Looking at the latest pic to be revealed, showcasing the five Orbital Shock Drop Troopers of Halo 3 ODST, we can now confirm the identities of each member of the squad. While you’ll be playing as The Rookie (the all-black clad ODST seen on the box cover), you’ll be serving with a ragtag group of soldiers that evokes memories of Star Wars: Republic Commando. Comparions aside, let’s take a look at the main cast.

Dutch: Pictured in the back center, with a red chestplate, he’s the Heavy Weapons specialist of the squad. So yes, that Rocket Launcher is more than just a placement - it’s his best friend. Besides, of course, Romeo.

Romeo: The squad’s Marksman who previously served with The Rookie in the pivotal First Battle of Earth 2552 (second from left). His trademark weapon is the sniper rifle. Said to be the “wise-ass” of the squad.

Buck: Served in the same squad as The Rookie in the First Battle of Earth. Specialty unknown at this point.

Mickey: Also served in the same squad as The Rookie along with Buck and Romeo. Specialty unknown at this point.

What seems to set ODST apart from the mainstay Halo games is the shift not only in protagonist but in mood and gameplay. ODST takes a more grim, military sci-fi ambience more in tune with the popular Halo novels like Contact Harvest; it makes it’s characters incapable of duel-wielding weapon. There’s also no shielding or motion tracker, so don’t count on rushing head first into combat and clearing house. You’ll get a PDA constantly updating you on way-points along with a special visor to distinguish between friend and foe. With the varying specialties of squad members, the emphasis on tactics and strategy should be more evident than in other first person Halo titles.

Halo 3: ODST will ship before the start of Autumn exclusively for the Xbox 360.