Some things in life you never want to replace, no matter what. Then a new version comes out and smokes the old one, and you never look back.

Perfect example: “Halo 2.”

The end of the human race seemed imminent in “Halo,” when the alien led-Covenant tried to take over the Halo ring and use it to destroy the humans. Though thanks to the Master Chief (main character), the humans thwarted any chance that they’d fall prey to the evolved aliens.

The same premise, albeit a more intricate one, is devised for the long-awaited “Halo 2,” as once again the Halo ring is under attack and it’s the job of the human race to protect this potentially deadly weapon from getting in the proverbial wrong hands.

With an inspiring and epic single player game feature, even more complex than the original, you take on the role of Master Chief, the messiah warrior of the humans. But that’s not it. Players become an Elite (alien warrior), which adds an intriguing twist to the game because they’re no longer the prototypical hero.

The campaign, as it’s called in the game, also features an option that allows you to play with a partner; this mode is definitely a plus — best for some late night bonding with a buddy.

A mind-blowing 15 levels, as opposed to the nine in the original, gives you the feeling that you’re not just playing a video game, but instead enthralled in the story.

Throughout the journey, players have access to all of the weapons, including the newly-developed weapons made exclusively for the sequel. Possibly the most exciting new addition to “Halo 2” is the Energy Sword, which shreds and guts enemies with one slash to the body.

Subtle changes were made to the game, some for better, some for worse. It seems harder to kill the enemy, as a player’s health recharges to full strength even if the player is almost dead, which tends to be bad for the game.

Games last longer, and the playing field is more level, which can be a plus. Some of the guns from the precursor are much stronger, whereas the others seem to have weakened.

Another exciting feature is on the horizon for “Halo 2,” as downloadable levels will soon be available to be added to the multi-player mode.

Multi-player is back and better than ever in “Halo 2.” In it, you can pin yourself up against other Master Chiefs and duke it out to see who is the real deal.

Eleven levels are available in multi-player, which includes free-for-all and team play. It’s no doubt the best aspect of the game because you can play against 15 other people in one level.

Customized levels give you the chance to play “all rockets” or “all swords,” which is recommended if you’re into the gory violence sort of thing. Using only pistols or sniper rifles also tests who’s the ultimate sharpshooter.

Another plus in the long list of positives for “Halo 2” is the ability to play it online with anybody from around the world. The online feature, only enabled with XBOX Live ($50 a year), synchronizes you with players of your caliber, allows you to play the levels you want to play, and keeps all of your stats online.

With bands like Hoobastank and Breaking Benjamin lending a rip-roaring soundtrack to the exciting missions, the game just gets better and better.

More advanced graphics, game play and better, more deadly weapons makes “Halo 2” a success.