It all comes down to whether you want the game to be "realistic" or "balanced". I prefer realistic myself, so maybe that's why I enjoy Halo 2 multiplayer so much. Why not go back to basics and ask yourself what a sniper rifle does, or a shotgun at close range. Can't really do that with the fictional energy sword made of whatever Bungie decided
. Just think about that and ask your self would you really be having more fun if they were unbelievably weak? Or if they were removed from the game? A huge part of the multiplayer is getting your hands on one of these strong weapons. As for the little tricks in the game, they're there for the hardcore gamers... really imo to give them a little edge on the more casual gamers. I said little instead of unfair, because its available to anyone that puts the effort into perfecting it.
Anyway, I hope I have provided a good counter point without sounding like a fanboy or whatever. Opinions on my post would be appreciated too.