One fear I had was that every weapon would be made for PvP. This is not a good thing since I prefer Campaign and not every weapon can work in both modes. Thankfully, 343i was clever, and I’m really happy with the Stalker Rifle. Here’s why.
The Stalker Rifle is a mix of the classic Covenant Carbine and Particle Beam Sniper Rifle. It is a weapon designed to be shot at, but also to use against the Banished.
This is a precision weapon for Sniper Jackals. It can’t one shot a Spartan, it’s 3 headshots or 4 bodyshots to kill. Projectiles also leave a red effect allowing to see where to shot came from.
It has 2 levels of zoom. Its Plasma ammunition means it will be very effective against Elites but weaker against Brutes and Hunters. Its 6 shots before overheating means it will be useful against Grunts and Jackals at long range (when using a real Sniper would wasteful), but less interesting at mid range than a BR or Commando.
The Stalker Rifle is clearly one of the best additions to the Halo arsenal. It’s a clear middle ground between a Sniper and a BR/DMR, its the only Plasma precision weapon which makes it very unique. It will be dangerous for the player while avoiding the Halo 2 Sniper Jackals problem, and it will be useful in the hands of the player.
I have been very critical of 343 thus far, but now credit is due. And I’m also happy how the Sentinel Beam turned out. Thank you 343 !