Back in the Halo: Combat Evolved era, my friends and I occasionally would have aerial dogfights, and nostalgia regarding those times inspired me to create SKY ARENA. While it's geared for Assault, Team Slayer is also a viable gametype, and both have the potential to be incredible experiences.

Sky Arena is a very simple layout, made in under an hour to showcase the gametype SKYBOMB ADVANCED. Ideally for 4-8 players, but capable of hosting 2-16, Sky Arena consists of two platforms rather distant from each other. Each platform is surrounded by several landing pads, each landing pad supporting either a Falcon or a Banshee. It should also be noted that both platforms are hanging in mid-air.

The objective is the same as your average assault game; blow up the other guys' base with your bomb. Except that now you have unlimited jetpacks and several air/spacecraft to utilize in your endeavour. My original gametype boasted only of an Assault Rifle and a DMR (what more could one want?), but the linked gametype provides you with a well-stocked armory of choices via loadout selection. That makes it a bit more deadly, and consequently much more exciting.

Each platform in Sky Arena has two teleporters nearby. One is located immediately behind the base, and the other a short distance in front of it. These expedite travel by a significant amount, but also provide a certain amount of predictability, so you still can justify taking the scenic route in your attempt to successfully plant Andy, or whatever you decide to call your newfound explosive friend.

There are also a few things that should be noted, especially to those not used to high altitudes, rampant aerial combat, and combustible bowling balls:

1.) Jetpacks, while unlimited, are not capable of holding you at a constant altitude. This can be countered, however, by releasing and re-triggering the the ignition button, which will provide you with another boost. Though not recommended for amateurs, this tactic will likely prove invaluable to the ones who take the time to master it.

2.) Armor cannot stop a Banshee. At all. See the photo below for proof.

3.) Explosions hurt. It is recommended to move to the extreme end of the platform, or to evacuate it entirely, in the case of a bomb's imminent explosion. It should also be noted, however, that there are rumors that one has the capability to disable such a device. This remains unproven, and that too should be noted.

4.) The Bomb Carrier is denoted by a symbol above his head. This is to offset his ability to pilot, as it was deemed too easy for him to infiltrate enemy outposts without it. Early testing indicates that this does actually balance those nefarious piloting skills of his. It also tends to help draw out the game a bit more, so that it doesn't end too quickly.

All in all, I had a blast playing this, and I hope you do too.
See the links at the top for downloading, and let me know what you think!

EDIT 10/20/2010: Fixed loadout cams. :D