'Halo 5: Guardians' updates: Multiplayer beta to bring newer maps, weapons and modes until Jan. 18

"Halo" fans will wrap 2014 with a nice set of goodies tied in a bow. Owners of "The Master Chief Collection" are now able to play the multiplayer beta for 343 Industries' latest project, "Halo 5: Guardians." It will run up to Jan. 18.

Halo 5: Guardians Facebook

According to Gotta Be Mobile, there are seven brand-new maps, two of which were unveiled in the developer's documentary. As weeks unfurl, newer maps, weapons, modes, and a new Competitive Skill Rating (CSR) system will be put up. Progress of gamers in the multiplayer beta will be carried over to the final version of the game. 

Gamerant believes that these goodies are an "apology" to the setbacks "Halo: The Master Chief Collection" has brought to its players. However, everyone hopes that 343 Industries will fully make it up in the form of the hyped up game, "Halo 5: Guardians," which will be unveiled in fall next year. The installment will continue on with the tales of Master Chief. "Halo 5: Guardians" will bring in a new character in the ever-chaotic galaxy. In a freshly released gameplay video, the weapons are noticeably not as alien-looking as how they were in the previous titles. The gameplay is all for the arena, which many think to be a good move done by 343 Industries.

"Halo 5: Guardians" is now available for pre-order. There are three unique versions of the upcoming game along with corresponding bonuses. First is the Standard Edition, where players can score a copy of the game and get an exclusive poster. This is priced at $59.99. The Limited Edition, on the other hand, gives all of those in Standard Edition along with pristine digital content that facilitate better Spartan combat. Also, users who choose this variant will get "exclusive items wrapped in a uniquely designed steel book." This is for the taking for $99.99. Lastly, there is the Limited Collector's Edition. Everything in Limited Edition is included here as well as a "commemorative numbered statue designed by 343 Industries." Details about its build are yet to be revealed but its value is already determined at $299.99.

News
Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds
Almost half of UK adults plan to attend church this Christmas, new poll finds

Churches across the UK are expecting fuller pews this Christmas, as new research suggests a significant rise in the number of people planning to attend services and church-run events over the festive season.

ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial
ACNA panel recommends archbishop stand trial

The Board of Inquiry issued a short statement on Friday stating that there was “probable cause to present” ACNA Archbishop Steve Wood “for trial for violation of Canon 2 of this Title.”

Controversial US bishop to give BBC Christmas message
Controversial US bishop to give BBC Christmas message

The BBC has invited Bishop Mariann Budde, the US bishop who challenged President Donald Trump at an inauguration service in January, to give a Christmas message.

Australian church leaders stand in solidarity with Jewish community after Bondi Beach terrorist attack
Australian church leaders stand in solidarity with Jewish community after Bondi Beach terrorist attack

Christian leaders in Australia have expressed their solidarity with the country's grief-stricken Jewish community after a deadly terrorist attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney on Sunday night.