Sounds like 343 has evolved the franchise in a lot of way, and while it might not be to everyone's taste it is probably what's needed to keep this series alive and continuing to be the one force to be reckoned with in the Xbox first party line up. 343 needs to make this series their own and not just be Bungie re-born and they seem to be doing that, and getting very good reviews at the same time.
“The fundamental cause of the trouble is that in the modern world the stupid are cocksure while the intelligent are full of doubt.” - Bertrand Russell
"When the power of love overcomes the love of power, the world will know peace."
Jimi Hendrix