CVG
343 decided to use the Halo: Reach engine for multiplayer maps in its HD remake of Combat Evolved as it allowed for "different ways to play the maps you love".
The internal Microsoft company has remained completely faithful to the original game's campaign in its re-creation, but has taken a few more liberties in multiplayer - including the introduction of Reach-style jetpacks.
Exec producer at 343 Dan Ayoub told CVG that the game's single-player would "use a hybrid: a combination of the original Halo code with our new graphics engine". However, the multiplayer is a different story:
"We're going to be taking fan favourite maps from the original and putting them into the Reach engine," he explained.
"Using the Reach engine allows us a new take - offering different ways to play the maps you love. Because now [for example] you're able to play Damnation with a whole bunch of new things, like Armour abilities, like Jetpacks all of a sudden. It's going to completely change your gameplay."
We witnessed Ayoub and other 343'ers like boss and former Bungie man Frank O'Connor play through a section of Damnation at E3 2011 last week, and when they said it looked "spectacular", it was difficult to disagree. The one-button flicking between classic Halo and the spruced-up HD world was a seamless treat - whilst Ayoub confirmed that two-player co-op would be available over Live and in split-screen.
Ayoub also gave us some insight into the classic Halo: CE weapons, including one special item in particular. "The Magnum is back," he said. "Everyone remembers this crazy over-powered pistol that was ridiculously nuts but ridiculously fun as well."
343 promised many more details about Halo: CE HD at Halofest in August, when Ayoub said "we'll be blowing the doors off" on all of its goodies.
Microsoft this week confirmed a £34.99 pricetag for the game in the UK.
http://www.computerandvideogames.com/307311/halo-ce-anniversary-gets-jetpacks-using-reach-engine-for-new-take-in-multiplayer/
