14 DAY TRIAL // Bungie and Microsoft have announced the final three multiplayer maps that are set to be released to gamers when Halo 3: ODST is launched on September 22. The new title is offering a single player campaign focused on the exploits of a Orbital Drop Shock Trooper squad trapped in New Mombasa, a new multiplayer mode, called Firefight, set to encourage teamwork in the face of a wide variety of enemies coming in waves, and all the maps for Halo 3 multiplayer that a player will need.
The new maps are Citadel, Heretic and Longshore. The first one, as the name implies, is set in a long abandoned Forerunners stronghold. The area is cramped, space is at a premium and most of the fights on the map will be taking place in close quarters, which means that players need to always be ready to engage. The map is pretty much symmetrical and players will be better served by staying in a squad than by moving around on their own.
Heretic is a space returning to Halo 3 after being featured in the second game in the series. The setting is the Pious Inquisitor and the map is pretty symmetrical and players will need to communicate constantly and execute some pretty complex moves to outflank and outclass their opponents.
Finally, Longshore is set in the port quarter of Old Mombasa and while the ships are missing, there are plenty of opportunities to take out enemies. There are a lot of buildings to take cover in and a lot of elevated walks that open up a variety of tactical possibilities. This map is well suited to large scale engagements.
The inclusion of these three new maps, alongside the Legendary, Heroic and Mythic Map Packs means that players who get Halo 3: ODST will have access to no less than 23 multiplayer maps. And don't forget that by buying the new Halo title, you get full access to the Halo: Reach multiplayer beta.