QUOTE(Bungie.net @ 12/7/2007 5:16 PM PST)
The December 11 playlist update is well into testing. This playlist is going to include a playlist specifically for the new Heroic DLC maps (so that early adopters can get their fix in), as well as incorporating those maps into the general playlists. In addition, we're reasonably sure that variety updates to almost all of the playlists will be included. This includes some long requested BR Start variants, wider map selection in the Ranked playlists, and a couple of map variants that we're going to try in BTB to start with.
Bungie Weekly Update: 12/07/07
I <3 Bungie for this update. I don't like the Team Duals, but everything else is pure awesome.
LONG LIVE THE BATTLE RIFLE!
QUOTE(Molten Universe @ Dec 13 2007, 01:29 AM)

True, but the BR mauler combo was like my fave... this is lame.
Well, I just always hated how almost all the gametypes became a race for the super weapons. It was less about skill and more about who could get the Rocket Launcher, Sword, Shotgun, etc. first. It didn't help that we spawn with only an Assault Rifle. Unless you get someone with a grenade, going into the fray with just an AR is suicide.
With a BR (and maybe a grenade, depending on the situation), you can easily take out anyone if you're good with headshots.
My average stats per game has been noticeably (though not significantly) increased because of this update.