For those gamers who might not have experienced Halo: Combat Evolved the first time around, Microsoft has released a new Halo: Anniversary trailer that summarizes the plot of this trilogy-beginning title. In fact, this trailer ties in nicely with the events of Halo: Reach to explain to gamers what was at stake, and where civilization’s last hope lay.

Of course those of us who have already played the first Halo know that last hope lies with Master Chief, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t anything new to enjoy in the trailer. Getting to see the game’s original cinematics redone with 343 Industries’ new sheen helps bring a nostalgia that makes even returning to The Library sound exciting.

All the cast of characters, from 343 Guilty Spark to Captain Keyes, are also highlighted in the trailer, check it out below:

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Though the single player, with its HD graphics, is sure to be a major focus of Halo: Anniversary, most gamers will be looking to the game’s multiplayer to deliver the real excitement. Created using the reach engine, but featuring classic Combat Evolved maps, any fan of Blood Gulch or Beaver Creek should be chomping at the bit for Anniversary.

Even more exciting than Halo with HD graphics is the potential Halo 4 teaser that is rumored to be in Anniversary. Since 343 Industries is using Anniversary as their first foray into the universe it would make sense they include a tease for their future work somewhere in there.

If you’ve yet to check out Halo: Combat Evolved, or maybe hold fond memories of the title, this is going to be a can’t miss title for the fall season. But, with so many new IPs releasing, will there be enough “new” content to stave off the competition?

Are you ready to return to the world of Halo: Combat Evolved in Anniversary? Which story element, character, or mission are you most excited about re-experiencing?

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary releases November 15, 2011 for the Xbox 360.