Capture the Flag

Capture the flag, or CTF, is a set of multiplayer rules in Halo 1 and Halo 2 where teams compete to bring a flag, often taken from the opposing teams base, to a pre-determined area, often your team's flag, or base. Many variants of this game type exist, including one flag CTF, where teams vie for control of one flag, usually centered equidistantly from both teams bases, and attempt to move the flag to one base or the other. More variants can be created using either game's gametype creation system.

Halo Variants
The variants built in with Halo are:


 * CTF
 * Invasion
 * Iron CTF
 * CTF Pro

Halo 2 Variants
The variants included with Multi Flag CTF
 * CTF Classic
 * One Flag CTF
 * One Flag CTF Fast

Certain game types from Halo, like Invasion that used Capture the Flag rules now have their own rules sub-set in Halo 2 via the Assault rules.

Team Strategy
When playing with a Team of at least 4 people, a bit more strategy is required to play the game effectively.

First off, one person should be (obviously) the Carrier. This is the person who will capture the flag and return it to your team's base.

Now in CTF Classic, it is easy. Have every other teammate provide cover fire for the Carrier. One person should (if it is available) grab a sniper rifle and provide cover from a distance. Every one else should have decent medium-range weapons, such as the Battle Rifle or Plasma Rifle. Also if there is a vehicle such as a Warthog, cram your team into it so that the Carrier can make a speedy getaway.

In Multi-Flag CTF, the strategy is a little different, you want an equal balance of offense and defense. Your defensive party should have short-range high power weapons such as the Shotgun or duel-wielded SMGs. Your offensive party requires a bit more breathing room, weapon wise. I reccomend the Battle Rifle. The defensive team should keep an eye on the flag, but should not remain in the same room, because an offensive party will likely toss a grenade or use a rocket on the room holding the flag before attempting to capture it. Ideally you let the enemy enter the flag room and then form a pincer, surrounding them. It is imperitive that both parties keep an eye on their teammates Waypoints. If one party suddenly has massive losses, then you may need to restrategize. However, never forsake your defensive post to take up offense.

In 1-Flag CTF all bets are off. Since you can guarantee that both forces are going to rush in full force to take the flag, you have the grab the best weapons you can manage and just go for it. It might be wise to have some units avoid the main fray and sneak around the enemy base to ambush them.

Trivia

 * When playing on maps with overhangs or ledges that are just out of reach when jumping, it is possible to toss the flag on the ledge and leave it there. This is effective especially if the other team has your flag and they want to get theirs' back to score.

Related Pages
CTF Variants