I wrote off 343 and the Halo franchise in general after a month of playing H4. I walked away from these forums thinking I’d never be back. This is my first post since then.
I was on the anti-343 wagon when H4 came out.
I enjoyed Reach, but thought of it as an arcadey spin-off. I assumed H4 would have been a return to form for the franchise in that it would be a more stripped-down, balanced, competitive arena multiplayer experience like what we had with previous Halos. So you can imagine my utter disappointment with concepts like tactical packages, perks, the persistence of armor abilities and other elements that I’ve mentally repressed or simply can’t remember due to lack of exposure (I quit playing mp after 3 weeks or so).
Fortunately, I had prepared myself for disappointment. I had intensely loved Halo for over a decade reading all novels a minimum of two times, replaying campaigns countless times, and even buying action figures–something that surprised and delighted my inner geek. So when the mantle was handed from Bungie to 343i I was cautiously optimistic which in turn spared my emotions from a crushing disappointment in H4. Nothing lasts forever, and just because something changes doesn’t mean your memories change with it. Mourn and move on. Live and let live.
My biggest criticism of H4 (along with many others) was that so many superfluous elements were added to gameplay that balance was impossible (at least to the extent you expect from a Halo game) and matches were a cluttered mess. So much had been taken from the core fundamentals of gameplay that the game just didn’t have that Halo feel. Of course when I tried to express this on forums I was told to adapt and stop resisting change.
Well, everyone loves a good comeback story, and for me this is one. After having spent a little time with the H5 beta I’m super surprised and excited by what 343 has done. They re-captured that Halo spirit by trying to cater to the esport crowd (I’m no MLG wannabe as evidenced by my abilities as a player). Sure, there are changes, but nothing that undermines the core fundamentals of Halo imo (see all you random forum posters from years ago? I’m not opposed to change!).
343 has, in my eyes, redeemed themselves. Because I’ve spent a lot of time on these forums a couple of years back ripping into 343 and letting them know how much and to what extent they got wrong with H4, I feel it’s only right to come back just to stay: Great job, 343!
I understand there are opinions that differ greatly from mine and I certainly do not intend to present my opinions as right while others are wrong. If you disagree with my sentiments and see H5 as a disappointment, then I feel for you. I was in your position not so long ago. You just have to shrug it off and remember that everything comes to an end, but you’ll always have your fond memories. I hope you can find something to fill that Halo-shaped hole in your heart. Who knows, maybe you’ll love H6 and come back to Halo with gusto like I plan to with H5. Anyways, all the best to you!
tl;dr: Back when H4 came out I was all over these forums expressing my disapproval. Just wanted to come back to say I think 343 is doing good by the franchise whit Halo 5.