First off, let me say that I've been a long time lurker here, since 2002 or so, but have only posted a dozen times, if that. I used to check here everyday, but with real life and Destiny ramping up this past year, I've checked in less and less often.

Second, when Halo 4 came out, I was pleasantly surprised. I loved the attention to detail, the faithfulness to the tone and style of Halo (despite the inexplicable visual retcons, like FoD and armor), the music (it'll never beat Marty's though), the gameplay, the visuals (the skyboxes, THE SKYBOXES!!), the story, and the way they tied in a bunch of satellite lore -- like Halsey, rampancy, civilians, Kilo-5, Librarian, etc. -- to the main story arc, not to mention Spartan Ops.

Third, there was definitely room for improvement. Newbies to the lore would probably be lost once the Librarian showed up, the Didact's turn to evil seems out of character and overly malicious (although I have yet to read Silentium), the aforementioned visual retcons, the weapon design was repetitive and uninspired, and other more nitpicky things (why was Lasky on the ground when Infinity crashed; isn't he the XO?).

I know that was long-winded, but here's the part where you come in. I dropped by the forum to see HBO's feedback concerning Halo at E3, and I noticed a surprising number of comments saying how 343i had botched Halo 4, how it was lackluster, even bad, game, and how it cast doubt on 343i's future endeavors. What I want to know is why you think that. HBO has a reputation for a discerning eye and cutting opinions, so I'd like to hear why you guys think Halo 4 sucked (or why it was awesome, if you are so inclined).