This is a record of weapons data for Halo 2. I have timed everything using a
digital stop watch. It took me a little time to collect all of this
information...but it was very valuable for me to find out. The main reason
for writing up this little ditty is to help people realize what is needed in
certain battle situations. I have heard some "n00bs" yell out loud, "How is
that possible! I hit you, like, 5 times!" What he didn't say was that he
shot me 5 times, from far away, WITH A SHOTGUN!
I will NOT be going into great detailed depth of combat strategy. That is not
the purpose of this document, nor was it implied. Rather, I will touch basic
situation strategy. If you wish to contact me, contact information will be
given at the end of this article.
*********************PLEASE BE AWARE******************************************
This document ONLY deals with the multiplayer portion of Halo 2. As such, I
will not be reviewing the fuel rod gun. The Wraith is not capable of using
the twin plasma guns. The sword CAN be used an infinite amount of times, it
only runs out in Campaign mode. If you are having issues with Vertical /
horizontal split screen, consult #9 in the tips sections. There is NO Co-op
play through Xbox Live or System Link. It is only allowed offline. On maps
that have extremely long distances, I.E. Coagulation, even though you may be
able to see someone at the very distant end of a map, there IS a limit to how
far the sniper rifles will fire. Approx guess is estimated at 500ft. There
is NO penalty/benefit from choosing either an elite or spartan. The only
differences are color changes in the HUD, charecter model and sounds.
Please read this ENTIRE document. One person was confused about the
terminology. Please read the entire description.
...Concerning Halo 1 Multiplayer...
Halo 2 acts very much the same as Halo 1, save a couple. The pistol is NOT
the be all, end all weapon. It is still a very good weapon,especially when in
a dual-wielding situation. If you don't consider yourself a "n00b" to Halo, I
still suggest you read this tome in it's entirety. As in, all weapons now act
different, it would be wise to read all critical data.
(SD) = Sword Distance. The maximum distance to lunge with a sword.
Approx. 10 feet. I will be judging guns in increments of 10ft.
(RFA) = Ready for Action. The time it takes to switch to another
weapon and fire.
(ROF) = Rate of Fire. The time it takes to empty a full clip
(RT) = Reload time. The amount of time it takes to reload a weapon.
In single and DW scenarios.
(ARMD) = Approved rated MAX distance. In multiples of 10ft. Judged
by multiplying SD.
(Melee) = How many melee hits (B Button) it takes to kill an opponent.
Close range = Point blank > 5 Ft
Medium range = 5ft > 15 ft
Long range = 15 ft > 100 ft.
Super Long range 100 ft > 500 ft
******************************************************************************
Human Weapons:
All human weapons are magazine-fed, meaning at some point you will have to
reload. I have detailed the exact time it takes to reload weapons, single or
double, Please pay close attention to this. It is vitally important. Also of
important note, is that when enemies shields are down, bullets take down an
opponent faster than covenant plasma-based weapons.
45 shots to kill in body
35 shots to kill in head (This isn't feasible, will explain later.)
Shots taken close range:
30 shots to kill in body
30 shots to kill in head (Also not feasible.)
Summary:
The SMG is definitely a weapon you are going to want over the magnum at
close-range. It has 5 times the capacity of the magnum, but it is around 3
times weaker per bullet. This weapon is a VERY close range weapon. Firing
at any distance over 20 ft. is just a waste of bullets. The accuracy on this
weapon is that bad. Also you have to combat the effect of recoil on the
weapon, which doubles when it is DW'd. But, after practice you get used to
slowly aiming down as you fire. Which means you can down one person in two
seconds and use less than half of the clip in both guns. This weapon DW makes
it possible to take on multiple foes in a close range proximity. I think in
the beginning most people will tend to use SMG's while DWing. However, I
would recommend coupling it with any other weapon. Plasma Pistol or Rifle or
the Magnum.
Rating in Scenario:
Single;DW
Close range: 6 of 10; 9 of 10
Medium Range: 5 of 10; 8 of 10
Long range: 0 of 10; 0 of 10
Levels most useful on:
Ascension
Ivory Tower
Lockout
Midship
Beaver Creek
Zanzibar
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Magnum (M6C Pistol) (DW)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full Magazine: 12 bullets
ROF: 2.2 Seconds
RT: 3 Seconds; 5 secs(DW)
ARMD: Medium Range
Melee: Head=5, body=6
RFA: 1 second
Shots taken from ANY DISTANCE:
15 shots to kill in body
9 shots to kill in head
8 shots to the body to take away shield
8 times to body to take away shield than once in the head to kill
***Important to note, 1 shot in the head kills when shields are down.*********
Summary:
Magnum is not as useless as I had thought. Although, Dual wielding is a
necessity with this gun. If mostly getting body shots, gun has to be reloaded
which can get very slow and you have to worry about opposing fire. DWing is
the only viable option for the pistol. At 20 feet with DW pistols you can
down an enemy in 2.2 secs. Provided all bullets hit there target in the
chest. After 20 Feet, the pistol is nothing like HALO 1, the accuracy drops
VERY SHARPLY! If he is partnered up you will have to wait five secs or switch
weapons before advancing again. And, depending on your skill, close-range can
be very deadly.
But, probably one of the greatest combo's is the Magnum/Plasma Pisol. You
charge the plasma pistol fire, discharge enemy shield and one shot in the head
with the magnum. Two shots total, dead enemy.
Rating in scenario:
single;DW
Close Range: 3 of 10; 9 of 10
Medium Range: 7 of 10; 9 of 10
Long Range: 0 of 10; 0 of 10
It's a shotgun. It is one of the best close range weapon. But as soon as you
get into medium range, the flaws are very easily noticed. A person DWing SMG's
would waste you faster at medium range, just because of the shotguns very poor
damage ratio at medium range. The plus side is if you have to take out a
platoon of people, just chuck a grenade to soften up, than barrage in, guns
a blazing...of course they have to be very close to each other. Also, in the
middle of reloading you can fire. You do not have to wait to fill the barrel
again. IN those tight situations, this can help immensely.
Rating in Scenario:
Close Range: 10 of 10
Medium Range: 4 of 10
Long Range: 0 of 10
Levels Most useful on:
Ascension
Ivory Tower
Lockout
Midship
Beaver Creek
Zanzibar
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Sniper Rifle (S2 AM Sniper Rifle)
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Full Magazine: 4 Bullets
ROF: 2.3 seconds
RT: 3.5 seconds
ARMD: SUPER long range
Melee: head=6; body=6
RFA: 1 second
Shots taken from ANY range:
Body 2, Head 1
Summary:
Ah, the sniper rifle. Camping out at your favorite spot, just waiting for
someone to pass by. I can't do that, I am more of a warrior sniper. I take
the rifle with me, when I know I can use the advantage of the sniper scope
and recon back to my team mates, and warn who is coming or pick off someone
running away with my flag or skull. A truly invaluable weapon, only hindered
by is capacity and how many rounds you are allowed to carry. For the patient,
becoming a good marksmen is sure to have teams looking to hire you. Keep on
practicing! :) The downfall of this weapon is that it requires total
concentration. You don't notice your surroundings when you are zoomed in 10x.
Your probability of getting conked on the back of the head go greatly up.
Also, Sniper Tip of the day. If you have been in 1 spot for a very long time.
It would be wise to get up and pick a different one before someone gets wise
to your whereabouts. Also, when provoked into close range combat, you need
nerves of steel. Keep calm and aim for the head. *GENERALLY* people strafe
from left to right, which to you would be right to left. Keep that in mind.
But, obviously if you have a better weapon for the situation, just switch it
up. Human weapons normally take one second to become "ready" and covenant,
take two seconds. Always have a PLAN!!! I can't stress that enough!
Rating in Scenario:
Close Range: 4 of 10
Medium Range: 8 of 10
Long Range: 10 of 10
super long range: 10 of 10
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The Rocket Launcher (M19 SSM Rocket Launcher)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full Magazine: 2 Rockets
ROF: 1.5 seconds
RT: 3 Seconds
ARMD: Medium to Long Range
Melee: Head = 3; Body = 3
RFA: 1 Second
Shots taken from ANY range:
1 hit, splash damage takes around 3/4 of shield away, which you can than melee
one time and kill. No need to waste another shot.
Summary:
Made popular by DOOM, almost every FPS has a rocket launcher in it. But the
one in Halo 2 is MUCH better than the one in Halo 1. It's ROF and the speed
at which the rocket fly at is GREATLY increased. From the 2x zoom to the
Lock-On! feature for vehicles, this baby should definitely be picked up if it
EVER crosses your path. Generally with aiming you're going to want to aim at
the persons feet, increasing you chances of killing opponent. Also, now that
the melee strength is greater, you don't have to use 2 rockets if you only
splash the guy. You can just Melee him. Be cautious though, shields
regenerate in 4 seconds. So you only have a small window to work with.
Against Vehicles this thing is a Monster! With the lock-on technology of the
new SPNKr Missle Launcher, this weapon is a TOTAL Anti-Vehicle Weapon. Just
look at the Vehicle damage reports below. Overall, great weapon.
Ghost: 1 Direct Hit
Warthog: 1 Direct Hit
Wraith: 2 Direct Hits
Spectre: 1 Direct Hit
Scorpion: 2 Direct Hits
Banshee: 1 Direct Hit
Rating in Scenario:
Close Range: 9 of 10
Medium Range: 10 of 10
Long Range: 10 of 10
Levels most useful on:
Any that have this on a map by default
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Battle Rifle (BR55 Rifle)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full Magazine: 36 Bullets
ROF: 6.4 seconds
RT: 2.3 seconds
ARMD: Medium-Close range
Melee: Head = 6; Body = 6
RFA: 2 Seconds
Shots taken from medium and close range:
Head: 12 shots; Body: 15
Shots taken from Long range:
Head: 21 shots; Body: 21 shots
Summary:
I have to admit, I didn't like the assault rifle when I first used it. I felt
it was too weak. But after using all of the other weapons in Halo 2, I am
sure this gun deserves to be in the top ranks. Personally, I believe this
will be the new pistol. It is a very good weapon. Not over powerful, like
the pistol in Halo 1, but just right in grouping of weapons. What will really
determine if you like this gun or not is your skill. The better you are at
aiming, the better you will be with this gun. Also, in long range situations,
just hit the body, you will probably miss more on a moving target aiming for
his head when this weapon is only so accurate at certain distances. Instead,
you will most definitely use less bullets and time killing the person, by just
aiming at his body AT LONG DISTANCES. Medium and close range, deliver it to
the head for a much quicker kill.
Rating in Scenario:
Close Range: 7 of 10
Medium Range: 10 of 10
Long Range: 7 of 10
Ghost: 2 Direct Hits
Warthog: 2 Direct Hits
Wraith: 11 Direct Hits
Spectre: 2 Direct Hits
Scorpion: 11 Direct Hits
Banshee: 2 Direct Hits
If a person is at full shields, it WILL NOT kill opponent. Shields need to be
at 3/4 full for a kill.
Summary:
It's like Jello, There's always room for it. Two things to note: even if this
grenade it RIGHT underneath a person. If that person has full shields, it
will not kill them. Second, you cannot use Grenades when dualwielding.
Most covenant weapons are based on plasma projectiles. All Covenant weapons
that cannot be recharged/reloaded overheat. And when the heat signature bar
gets higher, the more Units of energy the gun consumes. Best practices with
all Covenant non-recharging weapons is to never let your gun overheat,
unless mandatory. Also, with most covenant weapons, you can not blow up
environment obstacles.
RT: Instant if you let them cool down, if not: 3 seconds; 3.5 Seconds(DW)
ARMD: Close-Medium Range
Melee: Head = 6; Body = 6
RFA: 2 Seconds
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Body Shots to kill: 18
Head shots to kill: 18
Summary:
Here is a Weapon that is similar to the SMG, but in everyway is better than
it. They are actually decent at midrange. Especially DWing. These things
tear through the enemy. It can eat an enemies shield in 1 second. You don't
even have to worry about that recoil crap from the SMG. I am actually shocked
how big of a difference there is between the two. The one caveat maybe that
they are only on certain parts of the map by default. So in the end, very few
except the people in the know will DW these suckers. Definitely learn were
these puppies are on the map. Mix it with an SMG if you can find two.
The only thing bad about the Plasma Rifle is that it cannot be reloaded.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 10 of 10
Medium Range: 8 of 0
Long Range: 0 of 10
The Plasma Pistol is actually an ok weapon. If it weren't for the plasma
bullets taking so long to reach their target. Plasma pistols would be VERY
effective, you just have to have the ability to aim "Ahead." What I mean is,
if you are fighting someone and they are strafing to the left or right, you
have to aim a little bit more to the right or left of them, for the hits to
land. Actually, in a team the plasma pistol works beautifully when
overcharged. Its just trying to get someone to use it correctly is the hard
part. But the BEST part of this gun, is it will fully deplete the opponents
shield, even over-charged. The sweetest thing is taking away someone’s
overshield...the moment when they feel they have an advantage and zap, away it
goes. Beautiful.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 8 of 10
Medium Range: 3 of 10
Long Range: 0 of 10
Level most useful on:
Ascension
Ivory Tower
Lockout
Midship
Beaver Creek
Zanzibar
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Energy Sword (Cool ass Sword)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full Magazine: Infinite
ROF: Half a second per swing
RT: Half a second
ARMD: Short-Medium Range
Melee: 2 Hits head or body (Melee button B, not R trigger)
RFA: 1 Second
Shots Taken from Any range:
1 Hit if targeted, 2 if not (Trigger Button)
Summary:
This is the answer to the human shotgun. But in my opinion, WAY BETTER!
First you have very little reload time. There is no ammo. And you can make a
lunge attack from within 10 ft. The best place to aim the reticule is around
the upper body, near the neck-chest area. Plus, it is alot of fun when it is
swords only play. The drawbacks. There is usually only 1 sword on a level.
So whoever can get to it first is the Juggernaut. Second, if you have your
sword brandished, you make yourself a target. Third, Trying to get in the
"Sweet Spot" While you opponent is back-trotting and putting shots into you.
This weapon is only to be used when in the right distance.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 10 of 10
Medium Range: 8 of 10
Long Range: 0 of 10
RT: Instant if let cooled, 5 Seconds; 5.5 Seconds (DW) Max
ARMD: Medium-Close Range
Melee: Head = 6; Body = 6
RFA: 2 Seconds
Shots Taken from ANY range:
18 Body or Head shots to kill
Summary:
So the covenant have TWO awesome DWable weapons. Their only flaw is that they
cannot be recharged/reloaded. You can drop any enemies shield with this gun
in a HALF a second. The ROF on this gun is higher, but that means you have to
be very careful, it is easily overheated. But if you are dual-wielding these
babies you can cut through someone in 1 SECOND! BUT ALL SHOTS HAVE TO LAND.
If you miss even a couple, covenant weapons are weak against metal on the
armor. It may tear through shields in half a second, but than it takes 2.5
seconds to finish someone off with just a single gun. Where Human bullets rip
through flesh faster than shields. So a good combo is probably an SMG with
either plasma rifle.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 9 of 10
Medium Range: 8 of 10
Long Range: 2 of 10
Full Magazine: 100 Units if let cooled, 12 units to max
ROF: 2 Seconds
RT: 3.5 Seconds
ARMD: SUPER Long Range
Melee: Head = 6; Body = 6
RFA: 2 Seconds
Shots Taken from ANY range:
2 Shots body; 1 shot head
Summary:
This is the covenant version of the Sniper Rifle. Technically, it doesn't
have to be reloaded if you are a good sniper. Because if you can manage to
only get head shots, you will have 20 SHOTS! to fire with beam rifle. But, If
you fire to overload EVERY TIME you will only have 18 shots. Be VERY CAUTIOUS
when using this gun. I would even say NEVER to let this gun overheat. After 1
shot, it takes 5 Units of energy, to max it takes 7. So It is taking more
ammo, also it would take you longer to get off enough consecutive shots in a
givin timeframe if you overheat the gun. It takes 3.5 Seconds to fire the gun
after overheating, whereas you can fire every second and never overheat the
gun. This is the correct way to use this gun.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 4 of 10
Medium Range: 8 of 10
Long Range: 10 of 10
Super Long Range: 10 of 10
Ghost: 3 Direct Hits
Warthog: 5 Direct Hits
Wraith: 18 Direct Hits
Spectre: 4 Direct Hits
Scorpion: 32 Direct Hits
Banshee: 3 Direct Hits
Summary:
There are 2 Covenant weapons that act like the human rocket launcher. The
Brute Shot and the Sentinel Beam. The Brute Shot is definitely leaned more
onto the light anti-vehicle side because it is rather hard to hit a small
moving target. A half second after a grenade bounces, it blows up. I just
don't see this as being a rather good weapon against infantry. Everything
about it, says that it is a light anti-vehicle weapon. I mean, look at its
Melee!!! 2 HITS!?!? That is just like the flag. I think that if someone
were to come up to you with this weapon, your best bet would be to melee
instead of fire. Reason: You will get hurt as well because of the splash
damage, but your opponent who is lacing into you with his weapon won't have
splash damage. In the end, if you try to fight with this weapon against
infantry, other than melee, you will most likely lose.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 8 of 10 (Melee); 4 of 10 (Fire)
Medium Range: 8 of 10
Long Range: 8 of 10 (Vehicle); 0 of 10 (Infantry)
9 Shots in before needles explode kills. 30 Needles,if only getting 2 in
before they explode.
Summary:
The needler is nothing like the halo 2 eight minute video it was shown in.
I suppose it was just too powerful at that VERY fast speed. And although you
can DW this gun and the speed of the needles has slightly been increased, It
is still not nearly as good as any of the other weapons laying around.
There is only 2 valid approaches to using this weapon. 1.) Against total
newbies who, will just stand, fire at you and not move. 2.) Shooting someone
in the back. That is really the only way these weapons are useful. Even in a
Dual wielding situation, if someone moves out of the way of the needle just as
it is about to hit him, generally it won't attach to him and do no damage.
And because this gun relies HEAVILY on the fact it does more damage - the more
needles are in before exploding, make this gun silly to use on pros. Max
distance on needles is also around 100 Ft.
On shielded opponents, if someone moves left to right, the needles WILL
deflect off of them. The needles will ALWAYS stick if the person has no
shields left. But if they have no shields left, you can kill them quicker
with ANY other weapon, even the plasma pistol.
So just keep that in mind. If someone is coming at you with needles and you
still have full shields, move. Most of the needles won't do anything.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 5 of 10
Medium Range: 5 of 10
Long Range: 5 of 10
Level most useful on:
Ivory Tower
Lockout
Midship
Beaver Creek
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sentinel Beam (What the sentinels used in Halo 1) ForeRunner Technology
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full Magazine: 100 Units if let cool down; 23 Units to MAX
ROF: 3.5 Seconds
RT: 2.5 Seconds
ARMD: Medium-Long Range
Melee: Head = 3; Body = 3
RFA: 2 Seconds
Shots Taken from ANY range:
15 Units of Energy
Summary:
Here is a weapon that looks cool, but in the end isn't that great. It takes
the same amount of melee hits to kill as the rocket launcher. The only
problem with this weapon is you have to be a very good shot. With a moving
target, it is hard to direct the plasma stream to be constantly on the
person. This weapon is definitely better in close-medium range combat
At Long range, it may prove to just be to hard to aim with all the
mayhem going on around. But in close range you can fire a stream and try to
get close and melee to finish off your opponent. The distance at which the
beams ends is at approx. 100 ft. The weapon also overheats very fast.
Seems since this gun cannot be used in ranked games, it is just a fun weapon.
To make custom games with friends, like no shields/ctf/S. Beam Only.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 7 of 10
Medium Range: 1 of 10
Long Range: 6 of 10
The Covenant Carbine is very similar to the battle rifle. At first glance it
seems like a better choice than the battle rifle, because of it's rapid fire
rate, but the amount of body shots it takes to kill someone is were this one
loses in speed. It's a comparison. If you are the type of person where you
know you will most likely be hitting the area of the chest. Stick with the
battle Rifle. If you are the type with deadly accurate aim, choose the
Covenant Carbine.
Ratings in Scenario:
Close Range: 7 of 10
Medium Range: 10 of 10
Long Range: 7 of 10
Ghost: 2 Direct Hits
Warthog: 3 Direct Hits
Wraith: 23 Direct Hits
Spectre: 3 Direct Hits
Scorpion: 30 Direct Hits
Banshee: 2 Direct Hits
Summary:
Same Story as the Frag Grenade. It is just a useful item to have along with
you. It doesn't burden you like choosing a different weapon and sometimes it
can get you out of a jam. And although the frag grenade does more damage,
the plasma grenade, when stuck to an opponent, kills in 1 hit if they are at
full shields. Which you cannot say about the frag grenade. Also, don't get
caught up in trying to sticky bomb someone, that will get you killed.
Instead, use a Plasma when someone is a good distance away and is charging
straight at you.
Please note that while you are driving in a vehicle, your shields act as the
"health" of your vehicle. So technically, if you take VERY heavy fire and
manage to still get you shields back, you can take the default amount of hits
again.
Example:
If I hit the Wraith with a rocket while someone is driving it once, and I wait
for there shields to come back, it will still take two consecutive shots from
the rocket launcher.
Summary:
There are 4 Covenant Vehicles and 2 Human Vehicles. 3 If you count the
varient of the warthog. All have their strengths and weaknesses.
The Spectre is the only vehicle that can carry 4 passangers. But it's armor
is only slightly better than a ghost, yet doesn't have the same speed or
firepower.
The Ghost is the assassin's vehicle. Small, Fast and deadly. But, it can
only take so many hits from larger vehicles.
The Banshee is the only flying vehicle in Halo 2. It's armor is very weak and
although the firepower is moderate, you only have a small window of time to
fire before you have to turn around and come back. It's main use should be
for reconnaissance.
The Wraith is faster than the Scorpion, but it's armor and firepower is
slightly weaker.
The Scorpion is dog slow. But it's armor and two forms of attack keep
enemies at bay.
The Warthog has two varients. The Chain-gun version and the Guass Cannon
Version. It can carry 3 total passengers. It has an emergency brake for
tight cornering and a horn to let people know you are coming.
Ghost: 1 Direct Hit
Warthog: 2 Direct Hit
Wraith: 2 Direct Hits
Spectre: 2 Direct Hits
Scorpion: 2 Direct Hits
Banshee: 1 Direct Hit
Summary:
The Wraith is the Covenant Answer to the Human's Scorpion. There are
differences however. Watch out for people trying to board you. If they do
manage to board you, quickly get out before they kill you. If someone is
getting to close, use boost to run them over or at least give you space
between the enemy.
L-trigger - Boost
R-Trigger - Plasma cannon
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scorpion Tank (Heavy Human Tank)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROF: 3 Seconds
Weakest at the back
Special Features: Machine gun is accurate. Use Left trigger
Shots Taken from ANY range:
(Not including Machine Guns)
Ghost: 1 Direct Hit
Warthog: 1 Direct Hit
Wraith: 2 Direct Hits
Spectre: 1 Direct Hit
Scorpion: 2 Direct Hits
Banshee: 1 Direct Hit
Summary:
The big mamma-jamma. Hulking brute makes heavy defense, but one hell of a
big target. Watch out for people trying to board you. If they do manage to
board you, quickly get out before they kill you. If you see someone trying to
get close to you, use the machine gun to kill him quick.
L-Trigger - Machine Guns
R-Trigger - Cannon
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WartHog GC (Warthog with Guass Cannon)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROF: 2 Seconds
Special Features: Carries 3 Passengers. Emergency Brake and horn.
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Ghost: 2 Direct Hits
Warthog: 2 Direct Hits
Wraith: 3 Direct Hits
Spectre: 2 Direct Hits
Scorpion: 4 Direct Hits
Banshee: 1 Direct Hit
Summary:
The all around best vehicle for teamwork. It is faster than the ghost, when
it is not boosting, and if teamwork is done right, is the proper way of
capping the flag. A great force if vehicle is fully rigged with team mates.
Note: Hold down the L-Trigger for the emergency brake. It is used for tight
cornering. Master it so that you can drive perfectly on any map. Hold down
R-trigger to trigger the horn. Be careful when using the horn, as your
enemies can also hear the horn.
And the single GREATEST improvement to Halo 2...holding down the X button. Let
me explain. In Halo 1, the warthog would definetly have to stop for you to
get on board. In Halo 2 if you get good with a partner and practice, the
warthog can be going full speed and you can still hope. Surprise your enemies
with this one!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WartHog CG (Warthog with ChainGun)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROF: .1 Second
Special Features: Carries 3 Passengers. Emergency Brake and horn.
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Ghost: 2.5 Seconds of Direct Hits
Warthog: 5 Seconds of Direct Hits
Wraith: 10 Seconds of Direct Hits
Spectre: 4 Seconds of Direct Hits
Scorpion: 10 Seconds of Direct Hits
Banshee: 4.5 Seconds of Direct Hits
Summary:
The all around best vehicle for teamwork. It is faster than the ghost, when
it is not boosting, and if teamwork is done right, is the proper way of
capping the flag. A great force if vehicle is fully rigged with team mates.
Note: Hold down the L-Trigger for the emergency brake. It is used for tight
cornering. Master it so that you can drive perfectly on any map. Hold down
R-trigger to trigger the horn. Be careful when using the horn, as your
enemies can also hear the horn.
And the single GREATEST improvement to Halo 2...holding down the X button. Let
me explain. In Halo 1, the warthog would definetly have to stop for you to
get on board. In Halo 2 if you get good with a partner and practice, the
warthog can be going full speed and you can still hope. Surprise your enemies
with this one!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ghost (Single man Infantry speeder)
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROF: .1 Seconds
Special Features: Speed Burst indefinetly
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Ghost: 2.5 Seconds of Direct Hits
Warthog: 3 Seconds of Direct Hits
Wraith: 7 Seconds of Direct Hits
Spectre: 2 Seconds of Direct Hits
Scorpion: 6 Seconds of Direct Hits
Banshee: 2 Seconds of Direct Hits
Summary:
Extremely effective offensive and defensive force. Outnumbered if a fully
employed warthog is opponent. Slighty faster than warthog when boosting, BUT
you cannot fire when boosting. Will definetly make TIGHT flag returns, if you
are trying to catch up to a warthog. If warthog has a gunner, most likely you
will be dead.
L-Trigger - Boost
R-Trigger - Plasma Fire
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Spectre (Covenant Version of Warthog)
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ROF: .1 Seconds
Special Features: Only vehicle to carry 4 passengers. Also Speed Bursts
indefinetly.
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Ghost: 2 Seconds
Warthog: 5 Seconds
Wraith: 10 Seconds (Only Vulnerable in certain spots)
Spectre: 4 Seconds
Scorpion: 10 Seconds (Only Vulnerable in certain spot)
Banshee: 7 Seconds
Summary:
Covenant version of the warthog. If you have the choice, take the warthog, as
it is more effective with 3 people. If you have 4 people take the Spectre.
Two people going in to get flag is way safer than just a lone person.
Otherwise Gunner in back is not as powerful as warthog. That is the deciding
factor. 3 people = warthog, 4 people = spectre. Only true for CTF games!
Special Features: Only flying vehicle. Speed Bursts and evasive maneuvering.
Shots Taken from ANY range:
Ghost: 2 Seconds of Direct Hits
Warthog: 2 Seconds of direct Hits
Wraith: 10 Seconds of Direct Hits
Spectre: 2 seconds of direct hits
Scorpion: 8 Seconds of Direct Hits
Banshee: 3 Seconds of Direct Hits
Summary:
A great way to get an aerial view of everything. Should be used for flag
captures/defensive returns, reconnaissance, and getting to areas not
accesible by foot for sniping purposes.
For Defense. Against Rocket Launcher, press A+Left, right, up or down a second
before the rocket were to hit. You will perform an evasive menuever. These
maneuvers can also be used to dodge other fire. Although the better way would
be to just boost out of the danger zone and wait for your shields to come
back.
While on the offensive, Something to keep in mind is that the control scheme
is slightly different than in the original Halo. Holding "down" on the left
analog will actually make you fall faster as opposed to being a brake. So just
keep the stick in a neutral position when diving.
When fighting Wraiths, the plasma bombs are slow as dirt, use some evasive
maneuvers to get out of the way.
The purpose of this section is to give a rating to all the DWing combinations.
The ratings are based by me and you may think different, which is fine. I
can only judge the best I can with all the different MP games I have been in.
I must stress however that dual-wielding is NOT the be all, end all solution.
Grenades teamed up with the single-handed only weapons can be very
devestating.
For the MOST part! DWing should GENERALLY be used on boards that have tight
hallways and short distances between obstructions. You will want to use
single handed weapons and grenades on the larger boards.
1.) Run the map. Know the map. Be their first and always to the overshield,
rocket launcher, sword, battle rifle, shotgun, everything. Know the map
inside and out. Halo 2 levels are designed almost perfectly to the point an
enemy will think they have you pinned down and they don't realize that you can
get behind them in a couple of seconds. You will see this alot in Ivory
Tower, Lockout, Zanzibar, etc. You will just have to find them yourself.
See maps section for general area of where items are located.
2.) If it is a team game. Partner up and STAY partnered. DO NOT stray away
unless POSITIVELY crucial. Two average players will drop one pro more times
than not. I cannot stress this enough. TRY not to be a cowboy. This IS NOT
HALO 1!!!! If two pros are partnered up, they make a force to be reckoned
with.
3.) ALWAYS RELOAD WHEN YOU ARE SAFE. You do not want to die because you
didn't reload. The most important thing is to have a full barrel at the
ready!
4.) Know this weapons compendium to the last detail. If you know how long it
will take you to reload Dual SMGs, while someone is coming after you and you
know his shields are down, drop them and switch weapons if you can, otherwise
try to melee.
5.) If the Radar is ON! PAY ATTENTION TO IT! Also of note, if you crouch
while moving, you will not show up on the enemies radar.
6.) In almost every level, there will be a good place to hide to defend the
flag in a CTF game. If you know someone is going to be there and you are
having trouble with him, get the rocket launcher, it'll put him out of the
way.
7.) Make sure you know this Weapons compendium. Every last detail will make
you that much smarter.
8.) You can now ALWAYS 2x zoom no matter which weapon you are holding. Just
click the right-thumbstick and you will enable the binoculars. A very good
way to see what is going on a little closer and also recon back to your
team-mates. As soon as you fire, zoom wil disable.
9.) If you are playing a split-screen game with a friend and wondering why the
screen is Vertical instead of Horizontal. You have to go to the Xbox dash. To
get there, first, make sure no Disc is in the drive tray. Second, if you are
inside the Xbox Live Menu, press B to back out of it. You should than be in
the Xbox Dash. You should see 4 Menu's. Memory, Music, Xbox Live and
Settings. Go into the Settings menu. Once inside look for the Menu labled
Video. Once you find it, go into the video menu. Look for the option labled
Widescreen. If you want a vertical screen have widescreen ENABLED. If you
want a horizontal screen have Widescreen DISABLED.
So, Vertical = Enabled / Horizontal = DISABLED
10.) If you hold crouch a half a second after you jump, you will be able to
jump slightly higher. One place to test and practice this skill is where
the rocket launcher is located in Ivory Tower. With a normal jump you cannot
get onto the top level. But with this special jump you don't have to head out
into the middle to get out of that tight hallway. It took me maybe 5 minutes
to master the Knee-Jump. Now I always do the knee-jump, it's like a habit.
11.) Everything has a formula, if you learn them, you will guarentee yourself
your favorite items everytime. I have decided to let everyone know what they
are. You will find them in the Xbox Live and Timing section.
12.) Stay Alive. It is more important to stay where you are needed, instead
of charging into an area like a cowboy and trying to take on the unknown.
13.) Anticipate. If you start to fire at someone and they quickly turn a
corner. Don't be so hasty. Chances are that they are already chucking
grenades into that corner they just left. Or worse they have an ambush ready
for you. Instead throw grenades into the same corner and go around the map,
to drop on them from behind. Once again, the maps that are designed in Halo 2
are AMAZING. You would be surprised how fast you can get to the other side of
where you enemy is.
This is where the paper,rock,scissors formula falls into Halo 2 Multiplayer.
You can't underestimate your opponent. You do not know what he knows. Maybe
he knows what I know and is already on his way to meet you on the other end,
or he is watching that radar if it gets silent? Trying to see where you are
coming from? Is it an ambush? These are questions that will be racing
through your mind after someone turns a corner *TOO* quickly after you engage
them. And you can't sit there longer than 3 seconds to come up with an
answer. Or does your opponent even have a plan? If he doesn't than you can
turn that corner and have a fire fight. But I don't ever like to
underestimate my opponent.
14.) The Camping sniper. In all ranked games, radar is enabled. A boon to
the sniper. If he is a crack-shot, you are in alot of trouble. You have to
get that rifle out of his hands. The only way you are going to accomplish
that is by crouch-walking. Push in the Left-thumb stick and the direction you
wish to move too. The achilles heel to the camping sniper is the radar. They
depend on it. And that sets them up for an assassination from behind. I
recently played a game like this and I barely won using this technique. The
guy was a genius sniper. And at first I thought it was a fluke, but he pulled
it off 5 times in a row, 1 shot - 1 kill. So the only way I knew I was going
to win the match was by using the crouching tiger. After I removed the sniper
rifle from his hands, he was cake in close-range combat. Six kills with two
minutes left on the clock.
15.) Against a sniper who is not as good. Shoot at him to take away his
zoom. That should even out things.
16.) A moving spot is the best hiding spot. I am not a camper, I don't like
people knowing where I am. Plus, If I was a camper, I would have to worry about
someone who also knew the crouching-tiger technique. Some people assume, the
last place you were while sniping, is where you are going to be currently.
What I would suggest is after you make the kill. Get to another good sniping
location and keep on the look out for the guy thinking they are going to flank
you, but in all reality you are very far away. Than reach out and touch
someone.
17.) In One on One matches. Be the first to get the sword. Be the first to
get the sniper if you are the long-range type. I really mean long range too.
Not just that you hope to be, but rather can kill with one hit when up close
as well. Otherwise I would suggest grabbing the Covie Carbine or Battle
Rifle.
18.) Make use of the exploding "cubes" on the maps. Some people don't
realize what they are next too. It helps out alot more often than you think.
Three hits from the battle rifle is probably the best and fastest way.
19.) Stay away from exploding "cubes". One popular spot is where the sniper
rifle is located on lock-out. If you are going to get the rifle, make sure no
one is watching you and grab it and go. I also wouldn't recommend blowing
them up. Causing a ruckus is only going to allude your enemy to know where
you are.
20.) Adapt. Fast. The only real way to learn this is to play multiplayer
a lot. Eventually, you will learn the maps like the back of your hand. Than
you have to apply that knowledge in the game. Learn there movements to the
point you know where they are going to be.
21.) Learn the trigonometry of grenades. They can finish what a bullet can't
reach.
22.) TEAMwork. If you have Xbox Live, than chances are you have the
communicator. For your team's sake, USE IT. Cooridinate with your team. Make
good friends who also like teamwork. Get a custom game together and go
through all the maps and designate names for areas.
Example: I call the tower in Zanzibar with the battle rifle on the first floor
and inviso on the second floor the "Inviso Tower." Be the extra eyes for
your team. If all of you are looking, there is NO reason why I should find
the "captured flag" yield sign appear without someone alerting me a few
seconds before. Those few seconds MATTER! So if you like to win, TALK to
your teammates, PLEASE!
23.) Do not settle for the default control scheme. There are many different
options. Play games with different settings and GIVE them a chance. Just
because it doesn't feel comfortable immediately doesn't mean it is bad.
24.) Don't be an ass. If you are extremely better than someone, show some
class. Being rude will only discourage new people from playing more. But,
that's not to say if you are evenly matched not to talk a little smack
in-game. But, always remember to have a few laughs in the lobby after a
good game. Just proper etiquette.
Here is a little secret to always get what you want, when you want. provided
of course, you get there first. ALL RANKED games have a timer ticking down,
to let you know how much time is left in a match. It is in the bottom-right
corner of the screen. Use it. All the times I am going to give you are how
long it takes for an item to appear.
USE THIS INFO WISELY! IF YOU KNOW WHEN THE OVERSHIELD IS GOING TO BE COMING
BACK AND YOU CAN'T GET THERE FAST ENOUGH, TELL YOUR TEAMMATES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I HATE BUNGIE! ALL Uber items have different times for them to appear on
different levels. Like the rocket launcher takes 40 seconds to reappear
on Zanzibar but it only take 14 seconds on Ivory Tower.
You will notice that the timing may be off by 1 to 2 seconds here and there,
that is because I wanted to round to the nearest five, as it is easier to
count that way.
Also of note, if someone has the Uber weapon, It takes a long time to get the
same weapon, unless there is more than one on the map. I.E. Ascension with two
sniper rifles. Somewhere in the range of 4-5 Minutes you'll be waiting if
your opponent doesn't drop the Uber item.
Another Note: If you are waiting for the item to vanish and you hit it with
a bullet, grenade, plasma, EVEN walk over it and not pick it up, it resets the
vanish clock. So if the sniper rifle normally vanishes in 30 seconds, you
wait 25 Seconds and fire at it, you will have to wait another 30 Seconds.
ALL WEAPONS VANISH IN 30 SECONDS! So if you don't think you will be able to
pick up the weapon hit it with a bullet or grenade to reset timer.
All the following items reappear without having to use and discard.
Magnum - 30 Seconds
Plasma Rifle - 30 Seconds
Plasma Grenades - 30 Seconds
Battle Rifle - 45 Seconds to one minute
Plasma Pistol - 30 Seconds
Frag Grendade - 30 Seconds
Covenant Carbine - 45 seconds to one minute
All the following items reappear after they have been either depleted and
discarded or left on the floor to vanish. Once again, all items vanish
in 30 seconds.
The following items are deemed Uber, in no particular order:
I have had enough, I am going to leave the last two to myself. Far to much
work just to give it all away. If you want to know what the timing is, your
going to have to find out yourself. It's not like I left you with alot of
work. It will maybe take you a half an hour.
Sorry, it's too late and my brain is starting to hurt.
Sorry guys. This area is where my FAQ may be lacking. Because I can't use
pictures I am afraid I will not be able to explain an area perfectly, leading
to misunderstandings. And the last thing I want is people E-mailing me,
asking me where "exactly" a certain place is. Rather I will just summerize
things to look out for, the weapons on the map and a little strategy.
Hopefully that will be enough. The rest will be up to you guys. Just play
multiplayer a lot and the maps will be like second-nature, knowing where
everything is.
Also, if I put down that an item is on the map, it's there, just look for it.
If you see anything like 2x or 3x, it means the item shows up 2 or 3 times
on that particular map.
Awesome one on one map. Many areas to jump down from above to surpirse the
enemy. Weapons are positioned perfectly. One of my favorite maps. In
oddball there is a ledge to hide on, the ramp that leads to the blue elevator,
there is only one real place they can attack you from and if its team oddball
your friends can protect you.
If you ever have a custom game, make king of the hill "swords only". The hill
is placed directly in the arena to have some awesome sword battles. Aside
from that this map is awesome one on one. Be sure to run the map though. If
someone gets to the sniper rifle before you, you'll be in a lot of trouble.
Listen for the launch pad by the rocket launcher, if someone takes it, you can
hear it through out the whole board, you will know where they are, and they
will know where you are. You are better off going through teleporter and
scouting sniper nest directly to the top-right. There is also a good sniping
spot located underneath the banshee platform, it is like a brace. Be careful
if you walk to far down, you will die even if there is ground to walk on.
This map is pretty fun. Learn to make it to the sword with one jump. It's
easily possible. On territories match, grab the battle rifle or the covenant
carbine, There is a place on the map where you will be able to hit all three
spots.
I hold this map in the same regard as Lock-out. As in one of my favorites.
Perfectly localized weapons and obstacles. Great ways to drop down on the
enemy from above in MANY locations. Cool spot to jump on top of an archway
beginning of entrence of the overshield. Can catch a few people off guard
and watch them try to make it up there without using the knee jump!
Slightly modified Battle creek from Halo 1. You should know where all the
items are. Awesome board though. If you work out some teamwork, you could
throw the flag either to the roof or out the window in a ctf match.
Really cool map. The bridge connecting the two opposing levels is droped in
CTF games. Listen for the Launch pad sound. Sometimes its just junk, but
most times it will be an enemy.
Really fun map. Was the one map they constantly demo'ed to get everyone
crazy about Halo 2. Listen for two different sounds. One is when the bridge
is blown to get to the sword, the other is when the gate is opened near the
flag. They are two different sounds, you will know what they are if you pay
attention to them.
In single flag ctf. Have one guy get in a ghost and stay on the outside of
the wall. Do not let him go inside the wall parameter. Get another guy to
get the sniper rifle along the walkway that leads to the inviso tower. Let
the guy with the rocket launcher take the bait and try to fire at the ghost.
Normally they are too busy to notice you aiming straight for their head.
When you get the flag, either take the route to the wheel, where the rocket
launcher is, or bring it out front, "NEXT" to the inviso tower. You want the
flag to be out in the open if someone gets droped. Because they have to stay
close to the flag, you should be able to start lacing into them from far away.
And have one guy bring the ghost around to take on multiple foes. Trust me,
it will buy you a lot of time.
There is also a part where if you drive the warthog on the gate side of the
map there are two exploding cubes you can aim at to make them explode and hurt
or kill the guy with the rocket launcher. The cubes are right next to where
the rocket launcher is spawned.
there is also a good sniping spot on top of the walkway wall.
Updated Blood Gulch map. Probably everyone's favorite map from Halo 1. A lot
of similarities, biggest changes are the boulders are now huge, and you can
hide behind them. There is a basement Level which houses a banshee. Hidden
sniper spot from Halo 1, is now a real sniper spot.
A really spectacular map. Just look up for a moment. The skyscrapers are
huge and the crane looks amazing as well. Watch out for the two billboards,
they are pretty cool (Easter Eggs?). When capping the flag in single ctf,
have a partner wait down below and when you pick it up, throw the flag out of
the window have him grab it and go up the "air vent chute" to confuse the
enemy pretty well. Than just walk the flag back to the base, without getting
seen, of course.
Giant CTF board. Fire at the ceiling with the wraith to bring down the
stalactites. A lot of good sniping spots4
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Foundation
The mysterious hidden map. I beat the game on Legendary to get this map.
Gamefaqs cheat thingie says you only need to beat it on heroic, well just
thought you would like to know it works by beating it on Legendary as well.
Foundation is sorta like Wizard from Halo 1, except the pillar in the middle
you could walk around is now very open. The sword is in the middle of the
map. The magnums are on the steps. There are four bases, good for a 4 team
ctf match. Two rocket launchers tucked away against the walls on the bottom,
turrets on top.
Well, I think my brain is fried. I just finished writing the maps and timing
section and I am wasted. It is very late now and I believe I am going to
update the FAQ tonight.
This is the LAST version. I am NO LONGER updating this FAQ. Please do not
e-mail me. If you wish to share anything or just talk and have a good game
my Gamertag is T1 Hawk.
It is gonna be kinda unfair though. I just basically slabbed my strategy
right in front for all to see and read. I wonder if everyone will be able
to anticipate my moves. Hopefully no one really good reads this, I have
a hard enough time winning, against those, without having a handicap.
If there is an error, don't tell me about it. I literally received over 400
E-mails telling me four of the same mistakes. The most common being the
warthog guass cannon one.
Thank you to those who did e-mail. It was appreciated. But I fear I don't
have the capacity to take another stab and update this FAQ. I just want to
play the game now.
For the people having problems on Legendary, two tips. 1.) The plasma pistol
is your friend, drop their shields and lay waste to them. 2.) Watch out for
the jackal snipers. They are mind-bendingly good shots, you normally have a
window of only 2 seconds to Find,Zoom,Fire or FZF for short. Other than
those two obstacles, Legendary is cake. Sort of. Little snags here and there.
Uh geez... I know somewhere I am forgetting something. I will remember it
later...not in the mood to update this FAQ though. This was the only, and
probably the last FAQ I will ever do.
ALSO!!!! If you wish to place this FAQ on whatever site you have, as long
as you give me full credit and do not sell this FAQ, place it wherever you
like. You REALLY do not have to e-mail me. Plus, I am not including my
e-mail in this FAQ so how would you get in touch with me? Hmm? Well?
Finally, I hope this FAQ helped give you the edge somewhere, somehow. That's
the power of my Teamwork. I don't have to be there to help. Heh... I am so
gone. I've lost it.
I'm still rambling. I seriously feel like I am forgetting to mention
something...
