Games

Halo: Campaign Evolved

Following our exciting new mission reveal at the XBOX Showcase, the time has come to officially unveil all the pre-order bonuses and exciting content available with physical and digital editions of Halo: Campaign Evolved.



Halo: Campaign Evolved launches on XBOX Series X|S, PlayStation®5, and Steam on July 28, 2026, with early access beginning July 23, 2026 – <a href="https://aka.ms/HCEBuyNow">Pre-Order now!</a> Update June 8, 2026: The Collector’s Edition is sold out. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Image of table of contents for the standard, premium, and collector’s edition of Halo: Campaign Evolved in physical and digital formats." class="wp-image-167792" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/SKUBlog_Inline_Table_Detailed-R02_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Image of the Halo: Campaign Evolved pre-order bonus, the Foundry Pack." class="wp-image-167368" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/02_HCE_NewMissionBlog_PreOrderBonus_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Pre-order any edition of Halo: Campaign Evolved to unlock the Foundry Armory Pack, a customization bundle featuring armor and weapon skins for use in the Campaign.



<ul>
<li>Classic 2001 Armor Skin</li>



<li>Classic 2001 Assault Rifle Skin</li>



<li>Gilded Onyx Armor Style</li>



<li>Milestone Assault Rifle Weapon Style</li>
</ul>



Featuring retro designs inspired by the Master Chief’s iconic look and signature weapon from Halo: Combat Evolved, along with legendary skins inspired by Forerunners and starry nights, the Foundry Armory Pack offers essential Spartan gear for returning heroes and newcomers alike.



EARLY ACCESS STARTS JULY 23



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Image of Halo: Campaign Evolved premium edition features." class="wp-image-167764" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/HCE_SKUBlog_Inline_PremiumEditionSummary_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Pre-order the physical Collector’s Edition or Digital Premium Edition and get up to five days of early-access play starting July 23, 2026.



<a href="https://aka.ms/HCEBuyNow">Pre-order Halo: Campaign Evolved now.</a>



ALPHA HALO ARMORY PACK



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Image of items included in the Halo: Campaign Evolved Alpha Halo Armory Pack." class="wp-image-167396" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/03_HCE_NewMissionBlog_Premium_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Purchase the Digital Premium Edition of Halo: Campaign Evolved to wage war with six additional Weapon Skins and five intimidating Armor Skins for the Master Chief.



<ul>
<li>Splintered Warden Armor Skin</li>



<li>Subanese Fang Energy Sword Weapon Skin</li>



<li>Lochagos Armor Skin</li>



<li>Laconian Lance Battle Rifle Weapon Skin</li>



<li>Mobile Armor Type 117 Armor Skin</li>



<li>Proto Type SPNKr Weapon Skin</li>



<li>Timberwolf Armor Skin</li>



<li>Savage Tooth Sniper Weapon Skin</li>



<li>Gestalt Armor Skin</li>



<li>Colossus Fuel Rod Cannon Weapon Skin</li>



<li>Cold Iron Magnum Weapon Skin (the personal sidearm of Captain Keyes)</li>
</ul>



Equip these Skins from the Customization menu for use in Halo: Campaign Evolved while playing solo or co-op.



DIGITAL PREMIUM PERKS



The Digital Premium Edition of Halo: Campaign Evolved includes the Alpha Halo Armory Pack, and the following Digital Story & Art Collection:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1545" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo: Hungry Buzzards cover art" class="wp-image-167452" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-300x181.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-1024x618.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-768x464.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-1536x927.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-2048x1236.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/04_HCE_NewMissionBlog_HungryBuzzards_Cover_NoCrop-1568x947.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Halo: Hungry Buzzards cover art</figcaption></figure>



<ul>
<li>Art of Halo: Campaign Evolved Digital Artbook: Featuring concepts, character designs, and environments from Halo: Campaign Evolved, this art collection reveals how Halo Studios developers attentively reimagined the original vision of Halo: Combat Evolved.</li>



<li>Halo: Hungry Buzzards Digital Short Story: Written by award-winning author Troy Denning, Halo: Hungry Buzzards is an essential companion piece to Operation: METEORITE, a new three-mission adventure available only in Halo: Campaign Evolved.</li>



<li>Digital Game Manual: Featuring updated gameplay information, controls, and background lore, this lovingly crafted, modern homage to the original Halo: Combat Evolved game manual is a nostalgic companion for longtime fans and a helpful introductory guide for Halo newcomers.</li>
</ul>



The Digital Premium Edition invites you to immerse yourself in the world of Halo: Campaign Evolved with customization skins and a curated collection of universe and story essentials.



COLLECTIBLES EVOLVED



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Image of Halo: Campaign Evolved collector’s edition." class="wp-image-167806" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/Xbox_Meteorite_Collectors-Edition_16x9_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Update June 8, 2026: The Collector’s Edition is sold out. Featuring a limited-edition statue, art prints, and other physical memorabilia, the Halo: Campaign Evolved Collector’s Edition is the ultimate nostalgia-inducing launch kit for diehard Halo fans from the legendary era of discs and LAN parties.



The Collector’s Edition includes:



<ul>
<li>XBOX Series X and PlayStation®5 Collector’s Editions include a Halo: Campaign Evolved physical game disc and Premium Edition Upgrade voucher code</li>



<li>Steam Collector’s Edition includes Halo: Campaign Evolved – Premium Edition voucher code (includes single code for base game and Premium Edition Upgrade content)</li>



<li>Collectible SteelBook®</li>



<li>12” Master Chief Statue by Dark Horse</li>



<li>LED Replica of Cortana’s Data Chip</li>



<li>Three (3) 11×17” prints of Halo: Campaign Evolved concept art</li>



<li>Physical manual modeled on the original Halo: Combat Evolved game manual</li>
</ul>



Important Information:



* Americas packaging localized in English, French Canadian, and Spanish only. EMEA and APAC packaging localized in English, French, and German only.



Halo: Campaign Evolved launches globally on July 28, 2026 at 8 AM PDT (July 29 in Japan and select Asia-Pacific markets). Early Access begins July 23 at 8 AM PDT (July 24 in Japan and select Asia-Pacific markets).



Collector’s Edition will be available for purchase in the following regions:



<ul>
<li>North America: United States, Canada, Mexico</li>



<li>South America: Argentina, Chile</li>



<li>Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom</li>



<li>Oceania: Australia, New Zealand</li>
</ul>



GAME PASS DAY 1



Starting July 28, 2026, Halo: Campaign Evolved will be available to select Game Pass subscribers (Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass) as a day-one release.



Digital editions of Halo: Campaign Evolved feature XBOX Play Anywhere support to carry progression, saves, and customization between Windows PCs and XBOX Series X|S consoles.



Owners of the Digital Standard Edition or Game Pass Ultimate and PC Game Pass subscribers may upgrade to the Digital Premium Edition for only $20.00 (USD, price varies by region). Pre-order the Digital Premium Upgrade.



MORE INFO COMING SOON



In case you missed it, check out the New Mission Reveal Trailer for a closer look at the all-new Master Chief and Sgt. Major Johnson adventure, <a href="https://youtu.be/e-tXi1NC_aU?si=o7tUyDIyYikfK2kD">and the Roundtable Reveal</a> to learn more about the game from the team at Halo Studios.



Stay tuned for more info on Halo: Campaign Evolved coming soon!

Halo Studios

See the Collector’s Edition, Digital Premium Edition, and more

Pre-Order Bonuses and Editions | Halo: Campaign Evolved

Community

Halo25Together

As part of Halo’s <a href="https://www.aka.ms/Halo25Launch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">25th anniversary celebration</a>, we’re inviting Halo fans from around the world to share favorite memories and vote on community polls in our <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/1464409121209188466" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">official Halo Discord server</a>. Follow @Halo on social media to join the fun! 



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Each month of #Halo25Together has revealed another thread in Halo’s tapestry: from unforgettable campaign moments to the dream teams that carried us through the toughest fights. May continues that journey by focusing on the iconic phrases that became part of our shared language. 



Before reviewing the latest results, take this month’s 25 question quiz designed to put your knowledge of Halo quips and quotes to the test!



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</div></figure>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">To Arms</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HIsN-0oXkAAD8Im.jpg" alt="A drawing of Master Chief on a grid background with a pencil laying on the table." class="wp-image-166987" style="width:639px;height:auto" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HIsN-0oXkAAD8Im.jpg 1080w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HIsN-0oXkAAD8Im-225x300.jpg 225w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HIsN-0oXkAAD8Im-768x1024.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></figure>



<a href="https://x.com/spartan_cassius/status/2056753030603670014">Art by @spartan_cassius</a>



Unsurprisingly, Chief’s declaration of requiring arms comes in guns blazing. But hey, if you found yourself on Cairo Station facing the Covenant, you would probably say, “I need a weapon” too! 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Ballistics Bricks</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1792" height="2048" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson.jpg" alt="Master Chief holding Cortana in his hand while back to back with SGT Johnson." class="wp-image-167015" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson.jpg 1792w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson-263x300.jpg 263w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson-896x1024.jpg 896w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson-768x878.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson-1344x1536.jpg 1344w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/Johnson-1568x1792.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1792px) 100vw, 1792px" /></figure>



<a href="https://x.com/CoolGHudson/status/2024948600157909133">Art by @CoolGHudson</a>



Only in Halo can a chunk of masonry achieve unexpected aerodynamics and become a community legend. All the heroics, feats of physics, and improbable odds stacked against Chief when he was returning the Covenant’s bomb and Johnson just drops the epic line: 



“For a brick he flew pretty good!”  



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">LL Cool J(ohnson)</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1033" height="1600" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson.jpg" alt="Full size magazine style art of SGT Johnson, with a cigar in his mouth, holding lit lighter." class="wp-image-167001" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson.jpg 1033w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson-194x300.jpg 194w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson-661x1024.jpg 661w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson-768x1190.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/AveryJohnson-992x1536.jpg 992w" sizes="(max-width: 1033px) 100vw, 1033px" /></figure>



<a href="https://x.com/JackieHernndez6/status/2033909885742592349">Art by @JackieHernndez6</a>



Some girls like chocolate, some girls like diamonds, other girls like tanks. If you truly need to know what the ladies like, just dial up everyone’s favorite Sarge, he’ll set you right. 



How do we know that? In Sgt Maj Johnson’s own words,  



“I know what the ladies like” 



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Say Less (or More…)</h2>



And now, some words on clips and phrases from the <a href="https://discord.gg/Halo">official Halo Discord</a>!



<ul>
<li>Prime: Tank beats everything!!</li>



<li>Senabunn: i use “were it so easy” regularly in my day-to-day life</li>



<li>Autistimus Prime, Reptile God: “If you ever fall for a lady rookie, make sure she’s got balls” Sgt. Edward Buck</li>



<li>Volt: “I’ve got a bad feeling about this…”</li>



<li>TrainedEye3461: Literally anything Escharum says, I love all of his lines so much.</li>



<li>Demi-Demon: “A collection of lies, that is all I am. Stolen thoughts and memories.”</li>



<li>Blacklight: WORT WORT WORT!</li>



<li>Shawn Frost: “To give the covenant back their bomb”</li>



<li>zany: KEEP IT CLEAN!!!!</li>



<li>Serpico: Wake me, when you need me.</li>



<li>Shade Sensei: “Incoming. Looks like you really pissed them off.” -Jun</li>



<li>Aegisfate: “Boo!” – MC</li>



<li>zany (again): Also “Troopers, we are dropping into hell! Time to grow a pair!” (yes ODST is my favorite game 🥹)</li>



<li>Blacklight: “I Know What The Ladies Like.”</li>



<li>Kewl Kiwi: “Five years – five long years. That’s how long it took us to get Harvest back” – Captain Cutter</li>



<li>Epoch: “Men, we led those dumb bugs out to the middle of nowhere to keep ’em from gettin’ their filthy claws on Earth. But, we stumbled onto somethin’ they’re so hot for, that they’re scramblin’ over each other to get it. Well, I don’t care if it’s God’s own anti-son-of-a-bitch machine, or a giant hula hoop, we’re not gonna let ’em have it! What we will let ’em have is a belly full of lead, and a pool of their own blood to drown in! Am I right, Marines?” That or “You know the music, time to dance”</li>



<li>Se ‘Graevum: “Hey demon! The jerk store called, they’re all out of you.”</li>



<li>Jtflorencio6: </li>



<li>“So sad… He’s broken… You’ll break too… And soon… you’ll meet your end… Say goodbye…” Jega ‘Rdomnai 🖤❤️</li>



<li>ImSquanchN: You better get it together, Marine, or the Chief’ll reach down and pull you inside out by your corn hole. And that’ll be a sweet, sweet mercy… compared to what I’m gonna do to you – SGT Johnson</li>



<li>toraleigh, warm agony: i’m surprised nobody’s mentioned sandwich marine from reach. she’s my honourable mention</li>



<li>stckr: “For a brick, he flew pretty good” – always gets me. I use this multiple times a month 😂 “I thought you’d be taller” – this makes me giggle to no end, people take it way too seriously Special shout out to my man Fernando Esparza, too. Particularly, “Yep. This is death!”</li>



<li>Fracture: “You’re undressing me with your eyes aren’t you? You sick freak”</li>



<li>Dilfix: “Take my advice, Rookie. You ever fall for a woman? Make sure she’s got balls.” GSgt Edward Buck</li>



<li>Jixel: “I need a medic! Preferably a female one”</li>



<li>Almond: This is the greatest survey. Cant wait to see the end results. Johnson’s H2 “two sticks and a stone”</li>



<li>Linken: “Relax. I’d rather not piss this thing off.”</li>



<li>bomb: “I’m ready! How ’bout you?!”</li>



<li>parall4x: “… But you belong to Reach. Your body, your armor – all burned and turned to glass. Everything… except your courage. That, you gave to us…” Wets my eyes every time.</li>



<li>Wade_Weinhmann: “The Great Journey waits for no one, brother. Not even you.”</li>



<li>3D MONKE: ABSOLUTELY UNACCEPTABLE</li>



<li>Chak ‘Lok: “Welcome to my Tower, Master Chief. It is where you will be broken. It is where you will give up your secrets.” Best Quote 🤌🤌</li>



<li>Requiem: “We all fail. We all make mistakes. That’s what makes us Human.”</li>



<li>Lexicon: “Kill me or release me, parasite, but do not waste my time with talk.”</li>



<li>Jethro the Were-Possum: “The Great Journey waits for no one brother, not even you.”</li>
</ul>



That’s a wrap on May’s #Halo25Together blog! Thank you all for participating and chiming in with your favorite words that echo across the galaxy. 



We’ll be back in June with a new topic which means more trivia to test your knowledge, a new poll, and more. Stay tuned!



All year long, we’ll be inviting Halo fans to share their favorite Halo memories, celebrate Halo’s iconic legacy, and vote on community polls to help us tell the whole Halo story.



Whether you’re a battle-hardened Spartan or a Halo rookie, we hope you’ll join the fun by sharing your Halo story through our <a href="http://aka.ms/Halo25TogetherMemories">official submission form</a>, on social media using hashtag #Halo25Together, in our <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/1464409121209188466">official Discord server</a>, or on <a href="https://reddit.com/r/halo">r/Halo</a> with the #Halo25Together tag.

snickerdoodle

Anniversary Angle: Quips & Quotes

Canon Fodder

Fiction

Alex Wakeford

Issue 169

Canon Fodder: Midnight Oil

Your Halo Story: Chapter 6

Halo Fest

Welcome back Halo fans! Since December we’ve been delivering news about Halo Fest and what you all can get excited about. If you’re new here, don’t worry we’ve got you covered:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-march">March Update</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-february">February Update</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january">January Update</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-december">December Update</a></li>
</ul>



Alright, let’s jump in since we’ve got big news to share today!



Here’s the TL;DR for those too eager to read on:



<ul>
<li>Special Guests: The voices of the Master Chief and Cortana, Steve Downes and Jen Taylor will be joining us.</li>



<li>We’ve moved buildings within the Seattle Convention Center for more space. Bigger venue = more activations and also some more tickets!</li>



<li>Small batch of tickets releases on June 9 @ <a href="https://halofest.com/tickets">halofest.com/tickets</a></li>
</ul>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">SPECIAL GUESTS</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png" alt="Halo Fest - Voice Actors of Master Chief and Cortana. (Steve Downes and Jen Taylor)" class="wp-image-166914" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



25 years ago, two people named Steve Downes and Jen Taylor jumped into a studio booth to record voices for an upcoming game named Halo: Combat Evolved. Little did any of us know, this game, these voices, and those characters in the Master Chief and Cortana, would leave a permanent mark in the hearts of millions of people around the world and on the entertainment industry itself.



This year is important for the franchise because of the game that started it all, the release of the remake in Halo: Campaign Evolved, and of course this event in Halo Fest where we get together and celebrate as a community.



And so with that, we’re thrilled to confirm that both Steve Downes, the voice of the Master Chief and Jen Taylor, the voice of Cortana will both be joining us at Halo Fest.



For Halo Fest, Steve and Jen will be spending as much time as possible with the community so expect meet and greets, signings, and photo ops through the weekend. We will share their detailed schedule later this fall ahead of the big event.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-166928" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/HaloFest-Tickets-Bigger-Venue-More-Tickets-16x9-1.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



After building HaloWC each year and growing our attendance, we set a lofty goal of making Halo Fest double the size of HaloWC and the community has blown away our expectations. We did not think there was a real chance it would sell out this far ahead of the actual event.



The demand from this community has been incredible, and we want to meet it. To do that, we’re moving Halo Fest to a bigger venue. We’ve worked closely with the city of Seattle and have decided to relocate from the Summit building of the Seattle Convention Center to its next-door neighbor, the Arch building. If the Arch sounds familiar, it’s because it’s where HaloWC has been held each year. However, that was in just one of the halls. Halo Fest will be held in all of the major halls that the venue has to offer making it nearly twice the size of HaloWC 2025.



A bigger venue means a better Halo Fest. We’ll be able to include more activations and space for attendees to enjoy the weekend – and it also means more of you.



Because of the additional space, we’re also able to sell more tickets starting on June 9 at 10AM PT at <a href="https://halofest.com/tickets">halofest.com/tickets</a>.



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



We are very grateful that Halo has such an amazing community and it’s a privilege for us to host an event such as Halo Fest where all of you can share your love and passion for Halo. Thank you to everyone who has made plans to attend, we can’t wait to see you in December!



Thanks,



Tashi

Tashi

Halo Fest – Special Guests, Bigger Venue, More Tix! (May Update)

Waypoint Chronicles

Coinciding nicely with the launch of <a href="http://aka.ms/WaypointChronicles">Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume One</a>, our latest episode of Spartan Chatter featured none other than Senior Franchise Story Lead Jeff Easterling and Franchise Writer Alex Wakeford, and it was an absolute treat!



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



From initial inception to published work, we set out to learn how this dynamic duo brought this anthology to life. (It all started with Halo 4‘s tenth anniversary if you’re wondering!) From there, the Waypoint Chronicles project blossomed into a vehicle to continue telling the story past the launch of Halo Infinite and more.



<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: Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume 1" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fKX1dEwgjCE?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>
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Today, it is a full fledged novel with all the previously released Chronicles included, and ten brand-new never before seen stories. Additionally, the audio book is comprised of a rich cast of talent from well known voice actors to Halo community members using their skills to bring the stories to life.



<a href="https://aka.ms/WaypointChronicles">Pick up your copy from Simon & Schuster today!</a>



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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: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume 1 | Spartan Chatter

Book Preview

Halo Infinite

Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume One, a new anthology novel from Halo Studios’s own Jeff Easterling and Alexander Wakeford, is out now!



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Delve once more into stories of legendary heroism and star-spanning conflicts—from the time of the ancient Forerunners to the perils of a twenty-sixth century clash between the United Nations Space Command and the Banished alien alliance.



Halo: Waypoint Chronicles—Volume One collects over thirty short stories from all corners of the Halo universe, including twenty-four adventures previously only available online, plus ten brand-new tales exclusive to this collected volume! Also included are dozens of additional pieces of lore-laden intel items and story vignettes connected to the Halo Infinite game experience.



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<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668215227">Halo: Waypoint Chronicles is available in trade paperback, ebook, and unabridged audiobook formats.</a>



The stunning cover art is illustrated by Levi “Leviathan” Hoffmeier, known for official artwork in the 2022 Halo Encyclopedia and the beloved fan-made comic A Fistful of Arrows.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668215227"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1420" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover.jpg" alt="Full Halo: Waypoint Chronicles - Volume One cover art illustrated by Levi Hoffmeier depicting a Halo ring, a UNSC frigate, a Warthog driving past a Forerunner beam tower, Despondent Pyre, a Promethean Knight, Ilsa Zane, a Flood-infected Spartan, Laurette Agryna, Escharum, Fahl 'Nto, and Jun-A266" class="wp-image-142581" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover-300x208.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover-1024x710.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover-768x533.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover-1536x1065.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WC_FullCover-1568x1087.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CONTENTS</h2>



The stories included within this vast volume include:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Vertical Umbrage</td><td>Winter Contention</td><td>Precipice</td><td>Duality</td><td>Sunrise on Sanghelios</td></tr><tr><td>Saturn Devouring His Son</td><td>Battle for the Blood-Moon</td><td>Trial of Reckoning</td><td>Hippocratica</td><td>Fireside</td></tr><tr><td>The Third Life</td><td>Anvil Accord</td><td>The Machine Breaks</td><td>Venezian Sonata</td><td>Age of Retribution</td></tr><tr><td>Whispers From The Pyre</td><td>From The Soil To The Stars</td><td>Tulpamancy</td><td>Battle for the Academy I</td><td>Battle for the Academy II</td></tr><tr><td>Moonrise Over Mombasa</td><td>“Ghosts & Glass” by B. Giraud</td><td>Ascension on Atropos</td><td>The Eridanus Twelve</td><td>Fifth Canticle</td></tr><tr><td>Rendezvous With Ramen</td><td>Ghosts of the Gyre</td><td>Bella Corsa</td><td>London Calling</td><td>Aileron</td></tr><tr><td>Worlds Uncharted</td><td>First Rain</td><td>Axios</td><td>Graveworld</td><td>Connectivity, Part 2</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



Also included are all of the seasonal Intel texts that appeared in Halo Infinite‘s main menu and the Armory Infinitum entries from the last few years of Canon Fodder issues, detailing a moment in time when the special weapons in Halo Infinite were used.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668215234"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2160" height="810" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025.jpg" alt="Collage of all Waypoint Chronicle cover art from 2022-2025" class="wp-image-166106" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025.jpg 2160w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-300x113.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-1024x384.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-768x288.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-1536x576.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-2048x768.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/04/WaypointChronicles_2025-1568x588.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2160px) 100vw, 2160px" /></a></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AUDIOBOOK NARRATORS</h2>



For audiobook listeners, strap in because this volume includes over thirty narrators, including legendary Halo voice talent, new readers, and even several members of the community!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668166727"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2300" height="1437" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-165520" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast.jpg 2300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-300x187.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-1024x640.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-768x480.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-1536x960.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-2048x1280.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/03/WaypointChronicles_Audiobook_FullCast-1568x980.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2300px) 100vw, 2300px" /></a></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Vertical Umbrage Fred Tatasciore  </td><td>Winter Contention Kevin R. Free  </td><td>Precipice Gideon Emery  </td><td>Duality Fred Tatasciore  </td></tr><tr><td>Sunrise on Sanghelios Cary Hite </td><td>Saturn Devouring His Son Stewart Crank </td><td>Battle for the Blood-Moon Jean Gilpin </td><td>Trial of Reckoning Helen Laser </td></tr><tr><td>Hippocratica Daniel Henning  </td><td>Fireside Erika Soto  </td><td>The Third Life Tamara Taylor  </td><td>Anvil Accord Austin Murphy  </td></tr><tr><td>The Machine Breaks Jen Taylor </td><td>Venezian Sonata Tricia Helfer </td><td>Age of Retribution Luc Allcock </td><td>Whispers From the Pyre Sarah Elmelah </td></tr><tr><td>From the Soil to the Stars Lisa Flanagan </td><td>Tulpamancy Jacques Roy </td><td>Battle for the Academy I Tran Trieu </td><td>Battle for the Academy II Camilla Arfwedson </td></tr><tr><td>Moonrise Over Mombasa Yinka Ladeinde </td><td>“Ghosts & Glass” by B. Giraud Pierce O’Toole </td><td>Ascension on Atropos Stewart Crank </td><td>The Eridanus Twelve Jeff Steitzer </td></tr><tr><td>Fifth Canticle Jen Taylor </td><td>Rendezvous With Ramen Martin Smith </td><td>Ghosts of the Gyre Jenna Sharpe </td><td>Bella Corsa Lottie Van-Praag </td></tr><tr><td>London Calling Suzie McGrath  </td><td>Aileron Jeff Easterling  </td><td>Worlds Uncharted Kat Peterson  </td><td>First Rain Gideon Emery  </td></tr><tr><td>Axios Darren O’Hare </td><td>Graveworld Alexander Wakeford </td><td>Connectivity, Part 2 Jen Taylor </td><td>Intel & Armory Infinitum Scott Brick </td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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Whether you’re looking to read the physical or digital version of Halo: Waypoint Chronicles, or listen to the audiobook, you’re in for a wide variety of stories, settings, and characters across the Halo universe’s vast tapestry of lore.



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668215227">ORDER HALO: WAYPOINT CHRONICLES</a>

Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Vol. One | OUT NOW

NOVEL DATABASE

Official Halo Book Guide

Your Halo Story: Chapter 5

Seconds into your first match of Firefight: Gauntlet, you’ll understand the name.



This deviously difficult PvE mode introduces upgradeable attributes, elimination objectives, and auto-scaled difficulty settings to a boss-filled Firefight experience designed to challenge even the toughest Spartans.



Bring your mightiest warriors, because each phase of the Gauntlet is harder than the last.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-9-16 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The GAUNTLET is here! ⚔️" width="540" height="960" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9JNf0ZRXLd0?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>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SLAY TO 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/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked.jpg" alt="A Spartan with a Rocket Launcher on its back fighting a giant Sentinel and Banished forces in the Gauntlet." class="wp-image-166413" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/GauntletPressKit_02_1080_Watermarked-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



As endless enemies rush from all sides, your team’s only hope is to eliminate the bosses in each arena to halt their reinforcements and progress to the next encounter.



Combat ranges through five maps connected by a supply area where you can gather ammo and equipment, roll for power weapons, or level up your personal buffs (Speed, Resistance, Regeneration, and Damage) for the onslaught ahead.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001.jpg" alt="The armor hall on a map for upgrades." class="wp-image-166427" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/platform_store_H6_W4_001-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Between rounds, you’ll get a chance to upgrade your stats and kit out before the next attack—so make those choices count! Survive five rounds, and victory is yours.



Pro tip: If you can retrieve the Oddball from the Harbinger, bring it back to the supply zone to activate Skull modifiers and boost everyone’s Personal Score during the match.



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Gear up, load out, and hold on for dear life. Play Firefight: Gauntlet with up to four players in Halo Infinite’s Firefight playlist now.

Mutinous Core

Enter Firefight: Gauntlet