Canon Fodder

Fiction

Games

Halo Infinite

Alex Wakeford

Issue 166

Canon Fodder: Joyeuse Occasions

Mutinous Core

Operation Infinite Out Now

Vacancy

Click here to bookmark Vacancy on Halo Infinite

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>



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<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>



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<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>





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<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>



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<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

Community


<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>



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<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

Click here to read more info about Halo esports in 2026.

Click here to read more info about Halo Fest 2026

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

Community Spotlight


<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


<p><em>Fireteam Osiris, the light is green!</em></p>



<p>It has been ten years since Spartan Locke sent Fireteam Osiris to Kamchatka, thus setting in motion the events of <em>Halo: 5 Guardians.</em></p>



<p>We’re celebrating in Halo Infinite by bringing some fan-favorite armor sets to the Exchange and bringing back the new, unique mode, Extermination.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Anniversary Armors</h2>



<p>If you’ve banked enough Spartan Points, you’ll be able to grab these sets as soon as they drop out of slipspace. If not, fear not – they will be available from the Exchange so you may obtain them at your leisure. (Or you can grab them from the Shop if you prefer that route.)</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/HALOWEEN_PK_38.jpg" alt="Hunter and Copperhead armors in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-153850" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HALOWEEN_PK_38-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<ul>
<li> <strong>Hunter</strong>: Savvy Spartans choose HUNTER technology for its customizable interfaces, a puissant surveillance suite, and dependable maneuverability in hand-to-hand sparring.</li>



<li><strong>Helljumper</strong>: Thanks to innovative field upgrades by Cascade Stronghold Technologies, testbed HELLJUMPER armor can reliably endure the atmospheric rigors expected of GEN3 Mjolnir.</li>



<li><strong>Copperhead</strong>: When it comes to building interspecies alliances, COPPERHEAD armor has consistently proven its merits for both kinetic diplomacy and charm offensives.</li>



<li><strong>Shinobi:</strong> Though the design’s origins remain obscure, the undisclosed reasons behind its approved use among Spartans of the UNSC may prove even more unknowable.</li>
</ul>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Exacting Extermination</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-153836" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/Extermination_Playlist_AST_1920x1080_Clean.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>We’re all familiar with Team Slayer where it’s 4v4 and you score a point for each kill on the opponent’s team. And first team to 50 points, wins the match. Extermination is the same at the very basics: 4v4 and you gotta kill the enemy. But you’re not trying to get to 50 kills.</p>



<p>The Goal: </p>



<p>Eliminate all members of the enemy team at once.</p>



<p>Super simple right? If you can kill the entire enemy team before anyone respawns, you win the round.</p>



<p><em>Were it so easy.</em></p>



<p>So what’s the catch? If a player can stay alive long enough for their teammates to respawn, the round continues. You’ll have a 15 second respawn between each death. And for the record: this goes by fast when you’re hunting that last elusive Spartan but somehow seems to last an eternity when you’re desperately evading, trying to let your teammate respawn.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Combat Components</h2>



<p>Alright let’s get the lowdown before you throwdown:</p>



<ul>
<li>Short, two-minute rounds</li>



<li>First to win five rounds, wins</li>



<li>Teams swap sides after each round</li>



<li>Round ends at time or when an entire team is on respawn</li>



<li>Ties can occur when no team was Exterminated before timer runs out</li>



<li>If three ties occur, the team with the most points wins</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Strategic Spaces</h2>



<p>With a new playlist comes new maps! Bookmark the mode here, then grab the maps and check ‘em out!</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="Extermination Playlist Map Flythrough | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rIhgu3RR424?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><strong>Collateral<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/77f91906-f9bf-47e2-958c-88177f48db3e">Bookmark</a><br>Credits: </strong>Pat Sounds, Dellsoto</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/collateral_004.jpg" alt="Extermination map "Collateral" made in Halo Infinite Forge" class="wp-image-153710" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/collateral_004-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>No uplink. No Signal…Nothing but static and rain</p>



<p><strong>Stadium<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/es/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/10efac3f-0294-4fb7-bedc-2963342912e5">Bookmark</a><br>Credits:</strong> Pat Sounds</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/stadium_003.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153724" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/stadium_003-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>1…2…3 kills, you’re out.</p>



<p><strong>Breakthrough<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/2e994826-e870-478e-8eb8-96fe70cf0d4c">Bookmark</a><br>Credits:</strong> Silencer EU, Kat Rat A Tat</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/breakthrough_006.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153738" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/breakthrough_006-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Just listen to the rain and the wind.</p>



<p><strong>Eyrie<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/d2a2dded-db45-471f-99cd-0a71a27f74fa">Bookmark</a><br>Credits: </strong> DanZama, ArturBlooshot, Starkey213036</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/eyrie_003.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153752" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/eyrie_003-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Guess some of us just don’t like leaving a job half-finished.</p>



<p><strong>Ilex<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/fdeff8a9-2f50-4a90-92cf-a9a819a57c41">Bookmark</a><br>Credits:</strong> Igrizhar, Yeehaw J24, JoValiant, Virus11010</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/ilex_002.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153766" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ilex_002-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>It’s the facility, not the goat.</p>



<p><strong>Oppressor<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/es/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/4de96a7b-8325-47a5-9099-e7a239de8828">Bookmark</a><br>Credits: </strong>Starkey213036, ArturBloodshot</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/oppressor_002.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153780" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/oppressor_002-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Drowned desperate screams of useless defiance.</p>



<p><strong>Runoff<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a9fe589e-f58e-4515-b50f-650c07f9b993">Bookmark</a><br>Credits: </strong>Cousin Tim, MikRips</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/runoff_008.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153794" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/runoff_008-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Where does the water come from?</p>



<p><strong>Abbiocco<br><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/47b72726-74f2-4b19-bde4-fef30e7c5b64">Bookmark</a><br>Credits: </strong>bullet2thehead9</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/abbiocco_009.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite Extermination map created in Forge." class="wp-image-153808" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/abbiocco_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Grab a pizza on your way out.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Closing Contemplations</h2>



<p>The light is still green, Spartans. Grab the new gear and check out Extermination today!</p>
