This downloadable content pack, released on July 5, 2005, for the Xbox, functions as an expansion for Halo 2. It was developed by Bungie and published by Microsoft Game Studios. This add-on is not a standalone experience and requires the base game, Halo 2, to be played. Its primary purpose is to enhance the multiplayer offerings, particularly for players without consistent access to Xbox Live.

What New Content Does This Pack Offer?

The core of this downloadable content lies in its collection of nine new multiplayer maps. These maps provide fresh arenas for players to engage in combat, offering diverse layouts and tactical opportunities. The included maps are: Containment, Warlock, Turf, Sanctuary, Gemini, Relic, Elongation, Terminal, and Backwash.

Beyond the new maps, the pack also includes an auto-update for Halo 2. This update brings the game to its latest version and incorporates cheating countermeasures, alongside all previously released updates for Xbox Live functionality. This aims to ensure a more stable and fair multiplayer environment.

In terms of scope, this content pack is focused entirely on expanding the multiplayer aspect of the base game. It does not introduce new story elements or characters. The quality of the maps is consistent with the established standard of the parent game.

What is the Core Gameplay Experience?

The gameplay remains centered around the established first-person shooter mechanics of Halo 2. Players engage in team-based or free-for-all combat across various objective-based modes or simple deathmatches. The addition of new maps directly impacts the strategic depth and replayability of these modes, offering new flanking routes, cover points, and engagement distances.

Are There Any Other Additions?

This specific downloadable content pack does not feature any further DLCs, expansions, remakes, or remasters. Its content is limited to the nine multiplayer maps and the system updates mentioned.