The ultimate tale of sacrifice, fellowship, and ephemeral existence elevate this game into a work of art to be revered.
The premise of this game, unlike the linear fashion that followed the other games of the series, purposely gives clairvoyance to the player for greatened effect. "From the beginning, you know the end" is the slogan employed. As such, the heart of the story consists of the Noble Squad, 5 super soldiers, each unique in their own way, and your persistent Spartan character (Which remains the same throughout all modes). And their race against time to halt the coming advance of global annihilation, an impossible task yes, these heroes answer the call with such audacity and alacrity, that it would be hard not to empathize with them. These characters are the core and driving force of the narrative, and eventually, the cause of despondency. Without them, Halo Reach would not impact the player on the level that it has achieved.
Each character is brimming with humanity and basic attitudes. For the first time, these Spartans have been mortalized, ironic, perhaps, but these soldiers are first and foremost, Human beings with emotions: fear, love, anger, the game emphasizes this clearly, and the result is transcending. Yes, the game gives the Spartans personality, but above all, they are given soul, humanity. It is for this very reason that Reach offers a more somber and a tone of sadness. Indeed, the mortality of Heroes is a trait rarely explored, but is a primary method of storytelling in Reach.
More specifically, however, the primary conflict is the invasion of Reach by the radically possessed Covenant, who seek to do no less than annihilate the world completely to fulfill their religious endeavors. These defenders go on a variety of missions, maintaining courage, unity, and combat prowess throughout. The most compelling reason to embrace the narrative lies within the overall theme of sacrifice and to an extent, the fragility of human existence. The fact that each of these heroes realizes their inevitable demise truly elevates their achievement tenfold. The story weaves through brilliant encounter after encounter, with more of an emphasis on cinematic presentation than any Halo titles before it, (or after, if you will). Most importantly however, the game emphasizes the importance of delivering the story, and the delivery is perpetually flawless.
Further, the author will offer a brief overview of the non-campaign aspects of the game : The multiplayer aspect and various other features will overshadow the campaign entirely, which are excellent on their own right, the true reason to experience Reach lies within the depth of emotion Bungie put into their final farewell to the series, which translates seamlessly throughout the poignant and unforgettable campaign.
I could sit here and translate technical aspects of professional reviews, but I won't waste the time, this essay is more of a testimonial to the greatness at hand, than a critique, although worded to fit the criteria of a "review". In no other game has a tale been so skillfully told with such passion, dedication, and emotion than Halo Reach
That being said, the result is none other than spectacular, take it from the testimonial of your average gamer, this game NEEDS to be experienced, Halo fan or not. Bungie has poured their soul into delivering this tale of duty, sacrifice, and fellowship through such astounding and miraculous rays of brilliance, that it would truly be a Fool's Errand to pass this game as anything other than a work of art.