Since the start of Season 2, we’ve been working with pro players to fine tune the map Shrine, specifically in regards to Red vs. Blue balance as it pertains to spawning and line of sight discrepancies. While some Halo Championship Series pro players have had time to test out this map, we wanted to open up the final stage of testing to the rest of the HCS competitors and fans.

Here’s a detailed look at the changes that were made to balance the Red Rocks with the Blue Rocks.

We’ve taken a couple small pillars and a 1x1 Flat Block and merged them into the two rocks at the bottom of the Rock Ramp. This should make the rocks, and thus the cover and lines of sight, more symmetrical to the Blue Side.

To start, let’s take a look at the angle an opposing player would have from Red Jump Up Window. As you see below, the new tall pillar blocks some visibility into the back rocks:

Next, let’s take a look at how things have changed from the Red back rocks, looking out:

These pillars and 1x1 Flat Block will give you some added cover that is similar to what is offered in the back of Blue rocks. Specifically, the long pillar attached to the Mid Rock will add cover from the Jump Up sightline (as seen in the previous angle), and the added width of the Back Rock will help will add cover from players shooting into your rocks.

We also updated spawns on the Red side of the map to be more symmetrical to the Blue side, and their proximity to nearby rocks. Take a look how the back rock spawns, which were previously open to attack from Carbine and Jump Up, are now closer to the rock, to once again mirror Blue Rocks.

Lastly, we’ve taken measures to ensure that important sightlines and jump routes have not been blocked or impacted by these changes, such as the jump from the BR-rock to the BR area:

Overall, we expect these minor but important changes to level out Shrine for both Red and Blue sides for all game types. We’re looking to implement this new Shrine into competitive play with HCS Cup #5 on the weekend of June 6.

Here’s the schedule:

April 2015: Test map released for initial focus-group testing with pro players

Today, May 22, 2015: Map released for public testing, changes detailed

Wednesday, May 27: Final updated map released

Saturday, June 6: Map integrated into official HCS rotation

FEEDBACK

We need your feedback! Please head to the “Official HCS” file share within MCC and download the map, “Shrine April Test.” We’re confident that these changes will improve balance of the map, but we want to hear your feedback as well. After downloading the map, scrim with your team, and let us know what you think. Please note that this test variant is currently only available for testing with Slayer and CTF, but the final map will also be used for Assault, which includes an additional wall.

We’ve set up this thread in the HCS section of our forums for official feedback.

As always, you can get the latest updates on the Halo Championship Series from @Halo and HaloWaypoint.com/HCS.