If you've already got your dexterous little hands on a copy of Halo 3: ODST and the complete Halo 3 mutliplayer collection contained therein, the communiqué distributed below ain't for your eyes. You already received this message loud and clear and you've been spending all kinds of quality time taking these three maps for a healthy multiplayer spin. Everyone else, read on.
Today, the final three Halo 3 multiplayer maps make their long awaited a la carte debut onto Xbox LIVE Marketplace. If you can't wait to throw down on Heretic, Citadel, and Longshore, scroll down and hit the link at the bottom of this article. They're available right now. If you’re looking to get a little bit more familiar with the three arenas featured in the second half of the Mythic Map Pack before you shove off, you're in luck. Last year we spoke to the designers and artists that hammered each space into fighting shape and you’ll find access to their commentary embedded along with pretty pictures lovingly linked below. Each article is packed with insight into the process that ultimately brought these spaces to life. Give 'em each a good read. You'll be a better person for it.
Abandoned during the invasion of Earth, the Mombasa Quays are now bereft of commerce, but rife with danger.4-12 players.
Longshore lacks the commercial ships that once made it a lucrative port for Old Mombasa, but it still bustles with activity. Designed for large scale combat and well suited for smaller affairs, Longshore’s multitude of industrial buildings, elevated walks, and open inlets conspire to create a complex battleground tailored for multiple combat scenarios.
Longshore – In Depth
"It's time to step outside and have a look at the lengthy shores of Old Mombasa. Though Longshore has some inspirations you'll undoubtedly find yourself quite familiar with, it's not a straight remake as some fans have suspected. To help flesh out the process by which Longshore was built, we've recruited designer, Lars Bakken, and artists, Matt Bennier and Ken Taya."
In the heart of this Forerunner structure, far above the troubled surface of the Ark, another battle rages. 2-6 players.
Citadel may be a long abandoned Forerunner stronghold, but its small, symmetrical confines are far from secure. Two opposing bases offer little safety for players looking for solace. Instead, Citadel forces small squads to stay in constant communication, keep their heads on a swivel, and be prepared to adjust combat tactics in close quarters.
Citadel – In Depth
"We’re lifting the lid on Citadel with a little guided tour with designer Lars Bakken, artist Blake Low, and art director Justin Hayward pointing out the areas of interest. If you already had a good, long look but still want to know more, you’ve come to the right place."
Because of its speed and luxury the Pious Inquisitor has become an irresistible prize during these dark times. 2-8 players.
Heretic returns players to familiar ground as the Halo 2 arena “Midship” makes its long-rumored debut in Halo 3. The stark interior of the Pious Inquisitor might appear austere on first glance, but Heretic’s symmetrical spaces require players to execute complex strategies in order to outplay their opponents.
Heretic – In Depth
"You and this map are probably already well acquainted. Intimate, even. And though you might know the middle of this ship like the back of your Battle Rifle wielding hand, you should spend a few minutes to get yourself back up to speed. The Pious Inquisitor has been a long time coming to the Halo 3 multiplayer space. To help us slip back into her luxurious appointments we've recruited designer, Dan Miller, environment artist, Jason Keith, and art director, Justin Hayward to show off the space now known as Heretic."