β Impressions #1

After ten refreshing games of playing the Halo: Reach beta, I happily post my initial impressions:


I've played ten games so far , and won nine of them with an average K/D spread of 1.4. At the moment there are only two maps: Swordbase and Powerhouse. I prefer Swordbase as I think it brings a new verticality that none of the Halo games ever bore before. Powerhouse is also good, but it reminds be a little too much of High Ground. I'm enjoying the game so far; the melee has been toned down, allowing for fights not to be decided solely by the factor of who presses B first.


There are some new gametypes involved as well. Stockpile is an interesting gametype, and is, as Bungie so aptly describes it, just like 'Capture the Flag on steroids'. The other two gametypes have not been introduced to the beta as of yet, so more on that later on. I will say, however, that so far the traditional gametypes (such as Oddball, CTF and Slayer) are working well.  


The new loadouts are pretty dynamic. Funnily enough, the jetpack is proving to be the favourite on most occasions, while Armor Lock comes in a close second. The other two available are Sprint and Active Camo: Sprint is a fairly default armour ability; however, Active Camo isn't widely used yet as people don't seem to have quite got the hang of how to use it. Perhaps it'll be put to better use as the beta goes on.


The new weapons are fantastic, however you can't help but miss some of the old ones. The plasma rifle finds itself completely replaced by a bulkier counterpart, and obviously none of the brute weapons make a return due to Reach taking place prior to Halo: CE. Also note that for some reason the dual wield function has been removed from the game. Also, I'm particularly enjoying the Designated Marksman Rifle, as well as the Needle Rifle. I've been unable to get my hands on a plasma launcher as of yet. I have to say though, I'm really pleased with the pistol now. It's not overpowered, and thankfully it's not underpowered either. You can get a kill with it if your aim is good enough. Happy face.


We are still waiting on the introduction of the Invasion and Headhunter gametypes, as well as the final map, so I'll post more about my impressions on the beta later on.


-Dilan