Like the real-time strategy game “Halo Wars,” this latest adventure into the Halo Universe expands the franchise’s lore, but this time, through the perspective of the elite Orbital Drop Shock Troopers of the UNSC (the good guys).  The anticipation for this game was enormous, with pre-orders and sales beyond expectation. Clearly, there’s always room for more Halo. And with the success of gameplay modes like Gears of War 2’s Horde Mode, and Left 4 Dead’s campaign, ODST excels in co-operative gameplay.

Bungie took the graphics engine that brought to life bright alien worlds, and created a war-affected city landscape that is sometimes dreary, but often rich in color. Since the game takes place in both day and night times, gamers are equipped with a special heads up display tool (called VISR) that is essentially a combination of a friendly/foe marker and night-vision. Activating the VISR is more than just a graphical feature – it is a tactical advantage that balances against the lack of Master Chief’s prowess and strength.

The cutscenes are created using the same engine, and not only do they look great, but they facilitate a great level of immersion. The unique faces of the ODST behind the helmets are a welcome change from the blank, faceless characters that populate Halo 3 multiplayer matches.

Overall, the look of ODST is not as impressive as more recent titles, but still manages to bring a high level of texture work and animation.

The game places gamers in the roles of various ODST that have been separated during a drop. ODST’s storyline is unraveled through the use of cutscenes and playable flashbacks, which pieces together a story only known as a backdrop of Master Chief’s adventures.

In the roughly six-hour campaign, players will have access to the weaponry and vehicles that Halo fans are used to, with a few new, welcome additions. And despite the lack of Master Chief’s recharging shield and health, “stamina” does recharge, and health packs seem to be readily available throughout the abandoned streets.

Having played through the campaign in both single-player and co-op mode, it became clear that playing this game with a friend is truly the better experience. The levels lend themselves to at least one partner due to the numerous flanking opportunities spread throughout the city streets and buildings, not to mention the tremendous fun when vehicles become available.

Firefight is a gameplay type that pits players against waves of Covenant forces with limited health and ammo. The waves of enemies get progressively tougher, and the teamwork and strategy necessary to achieve high scores are simple enough reasons to love (and hate) Firefight. The challenge that is presented in Firefight is a true test of any gamer’s FPS skills.

The entire package provides a campaign that is playable in 4-player co-op, Firefight mode, and Halo 3 multiplayer maps, not to mention access to the Halo Reach Beta. Halo 3: ODST is aptly titled because while it is not a sequel in its own right, it does present a new experience for Halo fans to devour.

written by Rick Kim