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"Rockout" is a popular user-created mode of player versus player multiplayer combat specific to the Bungie/Microsoft video game, Halo 2.

Genesis & Rules of Play


This particular Deathmatch variant comports with the ikebana-inspired hallmark of level design trio Hald0com Retrofits; colorful, simple and replete with references to scalene triangles. The first of Hald0com's module series, it may be considered the spiritual sister variant of Twin Vipers and The Gentlemen's Match-- played in succession, they are meant to evoke a sublimely balanced gameplay experience reminiscent of the Kybalion.

It is played exclusively with the following conditions in effect:

* The game must be played on the map Lockout; included in the original Halo 2 multiplayer map pack. This is essential in contributing to the name "Rockout's" status as a hilarious rhyming pun.
* All weapons, including but not limited to pick-ups and starting weapons, must be set to "Rocket Launchers."
* Radar must be turned to the "Off" position.
* The maximum score must be set to at least five-and-twenty (25). Fifty (50) may also be chosen at the configurer's discretion.
* The employment of two (2) televisions is recommended, though unnecessary. The confined conflagration that ensues on merely one moderately sized television simply adds to Rockout's exciting nature.
* Every man (or woman) is for him (or her) self. In this regard, players are encouraged to engage in brief self-examination through the lens of Cartesian metaphysics to augment their competitive zeal.
* No Covenant Elite allowed. All must adopt Spartan personae.
* Each individual must choose an outrageous, colorful armor hue. Acceptable choices include:
** Salmon
** Green
** White
* Each individual must have a tall glass of water at hand.
* A disinterested party configures the server, and gameplay may begin.
* Camping is strictly prohibited. Players may want said disinterested party act as "referee" for the proceedings.

Emerging Victorious

"Lockout" is a map with relatively condensed surface area. However, it is also a veritable Golgi apparatus of niches, intersecting ramps, and environmental traps. One must be on one's guard at all times, constantly checking all directions for high-velocity flying explosives. Remember, one hit will kill one before one may have a chance to react.

Players are encouraged to think as an individual with little to no regard for his fellow players. A certain degree of mathematical calculations are also required to execute tricky angled shots through the complex architecture that comprises the Lockout map.

The sharp, angular nature of Lockout, paired with the straight trajectory of the ever-present rocket fire, most readily betray Hald0com's obsession with triangles-- more so than any of the group's other projects. The most graceful way to triumph is to capitalize on this; keeping rockets high, dividing natural cubes into three-sided polygons of mayhem!