The next downloadable addition for Halo 4 now has a release date, official trailer and an explanation of what it adds to Microsoft’s flagship shooter.
Officially dubbed the Castle Map Pack, the next add-on for Halo 4 is now less than a month from release. For the most part it seems typical of the game’s DLC additions — a handful of new maps are included for multiplayer gameplay, but the basics of the game are left largely untouched — but this one is special for two reasons: First, it marks the third and final DLC to be released as part of the War Games Map Pass promotion, and second, it focuses on team-based objectives and vehicular combat.
Included within the Castle Map Pack are three new maps: Daybreak, Outcast and Perdition. Have a look at Microsoft’s official description of each:
Daybreak: Two UNSC bases oppose each other in this large asymmetrical map. Teams must split focus between attacking the enemy base while playing close defense to their own. Claim your team’s sniper rifle to cover the central Man Cannon, or grab a Warthog to push through the side channels and flank the enemy base. The Rocket Launcher and Banshee both spawn in positions diagonal to the starting bases; claiming their firepower early is crucial to land the first flag cap or take an early lead in kills.
Outcast: Controlling vehicle paths is critical in this circular map set in a desert environment. Outcast features frequent Mantis vs. Wraith battles, so teams must keep their drivers informed with constant communication to get the drop on enemy vehicles. While driving the Mantis, you can target fusion coils in tunnels to flush out camping opponents directly into your rain of fire, or cover your flag runner’s dash to a friendly Warthog. If you find yourself without a vehicle, race to the secondary bases to secure a power weapon or drop on enemies for a game-changing hijack.
Perdition: Blending long sightlines, vehicles, and close-quarters combat, Perdition caters to nearly any gameplay style. Wheelmen and gunners will be right at home in this urban environment as a well-placed Warthog can lock down a quarter of the map, securing valuable ordnances for the team. Learning the interior routes is essential to both escaping danger and finishing off ranged kills. Be sure to look for the Gravity Hammer in Power Station 3 – an ideal revenge weapon against a pesky sniper or a big surprise for an enemy Warthog.
As with previous Halo 4 map packs, this DLC will launch alongside the introduction of a new multiplayer playlist focused specifically on these three maps. They will also be integrated into other multiplayer game modes, but for those who want to play nothing but Perdition, Outcast and Daybreak, that’s certainly an option.
Assuming you didn’t already spring for the War Games Map Pass (which grants you access to all extant Halo 4 DLC and the upcoming Castle Map Pack at a discounted price), you’ll be forced to shell out $10 for this addition when it comes available on April 8.
Published: Mar 11, 2013 07:28 pm