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The Halo 2 Map Pack In-Depth
1up.com has an in-depth look at the Halo 2 Map Pack released by Bungie. Besides details and strategies for all of the new maps, they also include screenshots and footage to make sure you get the feel for the new playing area. From the article: "Halo 2 carries the same name, characters and clever design from Bungie, but the rebalancing, retooling and re-imagining the multiplayer mode received has resulted in a game that remains true to Halo: CE, but for competitive play, Halo 2 is a totally different game. Instead of focusing on individual skill, Halo 2's map design, weapon sets and game types demand a cohesive unit functioning on all cylinders for success. From symmetrical maps designed to pit flat-out skill versus flat-out skill to asymmetrical maps created for objective-driven multiplayer content, Halo 2's online modes and maps require as much teamwork as any console FPS available. So here's a head start on getting together your strats for the recently released Halo 2 Multiplayer Map Pack."
Well, with a *little* bit of research, you would find that the map-pack(s) are free.
The plan is that they release the map-pack, and charge for it initially. So anyone who *really* wants it NOW can pay for it.
But about 2 months later, it is released for free.
Personally, I paid for both map-packs, because I want to support the creation of the maps, and $20 (or whatever) isn't a big deal.
But, if I had wanted to wait a few months, it would have been free.
In my mind, this is the best of both worlds. They get an income, and people who 'refuse' to pay, don't have to.
No reason to lie.
Halo 2 matchmaking is the BEST on-line system I have played. The number of crap games vs. good games leans very heavily toward the good games.
And if I am ever itching to play a specific map or gametype, I can always host the game and invite a few friends...(whose friends will come in, and bring their friends, etc. etc.) Getting 16 people together is rarely a problem.
And when the host leaves...someone else takes over.
No reason to lie.