: It's funny because as I was playing, I kept thinking "this feels like
: the first sequel to Bungie Halo that we've gotten.

There are aspects of this game I felt excelled beyond any other Halo game. Regardless of its rough edges and issues, there are some legitimate accomplishments in this one, at least for my tastes. The stuff that needs work in the game (level/world gameplay design and engine performance) is easier to iterate on and fix than storytelling and I feel like they've gotten the right idea this time around. It's a far better balance of lore and characterization than either company's titles. The only thing that was thin was plot, but I think that's okay for this first story.