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Anniversary Angle: Memorable Campaign Moments

Beyond bridging the gap between the events of Halo 5: Guardians and Halo Infinite, Halo: Empty Throne reaches the far flung corners of the Haloverse, and introduces us to a nuanced ensemble of characters. Rather than following a single hero, this novel pulls the camera wide tracking UNSC leaders, Covenant loyalists, Banished power players, Spartans long thought lost, and new voices caught in the middle of a rapidly shifting galaxy.



Joined by Franchise Fixture Alex “Haruspis” Wakeford, we jumped into the middle of the game of thrones between the humans, Covenant, and the Banished to unpack some of the political machinations at play for each faction. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="text-transform:uppercase">Set on the Edge of Everything</h2>



One of the highlights of Halo: Empty Throne is the masterful way that author Jeremy Patenaude weaves and connects returning legends with deep-cut surprises and modern day players. Drawing inspiration from i love bees, Halo: The Fall of Reach, Shadow of Intent, and more, the cast of characters will be both familiar and new. 



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: Empty Throne" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QshM-BqcuNE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size" style="text-transform:capitalize">Full hearts, Empty Thrones</h2>



Halo: Empty Throne is a keystone novel that expands the consequences of Cortana’s reign far beyond a single ring while setting the stage for future conflicts across the galaxy. And, if none of that strikes your fancy, the epic space battles surely will. 



You can grab a <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Empty-Throne/Jeremy-Patenaude/Halo/9781668052129">copy of the book,</a> or <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Empty-Throne/Jeremy-Patenaude/Halo/9781797184883" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Empty-Throne/Jeremy-Patenaude/Halo/9781797184883">audiobook</a>, today!



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Spartan Chatter is an audio series, a podcast if you will, hosted on our <a href="https://wordpress.admin.halowaypoint.com/article/halo-outcasts-spartan-chatter/discord.gg/Halo">official Halo Discord</a> which brings members of the studio together to discuss all things Halo with a live audience.



You can find previous episodes of Spartan Chatter on our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SWLEPaTx4c&list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-">YouTube channel’s Podcasts page</a> and on our Discord server.

Halo: Empty Throne | Spartan Chatter

Games

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

MCC’s Exchange is getting an upgrade!



The implementation of the Exchange in MCC gave players a new way to unlock gear. Play the game, earn Spartan Points, redeem said points for sweet unlocks. Effective today, almost all of the available Exchange content will be available to grab in perpetuity. That means that if there’s something in the Exchange that you’ve wanted, there’s a good chance it’s there now waiting for you.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2.png" alt="An image of the upgraded Exchange featuring previously unobtainable content." class="wp-image-163636" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Exchange_2026v2-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Additionally, we know there’s some content in the game that only made one appearance (if that) and there have been asks to see it return. A chief example of this is the Avalanche Sniper Rifle: a reward for reaching a rank of 20 in Halo 3 Recon Slayer during Season 4: Reclaimer. Seen once, obtained by a few, and then vaulted – never to be seen again.



Some other items include, but are not limited to:



<ul>
<li>Halo 4 BR BLS skin</li>



<li>Halo 4 DMR BLD skin</li>



<li>Seasonal/rotational nameplates</li>
</ul>



That content will now be available to anyone who simply logs into Halo: The Master Chief Collection at any point. 



There are a few bundles that will remain rotational but they will do so on a regular quarterly schedule. Here are those “bundles” and their expected rotational dates:



Quarter 1 (Jan1-Mar31)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01.png" alt="The Orion armor set in Halo M C C." class="wp-image-163580" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_OrionSet-R01-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>The ORION set<ul><li>Helmet</li></ul><ul><li>Chest</li></ul><ul><li>Shoulders (Left/Right)</li></ul><ul><li>Arms</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Legs</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



Quarter 2 (Apr1-Jun30)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8.png" alt="Two new back accessories (Grunt and a Xbox backpack) and a Magnum weapon skin in Halo M C C." class="wp-image-163594" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week8-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>Grunt Plush Back Accessory</li>



<li>OGX Magnum Skin</li>



<li>X-Pack Back Accessory</li>
</ul>



Quarter 3 (Jul1-Sep30)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01.png" alt="The Mirage armor set in Halo M C C" class="wp-image-163608" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/MCC_Feb25_Exchange_MirageSet-R01-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>The Mirage/SPI set<ul><li>Helmet</li></ul><ul><li>Chest</li></ul><ul><li>Shoulders (Left/Right)</li></ul>
<ul>
<li>Arms</li>



<li>Legs</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



Quarter 4 (Oct1-Dec31)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9.png" alt="A Shotgun and Rocket launcher skin as well as a back accessory in Halo M C C." class="wp-image-163622" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Week9-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



<ul>
<li>OGX Shotgun Skin</li>



<li>OGX Rocket Launcher Skin</li>



<li>Taygetus Dory Back Accessory</li>
</ul>



The Exchange inventory has never been more available. Grab what you want, when you want it, and keep an eye on the quarterly rotations for the few remaining limited drops. We’ll see you on the (stylish) battlefield!

2026 MCC Exchange Update and Log-In Unlocks

Halo: Edge of Dawn, the latest novel from the acclaimed and beloved author Kelly Gay, dropped out of slipspace on December 16, 2025, serving as both continuation and coda for Halo Infinite’s campaign as the Master Chief’s fight against the Banished continues on Zeta Halo.



The AI formerly known as “the Weapon” chose her name, embracing both her own unique identity and her lineage as a “sister” to Cortana with the name Joyeuse. A pretty explosive funeral for War Chief Escharum was held at the House of Reckoning; the young corpsman Lucas Browning was rescued from the sadistic and vengeful Jega ‘Rdomnai’s captivity, the secrets held within his mind—placed there by the Harbinger—led us to delve into deeper mysteries within Zeta Halo, and… well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg!



We were joined by Jeff Easterling (Senior Franchise Story Lead) and Alex Wakeford (Franchise Writer) for our latest Spartan Chatter episode to discuss Edge of Dawn, which you can watch in full on YouTube.



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</div></figure>



Edge of Dawn is available in trade paperback, ebook, and unabridged audiobook formats. Should you pick up the audiobook, you will be treated to Jen Taylor, Steve Downes, and Nicolas Roye reprising their characters as well as a reading by Debra Wilson. 



If you’d like to catch the story for yourself (and we highly recommend this one!), <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Edge-of-Dawn/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017555">you can purchase a copy for yourself</a>.

Halo: Edge of Dawn | Spartan Chatter

Book Preview

Fiction

December 2559. The UNSC faces its darkest hour.



Set during the six months that follow the UNSC Infinity getting ambushed by the Banished, Kelly Gay’s novel, Halo: The Rubicon Protocol, takes us along the journey as humanity fights for survival on Zeta Halo. 



Wrapping up our <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/audiobook-club">Audiobook Club series with Simon & Schuster</a>, we joined Franchise Writer Alex ‘Haruspis’ Wakeford to delve into the pivotal moments after the Master Chief is neutralized by Atriox, including Cortana’s sacrifice and the ring’s slipspace departure.



A fight against impossible odds and heroes pushed to their limits, Halo: The Rubicon Protocol is a must-read.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: The Rubicon Protocol" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yzbeZYuUEPw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<a href="https://bit.ly/485gDEh" data-type="link" data-id="https://bit.ly/485gDEh">You can pick up your own copy today!</a>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



Spartan Chatter is an audio series, a podcast if you will, hosted on our <a href="https://discord.gg/Halo">official Halo Discord</a> which brings members of the studio together to discuss all things Halo with a live audience.



You can find previous episodes of Spartan Chatter on our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SWLEPaTx4c&list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-">YouTube channel’s Podcasts page</a>.

Halo: The Rubicon Protocol | Spartan Chatter

Halo Infinite

<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size" style="text-transform:uppercase">Update: October 7, 2025</h2>



The nightmare returns. Back from the grave and more gruesome than ever, Survive the Undead claws its way back into Halo Infinite. First introduced last Haloween, the Forge Falcons’ labor of love made the jump from Combat Workshop to playlist just in time for the spooktacular season. And now, it’s back with a new map!



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Strategic Survival</h1>



At its core, Survive the Undead is an Infection-based Firefight survival mode where you, the player, are trying to avoid dying. However, unlike the “regular” Infection modes you may be thinking of where everyone is looking out for themselves, you are in a team of 4 trying to survive the onslaught of infected enemies. Think of it as a horde mode. You can learn the finer points and read more about how this playlist came to be down below.  



The return of the playlist, as part of the Operation: Haloween II offering, comes with everything you know and love from before and adds one brand new map:



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size" style="text-transform:uppercase">Station of the Lost</h2>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cbf475d5-19a2-4fe4-bd1a-350902f931e5">Bookmark</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012.jpg" alt="Station of the Lost, a new Survive the Undead map created in Halo Infinite's Forge." class="wp-image-152272" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/station_012-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Abandon all hope, all ye who enter this abandoned station. Remember, there’s safety in numbers so stick together.



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Survive the Undead is the first Community created playlist to go from <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/combat-workshop-survive-the-undead">Combat Workshop</a> to Playlist and it’s just in time for Haloween!



You can <a href="https://aka.ms/HaloweenOperationLaunch">read a bit more about the Forge Falcons and how Survive the Undead came to life over here</a><a>. </a>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size" style="text-transform:uppercase">Objective: Survive</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6.jpg" alt="Survive the Undead map for Halo Infinite, created in Forge" class="wp-image-120517" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_002-6704753e15fd6-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



By now, we all know what Infection is. You vs the horde that’s trying to infect you so you become one of them. Usually round based, the game ends once all Spartans are infected or until there’s a lone survivor able to fend off the constant attacks.



Survive the Undead puts a slight twist on the typical Infection and makes it a more linear experience. And, as the name implies, the idea is to beat the waves of infected and simply survive as long as you can. The rounds start off simple and get progressively more difficult, with points awarded for each round cleared and each kill. Spend your earned points wisely…or go ham on the mystery box (my personal favorite – who doesn’t love surprises?) and then regroup and get ready for the next round!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size" style="text-transform:uppercase">Survival Handbook</h2>



Looking for some pointers? Straight from the Forge Falcons comes this guide to ensure you have the best chance possible to survive the undead.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007.jpg" alt="Survive the Undead map for Halo Infinite, created in Forge" class="wp-image-120531" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_007-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



PERKS



The three perks are Health, Damage, and Speed. There are 4 tiers per perk and each tier costs 600 points. All perks reset upon death and must be repurchased.



Health Perk



<ul>
<li>Tier 1: 25% Health Increase</li>



<li>Tier 2: 10% Health Increase</li>



<li>Tier 3: 5% Health Increase</li>



<li>Tier 4: Vampirism</li>
</ul>



Speed Perk



<ul>
<li>Tier 1: 100% Reload Speed Increase + 10% Movement Speed</li>



<li>Tier 2: 50% Melee Recovery + 10% Movement Speed</li>



<li>Tier 3: 10% Movement Speed + 10% Slide Speed</li>



<li>Tier 4: 10% Movement Speed + 10% Sprint Speed</li>
</ul>



Damage Perk



<ul>
<li>Tier 1: 100% Damage Increase</li>



<li>Tier 2: 100% Damage Increase</li>



<li>Tier 3: 100% Damage Increase + 100% Melee Impulse</li>



<li>Tier 4: 100% Damage Increase + 50% Melee Damage</li>
</ul>



BONUS DROPS



There are four bonus drops that have a chance to appear when killing enemies: Boom, Spray & Pray, Mounted & Loaded, and Score Attack. These drops are announced by voice lines matching their names.



Boom



<ul>
<li>Effect: Instantly kills all AI, granting each player 400 points. Benefits from Score Attack.</li>



<li>Strategy: Use when in dire need.</li>
</ul>



Spray & Pray



<ul>
<li>Effect: Removes shields from all enemies, making them one-shot kills for 30 seconds.</li>



<li>Strategy: Ideal against bosses.</li>
</ul>



Mounted & Loaded



<ul>
<li>Effect: Refills ammo for all players.</li>



<li>Strategy: Use when team ammo is critically low.</li>
</ul>



Score Attack



<ul>
<li>Effect: Doubles points from kills for 30 seconds; effects stack. Also, keep in mind that this drop affects the points granted from the Boom drop.</li>



<li>Strategy: Collect immediately for maximum benefit.</li>
</ul>



PLAYER BUY BACK



The Player Buy Back (650 points) is located in the spawn room and revives fallen allies, granting the activating player an overshield. It only works if allies are down.



AMMUNITION WALL BUY



The Ammunition Wall Buy (350 points) is in the spawn room on all maps, it has the ‘ammunition’ nav marker and refills the activator’s ammo. It can be used even with full ammo, so check before buying.



POINT SHARING WALL BUY



The Point Sharing Wall Buy is located in the 2nd territory on all maps, it has the ‘points’ nav marker and allows players to share points. It costs 2,000 points to use and it will split the 2,000 points between all players in the game. For example: A team of 2 players receives 1,000 points each. A team of4 players receive 500 each.



RANDOM WEAPON BOX



The Random Weapon Box is located in either the 2nd territory or 3rd territory depending on the map, it is the red banished looking box. It costs 300 points and will grant players a random weapon.



WEAPON UPGRADE MACHINE



The Weapon Upgrade Machine has received an overhaul since the combat workshop, it will now take the weapon you have and upgrade that weapon with other combinations. It costs 1,000 points and can be found in the spawn room on all maps. It will also have the ‘Upgrade’ nav marker.



WEAPON & EQUIPMENT WALL BUYS



Wall buys offer weapons or equipment at displayed prices. Ammo can be refilled via the ammunition wall buy, the Mounted & Loaded drop, or by rebuying the weapon.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009.jpg" alt="Survive the Undead map for Halo Infinite, created in Forge" class="wp-image-120545" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/hw_map_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



In the Combat Workshop, there was only one map available to you. Now that the playlist has hit the big time, there are multiple options in the playlist:



<ul>
<li>Installation of the Dead</li>



<li>Night of the Undead</li>



<li>Countdown of the Dead</li>
</ul>



Squad up, watch each other’s backs, and maybe you’ll survive the undead.

Survive the Undead

“Mission failure is not an option.”



Blue Team returns to Reach, seven years after the planet fell to the Covenant. The legendary squad is on a mission to reach Halsey’s lab, deep within CASTLE base to retrieve assets that could turn the tide of war against Cortana and the rogue AIs of the Created.



But they’re not alone. Between Blue Team and their objective are three Banished clans, led by War Chief Escharum, searching for a portal to bring Atriox back to the galaxy from the Ark.



As part of our ongoing <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/audiobook-club">Audiobook Club in partnership with Simon & Schuster</a>, we sat down with Franchise Writer Alex ‘Haruspis’ Wakeford on our latest episode of Spartan Chatter to explore how Troy Denning’s novel sets the stage for what’s to come leading up to the events of Halo Infinite.



From the Spartans’ homecoming to the ruins of Reach to the rise of the Banished, this is Halo at its most reflective. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: Shadows of Reach" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MX8DKNh-iDc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Want to tag along with the legendary heroes as they navigate the lechatelierite of Reach? <a href="https://bit.ly/41kPh90">Grab a copy of the audiobook today!</a>

Halo: Shadows of Reach | Spartan Chatter

Unstoppable force, meet immovable object. (At least, if you’re on defense you really hope you can embody that immovable object spirit.) It’s tactical, it’s intense, and it’s got just enough Halo: Reach DNA to make longtime fans feel right at home… Invasion has arrived!



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Warpath Launch Trailer | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CXwreSlUctI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Whether you’re storming the gates or desperately trying to keep them shut, Invasion turns every match into a showdown of Spartan grit and glorious chaos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">OBJECTIVE OVERDRIVE</h2>



At its core, Invasion is an asymmetrical, one-sided objective mode pitting two teams of 8 against each other. Each team will get the chance to attack and defend for a total of two rounds. Each round is broken into 3 phases, and if you complete each phase, you get a point. The modes available for each phase are identical to those found in Reach, plus one new addition: 



<ul>
<li>Capture the Zone
<ul>
<li>As the name implies, this is a zone control style mode and your goal is to capture it before time runs out</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Assault
<ul>
<li>Much as the normal Arena mode, you are bringing a bomb to the zone and aim to detonate it before the enemy team stops you</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Core Delivery
<ul>
<li>If you played Reach, this is going to be a familiar objective where you are literally delivering the core to the enemy team’s base. In Infinite, this will be a Flag you are running to plant</li>
</ul>
</li>



<li>Deliver the Payload
<ul>
<li>New to Invasion with Halo Infinite, delivering the payload will have you escorting a payload along a set trail to the end destination. When the enemy is contesting the payload, forward progress halts so keep that path clear! And don’t leave the payload behind or else it won’t progress. The more Spartans on the payload, the faster it progresses along the path.
<ul>
<li>Worth noting that you can earn TWO points for delivering the payload to its final destination: One at the very end, naturally, but you’ll also earn a point when you reach the checkpoint.</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>
</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">LOADOUT LOGIC</h2>



The setup will be UNSC vs. Banished-affected Spartans, very similar to the experience in Banished Slayer. Each phase will have multiple options to select from, so choose wisely.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-normal-font-size">Spartan Setups</h2>



Phase 1, UNSC Scout



<ul>
<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Threat Seeker</li>
</ul>



Phase 1, UNSC Sentry



<ul>
<li>MK50 Sidekick</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Drop Wall</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, UNSC Warrior



<ul>
<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>MK50 Sidekick</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Drop Wall</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, UNSC Operator



<ul>
<li>CQS48 Bulldog</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Quantum Translocator</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, UNSC Skirmisher



<ul>
<li>VK78 Commando</li>



<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Thruster</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, UNSC Headhunter



<ul>
<li>BR75</li>



<li>VK78 Commando</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Shroud Screen</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, UNSC Healer



<ul>
<li>CQS48 Bulldog</li>



<li>MK50 Sidekick</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Repair Field</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, UNSC Marksman



<ul>
<li>Bandit Evo</li>



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Grappleshot</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, UNSC Sentinel



<ul>
<li>VK78 Commando</li>



<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Thruster</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, UNSC Heavy



<ul>
<li>MLRS-2 Hydra</li>



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



<li>Overshield</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-normal-font-size">Banished Battle Kits</h2>



Just like the UNSC side, the Banished side also has loadout options that update each phase.



Phase 1, Banished Sentry



<ul>
<li>Mangler</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



<li>Thruster</li>
</ul>



Phase 1, Banished Scout



<ul>
<li>Needler</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



<li>Active Camo</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, Banished Marksman



<ul>
<li>Vestige Carbine</li>



<li>Plasma Pistol</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



<li>Repulsor</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, Banished Hunter



<ul>
<li>Heatwave</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



<li>Drop Wall</li>
</ul>



Phase 2, Banished Sapper



<ul>
<li>Ravager</li>



<li>Needler</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



<li>Thruster</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, Banished Headhunter



<ul>
<li>Bandit Evo</li>



<li>Pulse Carbine</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



<li>Grappleshot</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, Banished Warrior



<ul>
<li>CQS48 Bulldog</li>



<li>Mangler</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



<li>Threat Sensor</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, Banished Sentinel



<ul>
<li>Sentinel Beam</li>



<li>Vestige Carbine</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



<li>Repulsor</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, Banished Medic



<ul>
<li>Pulse Carbine</li>



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



<li>Repair Field</li>
</ul>



Phase 3, Banished Dark Assassin



<ul>
<li>Duelist Energy Sword</li>



<li>Disruptor</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



<li>Active Camo</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">SAFE SPAWNING</h2>



One of the more unique features Invasion introduced was Buddy Spawning. This allowed you to spawn on your buddy directly rather than at the default spawn location. It’s not required but who doesn’t love options? Your buddy is randomly assigned during the match and you cannot change or swap. Once the game starts, you are together for the full match. Yes, this means if your buddy abandons the match that you no longer have the ability to Buddy Spawn. The caveats to Buddy Spawning:



<ul>
<li>Buddies are reciprocal (If they are your buddy, you are theirs)</li>



<li>Your Buddy must be alive to spawn on them</li>



<li>They must have been alive for at least five seconds to spawn on them</li>



<li>They must have full health and shields to spawn on them</li>



<li>They must be clear of engagements or have no enemies nearby to spawn on them</li>



<li>If your Buddy is in a vehicle, there must be an empty seat to spawn on them</li>



<li>When you spawn on your Buddy, you will be facing the way they are facing</li>
</ul>



If you don’t want to spawn on your buddy, you can choose to spawn at the other zones: Left, Middle, or Right spawns.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">VICTORY VARIABLES</h2>



So…how do you win an Invasion match? Each phase you “win” or progress will net your team a point. So if you are attacking first and you make it through all three phases and you complete them, you will have earned three points total. If you are on defense and you stop the team at the second phase, the attacking team only has one point.



It is possible to tie so if both teams successfully make it through all three phases and earn three points, everyone goes home a winner.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">IMPRESSIVE INTSALLATIONS</h2>



There are six new maps coming to Invasion which means plenty of variety for you to engage with. Let’s check them out! Grab <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/0d192b69-6899-4c3c-b63d-4de7beb07f76">the mode here</a>, and then grab the maps below.



Breakpoint <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/fe7d8044-bc7f-4a05-a266-061382dfd8fa">Bookmark</a> Credits: Okom1, Virus11010, Scrubulba, Mr Kwatz, Igrizhar, spartan blood 1, JoValiant, Mr IncrediJON, THE SLAMMERSS, Nas



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007.jpg" alt="A remake of Halo: Reach's map "Breakpoint" in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-149888" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Breakpoint_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



A classic returns from Halo: Reach. Don’t let it push you to your breaking point.



Crashout <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/178ee422-43c1-4df8-be86-84f8bb0cc4d2">Bookmark</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Invasion map "Crashout"" class="wp-image-149902" style="width:1280px;height:auto" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Crashout_1920x1080_Watermarked_015-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



They said it was a crash. We called it a tactical arrival.



Exhumed <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/354b1633-1b47-4e0f-9a43-15ebf0acef0c">Bookmark</a><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/55eccabf-1865-439d-ad7b-3920b5cfd645"> </a>Credits: Mr IncrediJON, Scrubulba, spartan blood 1, Virus11010, Mr Kwatz, Igrizhar, JoValiant



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Invasion map "Exhumed"" class="wp-image-149916" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Exhumed_1920x1080_Watermarked_007-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



You came looking for glory but you found a grave.



Last Road <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/24d6a48b-d78b-49c7-8b24-338fa3508a32">Bookmark</a> Credits: Mr Kwatz, MikRips, Scrubulba



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Invasion map "Last Road"" class="wp-image-149930" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Last_1920x1080_Watermarked_005-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Last Road: where the only traffic is incoming fire.



Recovery <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1bc0e2a7-9d6d-4771-9574-9978e7c9292c">Bookmark</a> Credits: Okom1, Virus11010, Scrubulba, D0ctorSmurf, spartan blood 1, Mr IncrediJON, Mr Kwatz, Cousin Tim, JoValiant



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Invasion map "Recovery"" class="wp-image-149944" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Recovery_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



They terraformed Reach, now it’s your turn to reshape the battlefield.



Wavelength <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/72339fd1-c61a-4cbb-a876-0ffdb877a899">Bookmark</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Invasion map "Wavelength"" class="wp-image-149958" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HI_Map_Wavelength_1920x1080_Watermarked_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Broadcasting live from the edge of chaos.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">EXIT ENGAGEMENTS</h2>



Now, it’s time to invade the battlefield. Whether you’re storming the gates or holding the line, Invasion’s better with buddies (and a few well-placed grenades), so squad up and hit the ground running!

Invasion

“Just because the Covenant War is over doesn’t mean there aren’t battles to be fought.”



Halo: New Blood follows the personal journey of Edward Buck, a seasoned ODST who is offered the chance to become a Spartan-IV. Told as a reflective memoir, the novella explores Buck’s early days in the UNSC to his leadership of Alpha-Nine, and touches on the emotional weight of leaving behind his old identity to embrace a new role. 



We suited up for another Spartan Chatter episode of our ongoing <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/audiobook-club">Audiobook Club in partnership with Simon & Schuster</a>, this time featuring Halo: New Blood by Matt Forbeck. Joined by Franchise Writer Alex “Haruspis” Wakeford, we followed the personal journey of Edward Buck through his journey from an ODST in the squad Alpha-Nine to Spartan-IV. From the gritty streets of Draco III to the halls of Spartan Command, New Blood offers a grounded, character-driven look at what it means to evolve in a galaxy still healing from conflict.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: New Blood" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Knxs7NDk6ME?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Halo: New Blood Spartan Chatter Episode</figcaption></figure>



If you want to take a peek behind Buck’s visor, you can <a href="https://bit.ly/44NldoH">grab a copy of the Audiobook</a> and listen in today!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Community Highlights</h2>



Catch up on the community audiobook club with great shouts from folks in our <a href="https://www.discord.gg/halo">official Discord server</a>!



<ul>
<li>Merty: Easily one of my favorites, and it’s very rich in lore for those who want to learn more about the Spartan-IVs. Highly recommended.</li>



<li>Kot_Box: I just finished reading it a couple weeks ago and LOVED it! So much so that I just ordered a copy of Halo: Bad Blood. I’m always happy to see more Buck.</li>



<li>MOK: I love this month’s pick!</li>



<li>AshamanND: I just recently finished this! Great story.</li>



<li>VysorinIV: First Halo book I ever read—it got me hooked on the fandom!</li>



<li>Briarfox13: Oh, this is one of my favorites! Thoroughly enjoyed reading New Blood.</li>



<li>Aaron: I’ve loved the new artwork they’ve been releasing with these previews!</li>



<li>DDog Dazamaan: Just wanted to chime in to say I’m really enjoying this one, too! Pretty fun having it all from a character’s recollection of events.</li>
</ul>

Halo: New Blood | Spartan Chatter

“You are what you dare.”



As part of the ongoing <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/audiobook-club">Audiobook Club in partnership with Simon & Schuster</a>, we joined up with Franchise writer Alex ‘Haruspis’ Wakeford and special guest Chloe Bear to reflect on the late Greg Bear’s novel, Halo: Cryptum.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: Cryptum" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YvkBkzx0BGc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



If you want to explore the Forerunner origins, learn more about Bornstellar, Chakas, and discover the Didact, <a href="https://bit.ly/3FMiJND">grab your own copy of the audiobook today</a>.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Looking Ahead</h2>



Next up is Matt Forbeck’s novella, Halo: New Blood.



While Spartans get all the glory, no soldier―not even the legendary Master Chief―wins a war on his own. Gunnery Sergeant Edward Buck and his team of Orbital Drop Shock Troopers (ODSTs) played a major role in saving Earth from all-out invasion at the end of the Covenant War―acts of bravery and ingenuity that did not go unnoticed by the United Nations Space Command.



Now, after many Spartans have been killed in battle and the Master Chief is listed as MIA, the UNSC decides to create a new generation of Spartans to defend humanity from threats both outside―and within. When they come to Buck with an extraordinary proposition, he is forced to make a life-altering decision. With the Covenant War finally over, is it time for him to retire to the sidelines for a life he could only dream about…or is he prepared to step up and become part of the military’s new blood?



We’ll see you at the end of the month for the next episode of Spartan Chatter!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">COMMUNITY HIGHLIGHTS</h2>



Catch up on the community book club with great shouts from folks in our <a href="https://discord.gg/halo">official Discord server</a>!



<ul>
<li>Gamehero24: Excited to join! I’m going to go back to June to catch up so I can dive in on this next!</li>



<li>Attorney: Personally, Forerunners are the most fascinating aspect of Halo. Gives me vibes of how the European generations that grew up after the fall of the Western Roman Empire marveled at these structures and technologies that were far beyond their own capabilities and wondered about this advanced civilization which came before and built them.</li>



<li>Cydon505: This book, and entire trilogy by extension, are the best stories in the entire Halo franchise, hands down. I love the cosmic horror elements of this book and the inevitable tragedy of the Forerunners’ fate as the overwhelming forces of the Flood close in. I reread this trilogy probably about once a year it’s just so good.</li>



<li>DDog Dazamaan: Definitely found this book hard to get through on my first read; I wasn’t much of a reader, and generally had a difficult time wrapping my head around the concept of greater tech 100,000 years ago while the humans are almost cavemen-like. I’m enjoying it much more on this rereading, especially Riser!</li>



<li>Almond: I get so much more from the book now that time has passed to make more connections.</li>



<li>pins before posting: There is something so different about these books, a type of different alien wonder.</li>



<li>Aaron: I think this book improves on repeat reading. The first time I read it I found it quite challenging as it’s essentially a whole new universe to learn and doesn’t have the familiar qualities of previous Halo books. However, as I’ve become more familiar with the characters, species, and politics of that era, I’ve enjoyed revisiting this book. Also, I love the new artwork that’s been made for this month and last month’s audiobook previews! Definitely looking forward to more of them with the next book clubs.</li>



<li>Austin @ JumperScape: So glad we’re going over Cryptum. The Forerunner trilogy of books from Greg Bear are some of my favorite reads in the whole book series.</li>



<li>JimFrigginLahey: Honestly that was such a great read. I immediately picked up Primordium after I closed the last page of Cryptum. I’ve only read the first chapter but I’m excited to catch back up with Bornstellar…</li>



<li>GuyverTron: I love these Forerunner books so much. They have been called the “Dune of the Halo universe” for a reason. Every time I read them I pick up a detail I missed on previous reads. For instance, the end of chapter describes the remnants of where the Star Roads connected to the surface of this world.</li>



<li>faded_scope: Just finished this one and definitely going to need another few listens to fully comprehend it all! Really enjoyed the perspective shifts and felt it worked really well, given it was “two characters” built into the same perspective at certain points.</li>
</ul>



We’ll see you at the end of the month to discuss Halo: New Blood!