This review was originally published on Gaming Horizon, GameBump's predecessor. Its format does not match our own but we support its content. It was written by Aaron Thomas.
The Multiplayer Map Pack is the long awaited expansion disc to the incredibly popular first-person shooter Halo 2. Containing nine maps, as well as interviews, sound tests, a small side-story, and trailers, the disc provides quite a bit of content for $19.99. You can also download the maps via Xbox Live for $11.99, or you can wait until the end of the summer and get them for free. Keep in mind, you won’t get any of the bonus content if you download the maps. There are no changes to the fundamental gameplay, nor are there any new weapons, but if you’re looking to get back into Halo 2, or you’re looking for some new challenges – this disc is a no-brainer.
Because the game content is essentially the same, I’ve compiled a list containing all new maps and a detailed examination of each.
Gemini: This level is a Covenant sanctuary, and is a small circular area that’s best suited for a small amount of players. A lone tree with a sword, and a large statue worshipping a holographic Halo are distinctive characteristics. This level feels very similar to Midship, including a similar color scheme.
Terminal: Located in New Mombasa, this level contains the infamous train that whizzes through, splattering unsuspecting combatants. Sure, train tracks are a good indicator that a train could be coming, but a sword and some shields entice you to take the risk. A Warthog, Wraith and Ghost are available to cruise around in, though there isn’t much room for fancy driving. He who gets the tank gets lots of kills.
Relic: This level is an asymmetric, medium-sized island with a spectacular view of Halo, a mountain range, and a planet in the distance. A large structure in the middle is an ancient monument, and inside it contains a two-way transport that must be unlocked. A ghost is the lone vehicle to peruse the island. This level is very well-rounded and works great for small team games. The rocket is a valuable commodity, so expect a race for it at the beginning of each match.
Elongation: A remake of Longest, from the original Halo, this new version features a moving conveyer belt running through the level to spice things up. The layout, with two parallel hallways, is very similar to the original, but now there are platforms connecting the top areas, making camping a much less attractive option than it used to be. It’s pretty, and there’s more going on, but it’s got the same basic feel to it. There are no more ladders, but crates and ramps can get you from the first floor to the second.
Backwash: It’s not just the nasty stuff left at the bottom of a soda can anymore. This rainy level takes place in a misty swamp, limiting your field of vision. It’s very similar to the area you fought the flood in during the first game. There’s even a guilty spark flying about the level. There are two bases on either side, with a small amount of trees in between to give some minimal cover during an assault. With plenty of elevation changes, there are ample spots to snipe, so be prepared to seek cover.
Turf: This medium-sized level takes place in a rundown urban environment. The narrow streets and walkways are conducive to confrontation, so expect lots of chaos. There is some cover, but it always seems like an opponent isn’t far off. It was designed with territories in mind, and it is in fact one of the best places to play, due to its easy to learn design. It’s unique, and not something you’re used to playing in the world of Halo.
Sanctuary: This level is a cemetery on Delta Halo, with a large castle-like structure sprawling through it. Mounted weapons keep attackers at bay as you spray bullets all over the map while listening to the soothing sound of a waterfall. It’s a large level with tons of cover; perfect for sneaking around with a bomb or a flag.
Warlock: This level is a clever play on words of the original Wizard level in the first Halo, only now it’s much more beautiful. A small circular area with few places to hide, “frantic” hardly describes the action with shotguns or rockets. There’s some new foliage that provides some cover, and the level seems a little bit bigger than before, but this level is all about shooting, shooting, and lots of carnage.
Containment: Huge is one word to describe this snow-covered level – the biggest of the new maps. There are multiple ways from one side to another, so playing defense and working as a team are required when playing against a skilled opponent. If you’re a show-off with the vehicles, there are plenty of places for innovative driving maneuvers, be it racing through the caves, or making some insane jumps while taking heavy fire. Warthogs, a tank, and some banshees provide lots of choices when it comes to transportation.
If you buy the disc, you get quite a few extra features, and while they are quite good, they won’t really appeal to anyone other than the hard-core Halo fan.
Audio Test: This humorous check of your surround sound speakers is good for a laugh, and is best left un-spoiled. Rest assured, it’s pretty darn amusing.
Two trailers are included on the disc. One is of Halo at E3 2000 where it was first shown, and the other was used for the announcement of Halo 2. The original Halo trailer shows several characters, weapons, and vehicles that didn’t make it into the final game, and it’s all original footage, not just gameplay.
Another Day At the Beach is a short film that shows the fate of ODST team in Old Mombasa. It’s pretty short, and not very interesting. I think most people would have preferred a better ending sequence. This film is pre-rendered, so it looks quite a bit better than the in-game scenarios in Halo 2.
Killtacular: This is a series of interview detailing the creation of the multiplayer maps. It’s mildly interesting, but if you watched all the footage from the special edition, then this might be overkill.
For $19.99, there isn’t any, though the lack of new weapons, vehicles, and match types might disappoint some people.
If you’re a Halo 2 fan, then this is a no-brainer – go out and get the Map Pack. If you want to save a couple of bucks, you can download it online, but keep in mind you have no way of backing up the new maps, nor can you install them on multiple Xbox consoles; something you can do if you own the disc.
An all-around nice package.
It’s the same as Halo 2, which is a good thing.
Many of these maps look better than anything in the stand alone game.
It’s the same as Halo 2, which again, is a good thing.
The new maps are great; especially sine there’s less cheating now.
Unless you play with morons and cheaters you could play forever.
Just in case you missed this posting over at Larry Hyrb's blog or at Xbox.com, Microsoft has confirmed that Live's poor holiday service was indeed due to a record-setting number of gamers online simultaneously and that the company will be offering compensation for all Live members (that be silver and gold) in the form of a free Live arcade game. 
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