Halo 3 Beta Impressions

First off, I’d like to point out this is a long article, so grab a beer or, for the minors, a soda and sit back and enjoy the ride.

I got lucky in getting the beta. I registered seconds after the registration was open, but to no avail – Bungie failed to invite me. I refused to purchase Crackdown and ultimately spend $60 just to play Halo 3 early. However after noticing many forum members singing praises of the beta, I couldn’t wait any longer. I drove to my local Blockbuster and took a chance. I rented Crackdown and luckily the copy I received had the beta and folks I’ll tell you; this beta is dope. It just might be the most fun I’ve had on the 360.

Guns, Rifles, and All That Other $#!&%

Assault Rifle

Finally we have the return of the original MA5B assault rifle (now MA5C) from Halo: Combat Evolved. I always found its design unique and appealing. When Bungie neglected to include the original assault rifle in Halo 2 I felt cheated and slapped in the face. I loved this gun based on aesthetics alone. Thankfully, Bungie has smartened up and heard the cries from the masses. It is back! The original assault rifle had a 60 round clip. This time it has been reduced to 32 rounds, but there is improved accuracy to balance things out. This weapon’s lack of any scope make it unfit for long range encounters (obviously). However, it bodes well in short to medium range battles. I’m glad to see it back.

Battle Rifle

A return weapon from Halo 2, this gun has had no alterations made besides an improved look which should go without saying. The burst mode of fire and scope make the Battle Rifle essential for large, open maps. It’s my weapon of choice for a map such as Valhalla.

Sniper Rifle

You have to love this rifle. Honestly, what is the first thing everyone goes after once the match begins? Most often, it’s the sniper rifle. The superb 10x magnification and its ability for quick kills make this a coveted weapon. I failed to see any noticeable changes to the rifle other than a face lift to the tiny LCD screen attached to the rifle. One word of advice, be cautious when flying off the man cannon in Valhalla. Chances are someone has their sights on you. However, if you’re on the other end of that and you manage to kill a poor fellow launching off the man cannon, then oh my, is it a thing of beauty. It’s the stuff that makes you remember why you play games in the first place.


Rocket Launcher

Well damn! Who doesn’t love the rocket launcher? Ever since I used this weapon in the Goldeneye/N64 days I’ve been hooked on rocket launchers. In the beta, it is rarely used, but when it is, you will take immediate notice. It takes up almost half of your screen, but the firepower and “hell yeah” effect make up for any of that. Let’s not forget the fact that it is just so damn pretty. Now I can’t help but wonder if the rocket moves slower, nonetheless, if it does it is nothing major. All in all, no real changes, and why mess up a good thing?

Shotgun

There isn’t a single change for the shotgun. The power seems to be the same as Halo 2, so it is nowhere near what it was in Halo: Combat Evolved. Point in case: it’s a shotgun; close encounters only.

SMG

This was a fairly popular weapon in Halo 2 where it was often teamed up with the plasma rifle or needler for that awesome dual-wield glory. This time around it seems pointless to have, especially with the return of the assault rifle and the inability to dual wield with the needler. I used it once and after firing a couple rounds I immediately tossed it. There is nothing inherently special about this weapon. It is inaccurate, lacks power, and there are better choices available to pick up. Moving on...