Details have been released about the add on to halo 2 in frankys weekly update and it looks to be a winner. There are a number of cool things about the new add on including:
- A total of nine new multiplayer maps.
- All nine maps will eventually be available as Live downloads and as a normal boxed game disc - available at retail for $19.99 (US).
- The release on Live will be staggered, some paid, some free!
- The first two maps are free and coming in a few short weeks. (late April)
- The same day the 2 free maps are released, 2 additional maps will be available for purchase.
- The remaining 5 maps will be made available as a paid download on the same day the retail package goes on sale.
- The retail disc will contain extras, including a documentary, a cool project from our cinematic and animation team, every Halo 2 update released so far and possibly one or two other little treats.
- By late summer (winter in NZ), ALL the maps will be available for free.
What surprises me (but probably shouldn’t) is the number of people saying “why do we have to pay for it?”. Frankly this level of stupidity baffles me, I mean the question I pose to these people is why shouldn’t you have to pay for it? Personally I have no problem paying for new content. I mean $20.00(US) isn’t much money for lots more content, Halo 2 only has 12 maps to start with so 9 more is a significant increase.
The other amazing comment coming from the complainers is “whats taking so long, hurry up”. I mean do you want a quality product or do you want crap? Of course I think it would be safe to assume that the same group of complainers would also likely be the first to moan if a bug was found in the new maps if rushed.
My advice, don’t be so ready to be dissatisfied with now things are, reality is bungie don’t owe you anything and don’t even have to make the new maps. honestly I think they do it for fun or the love of the game as much as anything so just be thankful for what you get.