User blog comment:SentryNeo/Echo vs The Rookie/@comment-379205-20131208033804

119's "Dropping Feet First Into Helghan" Edges


 * Sniper Rifles: While I am not all that familiar with the Killzone series, having only played Killzone 1, I give the edge to SRS-99, in spite of StA-61's larger magazine. Based on the stopping power of the Helghast sniper in KZ1, and based on the StA's appearance, I would guess that it is a standard-caliber rifle akin to a 7.62mm NATO, which typically have a range of perhaps 1000 meters. The SRS-99 is an anti-materiel rifle firing a 14.5mm armor piercing discarding sabot round capable of killing a fully shielded Elite with a single headshot (or two shots anywhere else). The weapon is also stated to have a range of almost two kilometers. Edge: The Rookie/SRS 99


 * Assault Rifles: Both weapons are fully automatic rifle firing a mid-caliber cartridge with low recoil and presumably effective up to ranges of about 500 meters. The MA5C takes a slight edge, however, for its extra two round in its magazine. Slight Edge: The Rookie/MA5C


 * Handguns: The Helghast StA-19 fires a 9.2 x 20mm round, similar in dimensions to a standard 9mm Parabellum round (9x21mm). The M6 Automag, on the other hand, fires a 12.7 x 40mm round, with much greater stopping power. The weapon can easily take down unshielded opponents. The M6C also has has an integral suppressor and recoil control systems that make its recoil comparable to that of a standard caliber handgun. In essence, the stopping power of a Desert Eagle with the recoil of a Beretta. To add to that, Rookie's M6C come standard with a 6x smart link scope and an integral silencer.


 * Knives: Honestly, I see little difference between the two blades. Both appear to be short, but have a heavy building. The UNSC knife may take a slight edge for its throwing ability, but that effectively disarms the user, so may not be advisable. Edge: Even.


 * Armor and Camouflage: Something you missed here is the comparison of the two sides body armor. Maya's armor does not cover her face, unlike the Rookies, and probably has greater ballistic protection, definitely stopping the pistol and maybe even assault rifle rounds to a limited degree. The ODST armor also has the VISR system, which grants the user enhanced perception, allowing them to see weapons, vehicles, and most importantly, enemies, allowing the Rookie to see through Maya's stealth. Finally, there is something else that could compromise Maya's stealth- that red hood is an easily visible and inviting target for an enemy sniper.


 * X-Factors: I'll agree that Echo has slightly superior sniper skills, however, one must not discount the UNSC ODST training. They are the equivalent to a Tier-1 special forces unit, and the most elite non-augmented UNSC soldiers. Not to mention, I think the Rookie went through ODST training after contact with the Covenant, so the UNSC would have likely improved training. Not to mention, his greater experience fighting a highly advanced alien adversary.


 * Overall Winner: The Rookie takes this for his superior weaponry, particularly in the important areas of range and stopping power. He also takes an edge in armor, with the greater ballistic protection and the improved perception of the VISR system. Not to mention, Echo's sniper-attracting red hood. Finally, he is highly trained at engaging highly dangerous adversaries, including shielded Brutes and skilled Kig-Yar marksmen.