the same name. It includes all downloadable maps from the Xbox version and its add-ons, with the exception of two from the Blastacular Pack (Tombstone and Desolation), although they can be downloaded from [[#Halo 2 Xbox exclusive|community mirrors]].
−
{{--}} Poor console port
+
 
−
{{--}} Small community
+
The PC port is also known as '''''Halo 2 Vista''''' or '''''H2V''''', as it was advertised as a Windows Vista exclusive, as prominently mentioned on the front cover. Despite this, a [https://web.archive.org/web/20081109113202/http://agentsmithak.tripod.com/halo2_xp_patch.html workaround] exists to run the game (without [[Games for Windows Live]] functionality) on Windows XP.
 +
 
 +
|current state    = The Halo 2 ''Live'' master server went down in 2015 with no indication of its return. See [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
}}
  
 
'''General information'''
 
'''General information'''
−
{{mm}} [http://www.bungie.net/ Bungie.net] - The developer's site
+
{{++}} Modding tools provided on disc.
−
{{mm}} [http://halo.wikia.com/wiki/Halo_2_Vista Halo Nation] - A very detailed wiki for everything Halo related
+
{{mm}} [http://halopedia.org Halopedia] - A very detailed wiki for everything Halo related
 
{{mm}} [http://halo.bungie.org/ Halo.Bungie.org] - One of the biggest Halo fan sites around
 
{{mm}} [http://halo.bungie.org/ Halo.Bungie.org] - One of the biggest Halo fan sites around
 
{{mm}} [http://h2v.halomaps.org/ Halo Maps] - A fan site for downloading mods and maps for Halo 2 Vista
 
{{mm}} [http://h2v.halomaps.org/ Halo Maps] - A fan site for downloading mods and maps for Halo 2 Vista
 +
{{mm}} [http://www.halo2vista.com H2v Hub] - Central Hub of the Halo 2 PC community
 +
{{mm}} [https://1drv.ms/f/s!AnUGdrLqzzCnanfnQmS-OK2T0aQ H2MT Repository] - A massive collection of custom maps, mods, tools, & assets
  
 
==Availability==
 
==Availability==
−
{{Availability Table|
+
{{Availability|
−
{{Availability Table/row| [http://www.amazon.com/Halo-2-Pc/dp/B000NV8F58 Retail] | {{ID|Retail}} {{ID|GFWL}}|}}
+
{{Availability/row| Retail | | GFWL, key, activation | | | Windows }}
 +
{{Availability/row| Games for Windows Marketplace | GFWL | GFWL | | | Windows | unavailable }}
 +
}}
 +
{{ii}} All versions require {{DRM|GFWL|SSA=no|ZDPP=no|local=true}}
 +
 
 +
==Essential improvements==
 +
===Patches===
 +
{{ii}} The latest patch is 1.01. It is strongly recommended to let the GFWL client auto-update Halo 2. If problems appear, it can be downloaded manually from [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/61-halo-2-patch/ here].
 +
 
 +
===Skip intro videos===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] to toggle the intro|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}}}
 +
 
 +
===Install the latest Games for Windows - LIVE client===
 +
{{ii}} It is essential to install the latest GFWL client '''before''' installing Halo 2, as the version on the disc is broken.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Update Games for Windows - LIVE Redistributable|ref={{cn|date=July 2016}}|fix=
 +
# Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows – LIVE Redistributable.
 +
# Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace.
 +
# Install the [http://download.gfwl.xboxlive.com/content/gfwl-public/redists/production/gfwlivesetup.exe Games for Windows Marketplace Client].
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Project Cartographer===
 +
{{ii}} Project Cartographer is an unofficial multiplayer mod which provides an alternative to the now defunct Games for Windows - LIVE platform for Halo 2 Vista. It allows players to use the Network tab as a server browser and connect via peer-to-peer (P2P) networking. This is a fast and streamlined solution as compared with available LAN gaming solutions, as it retains almost all original ''Live'' multiplayer functionality.
 +
{{++}} Adds a wide variety of extra features into the game itself.
 +
{{mm}} [https://cartographer.online/ Official project website]
 +
{{mm}} [https://www.halo2.online/threads/project-cartographer-feature-add-ons-to-halo-2.2149/ Features]
 +
{{mm}} [https://github.com/PermaNulled/cartographer Source code]
 +
 
 +
===Halo 2 Reclaimed===
 +
{{ii}} Halo 2 Reclaimed aims to make the game as close to the original Xbox version as possible.
 +
{{++}} Fixes weapon fire rates for higher tickrates.
 +
{{++}} Replaces many assets with Xbox version counterparts.
 +
{{++}} Compatible with Project Cartographer.
 +
{{mm}} [https://www.moddb.com/mods/halo-2-reclaimed ModDB]
 +
 
 +
==Game data==
 +
===Configuration file(s) location===
 +
{{Game data|
 +
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|hkcu}}\Software\Microsoft\Halo 2\}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Save game data location===
 +
{{Game data|
 +
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|localappdata}}\Microsoft\Halo 2\Saved Games\}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Video==
 +
{{Image|Halo2 Graphics.jpg|In-game graphics settings.}}
 +
{{ii}} Halo 2 in windowed mode can support almost any resolution which matches that of the desktop.
 +
{{Video
 +
|wsgf link                  = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/halo-2
 +
|widescreen wsgf award      = silver
 +
|multimonitor wsgf award    = limited
 +
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete
 +
|4k ultra hd wsgf award    = incomplete
 +
|widescreen resolution      = true
 +
|widescreen resolution notes= Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] with <code>-hiresfix</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameter]].
 +
|multimonitor              = hackable
 +
|multimonitor notes        = Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] with <code>-hiresfix</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameter]].
 +
|ultrawidescreen            = hackable
 +
|ultrawidescreen notes      = Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] with <code>-hiresfix</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameter]].
 +
|4k ultra hd                = hackable
 +
|4k ultra hd notes          = Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] with <code>-hiresfix</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameter]].
 +
|fov                        = hackable
 +
|fov notes                  = Default is 70°. Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] for up to 110°.
 +
|windowed                  = true
 +
|windowed notes            = Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] to resize the window independently of game settings.
 +
|borderless windowed        = hackable
 +
|borderless windowed notes  = Use [https://github.com/Codeusa/Borderless-Gaming/releases Borderless Gaming] or [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
|anisotropic                = false
 +
|anisotropic notes          =
 +
|antialiasing              = true
 +
|antialiasing notes        = Up to 4x [[MSAA]]. Can be improved to 8x through the graphics card control panel. Enhanceable to [[HSAA]] + [[SGSSAA|TrSSAA]] on Nvidia systems.
 +
|upscaling                  = unknown
 +
|upscaling tech            =
 +
|upscaling notes            =
 +
|vsync                      = always on
 +
|vsync notes                = Enabled by default but broken on Windows 7 and up. The game's Vsync may cause heavy stuttering or not stop screen tearing at all. Force Vsync using graphics card control panel or [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/84-d3doverrider/ D3DOverrider].
 +
|60 fps                    = true
 +
|60 fps notes              = Cutscenes are capped at 30 FPS. Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] for 60 FPS cutscenes. The Opening logos and Credits are rendered at 30FPS.
 +
|120 fps                    = false
 +
|120 fps notes              = The game is not designed to go above 60 FPS. Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]]'s FPS limiter.
 +
|hdr                        = false
 +
|hdr notes                  =
 +
|color blind                = unknown
 +
|color blind notes          =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Input==
 +
{{Image|Halo2 Keyboard.jpg|In-game general keyboard settings.}}
 +
{{Image|Halo2 Remapping.jpg|In-game keyboard remapping settings.}}
 +
{{Image|Halo2 Controller.jpg|In-game controller settings.}}
 +
{{ii}} Aim assist is always enabled for controllers. It can be disabled using [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
{{Input
 +
|key remap                = true
 +
|key remap notes          = For issues with custom keyboard binding, rebind from southpaw/left-handed preset.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150619125311/http://www.modacity.net/forums/showthread.php?3428-Problem-with-Keyboard-Setup|title=Problem with Keyboard Setup|date=2017-05-06}}</ref> {{key|End}} cannot be bound, and {{key|Home}} is reserved by Games For Windows Live.
 +
|acceleration option      = hackable
 +
|acceleration option notes = On by default. Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] to enable raw mouse input.
 +
|mouse sensitivity        = true
 +
|mouse sensitivity notes  = Can be forced to exceed the max of 10 using [http://www.halo2vista.com/downloads/ Super Sensitivity].
 +
|mouse menu                = true
 +
|mouse menu notes          =
 +
|invert mouse y-axis      = true
 +
|invert mouse y-axis notes =
 +
|touchscreen              = unknown
 +
|touchscreen notes        =
 +
|controller support        = true
 +
|controller support notes  = XInput controllers only.
 +
|full controller          = true
 +
|full controller notes    =
 +
|controller remap          = hackable
 +
|controller remap notes    = Can be implemented using [https://github.com/KrossX/Durazno Durazno] or [https://sites.google.com/site/0dd14lab/xinput-plus XInput Plus].
 +
|controller sensitivity    = true
 +
|controller sensitivity notes= Can be forced to exceed the max of 10 using [http://www.halo2vista.com/downloads/ Super Sensitivity].
 +
|invert controller y-axis  = true
 +
|invert controller y-axis notes=
 +
|xinput controllers        = true
 +
|xinput controllers notes  =
 +
|xbox prompts              = true
 +
|xbox prompts notes        = Xbox 360 controller prompts by default. Xbox one prompts can be obtained using [https://www.mediafire.com/file/8v9tvppendco0sx/Xbox_One_Controller_Patch.zip/file Xbox One controller prompt icon patch]
 +
|impulse triggers          = false
 +
|impulse triggers notes    =
 +
|dualshock 4              = hackable
 +
|dualshock 4 notes        = Can be implemented using [https://ryochan7.github.io/ds4windows-site/ DS4 Windows] or [[Controller:DualShock 4#Steam|Steam Input]].
 +
|dualshock prompts        = hackable
 +
|dualshock prompts notes  = Can be implemented using [https://www.mediafire.com/file/dk3165o2w31f1on/Dualshock_Controller_Patch.zip/file Dualshock controller prompt icon patch].
 +
|light bar support        = false
 +
|light bar support notes  =
 +
|dualshock 4 modes        = unknown
 +
|dualshock 4 modes notes  =
 +
|tracked motion controllers= false
 +
|tracked motion controllers notes =
 +
|tracked motion prompts    = unknown
 +
|tracked motion prompts notes =
 +
|other controllers        = hackable
 +
|other controllers notes  = Older DirectInput controllers can be used with [http://www.x360ce.com/ x360ce].
 +
|other button prompts      = unknown
 +
|other button prompts notes=
 +
|controller hotplug        = unknown
 +
|controller hotplug notes  =
 +
|haptic feedback          = true
 +
|haptic feedback notes    =
 +
|simultaneous input        = true
 +
|simultaneous input notes  = Keyboard controls can be disabled using [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] options menu.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Audio==
 +
{{Image|Halo2 Audio.jpg|In-game audio settings.}}
 +
{{Audio
 +
|separate volume          = false
 +
|separate volume notes    =
 +
|surround sound          = true
 +
|surround sound notes    = Up to 5.1 output.
 +
|subtitles                = limited
 +
|subtitles notes          = Only for cutscenes.
 +
|closed captions          = false
 +
|closed captions notes    =
 +
|mute on focus lost      = true
 +
|mute on focus lost notes =
 +
|eax support              = hackable
 +
|eax support notes        = Set ''5.1 speakers'' in options and use [[DSOAL]] for binaural HRTF mixing.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6r4tLm7Qp0 Halo 2 Vista w/ Project Cartographer & 3D spatial sound 🎧 (OpenAL Soft HRTF audio)]</ref>
 +
|royalty free audio        = unknown
 +
|royalty free audio notes  =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{L10n|content=
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = English
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Simplified Chinese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in Chinese, save for "Online" and "Cartographer". Not sure if this is Traditional or Simplified Chinese as I don't know the tongue.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = French
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = German
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in German, save for "Online" and "Cartographer".
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Italian
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    =
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Japanese
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Apparently, the game has a dub but, I couldn't get it to work. Also, the menu is in English (Probably a problem on my end). Tested using Project Cartographer.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Korean
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in Korean, save for "Online" and "Cartographer". Also has cut off text at the end of each label.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Spanish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = false
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Depends on installation disc.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
{{L10n/switch
 +
|language  = Mexican Spanish
 +
|interface = true
 +
|audio    = true
 +
|subtitles = true
 +
|notes    = Depends on installation disc.
 +
|fan      =
 +
}}
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Network==
 +
{{ii}} Online features require a [https://live.xbox.com/Account/Signin Microsoft account] (optional for offline play).
 +
 
 +
{{Network/Multiplayer
 +
|local play          = hackable
 +
|local play players  = 16
 +
|local play modes    = Versus
 +
|local play notes    = Use [https://github.com/SplitScreen-Me/splitscreenme-nucleus/releases Nucleus Co-op]. Requires [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
|lan play            = true
 +
|lan play players    = 16
 +
|lan play modes      = Versus
 +
|lan play notes      =
 +
|online play          = hackable
 +
|online play players  = 16
 +
|online play modes    = Versus
 +
|online play notes    = The official GFWL multiplayer service was shut down; use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
|asynchronous        =
 +
|asynchronous notes  =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{Network/Connections
 +
|matchmaking        = true
 +
|matchmaking notes  =
 +
|p2p                = true
 +
|p2p notes          =
 +
|dedicated          = true
 +
|dedicated notes    = An unofficial update by the same people who made Project Cartographer is available [https://web.archive.org/web/20170522140508/http://www.halo2vista.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=55&t=4708 here].
 +
|self-hosting      = true
 +
|self-hosting notes =
 +
|direct ip          = false
 +
|direct ip notes    =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
{{Network/Ports
 +
|tcp  = 53, 80, 443, 3074
 +
|udp  = 53, 88, 1000-1006, 3074
 +
|upnp = unknown
 +
}}
 +
{{ii}} Port range <code>1000-1006</code> is required by Project Cartographer to host. See [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]]
 +
{{ii}} Specific details can be found [https://support.microsoft.com/kb/829473 here]
 +
 
 +
==VR support==
 +
{{VR support
 +
|gg3d name                  = Halo 2
 +
|native 3d gg3d award        =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision gg3d award = platinum
 +
|tridef 3d gg3d award        =
 +
|iz3d gg3d award            =
 +
|native 3d                  =
 +
|native 3d notes            =
 +
|nvidia 3d vision            = true
 +
|nvidia 3d vision notes      = See also: [https://forums.geforce.com/default/topic/1024592/halo-2-black-screen-with-3d-vision-fix-/ Halo 2 3D-Vision and Black Screen Fix]
 +
|tridef 3d                  = false
 +
|tridef 3d notes            =
 +
|iz3d                        = false
 +
|iz3d notes                  =
 +
|vorpx                      = hackable
 +
|vorpx modes                = G3D
 +
|vorpx notes                = User created game profile, read important notes in the [https://www.vorpx.com/forums/topic/halo-2/ vorpx forum] profile introduction.
 +
|vr only                    =
 +
|htc vive                    =
 +
|htc vive notes              =
 +
|oculus rift                =
 +
|oculus rift notes          =
 +
|osvr                        =
 +
|osvr notes                  =
 +
|windows mixed reality      =
 +
|windows mixed reality notes =
 +
|keyboard-mouse              =
 +
|keyboard-mouse notes        =
 +
|3rd space gaming vest      = true
 +
|3rd space gaming vest notes =
 +
|novint falcon              =
 +
|novint falcon notes        =
 +
|trackir                    =
 +
|trackir notes              =
 +
|tobii eye tracking          =
 +
|tobii eye tracking notes    =
 +
|play area seated            =
 +
|play area seated notes      =
 +
|play area standing          =
 +
|play area standing notes    =
 +
|play area room-scale        =
 +
|play area room-scale notes  =
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==Issues unresolved==
 +
===No VoIP support===
 +
{{--}} VoIP support was broken in one of the many GFWL client updates. Repairing it is on Project Cartographer's to do list and not yet implemented.{{cn}}
 +
 
 +
==Issues fixed==
 +
{{ii}} A list of common fixes is available [https://halo2.online/help/install/ here].
 +
 
 +
===Installation issues===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Run <code>startup.exe</code> on the DVD in Vista [[Windows Compatibility Mode|compatibility mode]]|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}}}
 +
 
 +
==="One of the installation steps failed" error===
 +
{{ii}} You may receive this error message during installation.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}|fix=
 +
# Exit the installer.
 +
# Open the <code>redists</code> folder on the game DVD.
 +
# Run <code>vcredist.msi</code> as an administrator.
 +
# After it has finished restart the game installer and it should proceed normally.
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
==="LIVE gaming on Windows failed to initialise" error===
 +
{{ii}} This occurs on Windows 8 and later.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Instructions|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}|fix=
 +
Download and install these files: [http://download.gfwl.xboxlive.com/content/gfwl-public/redists/production/xliveredist.msi xliveredist.msi], [http://download.gfwl.xboxlive.com/content/gfwl-public/redists/production/gfwlclient.msi gfwlclient.msi] and [http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/en/details.aspx?familyid=5E193CFE-F45A-4E29-B6B7-984E7802C639&displaylang=en wllogin_**.msi]
 +
}}
 +
 
 +
===Sign-in error===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Close Xfire before signing in|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}}}
 +
 
 +
===Artifacting or flashing on Nvidia cards===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Update Nvidia drivers to 337.88 or newer|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}}}
 +
 
 +
===Extreme mouse lag/jittering===
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]] to limit the frame rate to 60 FPS|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}}}
 +
 
 +
===Heavy stuttering===
 +
{{--}} Native Vsync implementation (enabled by default) is very bad and can cause stuttering even with required 60 FPS.
 +
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Force proper Vsync using [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/84-d3doverrider/ D3DOverrider] or your graphics card control panel|ref={{cn|date=May 2017}}|fix=
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
== Improvements ==
+
===Game text is garbled or disappears===
−
===v1.01 Patch===
+
{{--}} When running the game in windowed mode at 2K and 4K resolutions, there are issues with text breaking or disappearing completely.
−
The latest patch is v1.01. It can be downloaded through the game or manually from the [http://www.microsoft.com/games/halo2/ Halo 2 support page].
+
 
 +
{{Fixbox|description=Fix high resolution issues|ref=<ref>[https://www.halo2.online/threads/project-cartographer-update-v0-5-changelog.2759/ Project Cartographer Update : v0.5 Changelog | Project Cartographer]</ref>|fix=
 +
# Install [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
 +
# Launch <code>halo2.exe</code> with the <code>-hiresfix</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|parameter]].
 +
}}
  
−
=== Example Map ===
+
===Game does not save refresh rate of monitor===
−
Example is a map not included in Halo 2 by default, but is present on the Halo 2 install disc and can be obtained by installing and using the Halo 2 map editor. Example is the only multiplayer map to include Fuel Rod Cannons, and includes custom "silenced" SMGs that are quieter than the ones in other maps and have laser pointers. Example is the smallest map in any Halo game and is unusually dense with explosives.
+
{{--}} The game will not save your preferred refresh rate (120&nbsp;Hz, 144&nbsp;Hz, etc.) when you select it from the video settings. It defaults to 60&nbsp;Hz each time the game reopens and has to be set again.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://github.com/PermaNulled/cartographer/issues/149|title=Game does not save refresh rate of monitor and has to be set upon each game launch · Issue #149 · PermaNulled/cartographer|date=9 June 2023}}</ref>
  
−
== Game data ==
+
{{Fixbox|description=Force refresh rate on startup|ref=<ref>[https://halo2.online/threads/project-cartographer-v0-5-2-1-update-and-changelog.3021/ Project Cartographer v0.5.2.1 Update and Changelog | Project Cartographer]</ref>|fix=
−
=== Game files location ===
+
# Install [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]].
−
{{Game Location Table|
+
# Run the game, and click on '''Cartographer''' from the main menu, or press {{key|Home}}.
−
{{Game Location Table/row|Windows|C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Games\Halo 2}}
+
# Open the '''Advanced Settings''' menu.
 +
# Open '''Other Settings''', and select '''Refresh Rate'''.
 +
# Use the buttons to set the default refresh rate.
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
=== [[Save game cloud syncing]] ===
+
===Some leaves on trees do not render===
−
{{Save Game Cloud Syncing
+
{{ii}} This issue is specific to Nvidia graphics cards.
−
|steam_cloud            =
+
 
−
|steam_cloud_notes      =
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use [[#Project Cartographer|Project Cartographer]]|fix=
−
|origin                =
+
{{ii}} Fixed in a future update.<ref>[https://github.com/PermaNulled/cartographer/issues/93 Some leaves on trees do not render specifically Delta Halo (05a_deltaapproach.map) · Issue #93 · PermaNulled/cartographer]</ref>
−
|origin_notes          =
 
−
|uplay                  =
 
−
|uplay_notes            =
 
−
|gamesave_manager      =true
 
−
|gamesave_manager_notes =
 
−
|gamestow              =
 
−
|gamestow_notes        =
 
−
|synctocloud            =
 
−
|synctocloud_notes      =
 
−
|square_enix            =
 
−
|square_enix_notes      =
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Video settings==
+
===MSAA causes white lines on geometry===
−
[[File:Halo2 Graphics.jpg|290px|right|thumb|In-game graphics settings.]]
+
{{ii}} This issue is specific to Nvidia graphics cards.
−
[[File:Halo2 Audio.jpg|290px|right|thumb|In-game audio settings.]]
+
 
−
{{Video Settings
+
{{Fixbox|description=Use [https://forums.geforce.com/default/topic/1095882/geforce-drivers/halo-2-pc-has-two-nvidia-specific-issues/post/5974601/#5974601 Halo 2 Shader Override]|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://forums.geforce.com/default/topic/1095882/geforce-drivers/halo-2-pc-has-two-nvidia-specific-issues/post/5974601/#5974601|title=Halo 2 PC has two Nvidia specific issues - GeForce Forums|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix=
−
|wsgf_link                  =http://www.wsgf.org/dr/halo-2
 
−
|widescreen_wsgf_award      =silver
 
−
|multimonitor_wsgf_award    =limited
 
−
|widescreen_resolution      =true
 
−
|widescreen_resolution_notes=
 
−
|multimonitor              =hackable
 
−
|multimonitor_notes        =A workaround exists but some issues remain unresolved.<ref>http://www.wsgf.org/dr/halo-2</ref>
 
−
|fov                        =hackable
 
−
|fov_notes                  =See [[#Field of view (FOV)|Field of view (FOV)]]
 
−
|windowed                  =true
 
−
|windowed_notes            =
 
−
|borderless_windowed        =false
 
−
|borderless_windowed_notes  =
 
−
|anisotropic                =false
 
−
|anisotropic_notes          =
 
−
|antialiasing              =true
 
−
|antialiasing_notes        =
 
−
|vsync                      =unknown
 
−
|vsync_notes                =
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
===Field of view (FOV)===
 
−
{{ii}} Backup your maps directory before starting (default location is <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Games\Halo 2\maps</code>)
 
−
{{ii}} A hex editor is required. [http://www.hexworkshop.com/ Hex Workshop] is a good one.
 
−
{{Fixbox|1=
 
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Increase the FOV with hex editing}}
 
−
The short version: Replace all occurrences of 'AA619C3F' with 'CDCCCC3F' in all single player .MAP files.
 
  
−
The detailed version:<ref>http://www.modacity.net/forums/showthread.php?11157-How-to-permanently-widen-FOV</ref>
+
==Other information==
−
# Go to the game directory (default location is <code>C:\Program Files (x86)\Microsoft Games\Halo 2</code>)
+
===API===
−
# Open the <code>maps</code> folder
+
{{API
−
# For every one of the single player maps (the ones whose filename starts with numbers) do the following:
+
|direct3d versions      = 9.0c
−
# Open the .MAP file with hex workshop
+
|direct3d notes        =
−
# Choose replace in the edit menu
+
|directdraw versions    =
−
# In the type box choose: hex values
+
|directdraw notes      =
−
# In the 'Find' field type: AA619C3F
+
|opengl versions        =
−
# In the 'Replace' field type: CDCCCC3F, a 32-bit float value which translates into a decent FOV of 1.6 instead of the default 1.22. Use other float values if you prefer.
+
|opengl notes          =
−
# Make sure to replace all occurrences
+
|glide versions        =
−
# Save the file
+
|glide notes            =
−
# Close the file
+
|software mode          =
−
# Do exactly the same procedure for these two other files: single_player_shared.map, shared.map
+
|software mode notes    =
−
# You're done, launch the game and enjoy a permanent non-debilitating FOV in Halo 2 Vista
+
|mantle support        =
 +
|mantle support notes  =
 +
|vulkan versions        =
 +
|vulkan notes          =
 +
|dos modes              =
 +
|dos modes notes        =
 +
|shader model versions  = 3
 +
|shader model notes    =
 +
|windows 32-bit exe    = true
 +
|windows 64-bit exe    = false
 +
|windows arm app        = unknown
 +
|windows exe notes      =
 +
|macos intel 32-bit app =
 +
|macos intel 64-bit app =
 +
|macos arm app          = unknown
 +
|macos app notes        =
 +
|linux 32-bit executable=
 +
|linux 64-bit executable=
 +
|linux arm app          = unknown
 +
|linux executable notes =
 
}}
 
}}
  
−
==Input settings==
+
===Middleware===
−
[[File:Halo2 Keyboard.jpg|290px|right|thumb|In-game general keyboard settings.]]
+
{{Middleware
−
[[File:Halo2 Remapping.jpg|290px|right|thumb|In-game keyboard remapping settings.]]
+
|physics          = Havok
−
[[File:Halo2 Controller.jpg|290px|right|thumb|In-game controller settings.]]
+
|physics notes    =
−
{{Input Settings
+
|audio            = Miles Sound System
−
|key_remap                  =true
+
|audio notes      =
−
|key_remap_notes            =
+
|interface        =
−
|acceleration_option       =hackable
+
|interface notes  =
−
|acceleration_option_notes =See [[# Mouse acceleration|Mouse acceleration]]
+
|input            =  
−
|controller_support        =true
+
|input notes      =  
−
|controller_support_notes  =[[Xbox 360 Controller]]s only
+
|cutscenes       = Windows Media Player
 +
|cutscenes notes = Only for logos, and credits.
 +
|multiplayer      = Games for Windows - LIVE
 +
|multiplayer notes=  
 
}}
 
}}
−
=== Mouse acceleration ===
+
 
−
{{Fixbox|1=
+
===Play without [[Games for Windows - LIVE]]===
−
{{Fixbox/fix|Disable mouse acceleration}}
+
{{ii}} Games for Windows Live can be disabled as an alternative to using a [[Games for Windows - LIVE#Creating a local profile|local profile]].
−
# Create a file in your Halo directory called <code>mouse.cfg</code>
+
 
−
# Open it with Notepad and add the following line:<br><code>mouse_acceleration 0</code>
+
{{Fixbox|description=Halo 2 Vista XLiveless|ref=<ref>http://www.modacity.net/forums/showthread.php?16074-Halo-2-Vista-XLiveless</ref>|fix=
−
# Save your changes.
+
Use [https://community.pcgamingwiki.com/files/file/432-halo-2-vista-xliveless/ Halo 2 Vista XLiveless].
−
# Add the following line to the command arguments for the Halo 2 shortcut:<br><code>-exec mouse.cfg</code>
 
 
}}
 
}}
−
When you start Halo 2 it should say "0.0000000" in purple text near the bottom of the screen. That will indicate that mouse acceleration is at zero.<ref>http://halo.bungie.net/Forums/posts.aspx?postID=33034400&postRepeater1-p=1#33068661</ref>
 
  
−
== Issues and Fixes ==
+
===Command-line arguments===
−
=== Sign-in Error ===
+
{{Help|Commandline}}<ref>[https://halo2.online/help/install/ Install | Project Cartographer]</ref>
−
If you are certain your username and password are correct, but are unable to log in to Games for Windows Live, check if [[Xfire]] is running. If so, close it and try to log in again.
+
{{Standard table|Parameter|Description|content=
 +
{{Standard table/row|-windowed|Runs the game in windowed mode.}}
 +
{{Standard table/row|-novsync|Disables Vsync. May improve the game performance.}}
 +
{{Standard table/row|-monitor:X|Allows users to move the game between monitors when running in full screen. Replace X with monitor number (found in Windows Display Settings).}}
 +
{{Standard table/row|-nosound|Runs the game without audio.}}
 +
}}
  
−
=== Windows 7 Errors ===
+
===Example map===
−
Some users may experience issues on Windows 7. These include mouse problems and frame rate issues on the main menu screen. If issues are experienced on Windows 7 go into the options menu and enable v-sync.
+
{{ii}} Example is a map not included in Halo 2 by default, but is present on the Halo 2 install disc and can be obtained by installing and using the Halo 2 map editor. Example is the only multiplayer map to include Fuel Rod Cannons, and includes custom "silenced" SMGs that are quieter than the ones in other maps and have laser pointers. Example is the smallest map in any Halo game and is unusually dense with explosives. Can also be directly downloaded [http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/Example.map here] (for those that don't want to install the editor).
  
−
=== "One of the installation steps failed" error message===
+
===Maps ported from other Halo Games===
−
You may receive this error message during installation. To fix it, exit the installer, open the <code>redists</code> folder on the game DVD and run <code>vcredist.msi</code> as an administrator. After it has finished restart the game installer and it should proceed normally.
+
Maps that are buggy and/or of low quality are excluded from this list.
 +
====Halo 2 Xbox exclusive====
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/desolation.map Desolation]
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/tombstone.map Tombstone]
 +
====Halo 1====
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/bloodgulch.map Bloodgulch] (more faithful then Coagulation)
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/Chill%20Out.map Chill Out]
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/prisoner%201.1.map Prisoner]
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/SideWinder.map SideWinder]
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/wizard.map Wizard]
 +
====Halo 3====
 +
*[http://www.h2maps.net/Cartographer/CustomMaps/guardian.map Guardian]
  
 
==System requirements==
 
==System requirements==
−
{{System Requirements
+
{{System requirements
 
|OSfamily = Windows
 
|OSfamily = Windows
−
|minOS    = Windows Vista
+
|minOS    = Vista
−
|minproc  = 2 GHz
+
|minCPU  = 2 GHz
−
|minmem   = 1 GB
+
|minRAM   = 1 GB
−
|minHD    = 7 GB free
+
|minHD    = 7 GB
−
|minGPU  = Nvidia 6100, ATI X700, or better
+
|minGPU  = Nvidia GeForce 6100
 +
|minGPU2  = ATI Radeon X700
 +
|minVRAM  = 128 MB
 +
|minSM    = 2.0
 +
|minDX    = 9
  
−
|recOS    = Windows 7 or higher
+
|recOS    =  
−
|recmem   = 2 GB
+
|recRAM   = 2 GB
−
|recHD    = 10 GB free
+
|recHD    = 10 GB
 +
|recGPU  =
 +
|recDX    = 10
 +
|notes  = {{ii}} Halo 2 can be played on Windows XP by following [https://web.archive.org/web/20081109113202/http://agentsmithak.tripod.com/halo2_xp_patch.html this tutorial] (Games for Windows - LIVE features will be disabled).
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
{{References}}
 
{{References}}
−
 
−
[[Category:Windows]]
 

Revision as of 22:52, 11 March 2024

This page is for the original 2007 PC release. For the remaster, see Halo 2: Anniversary.

Halo 2
Halo 2 cover
Developers
Bungie
Pi Studios
Windows Hired Gun[1]
Publishers
Microsoft Game Studios
Engines
Halo Engine
Release dates
Windows May 17, 2007
Reception
Metacritic 72
IGDB 81
Taxonomy
Monetization One-time game purchase
Modes Singleplayer, Multiplayer
Pacing Real-time
Perspectives First-person
Controls Direct control
Genres Action, FPS, Shooter
Vehicles Automobile, Flight, Tank
Art styles Realistic
Themes Sci-fi, Space
Series Halo
Halo 2 on HowLongToBeat
Halo 2 on IGDB
Icon overlay.png
Halo 2 guide on StrategyWiki
Halo 2 on MobyGames
Halo 2 on Wikipedia
Icon overlay.png
Icon overlay.png
Halo
Halo: Combat Evolved 2003
Halo 2 2007
Halo: Spartan (series)
Halo Online 2015*
Halo 5: Forge 2016
Halo Wars (series)
Halo Recruit 2017
Halo: The Master Chief Collection (series)
Halo Infinite 2021

Warnings

For Games for Windows - LIVE on Windows 8 or later, install the latest Games for Windows - LIVE software.

Halo 2 is a singleplayer and multiplayer first-person action, FPS and shooter game in the Halo series.

It is a port of the 2004 Xbox game of the same name. It includes all downloadable maps from the Xbox version and its add-ons, with the exception of two from the Blastacular Pack (Tombstone and Desolation), although they can be downloaded from community mirrors.

The PC port is also known as Halo 2 Vista or H2V, as it was advertised as a Windows Vista exclusive, as prominently mentioned on the front cover. Despite this, a workaround exists to run the game (without Games for Windows Live functionality) on Windows XP.

The Halo 2 Live master server went down in 2015 with no indication of its return. See Project Cartographer.

General information

Modding tools provided on disc.
Halopedia - A very detailed wiki for everything Halo related
Halo.Bungie.org - One of the biggest Halo fan sites around
Halo Maps - A fan site for downloading mods and maps for Halo 2 Vista
H2v Hub - Central Hub of the Halo 2 PC community
H2MT Repository - A massive collection of custom maps, mods, tools, & assets

Availability

Source DRM Notes Keys OS
Retail
Icon overlay.png
CD key
Requires online activation
Windows
Games for Windows Marketplace (unavailable)
Icon overlay.png
Windows
All versions require Games for Windows - LIVE DRM.[Note 1]

Essential improvements

Patches

The latest patch is 1.01. It is strongly recommended to let the GFWL client auto-update Halo 2. If problems appear, it can be downloaded manually from here.

Skip intro videos

Use Project Cartographer to toggle the intro[citation needed]

Install the latest Games for Windows - LIVE client

It is essential to install the latest GFWL client before installing Halo 2, as the version on the disc is broken.
Update Games for Windows - LIVE Redistributable[citation needed]
  1. Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows – LIVE Redistributable.
  2. Uninstall Microsoft Games for Windows Marketplace.
  3. Install the Games for Windows Marketplace Client.

Project Cartographer

Project Cartographer is an unofficial multiplayer mod which provides an alternative to the now defunct Games for Windows - LIVE platform for Halo 2 Vista. It allows players to use the Network tab as a server browser and connect via peer-to-peer (P2P) networking. This is a fast and streamlined solution as compared with available LAN gaming solutions, as it retains almost all original Live multiplayer functionality.
Adds a wide variety of extra features into the game itself.
Official project website
Features
Source code

Halo 2 Reclaimed

Halo 2 Reclaimed aims to make the game as close to the original Xbox version as possible.
Fixes weapon fire rates for higher tickrates.
Replaces many assets with Xbox version counterparts.
Compatible with Project Cartographer.
ModDB

Game data

Configuration file(s) location

System Location
Windows HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Halo 2\

Save game data location

System Location
Windows %LOCALAPPDATA%\Microsoft\Halo 2\Saved Games\

Video

In-game graphics settings.
In-game graphics settings.
Halo 2 in windowed mode can support almost any resolution which matches that of the desktop.

Graphics feature State WSGF Notes
Widescreen resolution
 
 Use Project Cartographer with -hiresfix parameter.
Multi-monitor
 
 Use Project Cartographer with -hiresfix parameter.
Ultra-widescreen
 
 Use Project Cartographer with -hiresfix parameter.
4K Ultra HD
 
 Use Project Cartographer with -hiresfix parameter.
Field of view (FOV)
Default is 70°. Use Project Cartographer for up to 110°.
Windowed
Use Project Cartographer to resize the window independently of game settings.
Borderless fullscreen windowed
Use Borderless Gaming or Project Cartographer.
Anisotropic filtering (AF)
See the glossary page for potential workarounds.
Anti-aliasing (AA)
Up to 4x MSAA. Can be improved to 8x through the graphics card control panel. Enhanceable to HSAA + TrSSAA on Nvidia systems.
Vertical sync (Vsync)
Enabled by default but broken on Windows 7 and up. The game's Vsync may cause heavy stuttering or not stop screen tearing at all. Force Vsync using graphics card control panel or D3DOverrider.
60 FPS
Cutscenes are capped at 30 FPS. Use Project Cartographer for 60 FPS cutscenes. The Opening logos and Credits are rendered at 30FPS.
120+ FPS
The game is not designed to go above 60 FPS. Use Project Cartographer's FPS limiter.
High dynamic range display (HDR)
See the glossary page for potential alternatives.

Input

In-game general keyboard settings.
In-game general keyboard settings.
In-game keyboard remapping settings.
In-game keyboard remapping settings.
In-game controller settings.
In-game controller settings.
Aim assist is always enabled for controllers. It can be disabled using Project Cartographer.

Keyboard and mouse State Notes
Remapping
For issues with custom keyboard binding, rebind from southpaw/left-handed preset.[2] End cannot be bound, and Home is reserved by Games For Windows Live.
Mouse acceleration
On by default. Use Project Cartographer to enable raw mouse input.
Mouse sensitivity
Can be forced to exceed the max of 10 using Super Sensitivity.
Mouse input in menus
Mouse Y-axis inversion
Controller
Controller support
XInput controllers only.
Full controller support
Controller remapping
Can be implemented using Durazno or XInput Plus.
Controller sensitivity
Can be forced to exceed the max of 10 using Super Sensitivity.
Controller Y-axis inversion
Controller types
XInput-compatible controllers
Xbox button prompts
Xbox 360 controller prompts by default. Xbox one prompts can be obtained using Xbox One controller prompt icon patch
Impulse Trigger vibration
PlayStation controllers
Can be implemented using DS4 Windows or Steam Input.
PlayStation button prompts
Can be implemented using Dualshock controller prompt icon patch.
Light bar support
Adaptive trigger support
DualSense haptic feedback support
Connection modes
Generic/other controllers
Older DirectInput controllers can be used with x360ce.
Button prompts
Additional information
Controller hotplugging
Haptic feedback
Digital movement supported
Simultaneous controller+KB/M
Keyboard controls can be disabled using Project Cartographer options menu.

Audio

In-game audio settings.
In-game audio settings.

Audio feature State Notes
Separate volume controls
Surround sound
Up to 5.1 output.
Subtitles
Only for cutscenes.
Closed captions
Mute on focus lost
EAX support
Set 5.1 speakers in options and use DSOAL for binaural HRTF mixing.[3]
Royalty free audio

Localizations

Language UI Audio Sub Notes
English
Simplified Chinese
Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in Chinese, save for "Online" and "Cartographer". Not sure if this is Traditional or Simplified Chinese as I don't know the tongue.
French
German
Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in German, save for "Online" and "Cartographer".
Italian
Japanese
Apparently, the game has a dub but, I couldn't get it to work. Also, the menu is in English (Probably a problem on my end). Tested using Project Cartographer.
Korean
Using Project Cartographer, the menu is completely in Korean, save for "Online" and "Cartographer". Also has cut off text at the end of each label.
Spanish
Depends on installation disc.
Latin American Spanish
Depends on installation disc.

Network

Online features require a Microsoft account (optional for offline play).

Multiplayer types

Type Native Players Notes
Local play
16 Versus
Use Nucleus Co-op. Requires Project Cartographer.
LAN play
16 Versus
Online play
16 Versus
The official GFWL multiplayer service was shut down; use Project Cartographer.

Connection types

Type Native Notes
Matchmaking
Peer-to-peer
Dedicated
An unofficial update by the same people who made Project Cartographer is available here.
Self-hosting
Direct IP

Ports

Protocol Port(s) and/or port range(s)
TCP 53, 80, 443, 3074
UDP 53, 88, 1000-1006, 3074
Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) support status is unknown.
Port range 1000-1006 is required by Project Cartographer to host. See Project Cartographer
Specific details can be found here

VR support

3D modes State GG3D Notes
Nvidia 3D Vision
See also: Halo 2 3D-Vision and Black Screen Fix
TriDef 3D
iZ3D
vorpX
G3D
User created game profile, read important notes in the vorpx forum profile introduction.
Devices
3RD Space Gaming Vest

Issues unresolved

No VoIP support

VoIP support was broken in one of the many GFWL client updates. Repairing it is on Project Cartographer's to do list and not yet implemented.[citation needed]

Issues fixed

A list of common fixes is available here.

Installation issues

Run startup.exe on the DVD in Vista compatibility mode[citation needed]

"One of the installation steps failed" error

You may receive this error message during installation.
Instructions[citation needed]
  1. Exit the installer.
  2. Open the redists folder on the game DVD.
  3. Run vcredist.msi as an administrator.
  4. After it has finished restart the game installer and it should proceed normally.

"LIVE gaming on Windows failed to initialise" error

This occurs on Windows 8 and later.
Instructions[citation needed]

Download and install these files: xliveredist.msi, gfwlclient.msi and wllogin_**.msi

Sign-in error

Close Xfire before signing in[citation needed]

Artifacting or flashing on Nvidia cards

Update Nvidia drivers to 337.88 or newer[citation needed]

Extreme mouse lag/jittering

Use Project Cartographer to limit the frame rate to 60 FPS[citation needed]

Heavy stuttering

Native Vsync implementation (enabled by default) is very bad and can cause stuttering even with required 60 FPS.
Force proper Vsync using D3DOverrider or your graphics card control panel[citation needed]

Game text is garbled or disappears

When running the game in windowed mode at 2K and 4K resolutions, there are issues with text breaking or disappearing completely.
Fix high resolution issues[4]
  1. Install Project Cartographer.
  2. Launch halo2.exe with the -hiresfix parameter.

Game does not save refresh rate of monitor

The game will not save your preferred refresh rate (120 Hz, 144 Hz, etc.) when you select it from the video settings. It defaults to 60 Hz each time the game reopens and has to be set again.[5]
Force refresh rate on startup[6]
  1. Install Project Cartographer.
  2. Run the game, and click on Cartographer from the main menu, or press Home.
  3. Open the Advanced Settings menu.
  4. Open Other Settings, and select Refresh Rate.
  5. Use the buttons to set the default refresh rate.

Some leaves on trees do not render

This issue is specific to Nvidia graphics cards.
Use Project Cartographer
Fixed in a future update.[7]

MSAA causes white lines on geometry

This issue is specific to Nvidia graphics cards.
Use Halo 2 Shader Override[8]

Other information

API

Technical specs Supported Notes
Direct3D 9.0c
Shader Model support 3
Executable 32-bit 64-bit Notes
Windows

Middleware

Middleware Notes
Physics Havok
Audio Miles Sound System
Cutscenes Windows Media Player Only for logos, and credits.
Multiplayer Games for Windows - LIVE

Play without Games for Windows - LIVE

Games for Windows Live can be disabled as an alternative to using a local profile.
Halo 2 Vista XLiveless[9]

Use Halo 2 Vista XLiveless.

Command-line arguments

See command line arguments on how to use the following options.[10]
Parameter Description
-windowed Runs the game in windowed mode.
-novsync Disables Vsync. May improve the game performance.
-monitor:X Allows users to move the game between monitors when running in full screen. Replace X with monitor number (found in Windows Display Settings).
-nosound Runs the game without audio.

Example map

Example is a map not included in Halo 2 by default, but is present on the Halo 2 install disc and can be obtained by installing and using the Halo 2 map editor. Example is the only multiplayer map to include Fuel Rod Cannons, and includes custom "silenced" SMGs that are quieter than the ones in other maps and have laser pointers. Example is the smallest map in any Halo game and is unusually dense with explosives. Can also be directly downloaded here (for those that don't want to install the editor).

Maps ported from other Halo Games

Maps that are buggy and/or of low quality are excluded from this list.

Halo 2 Xbox exclusive

Halo 1

Halo 3

System requirements

Windows
Minimum Recommended
Operating system (OS) Vista
Processor (CPU) 2 GHz
System memory (RAM) 1 GB 2 GB
Hard disk drive (HDD) 7 GB 10 GB
Video card (GPU) Nvidia GeForce 6100
ATI Radeon X700
128 MB of VRAM
DirectX 9 compatible
Shader model 2.0 support		 DirectX 10 compatible
Halo 2 can be played on Windows XP by following this tutorial (Games for Windows - LIVE features will be disabled).


Notes

  1. ↑ Games for Windows - LIVE DRM features: Legacy activation, supports local profiles.

References