Well, before Infinity Ward had its say, anyway.

This is all about fast, skilful play and mastery of the maps and weapons.

Battles can be extremely hectic, and can quickly swing to tactical chess matches in certain game modes.

So, whats new to the world ofHalo, and does it work?

Well, I should first start with the player, and the tools made available.

These loadouts start you with set weapons and armour ability.

These abilities, replacingHalo3s equipment pickups, include jetpacks, invisibility cloaks, a speed boost and a shield.

Each ability uses power, which drains during use, but this recharges when your abilities are dormant.

The abilities do need some work in my opinion, though.

Boomsticks

Some of the weapons on offer are surprisingly different from previousHalooutings, and others are very familiar.

Other returning weapons may not sound as inviting.

The much-hated Battle Rifle makes returns, this time called the Designated Marksman Rifle.

The new human grenade launcher is a definite highlight, and is able to launch explosive death.

The Needlers bigger, badder brother is present in the form of the Needle Rifle.

This fires more slowly than the Needler, but is far more accurate, and includes a scope.

Perhaps the most sought after weapon in the beta, however, has to be the new Focus Rifle.

This is a powerful and borderline ridiculous weapon.

Powerhouse is one is an open map with several indoor areas.

Used for the betas flag-based modes, its a well balanced map that caters to different playing styles.

Stockpile is an odd one that takes CTF in a new direction.

Headhunter is, no doubt, going to be one of the most played modes.

In this players collect skulls from fallen enemies, and have to deliver them to a goal to score.

Multiple skulls can be carried at once, but other players can see how many you have.

This can be replenished by picking upHalo1-style med kits strewn around the maps.

This applies if someone is using it near you, or youre using the camo yourself.

The aforementioned assassinations are a new way to humiliate foes.

The beta will run from 3rd-19th of May, so thats plenty of time to get your fix ofHalo.