Short, but sweet

I enjoyed the single player mode in ODST more than Halo 3. At least, what there was of it. The flashback missions were awesome. You get a variety of weapons and vehicles. However, the Mombasa streets level, where you play as "The Rookie" were far too dark and repetitive. In many places, I could barely see where I was going. That would be fine for a minute or two, but considering you are in the streets for roughly half the game, it made it less enjoyable. Furthermore, you encounter the same enemies in seemingly inconvenient times.

Though the streets levels were not that great, as I mentioned previously, the flashback levels were great. You fight all of enemies and use all the vehicles, from Halo 3. The only problem is that each level is fairly short. Even on solo Legendary, you can complete many of the levels in 1/2 hour. If you are with your friends, your time will be even shorter.

As you know, ODST comes with the remarkable Firefight mode. This is the ultimate experience for those with friends who have this game (there is no matchmaking). It is much more enjoyable and accessible than GOW2's Horde mode. Casual and Hardcore gamers will equally enjoy this mode. In addition, it is easier to earn the individual Firefight level achievements.

Speaking of achievements, achievement "wh--es" will love this game!. It is extremely easy to go back and earn achievements once the game is beaten as you can pick any level to replay. Beat the game and go back to collect all of the audiologs for an easy 125 gamerpoints. Beat the game on Legendary (which I recommend for anyone who is decent at Halo), and earn 300 gamerpoints. It even includes 75 points towards Halo 3, with three new skulls to discover.

Overall, I think ODST is a strong game. I would have given it 5 stars if it were a little longer, and the Mombasa Streets level was less repetitive. Any fan of Halo, or even shooters, must check this game out!