highlights:
* Cortana is really dead...
* but not forgotten
* ONI shenanigans play into the game
* Covenant enemies speak English again
* multiple paths through levels seem to be a design goal
* substantive changes to at least one map happened because of the beta
* interactive elements will show up on at least one map (or I guess one more map?)
* large range of squad commands accessible via the d-pad and aiming your reticle

mixed:
* the red S-IV spawns with a plasma pistol
* Locke's team will get hints if not direct signage about alternate level paths
* there's a mysterious new gametype that's supposed to be, well, everything-- I'm skeptical
* the reasoning for Covenant speaking English again is really dumb (they don't care that they're not allowed)
* the Spartan smash is still in the game, with no explanation of how hitting the floor really hard hurts people around you but doesn't hurt you, nor any explanation how it fits with Halo
* the running melee is still in, and is required for some campaign sections, and it sounds like it's the same as in the beta, i.e. having an unnecessary animation and associated wait period
* no word on why all these abilities are good for everyone to have all the time
* the Domain is open and the Reclamation is about to begin, whatever that means