Halo Campaign Evolved Editions & Pre-Order Bonuses
This article explains the different editions of the Halo: Combat Evolved campaign as re-released in the Halo: The Master Chief Collection (MCC), and what pre-order bonuses like the Foundry Armory Pack actually contain. You’ll learn what each version includes, how the pre-order bonuses work, and how to get them today.
Background: The MCC and Halo: Combat Evolved
Halo: Combat Evolved originally launched in 2001 for the original Xbox. In 2014, 343 Industries released Halo: The Master Chief Collection for Xbox One, bundling Halo 1 through 4 with updated graphics and features. The MCC has since been ported to PC (2019-2020) and Xbox Series X/S (2020), with continuous updates that added features like mod support and improved matchmaking.
For the campaign, MCC offers two distinct ways to play Halo: Combat Evolved:
- Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary – the 2011 remaster of the original campaign, featuring updated graphics, remastered audio, and the ability to switch between classic and anniversary visuals on the fly.
- Halo: Combat Evolved (Original) – the original 2001 campaign, included in MCC with the same gameplay but without the remastered graphics. This version is available for players who want the authentic classic experience.
Both versions are included in the MCC base game, and the campaign is fully playable in co-op (up to 4 players online or 2 players local on console).
What Are the Evolved Editions?
The term “evolved editions� is not an official name used by 343 Industries. Instead, it likely refers to the two campaign versions available in MCC: the original and the Anniversary remaster. The Anniversary edition is often called the “evolved� version because it features:
- Remastered 3D models and textures (up to 1080p on console, 4K on PC/Xbox Series X/S)
- New lighting and special effects
- Remastered audio with new sound effects and music
- Terminals that add backstory to the Halo universe
- The ability to toggle between classic and remastered graphics instantly (press Tab on PC, View button on Xbox)
Both versions share the same gameplay mechanics, level design, and story. The choice is purely about presentation.
Pre-Order Bonuses: Foundry Armory Pack Explained
The Foundry Armory Pack was a pre-order bonus for Halo: The Master Chief Collection when it launched on Xbox One in 2014. It contained a set of in-game customization items for multiplayer:
- An exclusive “Mark V� armor set for the Spartan in multiplayer (this is the armor from Halo: Combat Evolved)
- A “Halo: Combat Evolved� themed visor color
- An exclusive weapon skin for the Assault Rifle
- An exclusive nameplate
These items were purely cosmetic and did not affect gameplay. The pack was also available as a separate purchase for those who did not pre-order, though it was later removed from sale. In the current MCC, many of these items can be unlocked through in-game progression (Season Points) or are included in the base game’s customization options.
How to Get the Foundry Armory Pack Today
If you missed the pre-order, you may still be able to obtain the Foundry Armory Pack items through the MCC’s in-game store. The pack was delisted from the Microsoft Store, but the items were later added to the game’s customization pool. Here’s what you can do:
- Launch Halo: The Master Chief Collection on your platform.
- Go to the “Customize� tab in the main menu.
- Navigate to “Armor�, “Weapon Skins�, or “Nameplates�.
- Look for items labeled “Mark V� or “HCE� (Halo: Combat Evolved) – these are often the same items from the Foundry pack.
- If you see them locked, check if they can be unlocked with Season Points (earned by playing the game) or if they are part of a specific Season’s reward track.
Note that the original pre-order bonus also included a unique “Foundry� emblem, which may not be available elsewhere. If you cannot find it, it may be permanently exclusive to those who pre-ordered.
Common Misconceptions About the Evolved Editions
One common misconception is that the Anniversary edition changes the gameplay or adds new levels. It does not – the campaign is identical in terms of level design, enemy AI, and story. The only differences are visual and audio. Another misconception is that the original version is not included in MCC – it is, and you can switch between the two at any time during the campaign (pause menu > “Switch Graphics�).
Another myth is that the Foundry Armory Pack gives a gameplay advantage. It does not – all items are cosmetic. The pack was purely a thank-you to pre-order customers.
Comparing the Original and Anniversary Campaigns
When deciding which version to play, consider:
- Visuals: Anniversary is far more detailed and colorful, but some purists prefer the original’s muted, atmospheric look.
- Audio: Anniversary has a new soundtrack and sound effects, which some feel loses the original’s iconic feel.
- Performance: Both run at 60 FPS on modern hardware, but Anniversary may have slightly higher resolution on PC.
- Features: Anniversary includes terminals (collectible lore), while the original does not.
There is no “better� version – it comes down to personal preference. Many players enjoy playing through the original first, then the Anniversary for a fresh experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Foundry Armory Pack still available for purchase?
No, the Foundry Armory Pack was delisted from the Microsoft Store after the pre-order period. However, most of its content (armor, visor, weapon skin) has been added to the MCC’s base customization options, unlockable through Season Points. The exclusive emblem may not be obtainable anymore.
Can I play the original Halo: Combat Evolved campaign in MCC?
Yes, the MCC includes both the original and Anniversary versions of the campaign. You can select which one to play from the campaign menu, or switch between them in-game.
Does the Anniversary edition change the gameplay?
No, the gameplay is identical. The Anniversary edition only updates graphics, audio, and adds collectible terminals. The level layouts, enemy behavior, and weapons are the same as the original.
Are the pre-order bonus items available on PC?
Yes, the MCC on PC includes all the customization items that were originally exclusive to pre-orders, but they are now unlocked through gameplay (Season Points) or are included in the base game. The only exception may be the Foundry emblem, which is not available on any platform now.
What is the difference between Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary and the original?
The Anniversary edition is a remaster with updated graphics, sound, and added terminals. The original is the 2001 version with classic visuals and audio. Both are included in MCC, and you can switch between them at any time during gameplay.
Do I need to buy the Foundry Armory Pack separately?
No, if you own the MCC, you already have access to the customization items that were in the pack, except possibly the emblem. The pack is not available for purchase, so you don’t need to worry about missing out.
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