Halo Infinite’s multiplayer has already exploded across the gaming world, even before the game has officially been released. Even though (at the time of writing) it’s technically in an open beta stage, the multiplayer component is firmly installed on many computers and consoles across the planet, seeing people frag like it’s 2001 all over again. This makes it the perfect time, as the second saga in the Halo universe comes to a close, to look back and take stock. So take a trip back with us through the absolute best Halo maps in the series.
Truth – Halo 5
In truth, Truth is a remake of Midship from Halo 2, though with a few tweaks it’s absolutely one of the best Halo 5 maps out there. Some added shield barriers and hidden nooks make it a much more tactical affair than its predecessor, with stealth options and cover available to the canny warrior.
Halo 5 struggled a little bit on the multiplayer scene but Truth stands tall; an example that 343 Industries really does *get* Halo. Also, it’s beautiful, which helps.
Exile – Halo 4
Exile offers players a hugely varied playground in which to blow each other away. With both internal and external areas to explore – combined with a tonne of vehicle options for you to grab – Exile is a finely-honed map that always feels great to fight in.
Halo’s often at its best when it mixes things up, which is why Exile’s approach to keeping you moving and keeping you on the hunt through its varied areas puts it as one of Halo 4’s best maps.
The Pit – Halo 3
If you talk to someone who played Halo 3 back in the day (or even as part of the Master Chief Collection) about Halo 3’s best maps, they’ll go misty eyed when they remember The Pit. This fully-symmetrical map was later remade for Halo 4 as Pitfall, but it was never better than in its original incarnation.
With many different paths to take and a layout that seems tailor made for players who prefer sniper rifles, The Pit can be chaotic…but it’s always memorable. Just try to remember, if you’re in a Sniper Tower to check your weak points – you’ve probably made quite a few people angry, after all.
Lockout – Halo 2
Despite the Halo series being renowned for its sense of scale, epic vistas and vehicular action, Lockout remains one of the best Halo maps. This tiny map is incredibly easy to navigate but incredibly hard to do well in, simply because everyone else you meet will know it as well as you do, if not better.
If you want fast-paced battles in cramped conditions that usually end up in 1v1 duels, then Lockout is the map for you. There’s a reason it’s legendary amongst Halo players and why so many people reckon it’s not just one of Halo 2’s best maps, but one of the best maps of all time.
Hang ‘Em High – Halo: Combat Evolved
When you think of Halo: Combat Evolved, you’ll probably think of one of two maps. The first is Hang ‘Em High; a riotous map that combines tunnels and walkways for cover and elevation with a wide open area.
This map is utterly versatile. Playing with a few people? It’s great. Playing with loads of people? It’s great. Playing Capture the Flag? It’s great. Simply put, if there’s a game mode in Halo: CE, Hang ‘Em High will provide tactical, furiously-fast-paced action every time.
Blood Gulch – Halo: Combat Evolved
The other map most will think of in Halo: CE (and in no small part due to Red vs. Blue) is Blood Gulch. Many of the maps in this list are versatile, tactical, or offer rich gameplay options to the canny gamer.
Blood Gulch isn’t like that. It’s a big area you can drive some vehicles around in. Sometimes that’s all you need and it’s a testament to how robust Halo’s core mechanics are that this is enough. With its wide open spaces you still have a tonne of options available to you. From sniping to vehicular slaughter, Blood Gulch is just a big box that gives you tools and says “have at it”. And we couldn’t love it any more.
Recharge – Halo Infinite
Halo Infinite isn’t afraid to mix up the formula and with the introduction of the Grappleshot, mobility has received a boost that’s made combat much more exciting. Recharge, one of Halo Infinite’s best maps, seems to have been made to show off the benefits and versatility of the Grappleshot.
This power station isn’t too large but with loads of routes to explore and a heavy emphasis on verticality, Recharge shows off what Halo Infinite is capable of and hints at the enduring meta that’ll develop from the game. Already players are working out stunning Grappleshot tricks or learning ways in which to grenade Energy Sword spawns to them. It’s an exciting time to play Halo Infinite’s multiplayer, and Recharge is Halo at its absolute best.
Which maps get your vote? Head on over to our Community Forum and let us know, and if you’ve not got your mitts on Halo Infinite yet, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy for Xbox at the link below.
