'Halo Wars 2' officially launches open beta; gameplay, Blitz mode tutorial revealed

 

(YouTube/Xbox)A screenshot from a "Halo Wars 2" trailer

"Halo Wars 2" will be getting a new real-time strategy (RTS) twist. Will it meet the standards set by its predecessor?

The newest "Halo Wars 2" footage comes with a whopping 20-minute gameplay demonstration. It also comes off as a tutorial for the new Blitz game mode. This gives players an opportunity to see for themselves what is in store for the sequel.

The tutorial and the gameplay tease are a good way to hype the release of "Halo Wars 2," which is a month away from hitting the shelves. Blitz will be changing the fundamental mechanics of the game, adding more thrill to the its standard play.

Blitz is a card-based mode introduced in the game. According to Game Rant, matches on Blitz mode focus on fast-paced battles and holding control points on the map. This means the game streamlines base building, skill trees and resource gathering.

Traditional base-building is replaced with card gathering. A pre-made deck based on a specific leader and playstyle forces players to adjust on-the-fly. Resource gathering is also replaced with an energy system, meaning players need to replenish energy before utilizing a certain card.

This certainly adds a new sense of thrill in tactics-based RTS. The card mode will allow players to execute tactics more efficiently and focus on battles. This means an aspect of the classic "Halo" games is retained for players to enjoy.

Meanwhile, the video courtesy of the HALO YouTube channel has a demonstration for the mode. The video has James Cutter from the ship Spirit of the Fire. Cutter's deck specializes on orbital support and specialist units.

Players go over the core mechanics in the tutorial such as energy collection, capturing nodes and card basics. Gamers can find the gameplay straightforward as some cards already have special keywords on them.

Fans who want to try the game can access the open beta until Jan. 30. Players who participate in the beta can earn additional card packs in the main game. The game will debut on Feb. 21, 2017 for the Windows 10 and Xbox One.

YouTube/Xbox

 

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