For anyone who's familiar with Halo, it's clear that a lot has changed in Halo 5: Guardians. New abilities and weapon mechanics greatly speed up the game. Here they are outlined by 343 Industries Studio Head Josh Holmes:
Thruster Pack: gives you a speed boost while you're running. Thrusters also allow you to go side-to-side.
Ground Pound: allows you to slam down on enemies from the air.
Clamber: gives you the ability to mount up on edges you would otherwise slip off.
Slide: once you reach terminal velocity of a sprint, you can go into a crouch and slide. Let's you avoid shots or close the gap quickly for a shotgun kill.
Charge: hit melee button and bash anyone while running.
Sprint: you can sprint as long as you want, but while sprinting, shields will not recharge. Everyone can sprint and charge into someone at full speed, which will pop their shields (if hit from the front or sides).
Smart Scope: every weapon now has a zoom-in view. But you can also be 'de-scoped' out of it by the enemy.
“You see Chief coming down from orbit and hitting the ground and doing all of that. And we want to bring that into the gameplay itself,” 343 Industries said referring to the new Halo 5 abilities. “We wanted to have these spartan abilities as a fourth layer that everyone has, so it’s equal footing. Every single person who wants them, can have them”
Here are some videos showcasing the new gameplay, including a full match between proplayers from last nights event. Featured Maps include a Tron-like training field called
Crossfire, a city rooftop
Empire, and the remake of the fan favorite Midship renamed
Truth. There is also a 4th unknown map briefly featured in some of the footage below. Gametypes shown off were breakout (one life per roiund, first team to 5 rounds wins), and the classic team slayer.
7 New Abilities coming to Halo 5
Halo 5: Guardians - Multiplayer Beta Behind the Scenes
5 Things to Know About Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer
Halo 5 Multiplayer Beta Gameplay Reveal!
As a long time Halo player myself, I can honestly say that I'm excited about the changes made. Yes, they are a radical departure from what I know bu the key components of Halo's classic arene style multiplayer are still there. Map control through power weapons and equal starts make for a fantastic Halo experience