Let me start with the positives first, 343 is doing an absolutely amazing job at carrying the mantle of Halo, Halo 4, while not the best Halo certainly won a place in my heart with the campaign and some pretty interesting moments with multiplayer. It has really become apparent to me that 343 cares about the universe they undertook and have taken the lore, characters, world, and community all to heart. I started playing Halo when I was in middle school, through college, long nights after a hard days job, and now as I ascend into the military life (joining the Navy and shipping for basic in January before my birthday). I’m 25 now and Halo has literally been an aspect of my life and for that I can’t thank the people who have made Halo apart of their life who keep bringing beautiful landscapes, amazing moments, and new ways to bring people together.
Now that being said, it hurts to say Halo 5 was not what I was expecting. It was rather disappointing to me, I really wanted this journey across the galaxy hunting the man who has saved the everyone’s lives an immeasurable amount of times and now for some reason has gone rouge. I wanted the Chief and Locke to have this epic showdown like what was seen in the commercial. I applaud 343 for the story they wrote and couldn’t be happier for them, but I felt like there was so much lost potential, the story we received was good, but it had the makings for godhood in it and for some reason it was abandoned.
Which brings me to my main point, Halo 5 while it didn’t last long to me in terms of a game or story, has breathed new life into me with it’s ART. Seeing the concept art is absolutely stunning and if you have to cash I highly suggest you pick up the art book, it’s nothing short of amazing. I currently work as an assistant art director in a graphic design department and the book has not left my desk since it came in the mail, I keep seeing it and it fills me with so many ideas and reminds of the talented artist at 343. Today is my day off and I’m working on my painting in honor in Halo, since today is Nov. 9th (the launch of Halo 2).
I may not be interested in Halo’s story anymore or it’s multiplayer, but the world and art will always have me coming back and for that I thank you 343.