2004 promises to be a big year for game sequels. But how often do we see a good sequel? Bungie, for one, seems to be determined to bring the Halo 2 multiplayer into the spotlight of this year's show. I'll skip the usual boring introductions about how splendid the original was, and just stick to the main facts about what players might expect from the Halo 2 MP.

And lo, the Ghost topples the Warthog!

Sir, I think we've missed them, about two lagoons back.

There are several crucial aspects of the Halo 2 multiplayer which we felt were important to emphasize here. Weapon handling, map design, physics, multiplayer modes and visual improvements. To get one thing straight right away, the bunch of screenshots you see here show but a small part of what was unveiled of the game so far. Considering the hardware limitations of the Xbox (well, compared to PC hardware at least), Halo 2 MP looks pretty good and actually much better than its predecessor. The game has obviously improved both visually and in terms of physics. Although Bungie is reducing certain visual features such as textures and bump-mapping in order to ensure a more solid frame-rate during MP matches, the game still boasts many enhancements. For starters, players can now use effects like increased vehicle damage to overcome enemies in Warthogs or Covenant Ghosts - the Warthog, for instance, can be damaged or disabled by shooting out its tires or firing at its engine. Destructible objects also play an important role in the game. The newly improved damage model now makes it easier for players to topple rivaling sentries posted on walls or balconies. Just aim the Rocket Launcher straight at the wall or balcony and watch them crumble (provided, of course, their surface was previously weakened by explosions or gunfire). This element guarantees a serious boost to the gameplay intensity as well as the combat tactics which your team must use as it marches across the battlefield.

Thus far we know for certain the Halo 2 multiplayer will include a standard Capture the Flag mode. Currently, a single map was revealed, called Zanzabar which pits two teams (one Human and one Covenant) in a fierce battle where players can enjoy playing in either defensive or offensive role. The rules are simple: one side needs to nab the flag and return it to their default spawn point. Being on either side has its numerous disadvantages and advantages. The defending team is required to keep an eye on the enemy's oncoming assault force, placing snipers and guards on various points across the defensive perimeters. Naturally, if you're part of the onslaught team, you'll have to devise a swift and tactful approach towards the enemy's positions, using a Warthog and two Ghosts that remain at your disposal. Fighting on this map appears to revolve around a rather tight area, although that still doesn't ruin the experience. In fact, every hot spot (or meeting point) on the map was designed so players can make the most out of the environment.

Hey, get off the hood! I just waxed the damn thing!

A Covenant gazing at its future pray...

The game seems fairly straightforward as a FPS multiplayer should be. As far as weapons go, the main innovation in Halo 2 is the much welcomed dual-wielding feature. The option has two drawbacks though - one, you cannot throw grenades while holding two weapons in each hand; two, there's no way you can use a Rocket Launcher and a Machine Gun at the same time. Yep, I agree, this would definitely be overdoing it. Anyhow, the good news is that you are allowed to create havoc by wielding a Plasma Rifle and Machine Gun simultaneously (that's just one example, naturally). The controls are simple, once you pick up a second weapon -- by using the 'Y' on your gamepad -- the right trigger will automatically be used for firing the weapon in your right hand, while the left trigger is used for firing the weapon in your left hand. (Intuitive, no? - Ed) In contrast, picking up weapons with the 'X' button allows you to wield a single weapon at a time and hurl grenades as usual. Next to these new gameplay supplements, the arsenal is pretty standard - Rocket Launcher, Assault Gun, Mounted Machine Gun, SMG, Sniper Rifle, Needler, Shotgun, Sticky Grenade, Frag Grenade, and more useful weapons which remain uncovered for the present.

That's all for now folks. Bungie was quick to inform us of the game's release date which now stands as November 9th, 2004 (Woohoo!). We hope to have more on the game as the show unfolds, so we'll just leave you to enjoy the images.