The new Halo Multiplayer has its problems. A lack of exciting game modes, little map design originality, and a terrible ranking system.
BUT
I’m glad to see 343 taking a minimalist approach in regards to textures and colors on some of the new maps. When MCC came out, I couldn’t have been the only one who struggled with the remastered H2 maps. There was SO MUCH detail that I had a tough time seeing enemies and it was distracting. The worst examples being the Lockout and Midship remakes. I really noticed the difference in MCC since the playlists would rotate old and new maps. I was so much better when i played SWAT on the original H2 maps and terrible on the remakes.
In the H5, Pegasus is a good example of how the taking a minimalist approach with color and graphics helps multiplayer experience while Empire is a good example of how too much detail and lighting lens flairs can screw up an otherwise fun map.
A good map is one that gives its players locations to fight for and rewards teams for taking and controlling certain areas. Looks do not make a map a good one. Hopefully 343’s maps will continue to be less distracting in future games.
Also let’s stop making slightly different versions of same map and pretending like that what we, as players, want.