- last post: 01.01.0001 12:00 AM PDT
Inside Halo 2 Vista
The Important Parts: (My comments in plain text.)
What is Live Anywhere?
...this is the cross-platform play that you have seen mentioned in titles like Shadowrun, although it should be noted that cross-platform play is not supported by Halo 2 for Windows Vista.
I'm glad that's cleared up!
What is different in the online game on Windows Vista?
Some of these changes include dedicated servers, and the ability to configure online games how you want them rather than having them chosen for you as in the Xbox version, support for the keyboard and mouse, text chat, etc. There are loads of really cool things we are doing in this area, and we will let you know about them in future developer diaries.
Sweet! Some hard facts! I don't see voice chat on there, but at least we know text chat is in for sure.
How many players will be able to play together on Windows Vista?
We are going to have all of the original multiplayer maps and the map pack. We do have the addition of a Map Editor and may ship with a few new maps, we have chosen to make these 16 player max as well to keep the game experience as consistent as possible between the original maps and the new ones and to help keep groups together between games by not having huge variances in map sizes. This is especially important with Playlists in dedicated server sessions.
We get the map pack free! And maybe some new maps! (I'm hoping for new vehicles and weapons, too.)
How will I find games on Windows Vista?
We are implementing a game browser that you will be able to use to find the game you want to play. This will also be the place that you can manage your favorite dedicated servers. You will be able to find games based on performance of the host, game type, where your friends are, favorite dedicated servers, and others. Look for more details on the game browser in future developer diary entries.
Score! A Friends list for your favorite dedicated servers, hosts, gametypes, and friends!
Will Halo 2 be available on my cell phone with Live Anywhere?
No, we do not plan on making a Windows Mobile version of the game at this time. Once Live Anywhere launches on cell phones, you will be able to access your friends list and see their achievements in Halo 2 Vista.
WTF? In my opinion, Halo 2 on a cell phone would totally ruin it.
Bungie and the Halo 2 Vista Team, thank you very much for the news. This will answer many of the questions here in the Maw, and whet our appetites for more news. Thank you!