All Generals, this is a good thing to make a thread of in your individual Squad forums so go for it.
Tip 1: The Movement of the Game
The map is your best friend.
Learn how to strafe (side stepping)
Keep shooting while you move
Use your radar
Become a phantom
Keep on moving, and don't stop unless you have to.
Learning movement is the fundamental, without this mastered you may never ever reach your full potential.
The Map Is Your Best Friend!
If you're being attacked, seek cover or put yourself in a position that makes you more difficult to kill. Simply hide behind walls, boulders, debris, or any other object to avoid being hit when an opponent is firing on you. Depressions or "bowl-shaped" areas and small enclosed spaces will make you more vulnerable to grenade attacks. Generally, you'll always want to stay away from large, open areas as you'll be very vulnerable to snipers and overall have no cover to go to.
There is no place in the Halo 2 maps that allow you to be completely protected, but knowing the type of terrain you're in with respect to where your enemy is will allow you to decide whether you should move or stay put.
Always try to stay on higher ground when attacking an opponent; it makes you more of a difficult target.
Strafing
You don't always have to look in the same direction that you're walking. Learn to use the two joysticks independently of each other so that you can walk in one direction while looking in another. Strafing, or walking sideways, gives you a huge advantage over your enemies. For example, if you are facing an opponent, you can move side to side while they are shooting at you to make yourself a more difficult target to hit. You can also use strafing to get a better "angle" around corners or objects as you approach them. Strafing can be used as the main method of being difficult to hit. Fast, random side-to-side movements will make you difficult to kill because opponents will have a hard time lining up their targeting circle with you. Strafing is especially effective when engaged in a medium-range firefight with rifles. When in an open area, random, jerky movements are about the only way to avoid sniper fire.
Shoot while you’re moving!
Making yourself a difficult target to hit is a good thing, but being able to shoot at your enemy at the same time is even better. This is something that takes practice if you haven't done it before. The main goal is to be able to squeeze the trigger and line up your targeting circle on your opponent while randomly moving at the same time. What makes it an even greater challenge is that your opponent may also be moving randomly too. Like using the two joysticks, this is just another action you'll need to learn to do independently from everything else.
Use your radar like a sixth sense!
Your radar tells you when enemies are nearby. Learn to use it like a sixth sense. Make a habit out of glancing at it every few seconds so that you're immediately aware of when an enemy is close. In fact, you can even spend extended periods of time just looking at your radar and not watching your main display if you want to track an enemy contact you've picked up on it. You can also use the radar in conjunction with your knowledge of the map terrain to predict precisely where an enemy is and anticipate when and how you will encounter them. For example, you may be standing near the corner of a hallway and notice on your radar that an enemy is closing in around the corner. The enemy may not know that you're standing there and you'll be able take advantage of them with a surprise attack, or bounce a grenade around the corner before they reach you and wear down their shields.
Become a phantom!
The radar has two weaknesses: 1) it can't pick up players who are standing still, and 2) it can't pick up players who are "crouch walking". Use these two tactics to your advantage if you don't want to be detected on the enemy's radar. If you think that an opponent is tracking you on their radar, stand still to make them think that you've been killed or have disappeared. Perform a crouch-walk by simply crouching and moving around. Crouch-walking is very close compared to normal movement, but allows you to perform stealthy maneuvers and creep up on your opponents.
Keep on Moving!
Once you've gotten used to the game controls, being able to perform all of the control functions while moving at the same time is the next step. If you keep moving, you will be more difficult to hit by your opponents, and that is important! It also allows you to move across the map more quickly by not stopping to perform some other task (switching weapons, reloading). Never, ever stop moving unless have to.
Tip 2: Basics
Master the controls
Complete the single-player Halo 2 campaign on Easy or Normal difficulty
Know the multiplayer maps
Master the controls
Knowing the controls is critical. Stopping mid-game to look down at your controller to find the blue "X" button means certain death. It will take your eyes and concentration off of the game and what's going on around you. You'll be able to react to situations during the game much more quickly if you have memorized the controls.
Play the campaign
If you haven't gone through and finished Halo 2 on one of the two easier difficulties, you should. Completing the campaign is not only fun, but it helps you practice. It's a good way of becoming familiar with the controls, and it also exposes you to a variety of combat scenarios. In the campaign you'll also learn to make do with weapons you're normally not comfortable with and different types of opponents.
Know the maps
Do you know where the rocket launcher is on Ascension? Do you know how to get to the Invisibility power-up on Zanzibar? Study the multiplayer maps so that you can spend more time focusing on your opponents and how to kill them rather than trying to remember where weapons are or how to get from point A to point B.
Remembering where the powerful weapons are is critical when you are playing against players of similar or higher skill level. Knowing the maps also allows you to use map terrain to your advantage. For example, if you pick up a sniper rifle, you'll want to be able to get to a spot where you have some long shooting lanes.
Get to know the maps by yourself by playing split-screen games on your own (you don't need more than one person to start a game). Walk through the levels by yourself and take your time to learn where things are. Unfortunately, the casual Halo 2 player who doesn't own a copy of the game will have a difficult time getting to know the maps.
Tip 3: Basic Weaponry
Once you have a good handle on how to move around in the Halo 2 environment and perform basic functions by reflex, you'll need to start being effective with the game's instruments of death.
Use the right weapon
Dual-Wielding
Grenades
Melee attacks
Plasma vs. Projectile weapons
Splash damage
Use the right weapon
Perhaps the biggest mistake of the novice Halo 2 gamer is that they bring the wrong weapon into a firefight such that their enemy has an immediate advantage. Know what each weapon does and what its effective range is. If the size of the map and its terrain cause a lot of close-encounter firefights, then it really doesn't make sense to grab the Battle Rifle or Sniper Rifle. For the most part, the range of your enemy dictates what weapon you should be using. Use the SMG, Plasma Pistol, Plasma Rifle and Magnum (or combinations of those weapons) for close-range battles. Use the Battle Rifle, Covenant Carbine, Rocket Launcher, or Brute Shot for medium-range, and the Human and Covenant Sniper rifles for long-range. Use the Shotgun only at point-blank range.
The Sub-Machine Gun (SMG) is perhaps the most common weapon in the game, so it is important to know the best time to use it. It's really only good at close range because it is fairly inaccurate. If you are at medium range or need a more accurate shot (e.g. for a head shot), use a more appropriate weapon such as a Battle Rifle or Magnum.
Dual-Wielding
Dual-wielding allows you to hold and use two guns at the same time. Only certain guns can be dual-wielded (SMG, Plasma Pistol, Plasma Rifle, Needler, and Magnum). Dual-wielding two weapons provides the distinct advantage of being able to dish out twice the number of ammo to your opponents than normal. In addition, certain dual-wielding combinations can be very lethal. There are two down-sides to dual-wielding: 1) you cannot use grenades and 2) dual-wieldable weapons are only effective at short range. Not being able to use grenades may not seem like a very big deal at first, but an opponent who can use grenades at medium range from you will be able to weaken you quickly before finishing you off. Conversely, you lose the ability to weaken opponents with grenades when you chose to dual-wield.
Grenades
Grenades can be an under-estimated weapon among novice players. They are best used to weaken opponents at a safe distance before closing in and finishing them off with a short or medium-range weapon. Use them liberally - throw them into a room that you know (or just think) has enemies in it. If someone is following you, drop one on the floor as you turn around a corner. You just never know who might be in the blast radius of a grenade, so it's always a good idea to use one.
Melee Attacks
A melee attack is a physical attack that you perform by swinging your weapon. Use a melee attack when you are at point-blank range of an enemy. Often times a couple of melee attacks at point-blank range is much more effective than trying to use your weapon - unless you are wielding a Shotgun. Melee attacks do quite a bit of damage despite what it may look like.
Plasma vs. Projectile Weapons
There is a distinct difference that human or projectile weapons have versus Covenant or plasma weapons have when they hit an opponent. Each weapon is a little different, but generally plasma weapons will wear down a player's shields quickly, but are not as effective at finishing off a player after their shields are down. Conversely, projectile weapons aren't as good at wearing down shields as they are ripping through a player after their shields are down. Plasma weapons that are good for eliminating shields include the Plasma Pistol and Plasma Rifle. Good projectile weapons for finishing off a kill are the SMG, Magnum, and Battle Rifle. Use Plasma and projectile weapons in conjunction with each other to create effective combinations.
Splash Damage
Splash damage occurs when a player is damaged or even killed by a nearby explosion that is not necessarily a direct hit. When wielding the Rocket Launcher or Brute Shot, utilize the floor, walls, and ceiling around an opponent as surfaces to fire at to cause splash damage. For example, when firing the Rocket Launcher, aim for your enemy's feet. This will guarantee an explosion nearby your opponent, even if your aim is a little off. The explosion will be big enough that you won't need a direct hit to kill them. If you aim at their head/torso, you risk missing their body completely and the rocket will trail off past them without hitting anything nearby. Also utilize exploding canisters; they do great damage on unlucky campers.
Tip 4: Offensive Fundamentals
These are some basic principles you can employ to help increase your kill/death ratio.
Wear down shields
Pick on weakened opponents
Aim at the head
Don't attack until you're ready
Control the power weapons
Camping
Wear down shields
If you can eliminate an opponent's shields, then you have a very high chance of being able to kill them. Use this fact to your advantage and focus on wearing down shields before heading in to kill someone. There are a few ways you can do this: a) grenades from a distance, a medium-range weapon (Battle Rifle, Covenant Carbine, or Brute Shot) from a distance, or c) use plasma weapons (Plasma Pistol or maybe the Plasma Rifle).
If you can focus on eliminating someone's shields while maintaining a safe distance, that is your best bet. This can be done pretty easily with grenades, a rifle, or a charged Plasma Pistol shot. Focusing on wearing down shields at closer range is more difficult, as your enemy will likely know you're there and will be counter-attacking.
Perhaps one of the most powerful weapon capabilities in Halo 2 is a charged Plasma Pistol shot. A charged Plasma Pistol shot will take down an enemy's shields in one shot - even if they are wearing an overshield. When wielding the Plasma Pistol, hold down the trigger to build up a charge, then let go to shoot a big, charged plasma bolt. The plasma will follow/track an enemy somewhat if you have aimed at someone before firing.
Pick on weakened opponents
Why try to kill someone who is at full strength when you can prey on the weak? Think of it as attacking someone who has their shields worn down, but someone else eliminated their shields for you. The advantage of doing this is obvious.
Some players out there might consider this "kill stealing". Don't feel bad about doing it - it's a perfectly legal tactic and the game doesn't prevent anyone from doing it. If someone whines about it, then they should start doing it too.
Aim at the head
When a player's shields are down, a single head shot will kill them. A sniper rifle will kill in a single head shot regardless of shields. Use this fact to your advantage: if you know that a player's shields are down then aim for their head. A more precise projectile weapon such as the Magnum or Battle Rifle will make the head easier to hit.
Don't attack until you're ready
Never start hunting until you've got a weapon setup that can support you. If all you have is an SMG, then seek out something else to compliment it, or find some grenades first. If you just start running around with the SMG and no grenades, chances are you'll come across someone else that has a better weapon or weapon combo than you do. It's possible to make do with only weaker weapons like the SMG, but only after you've mastered other game play tactics.
If your shields are down, stay put and let them re-charge before you jump back in to battle. The reason is obvious: you'll have a higher chance of surviving if you have all of your shields. A lot of novice players are too excited to start fighting again after being worn down in a firefight. When they immediately start hunting they'll run into someone with full shields and will die quickly. Take a minute to recharge and find some ammo before getting back into it.
Reload your weapon before you go back into the fight. Just like letting your shields recharge, take a moment to reload your weapon (if it requires reloading). There's nothing worse than getting back into battle, running out of bullets too early and then trying to reload while someone else is firing at you.
Control the power weapons
Power weapons are the rare weapons that make killing easy. They primarily include the Rocket Launcher, Human and Covenant Sniper Rifles, Plasma Sword, and Shotgun. All of these weapons can effectively kill in one shot.
In Halo 2, if someone is wielding a power weapon, it will not re-spawn on the map until that person drops it and nobody picks it up for some time. Therefore, if you can pick up one of these weapons then someone else can't use it against you. Controlling these weapons means that you can take away the offensive advantage from someone else. If there is only one Sniper Rifle on the map and you have it, then your enemies can't snipe you. And of course, if you are wielding one of these weapons then you have the benefit of being able to dish out death more easily.
This is where knowing the maps come in handy. At the start of a game, seek out a power weapon immediately.
Camping
Camping is when you stay put hiding in a safe spot waiting for an opponent to walk by. When they arrive, you catch them off guard and dish out a surprise attack. By camping and staying still, an enemy won't know that you're waiting there. The down side is that after being killed, your enemy will know where you're camping and might seek you out. Protected or enclosed areas are great camping and hiding spots, but those types of spots make you more vulnerable to grenades. If someone knows your camping they will take advantage of this.
Camping is sometimes considered a "dirty" tactic, but it's perfectly legal and anybody in the game can do it if they want to.
Tip 5: Defensive Strategies
Killing your opponents is only one half of winning. The other half is not dying.
Stay away from power weapons
Take a break
Don't be lured by an opponent
Keep your cool
It's ok to run
Stay away from people with power weapons
If you know that another player has a power weapon, then stay away from them unless you have a weapon that can effectively counter them. It's that simple. For example, if you see someone ahead of you that is wielding the Plasma Sword, do not engage them! The same goes for someone wielding the Rocket Launcher. Those weapons allow their wielder to kill in one shot, and you're just giving them an open invitation for your death if you approach them.
If you have a weapon that can effectively counter a power weapon, then you could engage the enemy. For example, if you have the Battle Rifle, you could attack someone wielding the Plasma Sword from a safe distance (since the Sword is only effective at close range).
Take a break
Just like when you're on offense, take a moment to let your shields recharge, reload, and find some ammunition from time to time. If someone jumps you, you want to have 100% of your resources (shields, ammo) available to fight back.
Don't be lured by an opponent
Advanced players know how to draw an opponent into a trap. One very common trap that a player can perform is the corner/grenade trap. If a player is being followed, they can go around a corner, walk a few feet, and then throw a well-timed grenade back at the corner as their stalker is rounding the corner. Don't let this happen to you: if you are following someone and they go around a corner, wait for them to throw a grenade before rounding the corner. Or, they might not stop throwing grenades - so just disengage and let them go.
There are other types of traps too, but variations on the corner/grenade trap are the most common. e.g. corner/shotgun or corner/rockets. Players may also lure you by shooting at you - wanting you to get closer so they can finish you off with a close-range weapon.
Keep your cool
Don't let an opponent **** you off so that you want revenge or go on a personal vendetta to kill them. If someone is taunting you, annoying you with sporadic fire, or keeps killing you over and over, it's likely that they're doing it on purpose to lure you to them. They'll be waiting for you because they know you'll seek them out. Keep your cool and stick to your game. Don't focus on just one guy.
Running is smart
If you get into a firefight and it's obvious that you're going to die if you stick around, then run away. Nobody's going to think you're chicken. In fact, your attacker will just be disappointed that they couldn't finish off the kill. Staying alive will take a point away from someone else trying to get kills, or if you're playing an objective game (oddball, CTF, assault, king of the hill, etc) then you'll be able to stay on the field and spend more time achieving the objective.
Tip 6: You’re Armory
Once you have a good understanding of how to work the battlefield, it will be helpful to know more effective ways of eliminating your enemy.
Good weapon combos
Melee combos
Sniping technique
Rifle technique
Needler technique
Use of the Magnum (pistol)
All of the weapon details
Good weapon combos
There is no bad weapon in Halo 2. Some weapons that appear to be very weak in one scenario actually are very strong in other scenarios. For example, the Magnum (pistol) is an absolutely lousy weapon to attack an enemy with when their shields are at full strength. But once their shields are down, the Magnum kills quickly. By itself the Magnum is weak, but when combined with another weapon it can be deadly.
Weapon combinations don't just consist of dual-wielded weapons. A weapon combination can consist of two single-wielded weapons too. There are hundreds of potential weapon combinations in the game, and it's too many to list here, but below are a few of the more popular/effective ones.
SMG + Plasma Pistol (dual-wielded). Fire a charged plasma bolt with the Plasma Pistol to eliminate an enemy's shields and then tear through them with the SMG.
SMG + Plasma Rifle (dual-wielded). Fire both weapons simultaneously for a continuous, rapid stream of plasma and bullets.
Plasma Pistol + Magnum (dual-wielded). Fire a charged plasma bolt with the Plasma Pistol to eliminate an enemy's shields and then finish them off with a single head shot from the Magnum.
Plasma Pistol + Battle Rifle. Just like the Plasma Pistol + Magnum, except this combo can be used at a slightly longer range. The Battle Rifle can kill with two shots to the torso if shields are down, so this combo is also more powerful if you can't count on getting an accurate head shot.
Sniper Rifle + Shotgun or Sniper Rifle + Sword. Allows you to prey on enemies from a distance while being able to protect yourself up close.
Generally, it's a good idea to hang on to one long or medium-range weapon together with a close-range weapon. That allows you some flexibility out on the battlefield and you can be effective in more scenarios.
Try to find other combinations that work for you. For example, using the Brute Shot to wear down an opponent from a distance can be followed up with a single Battle Rifle headshot. It's not a very conventional combo, but could be very effective.
Melee combos
Melees can be used as a primary method of attack in conjunction with other weapons. For example, you can charge an opponent while firing at them with a close-range weapon or weapon combo, then perform a melee attack at the last second as you draw close to the them. If you've worn them down enough while charging, this can be very effective.
Basic sniping technique
Sniping is a very popular aspect of Halo 2 multiplayer. Sniper rifles are very powerful and a good sniper can completely dominate the game. Sniping can be difficult without much experience though. The main reason is that the Sniper Rifle targeting circle is very small and the rifle's shot is very precise. You need to place that small targeting circle exactly on an enemy's head to get a single-shot kill. When an enemy is standing still, this is easy, but if they are moving (which they usually will be) it is very difficult. One way to deal with this is to try and "sweep" across the path of the enemy with your targeting circle and squeeze the trigger just as the targeting circle crosses over the enemy's head. This is a high-skill tactic but is often the only way to snipe a moving player. Another method is to put the targeting circle ahead of where the moving player is moving and wait for their head to cross in front of it.
The Sniper Rifle has a zoom scope that allows you to zoom in from far away - a very powerful capability for long-range shots. The disadvantage of this however is that you lose your radar when zoomed in, so you can't see enemies approaching. Make sure to zoom out from time to time so that you can see if anyone is coming. Try to have a decent close-range weapon with you while sniping so that if an enemy approaches you'll be ready to defend yourself.
Rifle technique
The Battle Rifle and Covenant Carbine are two very versatile and powerful weapons in the game, but novice players often have a difficult time using them. This is mainly because it takes somewhat of a good marksman to use them as they fire very precise shots. Generally, you just need to apply the rule of aiming at your target while moving (and while your target is moving) at a more minute level. You can also use a bit of the sniper "sweep" technique by waiting for your target to cross the path of the targeting circle. But generally, just keep the targeting circle on your target and slowly move the joysticks to accomplish this. Remember that you can zoom in with the rifles to help your aim.
If you are in a rifle firefight where you and your opponent are both using rifles, you likely won't be able to zoom as if you get hit your zoom will disappear automatically. Just try and focus on the upper torso/head while aiming, and try to strafe side-to-side as quickly and randomly as you can while shooting. This will make you more difficult to hit, but will make it more difficult to aim. Again, use the "sweep" technique to help make this easier.
With the Battle Rifle, it takes three shots to any part of a player's body to eliminate their shields. Just make that fourth shot to their head and you'll have an easy kill. It doesn't matter where those first three shots land.
Needler technique
The Needler is perhaps the least-understood weapon in the game. The Needler is really only effective when dual-wielding two of them. The Needler fires needles that explode after impacting their target. The objective is to rapidly fire as many needles into your opponent as you can, then let the explosion kill them. One needle has a very small explosion, but many needles together create a large explosion. Thus you need to get a lot of needles into your opponent at the same time for this to work. The needles track their target somewhat too, so just keep the targeting circle on the target and hold down the triggers.
All of the weapon details
Sub-Machine Gun (SMG)
What is it good for?
The SMG has been described as a "bullet hose". It has a very high rate of fire, but it is very inaccurate except for at close range. It is best used for ripping bullets into an enemy that already has their shields taken down. When two SMG’s are dual-wielded together, they can be somewhat of an effective weapon alone.
How do you use it?
Use it only at close range, otherwise it will be ineffective. Keep moving, keep firing, and keep your targeting circle on your target. Your shots will be more accurate if you use short bursts rather than continuous rapid fire. The SMG will start to rise up in the air as you fire continuously, so you'll need to compensate for this and slightly aim lower as you fire.
How do I defend against it?
The best way to defend against the SMG is to either keep your distance (since it is inaccurate at medium range or longer) or counter it with a stronger weapon or weapon combination.
Magnum (a.k.a. pistol)
What is it good for?
The pistol is great for finishing off opponents who already have their shields down with a single shot to the head. It's great for closing in on a kill after you've already been firing on a player from a distance. The Magnum is nicer for headshots at medium/close range because it has a higher rate of fire than a Battle Rifle or Sniper Rifle.
How do you use it?
Like sniping or using a rifle, draw your targeting circle on an enemy's head or sweep it across their path and then squeeze the trigger when they line up. If you can, rapidly fire the Magnum at their head to maximize your chances of getting a head shot.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your shields up if you can. If your shields are down, your only option is to move rapidly and erratically.
Battle Rifle (a.k.a. BR)
What is it good for?
It's an excellent medium range weapon. Very powerful and only takes 4-6 shots to kill someone. Great for pegging off someone who's approaching you from a distance or running around in an area that you have a good line of sight to. Keeps opponents away from you if you can get to them before they get close.
How do you use it?
Refer to the section on Rifle techniques above.
How do I defend against it?
Because the Battle Rifle is a marksman's weapon, they'll be going for precise shots. Move around rapidly and randomly to make your self a more difficult target to hit. Find cover. You'll only get a few hits to realize you're under fire, and if you don't react quickly and take cover you'll likely die.
Rocket Launcher
What is it good for?
Rockets are great for immediate and mass destruction. Use it to take out another power weapon, or a vehicle.
How do you use it?
Refer to the section on splash damage above. Aim for floors or other surfaces near your target so that they'll be damaged by the explosion - even if it's not a direct hit. Try jumping before you fire so that you can get a high angle and increase your chances of hitting the floor around your enemy.
How do I defend against it?
Run away, or stay away at long range. You can counter it with a medium/long range weapon. If you are faced with an opponent who is about to fire at you, you can attempt to jump as the rocket approaches you to try and avoid the splash damage on the floor (rarely works), or hope that they were aiming at your torso and the rocket will fly by underneath you.
Shotgun (a.k.a. shotty)
What is it good for?
The shotgun is great for single-shot kills at point-blank range. Very powerful, but not effective at all at anything else.
How do you use it?
Keep moving, and seek out close-range targets. Or, put yourself in a position to create very close encounters (e.g. camp out in a hiding spot, wait around a corner, etc). Aim for the upper torso.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your distance. If a player wielding a shotgun is charging you, run backwards while firing at them. Just keep trying to keep your distance. With some luck you'll stay out of the shotgun's effective range and you will be able to kill the attacker.
Fragmentation Grenade (a.k.a. frag grenade)
What is it good for?
Frag grenades are great for taking down shields or finishing off weakened opponents. They also can bounce off of a surface before they explode, so you can bounce them around corners or other surfaces.
How do you use it?
Throw them into groups of enemies. Throw them into rooms where you think a player (or players) is located. Introduce all of your attacks on an opponent with a grenade toss before you start shooting. Use them liberally - you never know who you're going to kill with one.
How do I defend against it?
Prevent grenade damage by engaging an enemy at close range. When you're close, they can't effectively hurt you with a grenade without hurting themselves. Otherwise, if you are hit with a grenade, seek cover immediately and do not engage your attacker, for they've already gained an advantage by weakening you.
Sniper Rifle
What is it good for?
The Sniper Rifle is great for long-distance attacks away from the thick of battle.
How do you use it?
Refer to the Sniping technique section above.
How do I defend against it?
Stay out of open areas. If you are under sniper fire, seek cover immediately and/or move rapidly and randomly.
Plasma Pistol
What is it good for?
The Plasma Pistol is great for taking down shields with a charged shot. Otherwise it is pretty much useless.
How do you use it?
Hold down the trigger, build up a full charge, aim at your target, let go of the trigger, and watch the charged bolt slam into your target. Immediately switch to a precision-shooting weapon such as a Magnum or Battle Rifle to finish the job with a quick head shot, or use it in conjunction with the SMG to rip some bullets into your enemy.
How do I defend against it?
Don't worry about avoiding the small, uncharged plasma shots. Just worry about the big charged shots. If you are lucky and see a bolt coming toward you, quickly move behind some cover (if available) or try to jump or jerk out of the way. The attacker's Plasma Pistol will overheat and become unusable temporarily after they fire the shot, so if they miss you with the charged shot you can take advantage of them while they are waiting to use the weapon again.
Plasma Rifle, Brute Plasma Rifle
What is it good for?
The Plasma Rifle provides a steady stream of plasma shots at a high rate of fire. Not as strong as a charged plasma bolt from a Plasma Pistol, but when dual-wielded with another weapon it is very effective at close range. The Brute Plasma Rifle is the same as the regular Plasma Rifle except it has a higher rate of fire.
How do you use it?
Never wield this weapon by itself. Dual-wield it with an SMG or Magnum. It'll only be effective at close range.
How do I defend against it?
There's not really a lot you can do to specifically defend against the Plasma Rifle other than to keep your distance because it is usually only effective at close range.
Covenant Carbine
What is it good for?
It's the Covenant version of the Battle Rifle. A great medium range weapon. It takes a few more shots to kill someone with the Carbine than with the Battle Rifle, but it has a faster rate of fire.
How do you use it?
See the Battle Rifle section above.
How do I defend against it?
See the Battle Rifle section above.
Needler
What is it good for?
Two dual-wielded Needlers are great in short-range situations. They'll guarantee a kill if you can plant enough needles into your opponent. A single Needler by itself isn't very effective, nor is it very effective dual-wielded with another type of weapon.
How do you use it?
See the Needler technique section above.
How do I defend against it?
You can defend against the Needler by keeping your distance since it's only really effective at close range. Otherwise the key is to keep moving. The needles travel slowly and if your movement is fast and random then the needles won't be able to find you.
Brute Shot
What is it good for?
Great for weakening or bombarding opponents with explosions from medium range. Direct hits are difficult, so splash damage is usually the key to getting a kill. Works great as a support weapon in team games when you want to weaken another team when your teammates are approaching.
How do you use it?
The grenade projectiles that fly from the Brute Shot will fall to the ground as you shoot, so aim a little higher as necessary. The projectiles will also bounce once off of a surface before exploding if they hit the surface at a shallow angle, so you can use that technique to get at enemies around corners or in an enclosed space. The Brute Shot has a high rate of semi-automatic fire, so you can send a quick burst of shots at your opponent and bombard them with a series of explosions. The clip doesn't hold much ammo though, so make the shots count. Its range is very long (you can shoot a projectile across an entire map), but it isn't very effective at long range as it becomes more difficult to aim.
How do I defend against it?
Stay away from the floor (e.g. jump in the air) or other surfaces as the attacker will likely try to rely on splash damage when using the Brute Shot. Otherwise you can try to engage the attacker at close range or long range, as the Brute Shot isn't very effective at either of those ranges.
Covenant Beam Rifle (a.k.a. covenant sniper)
What is it good for?
See the Sniper Rifle section above. The main difference between the Covenant Sniper and the human Sniper Rifle is that the Covenant Sniper has much more ammunition available. The down side is that it overheats very quickly if you shoot successive shots too quickly together.
How do you use it?
See the Sniper Rifle section above.
How do I defend against it?
See the Sniper Rifle section above.
Plasma Sword
What is it good for?
The Plasma Sword is a power weapon that is highly effective at close range. Just wait for your targeting circle to turn red and then squeeze the trigger to lock on and perform a instant lunge kill. Works great for close-quarters defense in conjunction with a medium or long-range weapon.
How do you use it?
Get close to your target, wait for your targeting circle to turn red and then squeeze the trigger to lock on and perform an instant lunge kill. If your opponents are keeping their distance from you, put the sword away and use a different weapon - otherwise you'll have no chance of even giving them a scratch. Use it like the Shotgun by camping or hiding around corners while waiting for an enemy to draw near.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your distance, period. If you get in close range of someone wielding this weapon, it's lights out for you. Stay away. At medium range you can pick off a sword-wielder with a rifle, or toss a few grenades to kill them. Don't bother tossing a grenade and then closing in for a kill, as the sword-wielding player only needs a single lock to kill you up close.
Plasma Grenades (a.k.a. sticky bomb)
What is it good for?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. The main difference between the Plasma Grenade and the Fragmentation Grenade is that the Plasma Grenade will not bounce off of hard surfaces. It also adheres to players and vehicles. Another difference is that the Plasma Grenade can instantly kill a player if the player is close enough (or is stuck with one), whereas the Fragmentation Grenade can only eliminate shields at most.
How do you use it?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. In addition, if you are skilled enough you can attempt to stick a Plasma Grenade on your opponent.
How do I defend against it?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. If you are stuck with a Plasma Grenade, try running toward your enemy. There will be a few seconds before the grenade explodes, and there's a chance that you could take out your enemy too if they get caught in the blast.
Tip 7: Teamwork
If you play in any team games, you'll need to have a strong understanding of how to work with your teammates.
Communicate
Stick together
Form strategies
Don't clump together
Cooperative weaponry
Surround thy enemy
Base defense
Base attacks
Communicate
Don't stay quiet while you play with your teammates. Talk to them. Ask questions. Give direction. Tell them what you see and what you think. Call out what weapon you're going to go for when the game starts. Let them know where you'll be at on the map. Do you see an enemy sniper somewhere? Tell your team. Do you see the opposing team's flag sitting somewhere? Tell your team. Do you see a spare power weapon lying on the ground? Tell your team.
Stick together
Never go wandering off by yourself in a team game unless you are doing so as part of a specific strategy. Being alone makes you an easy kill. The opposing team will be able to easily swarm around you and kill you. As if taking on a single opponent isn't hard enough...
Staying together also allows you to gang up on the opponent, or meet the opponent with equal force out on the field.
Form strategies
Discuss with your teammates how you will win the game. Will you try and set up a home in a certain area on the map? If attacking a base, will you split up and attack from multiple entry points? If everyone has their own idea of what they should be doing, then you won't be an effective team.
Don't clump together
Stay together, but don't stay too close together, as this just makes your entire team vulnerable to grenade and rocket attacks all at once. Your entire team could be taken out by a single rocket if you're not careful. Spread out a little bit so that you act as a single unit but aren't vulnerable at the same time.
Cooperative weaponry
Just like wielding a good combination of weapons on your own, you can also wield effective combinations among multiple players. For example, one team member can snipe from afar while another battles up close. One player could also focus on taking down shields while others finish off the kills.
Surround thy enemy
Fighting an enemy who is around you in more than one direction is more difficult than just in front of you. Use this to your advantage. Doing so makes the enemy spread out and engage single contacts, or if you've surprised them they won't know who to engage.
Base defense
In Capture the Flag (CTF) and Assault games, you'll be defending your home base against attackers. This can happen too in Team Slayer games, except the base isn't really a defined one on the map. The general idea is that bases often have more than one point of entry and you'll want to defend each of those entry points. Often times this isn't possible because there will be more entry points than people on your team.
Communication is important. Let your teammates know if you see an enemy approaching an entrance. If someone is covering that entrance, they'll appreciate the warning. If nobody is covering that entrance, then your alert will spur someone to go over and cover it.
Entry points to your base can be up close or far away. On larger maps, there are larger lanes that the enemy must go through to get to the up-close entry points. You can also focus on these larger lanes with a medium or long-range weapon to prevent access. Keep in mind though that by focusing on a larger lane you are giving up defense to an up-close entry point.
Base attacks
Again, the CTF, Assault, and sometimes Team Slayer games, you'll be attacking a base that your opponent is guarding or located in. Unless you can monopolize the power weapons and overpower the defenders, you will need to exploit the natural weakness of the defending team: the multiple entry points in to their base. Chances are that the defending team won't be covering all of the entry points. If you approach from multiple fronts, an attacker that gets in easily from a secondary entrance can flank the defenders while they are defending an attack at the main entrance.
Defenders may try to cut off access to their base by shutting down the larger lanes leading up to the base. Watch for snipers or other medium-range defenders and take them out with your own long or medium range weapons. Try and gain control of the positions where those lanes can be defended against so that your team can freely travel through them.
Conclusion
Hopefully you've been able to learn at least one new thing by reading this article. If you are a beginner or find yourself constantly losing in Halo 2 multiplayer games, then what you've read here will significantly increase your odds of winning. As with any hobby or skill, practice makes perfect. As you play more you'll be able to focus and improve on other aspects of your game play. Try to get really good at something in this article and then focus on another thing. See you on the battlefield.
I did not make this i copied it from another forum.
Tip 1: The Movement of the Game
The map is your best friend.
Learn how to strafe (side stepping)
Keep shooting while you move
Use your radar
Become a phantom
Keep on moving, and don't stop unless you have to.
Learning movement is the fundamental, without this mastered you may never ever reach your full potential.
The Map Is Your Best Friend!
If you're being attacked, seek cover or put yourself in a position that makes you more difficult to kill. Simply hide behind walls, boulders, debris, or any other object to avoid being hit when an opponent is firing on you. Depressions or "bowl-shaped" areas and small enclosed spaces will make you more vulnerable to grenade attacks. Generally, you'll always want to stay away from large, open areas as you'll be very vulnerable to snipers and overall have no cover to go to.
There is no place in the Halo 2 maps that allow you to be completely protected, but knowing the type of terrain you're in with respect to where your enemy is will allow you to decide whether you should move or stay put.
Always try to stay on higher ground when attacking an opponent; it makes you more of a difficult target.
Strafing
You don't always have to look in the same direction that you're walking. Learn to use the two joysticks independently of each other so that you can walk in one direction while looking in another. Strafing, or walking sideways, gives you a huge advantage over your enemies. For example, if you are facing an opponent, you can move side to side while they are shooting at you to make yourself a more difficult target to hit. You can also use strafing to get a better "angle" around corners or objects as you approach them. Strafing can be used as the main method of being difficult to hit. Fast, random side-to-side movements will make you difficult to kill because opponents will have a hard time lining up their targeting circle with you. Strafing is especially effective when engaged in a medium-range firefight with rifles. When in an open area, random, jerky movements are about the only way to avoid sniper fire.
Shoot while you’re moving!
Making yourself a difficult target to hit is a good thing, but being able to shoot at your enemy at the same time is even better. This is something that takes practice if you haven't done it before. The main goal is to be able to squeeze the trigger and line up your targeting circle on your opponent while randomly moving at the same time. What makes it an even greater challenge is that your opponent may also be moving randomly too. Like using the two joysticks, this is just another action you'll need to learn to do independently from everything else.
Use your radar like a sixth sense!
Your radar tells you when enemies are nearby. Learn to use it like a sixth sense. Make a habit out of glancing at it every few seconds so that you're immediately aware of when an enemy is close. In fact, you can even spend extended periods of time just looking at your radar and not watching your main display if you want to track an enemy contact you've picked up on it. You can also use the radar in conjunction with your knowledge of the map terrain to predict precisely where an enemy is and anticipate when and how you will encounter them. For example, you may be standing near the corner of a hallway and notice on your radar that an enemy is closing in around the corner. The enemy may not know that you're standing there and you'll be able take advantage of them with a surprise attack, or bounce a grenade around the corner before they reach you and wear down their shields.
Become a phantom!
The radar has two weaknesses: 1) it can't pick up players who are standing still, and 2) it can't pick up players who are "crouch walking". Use these two tactics to your advantage if you don't want to be detected on the enemy's radar. If you think that an opponent is tracking you on their radar, stand still to make them think that you've been killed or have disappeared. Perform a crouch-walk by simply crouching and moving around. Crouch-walking is very close compared to normal movement, but allows you to perform stealthy maneuvers and creep up on your opponents.
Keep on Moving!
Once you've gotten used to the game controls, being able to perform all of the control functions while moving at the same time is the next step. If you keep moving, you will be more difficult to hit by your opponents, and that is important! It also allows you to move across the map more quickly by not stopping to perform some other task (switching weapons, reloading). Never, ever stop moving unless have to.
Tip 2: Basics
Master the controls
Complete the single-player Halo 2 campaign on Easy or Normal difficulty
Know the multiplayer maps
Master the controls
Knowing the controls is critical. Stopping mid-game to look down at your controller to find the blue "X" button means certain death. It will take your eyes and concentration off of the game and what's going on around you. You'll be able to react to situations during the game much more quickly if you have memorized the controls.
Play the campaign
If you haven't gone through and finished Halo 2 on one of the two easier difficulties, you should. Completing the campaign is not only fun, but it helps you practice. It's a good way of becoming familiar with the controls, and it also exposes you to a variety of combat scenarios. In the campaign you'll also learn to make do with weapons you're normally not comfortable with and different types of opponents.
Know the maps
Do you know where the rocket launcher is on Ascension? Do you know how to get to the Invisibility power-up on Zanzibar? Study the multiplayer maps so that you can spend more time focusing on your opponents and how to kill them rather than trying to remember where weapons are or how to get from point A to point B.
Remembering where the powerful weapons are is critical when you are playing against players of similar or higher skill level. Knowing the maps also allows you to use map terrain to your advantage. For example, if you pick up a sniper rifle, you'll want to be able to get to a spot where you have some long shooting lanes.
Get to know the maps by yourself by playing split-screen games on your own (you don't need more than one person to start a game). Walk through the levels by yourself and take your time to learn where things are. Unfortunately, the casual Halo 2 player who doesn't own a copy of the game will have a difficult time getting to know the maps.
Tip 3: Basic Weaponry
Once you have a good handle on how to move around in the Halo 2 environment and perform basic functions by reflex, you'll need to start being effective with the game's instruments of death.
Use the right weapon
Dual-Wielding
Grenades
Melee attacks
Plasma vs. Projectile weapons
Splash damage
Use the right weapon
Perhaps the biggest mistake of the novice Halo 2 gamer is that they bring the wrong weapon into a firefight such that their enemy has an immediate advantage. Know what each weapon does and what its effective range is. If the size of the map and its terrain cause a lot of close-encounter firefights, then it really doesn't make sense to grab the Battle Rifle or Sniper Rifle. For the most part, the range of your enemy dictates what weapon you should be using. Use the SMG, Plasma Pistol, Plasma Rifle and Magnum (or combinations of those weapons) for close-range battles. Use the Battle Rifle, Covenant Carbine, Rocket Launcher, or Brute Shot for medium-range, and the Human and Covenant Sniper rifles for long-range. Use the Shotgun only at point-blank range.
The Sub-Machine Gun (SMG) is perhaps the most common weapon in the game, so it is important to know the best time to use it. It's really only good at close range because it is fairly inaccurate. If you are at medium range or need a more accurate shot (e.g. for a head shot), use a more appropriate weapon such as a Battle Rifle or Magnum.
Dual-Wielding
Dual-wielding allows you to hold and use two guns at the same time. Only certain guns can be dual-wielded (SMG, Plasma Pistol, Plasma Rifle, Needler, and Magnum). Dual-wielding two weapons provides the distinct advantage of being able to dish out twice the number of ammo to your opponents than normal. In addition, certain dual-wielding combinations can be very lethal. There are two down-sides to dual-wielding: 1) you cannot use grenades and 2) dual-wieldable weapons are only effective at short range. Not being able to use grenades may not seem like a very big deal at first, but an opponent who can use grenades at medium range from you will be able to weaken you quickly before finishing you off. Conversely, you lose the ability to weaken opponents with grenades when you chose to dual-wield.
Grenades
Grenades can be an under-estimated weapon among novice players. They are best used to weaken opponents at a safe distance before closing in and finishing them off with a short or medium-range weapon. Use them liberally - throw them into a room that you know (or just think) has enemies in it. If someone is following you, drop one on the floor as you turn around a corner. You just never know who might be in the blast radius of a grenade, so it's always a good idea to use one.
Melee Attacks
A melee attack is a physical attack that you perform by swinging your weapon. Use a melee attack when you are at point-blank range of an enemy. Often times a couple of melee attacks at point-blank range is much more effective than trying to use your weapon - unless you are wielding a Shotgun. Melee attacks do quite a bit of damage despite what it may look like.
Plasma vs. Projectile Weapons
There is a distinct difference that human or projectile weapons have versus Covenant or plasma weapons have when they hit an opponent. Each weapon is a little different, but generally plasma weapons will wear down a player's shields quickly, but are not as effective at finishing off a player after their shields are down. Conversely, projectile weapons aren't as good at wearing down shields as they are ripping through a player after their shields are down. Plasma weapons that are good for eliminating shields include the Plasma Pistol and Plasma Rifle. Good projectile weapons for finishing off a kill are the SMG, Magnum, and Battle Rifle. Use Plasma and projectile weapons in conjunction with each other to create effective combinations.
Splash Damage
Splash damage occurs when a player is damaged or even killed by a nearby explosion that is not necessarily a direct hit. When wielding the Rocket Launcher or Brute Shot, utilize the floor, walls, and ceiling around an opponent as surfaces to fire at to cause splash damage. For example, when firing the Rocket Launcher, aim for your enemy's feet. This will guarantee an explosion nearby your opponent, even if your aim is a little off. The explosion will be big enough that you won't need a direct hit to kill them. If you aim at their head/torso, you risk missing their body completely and the rocket will trail off past them without hitting anything nearby. Also utilize exploding canisters; they do great damage on unlucky campers.
Tip 4: Offensive Fundamentals
These are some basic principles you can employ to help increase your kill/death ratio.
Wear down shields
Pick on weakened opponents
Aim at the head
Don't attack until you're ready
Control the power weapons
Camping
Wear down shields
If you can eliminate an opponent's shields, then you have a very high chance of being able to kill them. Use this fact to your advantage and focus on wearing down shields before heading in to kill someone. There are a few ways you can do this: a) grenades from a distance, a medium-range weapon (Battle Rifle, Covenant Carbine, or Brute Shot) from a distance, or c) use plasma weapons (Plasma Pistol or maybe the Plasma Rifle).
If you can focus on eliminating someone's shields while maintaining a safe distance, that is your best bet. This can be done pretty easily with grenades, a rifle, or a charged Plasma Pistol shot. Focusing on wearing down shields at closer range is more difficult, as your enemy will likely know you're there and will be counter-attacking.
Perhaps one of the most powerful weapon capabilities in Halo 2 is a charged Plasma Pistol shot. A charged Plasma Pistol shot will take down an enemy's shields in one shot - even if they are wearing an overshield. When wielding the Plasma Pistol, hold down the trigger to build up a charge, then let go to shoot a big, charged plasma bolt. The plasma will follow/track an enemy somewhat if you have aimed at someone before firing.
Pick on weakened opponents
Why try to kill someone who is at full strength when you can prey on the weak? Think of it as attacking someone who has their shields worn down, but someone else eliminated their shields for you. The advantage of doing this is obvious.
Some players out there might consider this "kill stealing". Don't feel bad about doing it - it's a perfectly legal tactic and the game doesn't prevent anyone from doing it. If someone whines about it, then they should start doing it too.
Aim at the head
When a player's shields are down, a single head shot will kill them. A sniper rifle will kill in a single head shot regardless of shields. Use this fact to your advantage: if you know that a player's shields are down then aim for their head. A more precise projectile weapon such as the Magnum or Battle Rifle will make the head easier to hit.
Don't attack until you're ready
Never start hunting until you've got a weapon setup that can support you. If all you have is an SMG, then seek out something else to compliment it, or find some grenades first. If you just start running around with the SMG and no grenades, chances are you'll come across someone else that has a better weapon or weapon combo than you do. It's possible to make do with only weaker weapons like the SMG, but only after you've mastered other game play tactics.
If your shields are down, stay put and let them re-charge before you jump back in to battle. The reason is obvious: you'll have a higher chance of surviving if you have all of your shields. A lot of novice players are too excited to start fighting again after being worn down in a firefight. When they immediately start hunting they'll run into someone with full shields and will die quickly. Take a minute to recharge and find some ammo before getting back into it.
Reload your weapon before you go back into the fight. Just like letting your shields recharge, take a moment to reload your weapon (if it requires reloading). There's nothing worse than getting back into battle, running out of bullets too early and then trying to reload while someone else is firing at you.
Control the power weapons
Power weapons are the rare weapons that make killing easy. They primarily include the Rocket Launcher, Human and Covenant Sniper Rifles, Plasma Sword, and Shotgun. All of these weapons can effectively kill in one shot.
In Halo 2, if someone is wielding a power weapon, it will not re-spawn on the map until that person drops it and nobody picks it up for some time. Therefore, if you can pick up one of these weapons then someone else can't use it against you. Controlling these weapons means that you can take away the offensive advantage from someone else. If there is only one Sniper Rifle on the map and you have it, then your enemies can't snipe you. And of course, if you are wielding one of these weapons then you have the benefit of being able to dish out death more easily.
This is where knowing the maps come in handy. At the start of a game, seek out a power weapon immediately.
Camping
Camping is when you stay put hiding in a safe spot waiting for an opponent to walk by. When they arrive, you catch them off guard and dish out a surprise attack. By camping and staying still, an enemy won't know that you're waiting there. The down side is that after being killed, your enemy will know where you're camping and might seek you out. Protected or enclosed areas are great camping and hiding spots, but those types of spots make you more vulnerable to grenades. If someone knows your camping they will take advantage of this.
Camping is sometimes considered a "dirty" tactic, but it's perfectly legal and anybody in the game can do it if they want to.
Tip 5: Defensive Strategies
Killing your opponents is only one half of winning. The other half is not dying.
Stay away from power weapons
Take a break
Don't be lured by an opponent
Keep your cool
It's ok to run
Stay away from people with power weapons
If you know that another player has a power weapon, then stay away from them unless you have a weapon that can effectively counter them. It's that simple. For example, if you see someone ahead of you that is wielding the Plasma Sword, do not engage them! The same goes for someone wielding the Rocket Launcher. Those weapons allow their wielder to kill in one shot, and you're just giving them an open invitation for your death if you approach them.
If you have a weapon that can effectively counter a power weapon, then you could engage the enemy. For example, if you have the Battle Rifle, you could attack someone wielding the Plasma Sword from a safe distance (since the Sword is only effective at close range).
Take a break
Just like when you're on offense, take a moment to let your shields recharge, reload, and find some ammunition from time to time. If someone jumps you, you want to have 100% of your resources (shields, ammo) available to fight back.
Don't be lured by an opponent
Advanced players know how to draw an opponent into a trap. One very common trap that a player can perform is the corner/grenade trap. If a player is being followed, they can go around a corner, walk a few feet, and then throw a well-timed grenade back at the corner as their stalker is rounding the corner. Don't let this happen to you: if you are following someone and they go around a corner, wait for them to throw a grenade before rounding the corner. Or, they might not stop throwing grenades - so just disengage and let them go.
There are other types of traps too, but variations on the corner/grenade trap are the most common. e.g. corner/shotgun or corner/rockets. Players may also lure you by shooting at you - wanting you to get closer so they can finish you off with a close-range weapon.
Keep your cool
Don't let an opponent **** you off so that you want revenge or go on a personal vendetta to kill them. If someone is taunting you, annoying you with sporadic fire, or keeps killing you over and over, it's likely that they're doing it on purpose to lure you to them. They'll be waiting for you because they know you'll seek them out. Keep your cool and stick to your game. Don't focus on just one guy.
Running is smart
If you get into a firefight and it's obvious that you're going to die if you stick around, then run away. Nobody's going to think you're chicken. In fact, your attacker will just be disappointed that they couldn't finish off the kill. Staying alive will take a point away from someone else trying to get kills, or if you're playing an objective game (oddball, CTF, assault, king of the hill, etc) then you'll be able to stay on the field and spend more time achieving the objective.
Tip 6: You’re Armory
Once you have a good understanding of how to work the battlefield, it will be helpful to know more effective ways of eliminating your enemy.
Good weapon combos
Melee combos
Sniping technique
Rifle technique
Needler technique
Use of the Magnum (pistol)
All of the weapon details
Good weapon combos
There is no bad weapon in Halo 2. Some weapons that appear to be very weak in one scenario actually are very strong in other scenarios. For example, the Magnum (pistol) is an absolutely lousy weapon to attack an enemy with when their shields are at full strength. But once their shields are down, the Magnum kills quickly. By itself the Magnum is weak, but when combined with another weapon it can be deadly.
Weapon combinations don't just consist of dual-wielded weapons. A weapon combination can consist of two single-wielded weapons too. There are hundreds of potential weapon combinations in the game, and it's too many to list here, but below are a few of the more popular/effective ones.
SMG + Plasma Pistol (dual-wielded). Fire a charged plasma bolt with the Plasma Pistol to eliminate an enemy's shields and then tear through them with the SMG.
SMG + Plasma Rifle (dual-wielded). Fire both weapons simultaneously for a continuous, rapid stream of plasma and bullets.
Plasma Pistol + Magnum (dual-wielded). Fire a charged plasma bolt with the Plasma Pistol to eliminate an enemy's shields and then finish them off with a single head shot from the Magnum.
Plasma Pistol + Battle Rifle. Just like the Plasma Pistol + Magnum, except this combo can be used at a slightly longer range. The Battle Rifle can kill with two shots to the torso if shields are down, so this combo is also more powerful if you can't count on getting an accurate head shot.
Sniper Rifle + Shotgun or Sniper Rifle + Sword. Allows you to prey on enemies from a distance while being able to protect yourself up close.
Generally, it's a good idea to hang on to one long or medium-range weapon together with a close-range weapon. That allows you some flexibility out on the battlefield and you can be effective in more scenarios.
Try to find other combinations that work for you. For example, using the Brute Shot to wear down an opponent from a distance can be followed up with a single Battle Rifle headshot. It's not a very conventional combo, but could be very effective.
Melee combos
Melees can be used as a primary method of attack in conjunction with other weapons. For example, you can charge an opponent while firing at them with a close-range weapon or weapon combo, then perform a melee attack at the last second as you draw close to the them. If you've worn them down enough while charging, this can be very effective.
Basic sniping technique
Sniping is a very popular aspect of Halo 2 multiplayer. Sniper rifles are very powerful and a good sniper can completely dominate the game. Sniping can be difficult without much experience though. The main reason is that the Sniper Rifle targeting circle is very small and the rifle's shot is very precise. You need to place that small targeting circle exactly on an enemy's head to get a single-shot kill. When an enemy is standing still, this is easy, but if they are moving (which they usually will be) it is very difficult. One way to deal with this is to try and "sweep" across the path of the enemy with your targeting circle and squeeze the trigger just as the targeting circle crosses over the enemy's head. This is a high-skill tactic but is often the only way to snipe a moving player. Another method is to put the targeting circle ahead of where the moving player is moving and wait for their head to cross in front of it.
The Sniper Rifle has a zoom scope that allows you to zoom in from far away - a very powerful capability for long-range shots. The disadvantage of this however is that you lose your radar when zoomed in, so you can't see enemies approaching. Make sure to zoom out from time to time so that you can see if anyone is coming. Try to have a decent close-range weapon with you while sniping so that if an enemy approaches you'll be ready to defend yourself.
Rifle technique
The Battle Rifle and Covenant Carbine are two very versatile and powerful weapons in the game, but novice players often have a difficult time using them. This is mainly because it takes somewhat of a good marksman to use them as they fire very precise shots. Generally, you just need to apply the rule of aiming at your target while moving (and while your target is moving) at a more minute level. You can also use a bit of the sniper "sweep" technique by waiting for your target to cross the path of the targeting circle. But generally, just keep the targeting circle on your target and slowly move the joysticks to accomplish this. Remember that you can zoom in with the rifles to help your aim.
If you are in a rifle firefight where you and your opponent are both using rifles, you likely won't be able to zoom as if you get hit your zoom will disappear automatically. Just try and focus on the upper torso/head while aiming, and try to strafe side-to-side as quickly and randomly as you can while shooting. This will make you more difficult to hit, but will make it more difficult to aim. Again, use the "sweep" technique to help make this easier.
With the Battle Rifle, it takes three shots to any part of a player's body to eliminate their shields. Just make that fourth shot to their head and you'll have an easy kill. It doesn't matter where those first three shots land.
Needler technique
The Needler is perhaps the least-understood weapon in the game. The Needler is really only effective when dual-wielding two of them. The Needler fires needles that explode after impacting their target. The objective is to rapidly fire as many needles into your opponent as you can, then let the explosion kill them. One needle has a very small explosion, but many needles together create a large explosion. Thus you need to get a lot of needles into your opponent at the same time for this to work. The needles track their target somewhat too, so just keep the targeting circle on the target and hold down the triggers.
All of the weapon details
Sub-Machine Gun (SMG)
What is it good for?
The SMG has been described as a "bullet hose". It has a very high rate of fire, but it is very inaccurate except for at close range. It is best used for ripping bullets into an enemy that already has their shields taken down. When two SMG’s are dual-wielded together, they can be somewhat of an effective weapon alone.
How do you use it?
Use it only at close range, otherwise it will be ineffective. Keep moving, keep firing, and keep your targeting circle on your target. Your shots will be more accurate if you use short bursts rather than continuous rapid fire. The SMG will start to rise up in the air as you fire continuously, so you'll need to compensate for this and slightly aim lower as you fire.
How do I defend against it?
The best way to defend against the SMG is to either keep your distance (since it is inaccurate at medium range or longer) or counter it with a stronger weapon or weapon combination.
Magnum (a.k.a. pistol)
What is it good for?
The pistol is great for finishing off opponents who already have their shields down with a single shot to the head. It's great for closing in on a kill after you've already been firing on a player from a distance. The Magnum is nicer for headshots at medium/close range because it has a higher rate of fire than a Battle Rifle or Sniper Rifle.
How do you use it?
Like sniping or using a rifle, draw your targeting circle on an enemy's head or sweep it across their path and then squeeze the trigger when they line up. If you can, rapidly fire the Magnum at their head to maximize your chances of getting a head shot.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your shields up if you can. If your shields are down, your only option is to move rapidly and erratically.
Battle Rifle (a.k.a. BR)
What is it good for?
It's an excellent medium range weapon. Very powerful and only takes 4-6 shots to kill someone. Great for pegging off someone who's approaching you from a distance or running around in an area that you have a good line of sight to. Keeps opponents away from you if you can get to them before they get close.
How do you use it?
Refer to the section on Rifle techniques above.
How do I defend against it?
Because the Battle Rifle is a marksman's weapon, they'll be going for precise shots. Move around rapidly and randomly to make your self a more difficult target to hit. Find cover. You'll only get a few hits to realize you're under fire, and if you don't react quickly and take cover you'll likely die.
Rocket Launcher
What is it good for?
Rockets are great for immediate and mass destruction. Use it to take out another power weapon, or a vehicle.
How do you use it?
Refer to the section on splash damage above. Aim for floors or other surfaces near your target so that they'll be damaged by the explosion - even if it's not a direct hit. Try jumping before you fire so that you can get a high angle and increase your chances of hitting the floor around your enemy.
How do I defend against it?
Run away, or stay away at long range. You can counter it with a medium/long range weapon. If you are faced with an opponent who is about to fire at you, you can attempt to jump as the rocket approaches you to try and avoid the splash damage on the floor (rarely works), or hope that they were aiming at your torso and the rocket will fly by underneath you.
Shotgun (a.k.a. shotty)
What is it good for?
The shotgun is great for single-shot kills at point-blank range. Very powerful, but not effective at all at anything else.
How do you use it?
Keep moving, and seek out close-range targets. Or, put yourself in a position to create very close encounters (e.g. camp out in a hiding spot, wait around a corner, etc). Aim for the upper torso.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your distance. If a player wielding a shotgun is charging you, run backwards while firing at them. Just keep trying to keep your distance. With some luck you'll stay out of the shotgun's effective range and you will be able to kill the attacker.
Fragmentation Grenade (a.k.a. frag grenade)
What is it good for?
Frag grenades are great for taking down shields or finishing off weakened opponents. They also can bounce off of a surface before they explode, so you can bounce them around corners or other surfaces.
How do you use it?
Throw them into groups of enemies. Throw them into rooms where you think a player (or players) is located. Introduce all of your attacks on an opponent with a grenade toss before you start shooting. Use them liberally - you never know who you're going to kill with one.
How do I defend against it?
Prevent grenade damage by engaging an enemy at close range. When you're close, they can't effectively hurt you with a grenade without hurting themselves. Otherwise, if you are hit with a grenade, seek cover immediately and do not engage your attacker, for they've already gained an advantage by weakening you.
Sniper Rifle
What is it good for?
The Sniper Rifle is great for long-distance attacks away from the thick of battle.
How do you use it?
Refer to the Sniping technique section above.
How do I defend against it?
Stay out of open areas. If you are under sniper fire, seek cover immediately and/or move rapidly and randomly.
Plasma Pistol
What is it good for?
The Plasma Pistol is great for taking down shields with a charged shot. Otherwise it is pretty much useless.
How do you use it?
Hold down the trigger, build up a full charge, aim at your target, let go of the trigger, and watch the charged bolt slam into your target. Immediately switch to a precision-shooting weapon such as a Magnum or Battle Rifle to finish the job with a quick head shot, or use it in conjunction with the SMG to rip some bullets into your enemy.
How do I defend against it?
Don't worry about avoiding the small, uncharged plasma shots. Just worry about the big charged shots. If you are lucky and see a bolt coming toward you, quickly move behind some cover (if available) or try to jump or jerk out of the way. The attacker's Plasma Pistol will overheat and become unusable temporarily after they fire the shot, so if they miss you with the charged shot you can take advantage of them while they are waiting to use the weapon again.
Plasma Rifle, Brute Plasma Rifle
What is it good for?
The Plasma Rifle provides a steady stream of plasma shots at a high rate of fire. Not as strong as a charged plasma bolt from a Plasma Pistol, but when dual-wielded with another weapon it is very effective at close range. The Brute Plasma Rifle is the same as the regular Plasma Rifle except it has a higher rate of fire.
How do you use it?
Never wield this weapon by itself. Dual-wield it with an SMG or Magnum. It'll only be effective at close range.
How do I defend against it?
There's not really a lot you can do to specifically defend against the Plasma Rifle other than to keep your distance because it is usually only effective at close range.
Covenant Carbine
What is it good for?
It's the Covenant version of the Battle Rifle. A great medium range weapon. It takes a few more shots to kill someone with the Carbine than with the Battle Rifle, but it has a faster rate of fire.
How do you use it?
See the Battle Rifle section above.
How do I defend against it?
See the Battle Rifle section above.
Needler
What is it good for?
Two dual-wielded Needlers are great in short-range situations. They'll guarantee a kill if you can plant enough needles into your opponent. A single Needler by itself isn't very effective, nor is it very effective dual-wielded with another type of weapon.
How do you use it?
See the Needler technique section above.
How do I defend against it?
You can defend against the Needler by keeping your distance since it's only really effective at close range. Otherwise the key is to keep moving. The needles travel slowly and if your movement is fast and random then the needles won't be able to find you.
Brute Shot
What is it good for?
Great for weakening or bombarding opponents with explosions from medium range. Direct hits are difficult, so splash damage is usually the key to getting a kill. Works great as a support weapon in team games when you want to weaken another team when your teammates are approaching.
How do you use it?
The grenade projectiles that fly from the Brute Shot will fall to the ground as you shoot, so aim a little higher as necessary. The projectiles will also bounce once off of a surface before exploding if they hit the surface at a shallow angle, so you can use that technique to get at enemies around corners or in an enclosed space. The Brute Shot has a high rate of semi-automatic fire, so you can send a quick burst of shots at your opponent and bombard them with a series of explosions. The clip doesn't hold much ammo though, so make the shots count. Its range is very long (you can shoot a projectile across an entire map), but it isn't very effective at long range as it becomes more difficult to aim.
How do I defend against it?
Stay away from the floor (e.g. jump in the air) or other surfaces as the attacker will likely try to rely on splash damage when using the Brute Shot. Otherwise you can try to engage the attacker at close range or long range, as the Brute Shot isn't very effective at either of those ranges.
Covenant Beam Rifle (a.k.a. covenant sniper)
What is it good for?
See the Sniper Rifle section above. The main difference between the Covenant Sniper and the human Sniper Rifle is that the Covenant Sniper has much more ammunition available. The down side is that it overheats very quickly if you shoot successive shots too quickly together.
How do you use it?
See the Sniper Rifle section above.
How do I defend against it?
See the Sniper Rifle section above.
Plasma Sword
What is it good for?
The Plasma Sword is a power weapon that is highly effective at close range. Just wait for your targeting circle to turn red and then squeeze the trigger to lock on and perform a instant lunge kill. Works great for close-quarters defense in conjunction with a medium or long-range weapon.
How do you use it?
Get close to your target, wait for your targeting circle to turn red and then squeeze the trigger to lock on and perform an instant lunge kill. If your opponents are keeping their distance from you, put the sword away and use a different weapon - otherwise you'll have no chance of even giving them a scratch. Use it like the Shotgun by camping or hiding around corners while waiting for an enemy to draw near.
How do I defend against it?
Keep your distance, period. If you get in close range of someone wielding this weapon, it's lights out for you. Stay away. At medium range you can pick off a sword-wielder with a rifle, or toss a few grenades to kill them. Don't bother tossing a grenade and then closing in for a kill, as the sword-wielding player only needs a single lock to kill you up close.
Plasma Grenades (a.k.a. sticky bomb)
What is it good for?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. The main difference between the Plasma Grenade and the Fragmentation Grenade is that the Plasma Grenade will not bounce off of hard surfaces. It also adheres to players and vehicles. Another difference is that the Plasma Grenade can instantly kill a player if the player is close enough (or is stuck with one), whereas the Fragmentation Grenade can only eliminate shields at most.
How do you use it?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. In addition, if you are skilled enough you can attempt to stick a Plasma Grenade on your opponent.
How do I defend against it?
See the Fragmentation Grenade section above. If you are stuck with a Plasma Grenade, try running toward your enemy. There will be a few seconds before the grenade explodes, and there's a chance that you could take out your enemy too if they get caught in the blast.
Tip 7: Teamwork
If you play in any team games, you'll need to have a strong understanding of how to work with your teammates.
Communicate
Stick together
Form strategies
Don't clump together
Cooperative weaponry
Surround thy enemy
Base defense
Base attacks
Communicate
Don't stay quiet while you play with your teammates. Talk to them. Ask questions. Give direction. Tell them what you see and what you think. Call out what weapon you're going to go for when the game starts. Let them know where you'll be at on the map. Do you see an enemy sniper somewhere? Tell your team. Do you see the opposing team's flag sitting somewhere? Tell your team. Do you see a spare power weapon lying on the ground? Tell your team.
Stick together
Never go wandering off by yourself in a team game unless you are doing so as part of a specific strategy. Being alone makes you an easy kill. The opposing team will be able to easily swarm around you and kill you. As if taking on a single opponent isn't hard enough...
Staying together also allows you to gang up on the opponent, or meet the opponent with equal force out on the field.
Form strategies
Discuss with your teammates how you will win the game. Will you try and set up a home in a certain area on the map? If attacking a base, will you split up and attack from multiple entry points? If everyone has their own idea of what they should be doing, then you won't be an effective team.
Don't clump together
Stay together, but don't stay too close together, as this just makes your entire team vulnerable to grenade and rocket attacks all at once. Your entire team could be taken out by a single rocket if you're not careful. Spread out a little bit so that you act as a single unit but aren't vulnerable at the same time.
Cooperative weaponry
Just like wielding a good combination of weapons on your own, you can also wield effective combinations among multiple players. For example, one team member can snipe from afar while another battles up close. One player could also focus on taking down shields while others finish off the kills.
Surround thy enemy
Fighting an enemy who is around you in more than one direction is more difficult than just in front of you. Use this to your advantage. Doing so makes the enemy spread out and engage single contacts, or if you've surprised them they won't know who to engage.
Base defense
In Capture the Flag (CTF) and Assault games, you'll be defending your home base against attackers. This can happen too in Team Slayer games, except the base isn't really a defined one on the map. The general idea is that bases often have more than one point of entry and you'll want to defend each of those entry points. Often times this isn't possible because there will be more entry points than people on your team.
Communication is important. Let your teammates know if you see an enemy approaching an entrance. If someone is covering that entrance, they'll appreciate the warning. If nobody is covering that entrance, then your alert will spur someone to go over and cover it.
Entry points to your base can be up close or far away. On larger maps, there are larger lanes that the enemy must go through to get to the up-close entry points. You can also focus on these larger lanes with a medium or long-range weapon to prevent access. Keep in mind though that by focusing on a larger lane you are giving up defense to an up-close entry point.
Base attacks
Again, the CTF, Assault, and sometimes Team Slayer games, you'll be attacking a base that your opponent is guarding or located in. Unless you can monopolize the power weapons and overpower the defenders, you will need to exploit the natural weakness of the defending team: the multiple entry points in to their base. Chances are that the defending team won't be covering all of the entry points. If you approach from multiple fronts, an attacker that gets in easily from a secondary entrance can flank the defenders while they are defending an attack at the main entrance.
Defenders may try to cut off access to their base by shutting down the larger lanes leading up to the base. Watch for snipers or other medium-range defenders and take them out with your own long or medium range weapons. Try and gain control of the positions where those lanes can be defended against so that your team can freely travel through them.
Conclusion
Hopefully you've been able to learn at least one new thing by reading this article. If you are a beginner or find yourself constantly losing in Halo 2 multiplayer games, then what you've read here will significantly increase your odds of winning. As with any hobby or skill, practice makes perfect. As you play more you'll be able to focus and improve on other aspects of your game play. Try to get really good at something in this article and then focus on another thing. See you on the battlefield.
I did not make this i copied it from another forum.
