Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn - Episode 3 review

One of the more worthwhile aspects of Microsoft's Forward Unto Dawn series is that it doesn't just incorporate, but actually exposes new facets of Halo lore. For instance, it's a timely reminder that seven feet tall, sword-wielding crocodile-gorillas from outer space can be scary.

Getting players to raise an eyebrow at the enemies has been one of 343's major challenges with Halo 4, hence the introduction of the new Promethean faction. Forward Unto Dawn manages something similar by showcasing the threat from the perspective of some unarmed, unprepared striplings.

The result, pleasingly, is that your responses are split. On the one hand, you're thinking "That Elite's standing way out of cover - let's knock his shield down with a Battle Rifle, then get over there and elbow his face off". On the other, you're thinking "RUN, LASKY RUN". Never has Tom Green's bug-eyed default expression seemed more appropriate to the circumstances. I'm really looking forward to his first brush with the Grunts... not to mention Master Chief, who gets his first cameo in this episode, hinting at mighty deeds to come.

Episode 3 begins in low-key style, with Lasky recovering from last episode's concluding bout of heroics. Things get lively in the final third, however, and predictably, differences among the members of Hastati Squad are soon forgotten. Lasky's rival Vickers even manages to tip him a respectful nod at one point. The carnage has a dramatic effect on Sergeant Orenki's vocals - there's no time to be growly when you're squaring off with a batch of Covenant cruisers.

All in all, it's the usual well-executed popcorn fodder but with rather more zip. The framing narrative is heating up, too - Cortana's long spell aboard the Forward Unto Dawn continues to take its toll on her sanity. Question for the thread: how do you kill a Rampant AI?