So, to start off I should say that I am a long time hater of 343. Especially with H4 and TMCC but I have to admit that this game is pretty awesome. I was against the idea of changing the game to feel more like mainstream FPS but it works. So here is what I like and dislike.
Like:
- Clamping, I like how you are able to climb ledges. It adds something new to Halo and allows for more routes and flanking.
- Whoever thought of this deserves a medal. The Spartans will call out! No more teammates that don’t know where they are or where the enemies are. The spartan will tell me and I can help out. I won’t debate that it takes skill out of the game because it does. But I would rather know where the enemies are instead of not knowing. This is going to be awesome for solo players.
- Weapon timer, again this makes the game noob friendly. But this doesn’t hurt either team. You won’t have to worry about timing weapons in the heat of battle. Skillful players will get in the correct position to get the power weapons or they can bait it more effectively. Considering many people will run to a weapon that is going to spawn.
- Love thruster back and how it can be used in various situations. Never used it in H4 but in H5 it is amazing.
- The AR is actually usable?! I never had problems using the AR in previous Halos but I assume that is more of a skill thing. The AR in this game is beastly and I wouldn’t be surprised if it caught a nerf. The AR is dominant up-close (like it should be) but it can dominate at medium range too.
- Nerfed sprint. Can’t recharge unless you stop sprinting and wait four seconds. It isn’t as effective like it was in Halo Reach and H4. Especially in Reach where the DMR took forever to kill (dang bloom).
- Symmetrical maps. Offers a fair start to the game but we only have two maps so that might change when more maps are added.
Dislike:
- Sword with sprint. Especially with all the crazy jumps and routes you can take now. It seems like sword users run faster while the sword is equipped. I have heard that the sword has a 25% increase in movement speed. Can someone confirm that?
- My biggest issue with 343 is the ranking system. Why do they keep trying to push their Tier ranking system? I want to see the return of the 1-50. It was simple and I thought offered more competition. In fact, I would go the H3 route for this. One ranked section of playlists and one social section. The competitive players can duel it out while the causal players can have fun. 1-50 along with experience system is what I would prefer to see. It is all about winning. What is the point of going 20-10 if you lost?
Just my thoughts on the first day of playing. I am sure that I will add more likes and dislikes too. Anything you guys liked, disliked or agree with me on? Please don’t say that H5 sucks. If you don’t like it, please tell me why so it can be discussed. 343 has renewed some faith in me but this is only the beta.
One thing that is important to state is that change is needed to stay relevant in the gaming world. I want to see new generations pick this game up and continue the legacy that Halo has built.