This first-person shooter places players in the war-torn streets of New Mombasa, a Kenyan port city under siege by the Covenant. Released in 2009, it's available on Xbox 360, PC (Microsoft Windows), and Xbox One. You step into the boots of "The Rookie," an Orbital Drop Shock Trooper, tasked with uncovering the truth behind the alien invasion. The narrative unfolds in the aftermath of a slipspace jump by the Prophet of Regret, following the events of a specific level in Halo 2. As part of an elite squad of ODSTs, you'll navigate the devastated city, evading enemy forces and working to complete a critical, top-secret mission.

The core gameplay loop centers on tactical combat, exploration of a ruined urban environment, and piecing together the story through the Rookie's experiences. Players will engage in intense firefights utilizing a range of weaponry and tactical abilities unique to the ODSTs. The game emphasizes atmosphere and storytelling, offering a different perspective on the larger conflict within the Halo universe.

The Story and Setting

The game's narrative is set during the Covenant invasion of Earth, specifically focusing on the events in New Mombasa. Players experience the chaos and destruction of the city through the eyes of an ODST, an elite soldier specializing in orbital drops. The story is told in a non-linear fashion, with the Rookie recalling events as he searches for his scattered squad members. This fragmented storytelling approach contributes to the game's atmosphere of mystery and desperation as players uncover clues about the invasion and their mission.

A New Perspective on War

One of the defining aspects of this title is its departure from the traditional Spartan super-soldier narrative. Players control an ODST, a more grounded and vulnerable operative. This shift in perspective allows for a focus on survival, tactical engagement, and the human element of the conflict. The urban environment of New Mombasa, rendered in detail, provides a distinct backdrop for the action, emphasizing the impact of the invasion on civilian areas.

Core Gameplay Mechanics

As a shooter, the game features familiar mechanics such as aiming down sights, weapon management, and grenade usage. However, the ODSTs possess unique abilities that influence combat. The Rookie's Vision Mode is a key mechanic, allowing players to see through walls and detect enemies, providing a tactical advantage in the dark and ruined cityscapes. This mode also highlights interactive elements and mission objectives, aiding in navigation and puzzle-solving.

Additional Content and Modes

Beyond the main campaign, this game offers significant replayability through its multiplayer components. It includes the complete collection of maps from Halo 3 multiplayer, along with three new battlefields. A standout feature is the cooperative Firefight mode. In Firefight, up to four players team up to defend against increasingly challenging waves of Covenant enemies. This mode provides a distinct cooperative challenge, focusing on survival and teamwork against overwhelming odds.

The Story and Setting

A New Perspective on War

Core Gameplay Mechanics

Additional Content and Modes

Game Information

Type: Main Game

Release Year: 2009

Platforms: Xbox 360, PC (Microsoft Windows), Xbox One

Genres: Shooter

DLCs: 0

Expansions: 0

Remakes: 0

Remasters: 0