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The task of recreating and updating the very best of Halo 2 is no easy task, but the developers at 343 Industries are looking to do just that with Halo: The Master Chief Collection. Vowing to keep the mechanics of Halo 2's multiplayer intact regardless of the update, the question of which maps would be revisited has been on the mind of every fan. Now the isolated, frenzied and frozen 'Lockout' can be added to the list.

With the updated Ascension map the first to be confirmed for The Master Chief Collection, followed soon after by Coagulation, Sanctuary, and the always-beloved Zanzibar, it was clear the developers at 343 and Certain Affinity were finding a balance between fan-favorites and functionality.

Now Gamespot has revealed the first images of Lockout, an arena-style, close quarters map known for its iconic Gravity Lift and the glowing green containment area at its lowest point. The screenshots accompanying the confirmation show that the stark white of the original has been noticeably improved, while the layout of the map has been faithfully recreated:

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Along with the new screenshots comes comments from the president of Certain Affinity (and the lead designer of the original Halo 2) Max Hoberman, explaining that while the return of the fan-favorite map has his personal blessing, changes have been made to use some lessons learned in the time since to improve the experience:

"Lockout was hands-down the most popular small arena-style map in Halo 2. We're thrilled to be bringing this fan-favorite back, and are paying close attention to the details and subtleties that made the original great while also making a couple of very careful, very calculated enhancements.

"Most prominent among these [changes] are a bit of cover added to the 'Elbow,' the long walkway connecting the grav lift to the sniper tower, and a dynamic element that should help counter an entrenched group of enemies. Of course this can be disabled in Forge for players who want a near-match of the original experience."

There was never any doubt that The Master Chief Collection would be a must for fans, with Halo 2 Anniversary one of several experience being brought home to the Xbox One. Now that Lockout has been confirmed (along with a tease of a new 'dynamic element'), and despite not seeing the updated coagulation in action, it's safe to say even those who have missed out on Halo are paying attention.

Was Lockout one map that you were waiting to see added before committing to picking up the The Master Chief Collection? Or is there still a map left out that you're hoping to see added? Sound off in the comments.

Halo: The Master Chief Collection will be arriving exclusively on November 11, 2014 exclusively for Xbox One.

Follow Andrew on Twitter @andrew_dyce.

Source: Gamespot