There is a feature I've wanted since the first Halo came out. It's a simple request really: I would like to be able to run. Not that "gun me down like I'm standing still" trot that's currently in the game, but an all-out run. Yes, like the one in Gears of War (I thought of this years ago, and I'm still waiting for CliffyB to thank me for the inspiration*).

This capability would have fit perfectly into the new controller scheme for Halo 3 on the Xbox 360. With the reassignment of the buttons, they opened up the X button for use with items you can pick up. So I'm thinking, if you're not carrying an item, why not use the X button to go into a full run so you can get to or from places more quickly. Like GoW, you would not be able to shoot during this time. Also like GoW, if you are holding down the X button you will have to steer solely with the left analog stick, which means no side strafing, rather you would push left/right to change the angle of your direction. As soon as you release X, your gun(s) would level off and you'd be able to shoot again.

I think this would've work well on multiple levels. First, if you can only run when not carrying an item, it would encourage the use of said items. I find myself carrying these items around and not using them because I basically forget I have them. I think as people used the items just so they could run, they would start getting more familiar with them and think about how to use them strategically. Second, there are always times in levels when you feel like you're far from the action, and by the time you get there, the battle has moved on. Third, it would encourage exploration because running long distances wouldn't feel like drudgery. Fourth, it would lower the imbalance created by camped snipers who are picking people off (granted, those people should be seeking cover, but there are inevitable times when you have to expose yourself). Finally, it would further enhance the immersion by giving you the option to do what you would do if facing superior firepower or numbers in real life, i.e. run away.

I'd also like to point out that the major telelvision commercial for the game showed the Master Chief running all-out without his weapon aimed. But we can't do this in the game. That's not fair, and I think it's a missed opportunity.

-Jason

*I never actually spoke about this idea with CliffyB, so unless he's been reading my mind, he's in the clear.