Jun 4, 2009

Halo 3: ODST Details

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I’ve done some scouring and compiled a collection of media for Bungie’s latest title because for a game coming out in a few months time we know next to nothing about it. The game is due out on 22nd September (which we knew) and there is also mention of a “collectors pack” that will cost $99. This includes an exclusive Wireless Controller and those that pre-order Halo 3: ODST will receive an unlock code for Sgt. Johnson as a playable character in Firefight .

Bungie have put together an exhaustive compendium of information about the game which includes details about all the major characters (except for the only female on the team, whose information is classified). Simply visit the Meet the Squad page, which will introduce you to all six of the members of your squad. It features their name and rank, their vital statistics and more importantly their military history where we find out that Dutch was involved in both liberation of Harvest (Halo Wars) and the fall of Reach (Halo: Reach).

The main story mode is set between the events of Halo 2 and Halo 3, just before the Mater Chief returns to earth at the beginning of the game. It centres around the remaining six members of your squad as they search for clues leading to the whereabouts of their scattered squad members and the motivations behind the Covenant’s invasion of New Mombasa.

There is also the addition of a new cooperative multiplayer mode, called Firefight where up to four players can assume the role of an ODST squad member and fight together to take on increasingly challenging waves of enemies (Gears of War 2’s Horde mode). Also included are three new Halo 3 multiplayer maps on a 2nd standalone disc, which includes Legendary, Heroic, and Mythic Map packs for a total of 24 maps. Hopefully for Halo 3 players that have already purchased these maps, there wont be a feeling of buying these maps twice.

Features include the following:

All-new campaign content. The “Halo 3: ODST” campaign explores mysterious events leading up to the Master Chief’s return to New Mombasa in “Halo 3.” Experience the fate of Earth from the brand-new perspective of a special forces ODST (Orbital Drop Shock Trooper), adding a unique outlook and new gameplay elements to the events that unfold in the trilogy’s finale. This new chapter captures the same great feel of previous “Halo” experiences while offering fans new tactics, tools and weapons to defeat the Covenant.
A new hero: Prepare to drop. ODSTs or “Orbital Drop Shock Troopers” are highly-trained special forces operators. Known for their courage, valor and willingness to tackle missions no sane soldier would, ODSTs pride themselves on being the first unit deployed into hostile situations, often in one-man drop-pods that burn through planetary atmospheres at break-neck speed.
Expanded multiplayer experience. No “Halo” game would be complete without groundbreaking multiplayer content. “Halo 3: ODST” introduces an entirely new way to play “Halo” with Firefight, a cooperative multiplayer mode included on the campaign disc that lets up to four people jump immediately into combat. As an ODST squad, you will face increasingly challenging waves of enemies together, striving to earn the highest scores possible, while various “Halo 3″ “Skulls” are progressively activated. The experience is intense and ever-evolving. “Halo 3: ODST” also includes a separate, standalone multiplayer disc which includes three new “Halo 3″ multiplayer maps, all original “Halo 3″ maps, as well as the “Legendary,” “Heroic,” and “Mythic” Map packs for a total of 24 maps.
Ever-growing community options. Players will continue to enjoy all the great “Halo 3″ technological innovations, including Saved Films, screenshots, Campaign Scoring and four-player co-op over Xbox LIVE. All of the new “Halo 3″ multiplayer maps fully support the Forge editor, offering near endless gameplay customization possibilities for fans.
Key to “Halo: Reach.” As a special bonus for fans, all copies of “Halo 3: ODST” will provide access to the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta when the beta goes live. More information about the “Halo: Reach” multiplayer beta will be shared at a later date.