Community

Community Spotlight

Mutinous Core

Spotlight: December 4, 2025

Halo Fest


<p>Hello Halo fans! In 2026 the Halo franchise is celebrating 25 years of incredible moments that you, the Halo community, have shared together. In order to properly celebrate the occasion, we are hosting Halo Fest right here in Seattle on December 11-13, 2026.  </p>



<p>You can read our announcement blog here:</p>



<ul>
<li> <strong><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-announced">Halo Fest Announcement</a></strong></li>
</ul>



<p>As we did with HaloWC 2025, we’re starting a monthly blog series to keep you up to date on everything you need to know for Halo Fest. And like we did with that blog series, we also want this to be a conversation. What would you want to see or do at Halo Fest? What would make it an unforgettable experience for you and your friends/family? I’ll be asking questions like this each month and we’d love to hear from you! </p>



<p>Okay, so this month we’re talking about ticketing!</p>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157196" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Fans-Waiting-at-Doors.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>As announced at HaloWC, tickets will go on sale for Halo Fest on <strong>Wednesday, December 10, 2025 @ 10am PT</strong>. Tickets will be available on TIXR – You can create an account at the link below.</p>





<p>We highly encourage making an account ahead of time to ensure a speedier checkout when tickets go live. <em>(Note: We will have the direct URL to Halo Fest tickets next week before they go live) </em></p>



<p>For those uninitiated, Halo Fest is comprised of two parts: </p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Concert: Friday December 11, 2026 @ Benaroya Hall </strong></li>



<li><strong>Convention: Saturday-Sunday December 12-13, 2026 @ Seattle Convention Center (Summit)</strong> </li>
</ul>



<p>When you go to grab your tickets for the concert, you’ll see a seat map where you’ll be able to select which seat(s) you’d like to sit in. Ticketing prices and ranges are based on what’s common for Benaroya Hall – the closer to the stage the more pricey the tickets are.</p>



<p>For the convention, the tickets available are standard general admission which will get you access to the hall on Saturday/Sunday of the event.  </p>



<p>In one fell swoop, you’ll be able to snag your tickets for the concert and the convention in one checkout flow. </p>



<p>On top of this, there will be a VIP add-on that’s offered to a very limited number of fans. This will include early entry, exclusive access to meet and greets, exclusive goodie bags, and more. <strong>Being a Halo Fest VIP means you’re a VIP for the Concert as well as the Convention</strong>. We sent out surveys to VIPs after HaloWC 2025 and will be using that feedback to help improve the VIP experience even more!  </p>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKET OPTIONS</h1>



<p>Halo Fest spans three days across two different portions, and we wanted to ensure the options were both flexible but also simplified as much as possible.  </p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Concert: Reserved seating starts at $75 (tiered by section; choose your exact seats at checkout).</strong></li>



<li><strong>Convention: Early bird pricing (limited time/quantity) at $60, and then normal price will be $75 for the weekend.  </strong></li>



<li><strong>VIP Add-on: $250</strong></li>
</ul>



<p>In addition to your ticket you can also purchase the VIP package which includes early entry to the concert and convention, exclusive swag bag, exclusive meet and greet opportunities and more. These will be in very limited supply!</p>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">IMPORTANT INFORMATION</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157266" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>There are 2,500 seats at Benaroya Hall, and with our stage configuration and reserved seats for special guests, we’re looking to sell about 2,230 tickets. This is significantly fewer tickets than what will be available for the Halo Fest convention. <strong>NOT EVERYONE ATTENDING HALO FEST CONVENTION WILL BE ABLE TO ATTEND THE CONCERT.  </strong></p>



<p>We’re expecting the concert to sell out first, so if the concert is something that’s really important to you – please do not wait to get those tickets first. <strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Once it sells out, there won’t be more seats available!</span></strong></p>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT TO LOOK FORWARD TO </h1>



<p>The blog series will continue in January where we’ll be talking about the various contests that we’ll be hosting. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="894" height="231" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/image.png" alt="" class="wp-image-157040" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/image.png 894w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/image-300x78.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/image-768x198.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 894px) 100vw, 894px" /></figure>



<p>If we do a short film contest, what categories should we support? Are there any other types of contests we should consider hosting?  </p>



<p>Ping me on twitter and let me know! </p>





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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">CONCLUSION</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157224" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>We have been sincerely blown away by the excitement since the announce of Halo Fest already, and to the fans already changing their twitter names to include Halo Fest already – we love you for that. That gets us even more excited to host a great event for the whole community.  </p>



<p>Tickets are on sale soon – we hope to see you there!</p>


Tashi

Halo Fest – December Update Blog

Canon Fodder

Fiction

Games

Halo Infinite

Alex Wakeford

Issue 166

Canon Fodder: Joyeuse Occasions

Operation Infinite Out Now

Esports


<p>As mentioned in the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/operation-infinite-preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Operation: Infinite Preview Blog</a>, this is the last major content update currently planned for Halo Infinite.</p>



<p>Throughout the past four years,<em> </em>there have been countless memories made in the competitive space – both online in Ranked matchmaking and in-person at our HCS events. Friendships forged and championships won… with a little bit of sweat here and there.<em> </em>Thank you to the Ranked and HCS community for the feedback & enthusiasm to help make Halo Infinite into the game and into the community that it is today.</p>



<p>Without further ado, let’s talk about the new Ranked content coming in Operation: Infinite </p>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>RANKED UPDATES</strong></h1>



<p>Bragging rights are forever. Operation: Infinite introduces a new asymmetrical map for select Ranked modes and a fresh Ranked Seasons calendar to keep your skills sharp. The new map, Vacancy, was commissioned by HCS and we hired two forgers who have never let us down – <a href="https://x.com/MikRips">MikRips</a> and <a href="https://x.com/EthanHibbs9">Ethan Hibbs</a>.</p>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>NEW MAP: VACANCY</strong></h1>





<p><strong>Forged by: </strong><a href="https://x.com/MikRips">MikRips</a>, <a href="https://x.com/EthanHibbs9">Ethan Hibbs</a> </p>



<p>On a quiet square sits the Hotel Kijani, a cozy, but modest inn practically baked into its surroundings by years of mid-afternoon heat. Hours after the markets have closed, when the last fruit truck has packed away its wares, the alleyway staircases and typically busy thoroughfares have emptied, and long shadows begin to grow on the crested archways of this storied city—only then do warriors strafe its scenic courtyards in pursuit of glory. </p>



<p>You can check in anytime you like, but you can never leave. </p>



<p><strong><em>Vacancy arrives in Ranked Arena, Ranked Slayer, Ranked Doubles, and select ranked rotational playlists on November 18, 2025.</em> </strong></p>





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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>RANKED SEASONS</strong></h1>



<p>More Ranked Seasons are on their way. Every few months, skilled tacticians will get the chance to secure a spot on the seasonal leaderboard and claim exclusive Spartan customizations from a new slate of Ranked Rewards before Competitive Skill Rank (CSR) values reset at the conclusion of each Ranked Season. </p>



<p>During Ranked Seasons, the Ranked Rotational playlist will periodically change to offer fresh challenges with a mix of strategic, throwback, and tactical modes. The next Ranked Rotational playlist to go live will be <em>Ranked Snipers</em>. </p>



<p>Here’s a friendly reminder that recently, the Ranked fireteam restrictions were loosened – now, if party members are within your skill range, you can play in parties of 3 or 4 at any rank! </p>



<p>The next Ranked Season begins November 18.</p>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>HALO AT DREAMHACK</strong></h1>



<p>Last but not least, stay tuned for the recommended map pools for <a href="https://www.dreamhack.com/birmingham/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dreamhack Birmingham</a> (March 27-29, 2026) and <a href="https://dreamhack.com/atlanta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dreamhack Atlanta</a> (May 15-17, 2026). </p>



<p>We’ll see you on the battlefield, Spartans! </p>


Official HCS

Operation: Infinite (Ranked Update)

Operation: Infinite Update Preview

Book Preview


<p><em>December 2559. The UNSC faces its darkest hour.</em></p>



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



<p>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.</p>



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



<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>



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



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



<p>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 <em>Halo</em> with a live audience.</p>



<p>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>.</p>


snickerdoodle

Halo: The Rubicon Protocol

HaloWC

Shopify Rebellion are your 2025 Halo World Champions!


<p>Next year will mark twenty-five years since the Master Chief first battled the Covenant in <em>Halo: Combat Evolved</em>. To celebrate the epic adventure that changed gaming forever, we’ve partnered with <a href="https://www.higround.co">Higround</a> to create a limited-edition series of keyboards and mousepads that pay tribute to our most cherished campaign and multiplayer memories.</p>



<p>Shop the whole collection at participating <a href="https://www.microcenter.com/search/search_results.aspx?N=&cat=&Ntt=higround+halo">Micro Center</a> stores, with in-store pickup at <a href="https://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?st=higround%20halo">Best Buy</a>, or online through either retailer now.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>KEYBOARDS</strong></h2>



<p>Higround’s limited-edition <em>Halo: Combat Evolved</em> 25th Anniversary gear series unleashes a trio of elite gaming keyboards armored in retro art honoring the legendary Spartans of 2001. With three designs to choose from, there’s something to evolve everyone’s game.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>SNIPER EVOLVED</strong></h3>



<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/HG_SniperEvolved-1.jpg" alt="Sniper Evolved keyboard" class="wp-image-154148" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_SniperEvolved-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>The perfect tool for Jackals on the ridge. Take aim with the <strong>Halo x Higround Basecamp 96+ Sniper Evolved Keyboard</strong>, featuring a tactical look at the Master Chief perched downwind with his favorite precision instrument.</p>



<p>Built on Higround’s largest frame with full-width backlighting, this limited-edition keyboard is an ode to the weapon that launched a million montages.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>About the Basecamp 96+</strong></h4>



<p>Higround’s new 96% keyboard features a num pad for added utility, without sacrificing a relatively compact form factor. Built with the same sound profile and build quality as the longstanding Basecamp+ series, the <strong>Basecamp 96+</strong> features dye-sub PBT keycaps, hot-swappable pre-lubed TTC Neptune switches, an aluminum plate, and Higround’s legendary Dampening Plus system.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>FLAWLESS COWBOY</strong></h3>



<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/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1.jpg" alt="Flawless Cowboy keyboard" class="wp-image-154106" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Flawless-Cowboy-2-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Warning: multiple Covenant dropships on approach. The <strong>Halo x Higround Summit 65 Flawless Cowboy Keyboard</strong> hits the ground running with an iconic look at the Master Chief’s first combat encounter on Alpha Halo.</p>



<p>With a sturdy aluminum case, Spartan-quality dampening, and full-width backlighting, you’ll know just how it feels to face a pair of inbound Banshees in Mjolnir armor.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>About the Summit 65</strong></h4>



<p>The <strong>Summit 65</strong> is Highround’s flagship 65% keyboard, with dye-sub PBT keycaps and dedicated arrow keys. Features a full CNC aluminum case, gasket-mounted design, Geo Linear switches, triple dampening foam, and an FR4 flex-cut plate.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>SHOTTY SNIPES</strong></h3>



<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/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1.jpg" alt="Shotty Snipes keyboard" class="wp-image-154134" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_Shotty-Snipes-1-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>The ultimate duel. Range meets stopping power in the artfully decorated Halo x Higround 65HE Shotty Snipes Keyboard. Whether you prefer to get close or pick your targets from afar, this keyboard’s Hall Effect tech delivers hair-trigger responsivity to every showdown.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>About the Basecamp 65HE</strong></h4>



<p>The <strong>Basecamp 65HE</strong> is Higround’s signature 65% keyboard (dedicated arrow keys) with dye-sub PBT keycaps. Features magnetic switches, Rapid Trigger, and Hall Effect technology for Dynamic Actuation between 0.1 mm and 3.8 mm.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>MOUSEPADS</strong></h2>



<p>The legend of any Spartan warfighter is built on a foundation of honor, duty, and sacrifice. Your gaming skills may be a little nastier in practice, but a firm foundation still makes all the difference between victory and defeat. Get tactile with Higround’s Mousepad XL!</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>M90 MELEE</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="850" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1.png" alt="M90 Melee Mousepad XL" class="wp-image-154176" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1-300x133.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1-1024x453.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1-768x340.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1-1536x680.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_M90Melee_MousepadXL-1-1568x694.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Shot, meet chaser. The <strong>Halo x Higround M90 Melee Mousepad XL</strong> features the iconic aftermath of a close encounter between red and blue Spartans. Try looking at those bulky ragdolls without imagining the sound of a satisfying smackdown.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>BATTLE CREEK</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="860" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1.png" alt="Battle Creek Mousepad XL" class="wp-image-154162" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1-300x134.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1-1024x459.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1-768x344.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1-1536x688.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HG_BattleCreek_MousepadXL-1-1568x702.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Flag dropped! Return to the glory days of CTF on Battle Creek with the <strong>Halo x Higround Battle Creek Mousepad XL</strong>. Featuring a saturated snapshot of the riparian arena and a map close-up outlining all its hallmark weapon drops, this mousepad would make a nostalgic complement to any pro rig.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>ABOUT MOUSEPAD XL</strong></h3>



<p>Higround’s <strong>Mousepad XL</strong> provides the foundation necessary to ascend to the top. With non-slip rubber, a 90×40 cm profile, and a medium-fast surface with a slight grain, you’ll get low friction speed and just the right amount of stopping power.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>WHERE TO BUY</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Halo x Higround Anniversary PC gear collection" class="wp-image-154078" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/1-HG_Halo-Group-Shots-3-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Shop the whole collection at participating Micro Center stores or with in-store pickup at Best Buy now. You can also secure your limited-edition Higround x Halo Anniversary PC gear online through both retailers.</p>



<p><strong>Shop now: </strong><a href="https://www.bestbuy.com/site/searchpage.jsp?st=higround%20halo">Best Buy</a> (Summit SOLD OUT)| <a href="https://www.microcenter.com/search/search_results.aspx?N=&cat=&Ntt=higround+halo">Micro Center</a>| <a href="https://t.co/lZi0saSTak" data-type="link" data-id="https://t.co/lZi0saSTak">Higround</a></p>



<p>Look out for the full collection to arrive at <a href="https://www.higround.co/">higround.co</a> in early November!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>25 YEARS OF HALO</strong></h2>



<p>Our partnership with Higround marks the exciting start of our 25th Anniversary Halobration! Look out for reminiscences, retrospectives, and more tributes to the mighty Master Chief all throughout next year, along with new details on <em>Halo: Campaign Evolved</em>.</p>


Halo x Higround Anniversary PC Gear


<p>Whether you joined us in Seattle or on our live broadcast, we’d like to thank everyone in the Halo community for making this year’s Halo World Championship in Seattle such an unforgettable experience.</p>



<p>Between swapping stories with Halo fans, watching elite <em>Halo Infinite</em> players duke it out on the main stage, announcing <em><a href="https://www.aka.ms/HCEAnnounce25">Halo: Campaign Evolved</a></em>, and seeing our community raise a whopping $67,000 for <a href="https://www.gamersoutreach.org">Gamers Outreach</a>, it’s hard to pick a favorite moment from this incredible weekend—so we thought we’d share a whole collection of them!</p>



<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="Thank you! | Halo World Championship 2025" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KB6Ag-2QEoI?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>



<p>Check out more highlights from this year’s Halo World Championship below.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Congrats to Shopify Rebellion</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1708" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-scaled.jpg" alt="Shopify Rebellion claims the trophy at the Halo World Championship Grand Finals." class="wp-image-153966" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1568x1046.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



<p>After three days of intense competitive heat, <strong>Shopify Rebellion</strong> clutched up and came out on top against <strong>OpTic Gaming</strong> in the best-of-seven Grand Finals. It was a remarkable journey from this year’s earliest HCS events to the Halo World Championship stage, and their relentless dedication certainly paid off on Sunday!</p>



<p>Congratulations to Shopify Rebellion, our 2025 Halo World Champions, and to all the teams that made this year’s tournament the most attended HCS event to date.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Cunning Cosplay</strong></h2>



<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/HWC25-2_1020.jpg" alt="A group photograph of cosplayer contestants from the Halo World Championship Community Cosplay Contest." class="wp-image-153924" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Halo cosplayers really know how to strut their Spartan stuff! This year’s Community Cosplay Contest welcomed 85 cosplayers to the Community Stage, where they showed off their stellar handiwork and a flair for dramatic entrances.</p>



<p>Congratulations to <strong>Miss_Boof</strong> (as Olympia Vale), <strong>James</strong> (as Crochet Master Chief), and <strong>Sola Mors</strong> (as Flood Spartan) on ascending to the Main Stage, and to all our heroic contestants who dazzled the crowd at the Community Cosplay Contest!</p>



<p><strong>Download photos from the contest: </strong><a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay1">Part 1</a> | <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay2">Part 2 </a>| <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay3">Part 3</a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Mighty Makers</strong></h2>



<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/HWC25-2_0069.jpg" alt="A row of custom Spartan helmets sits under a VK78 Commando replica painted with a pepperoni pizza design." class="wp-image-153938" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>This year’s Maker’s Contest was filled with impressive armaments, curious creations, and oddly satisfying oddments. Check out photos from the top three winners below!</p>



<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/HWC25-2_0078.jpg" alt="Creations from the Halo World Championship Maker's Contest hang displayed on a wall. A mounted trophy head of Jega 'Rdomnai hangs above a scale replica of an Elite Bloodblade, surrounded by more replica Halo weaponry." class="wp-image-153952" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p><strong>Draxes</strong> took first place with his Jega ‘Rdomnai bust and Elite Bloodblade (above), followed closely by <strong>MightyMarkProps</strong> with an extra-lethal Hydra model and <strong>Fallen922</strong> with a Craigtastic bass guitar (below).</p>



<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/HWC25-3_0030.jpg" alt="MightyMarkProps holds a replica Hydra beside Fallen922, who stands proudly with her Craig-inspired bass guitar." class="wp-image-153882" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Meet-up Memories</strong></h2>



<p>It’s always a treat to meet so many Halo fans IRL! During this weekend’s event, the Halo Studios community team held daily Community Meet-ups featuring Halo-themed games and limited-edition posters by <strong><a href="https://x.com/Soul_ant19">Soul_ant19</a></strong>, <strong><a href="https://x.com/OutletChief729">OutletChief729</a></strong>, and <strong><a href="https://x.com/entransing">entransing</a></strong>.</p>



<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/HWC25-3_0251.jpg" alt="A group photo of Halo fans and members of the Halo Studios Community Team holding entransing's poster design at a community meet-up." class="wp-image-153896" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>We’re so grateful to everyone who stopped by to say hello, play games, and sign our posters for the Halo Studios office! If you couldn’t attend in person, don’t forget to <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25MeetUps">snag a digital copy</a> of this year’s Community Meet-up posters.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Halo Fest 2026</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Fest: 25 Years of Halo. HaloFest.com." class="wp-image-153980" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



<p>Don’t miss your chance to join us in Seattle, WA again for <a href="https://www.halofest.com">Halo Fest</a> in December 2026.</p>



<p>The event begins with an orchestral performance of iconic Halo music, in concert for one night only on December 11, followed by a two-day convention celebrating Halo’s legacy, story, and unrivaled community. We hope you can make it!</p>


Thank you for joining us!

Halo World Championship 2025