One of the best things about the Halo campaigns is that, for the most part, you’re a lone wolf that’s tearing through hordes of enemies with nobody aside from the occasional disposable marines and the ever-present voice of Cortana helping you out. You’re practically a demigod in power armor, something your enemies even acknowledge whenever they see you and yell “DEMON!” while running for cover. However, this is going to change with Halo 5, as the developers have decided to do something a little different this time around that may end up taking away what makes Halo’s campaign so great.
It’s no secret that developer 343 Industries is taking the Halo campaign experience in some bold new directions with Halo 5: Guardians. Instead of telling a solo story in which the Master Chief takes on hoards of Elites, Grunts, Brutes, and Prometheans “lone wolf” style, Spartan 117 will always be accompanied by a trio of fellow soldiers: Blue Team. Let’s also not forget that a for a large portion of the game, you won’t even be playing as the Chief. Much like Halo 2, this fifth chapter in the Master Chief saga will put players in the shoes of another character, this time Agent Locke. And, much like Blue Team, Locke will be rolling with three companions at all times as well. They make up Team Osiris and will play in a similar collaborative fashion. So why has 343i opted to veer off the traditional “Master Chief alone” style story? Well, for one, let’s not forget that the Chief used to have Cortana’s voice chirping in his ear. Thanks to the events of Halo 4, she’s no longer around to do that. So, in a way, this merry band of companions will help fill that void. However, the real reason I think we’re seeing this push for a more collaborative experience, is the studio’s new focus on social play.
