Halo 3 knows what it means to be cinematic. If something blows up or there is a landscape-altering event, you are in it driving/flying/running and always in control of Master Chief. When there is a scene that is not as glamourous and mostly dialogue, only then will the cutscenes take over and elevate the conversation with striking cinematography straight out of a $100000000000000000 blockbuster. Halo 3's atmosphere is heroic. The emphasis placed on sweeping acapella vocals and long strings empower the Chief such that both he and the world feel equally threatening. It balances a borderline patriotic leitmotif with soothing, otherworldly ambiance. It never makes the player feel overpowered by their character or the world. Halo 3 is the epitome of the series. It is immortal. It demonstrates a level of modernism and sincerity in knowing that it is the conclusion to the most important trilogy in gaming history that makes it a warm and inviting experience.