Bull Pen #1

Welcome to the Bull Pen!

RagingBull88’s newly started blog thanks to fine efforts of the 2old2play folks.

In this inaugural edition, I would like to point out what I will attempt to put in this blog. It probably will not be updated daily, for your own sanity and protection, but I hopefully will entertain and enlighten with the updates I do give. I hope to add stuff about some of my custom gametypes, the wonderful clan I am in (Old Men Mafia), some commentary on Halo 2 online games that I have played, and some random topics that will make sense later.

Checkered Flag is a custom gametype that I set up over this past weekend and have played a single time. However, that single game was enough to convince me that it was a keeper. Basically, Checkered Flag is set up as such:

2 teams (preferably of 4 to 6 per side although 7 and 8 can be used with discretion)

Neutral Flag

Maps: Coagulation (Best) or Coagulation

Flag Indicator: Always On

Flag Carrier: Moves Slow

Flag Operation: Can drive and use turrets

Weapons: Brute Shots and Battle Rifles (BR’s are discretionary)

Shields: Normal

Motion Sensor: On

Time Limit: 10 Minutes

Score: First to 5

Respawn Time: 3 Seconds

Vehicles: 2 Warthogs on map and that is it

Turrets: On

Sudden Death: On

The idea for this game type was born out of wondering what it would be like if you wanted a high action objective game where the relationship between a driver and a gunner was paramount over certain other skills but you needed some sense of strategy in order to win the game. Basically, it is a race game at its heart, designed to appeal to those who find that out-driving (and in this case, outgunning) your opponent to the victory (hence, Checkered Flag) gives them great pleasure. It played pretty well with the whole 10 minutes being used up to get that 5^th decisive score. Losing a warthog does put one at a disadvantage but it can be overcome by the right teamwork and planning for when the warthog does respawn.

Someday, I can envision a round robin style tournament where race teams are formed to compete in Checkered Flag. However, that day has not arrived and for now I must be content to try it out on fellow clan mates and those of you in 2old2play who have also hooked up with me or others in the clan. Get your racing gloves and get ready to race for that Checkered Flag.