This post was originally published in our old design. We apologise if it looks a little bit odd as a result, but feel free to let us know.

343 Industries has finally revealed Halo 4’s multiplayer mode.

The online mode has been described as faster and more intense while remaining loyal to the franchise’s gameplay style.

Customisation makes a return from Bungie’s Halo: Reach as players will be able to adapt their Spartan IV suits both aesthetically and with new abilities, allowing fans to choose something that suits their play style.

Two of the modes maps were also unveiled. Wraparound takes place on a Forerunner solar facility that produces artificial sunlight and energy for a shield world. It will also include plenty of circular catwalks and corridors.

The other map, Warehouse, is a manufacturing plant that orbits a gas giant with mech platform being the maps focal point.

343 stated that Halo 4’s maps will be designed specifically for competitive multiplayer as opposed to being lifted from the campaign and they are intended to tell a story beyond the game’s narrative. A backstory into the warring Red and Blue Spartans will also be explored in multiplayer.

The latest Halo entry will also feature a redesigned HUD, a game engine with visuals and audio that has been built from scratch and a multiplayer that contains classic Halo qualities such as medals, man cannons and gravity lifts.

“We really want to redefine that Halo multiplayer is, and make it so that it’s something that’s indisputably Halo at its core, but has evolved in important and innovative way,” said creative director Josh Holmes.

“From a gameplay standpoint it’s really about creating something that’s true to that magical Halo feel but is faster, more visceral and intense in all aspects of the combat.”

There will also be systems outside of the game’s multiplayer that will “unify the surrounding experience for multiplayer.”

Halo 4 is due out later this year exclusively for Xbox 360.