25 Greatest Musical Tracks From The Halo Series

21. Traffic Jam - Halo 3: ODST

Seen as the underdog, the outcast, and the difference maker, Halo 3: ODST wasn't much of a competitive ride in the Halo series. But it was one of the more thorough Halo games to date, offering an entirely new, distinct way of playing the game, adding a solid human element that didn't make the player feel invincible but more....human. The central idea for ODST was in its change of setting, pace, and attitude, offering a fresh perspective on the Human-Covenant war and a unique way of seeing things through normal human eyes and not some genetically enhanced super soldier. But among all the accolades that made it stand out, nothing was more promising than its soundtrack, which, just like ODST itself, was fresh, unique, and varied, dishing out what most believe to be the best music in the series. "Traffic Jam", much like the human element/aspect of the campaign, is all about the human struggle. Being a game that primarily sets itself in the devastated city of New Mombasa, Africa, the in-game soundtrack for ODST had to retain human characteristics from the original trilogy while carrying over a much broader sound. Alot of peculiar ideas went into producing the soundtrack, one of which was taking a direct route into action themes. "Traffic Jam" is one of the few tracks that is pure action from start to finish; the use orchestra, drums, and electric guitar really give it that action-packed edge, and the given level it is covered in is one hell of a set piece moment in the campaign that shows exactly what the human struggle is all about. But somewhere inside "Traffic Jam" is a more softer touch, a high level of importance included but also a wise-crack demeanor accompanies the main characters of the game. One of ODST's most impressive features was its cast of Marine characters, and the soundtrack bleeds with enthusiasm and heart.