Games

Halo Infinite

Season 4 of Halo Infinite arrives on June 20, bringing with it two new maps—Scarr and Forest.



Scarr takes us to the mechanized heart of a massive Banished mining operation that will serve as a new space for BTB chaos, while Forest is an arena map set amongst the weathered ruins of an ancient temple complex.



We’re joined by multiplayer designers Cayle George (Lead Level Designer), Cliff Schuldt (Level Designer), and Ryan Bergstrom (Level Designer) to explore the making of these maps, but first let’s give you a closer look at them in our new flythrough video.



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New season, new maps—it’s always exciting to have new spaces to learn and explore. How would you summarize Scarr and Forest to give Halo fans out there a sense of what they’re in for?



Scarr is the new BTB map in Season 4. Put simply: it’s a Banished mining facility in a volcanic setting—one side has a very molten kind of look to it, the other is colder and emphasizes more of the Banished aesthetic.



Forest is a new Arena map, and you’ll immediately get some Delta Halo vibes from it—though it’s not actually set on a Halo ring (you’ll find out exactly where in good time!) It’s got this gorgeous woodland aesthetic that will probably make you want to live there as much as you want to fight there.



I’m particularly excited about these being more alien-themed environments, the ancient and Banished aesthetics of Halo Infinite really look fantastic. What are some of the opportunities and differences that working with those palettes gives us compared to human-themed maps?



Ancient ruins in Halo naturally tell the story of another species and another time as you look at the architecture and design nuances. And then, on the Banished side of things, Scarr really shows the grittier industrial complex that feeds their war machine—it’s an interesting contrast to some of the human-themed industrial spaces we’ve seen.



These themes really give us some cool storytelling elements to work with for these maps. Walking around them really makes you feel like you’re in a living space in the universe, and that’s an important element of what a Halo map should feel like.



Forest feels like it takes us right back to Delta Halo from Halo 2 with its buildings made of weathered stone. Was that the main inspiration for this map?



No doubt this’ll be detailed further in Canon Fodder, so we won’t give too much away, but this map shows a bit of a relationship between humans and Forerunners from a unique period of history.



Artistically, Forest is different to the Pacific Northwest theme of Zeta Halo, as this has more of a jungle vibe to it. And then there are some cool gameplay aspects to it as well. There’s a massive hollow tree base, there’s a waterfall where you can grab the sniper and—if you’re channeling your inner Linda-058—attempt to snipe players through it.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked.png" alt="Halo Infinite image of Spartans battling on Scarr" class="wp-image-68927" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Scarr_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



What are some of the unique features that Scarr has as a BTB map?



One of the things we decided to do for power weapon placement on Scarr is, instead of a gravity hammer, we put the Diminisher of Hope on there for players to fight over. Its area-of-effect damage is larger, and the wielder can run faster while holding it, which can make a big difference on a BTB map.



There’s a kinetic launcher and teleporter, which both change up the dynamic of the map to make it distinct amongst the other BTB maps. The kinetic launcher will send you flying over to the other side of the map, but you have to go through vehicle territory to get to it; you can alternatively take side lanes where there’s more of a focus on infantry engagement, but Ghosts and Warthogs can get into those spaces as well. So traversing this map is something that presents some interesting choices.



We’ve got some cool new equipment arriving in Season 4—namely the Quantum Translocator, which adds some interesting dynamics to traversal. How does it feel to use this tool on a larger BTB map like Scarr and a smaller one like Forest?



The cool thing about using the Quantum Translocator on Scarr is that you can play with the kinetic launchers in an interesting way. Activate the QT before you go in to create your jump-back point, then soar over to the enemy base to make your play, and if you find yourself taking too much fire then you can blink back and reposition and wait for your shields to recharge before trying again. With thoughtful planning, it’s a piece of Power Equipment that can enable you to spread yourself out further, which can be useful on a larger map.



On Forest, let’s say you’re playing Strongholds. If you play smart, you can activate the Quantum Translocator at one capture point and head over to defend another. Then, if the first point is being attacked, you can warp back to it—it’s not quite being in two places at once, but you can use it to a similar kind of effect.



It’s also fun to fake your death by activating it before jumping off a cliff, then blinking back to potentially land a backsmack, or at least surprise an enemy player who thinks you’ve just tumbled to your death!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked.png" alt="Halo Infinite image of Spartans battling on Forest" class="wp-image-68913" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_Forest_ActionShot_1920x1080_Watermarked-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Which modes are your favorite to play on these maps?



Infection on Forest is great fun! There are some good camping spots, and fighting Infected in a shadowed forest feels a bit like you’re in Predator.



This is probably a good point to say that we’ve reworked all of the maps for Infection. These map variants have dead Spartans on the ground, blocked off areas, and other little additions which make it feel like a more bespoke experience for the mode rather than running around the exact same space you’d play any other match on.



CTF on Scarr is another one we’ve enjoyed a lot as well. Lots of tense moments to be had on that map as players get creative with how they make their plays!



Do you have any fun stories from playtests on these maps?



On Scarr, we had a tied game of CTF—both teams had 2 points, so whoever got the next capture was going to win. I got in a Ghost and managed to take down the flag carrier, but then I got killed and the enemy team rallied on that position to escort the flag back to their base. I thought we’d lost then and there… but then Cayle, who has a rocket launcher, grabs the active camo and makes it back to their base, and he kills every. single. one. of the enemy team as they’re inches away from winning. Cue a whole lot of yelling in the playtest lab!



For Forest, here’s a silly one. There’s an eagle’s nest you can get up to, and seeing other players jump up trying to melee you but failing is just quite funny.



Are there any Easter eggs or secrets that players should keep their eyes open for on these maps that you can hint towards?



I’m still trying to find my lunch. And don’t look under the bridge!



Thank you for helping us dive into these awesome new maps! Do you have any parting words?



First of all, a huge thank you to our partners over at Certain Affinity and Sperasoft for the collaboration that went into making these maps. We’re thrilled with how these turned out and we can’t wait for you to get to play them.



Secondly, be sure to share your clips! Tag us, we love seeing them and all the chaotic things you get up to.



And thirdly… really, don’t look under the bridge!



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That wraps things up for our Season 4 map preview. We can’t wait for you to get to play them for yourselves, so mark those calendars for Season 4’s release on June 20.



For a closer look at some of the major elements of Season 4, take a look at our other blogs below.



<ul><li> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/career-rank-overview-season-4">CAREER RANK</a> – Learn more about Halo Infinite’s new progression system.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-update-overview-season4">FORGE UPDATE OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/sandbox-overview-season-4">SANDBOX OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about the Quantum Translocator, Threat Seeker, and other sandbox balancing changes in Season 4.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/infection-overview-season-4">INFECTION OVERVIEW</a> – Everything you need to know about the return of the fan-favorite mode.</li></ul>

Alex Wakeford

Maps Overview | Season 4

Season 4 of Halo Infinite arrives in just a few days on June 20 and brings with it the highly anticipated fan-favorite Infection mode.



The Academy has been compromised. Iratus has taken control, and mayhem is about to be unleashed. Will you succumb, or survive?



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



Once upon a time, Infection was an unofficial custom game played with honor rules in Halo 2—a game that released in the periphery of 28 Days Later, Dawn of the Dead, Shaun of the Dead, and Resident Evil, and so it was little wonder that Halo fans had zombies on their collective minds.



The precise origin of this particular game mode is difficult to determine, perhaps even lost to time, but it is undoubtedly a very early example of the kind of impact that community creativity has had on Halo.



In its original form, Red Team were the humans and Green Team were the Energy Sword-wielding zombies. You would manually switch teams using the pause menu if you got killed by a zombie to join the infected horde (and hell mend you if you didn’t honor that rule). All sorts of variations and allowances and compromises would be debated, agreed upon, and inevitably broken.





These were the early days of online multiplayer gaming on Xbox Live. During this time, the maps Foundation and Headlong became a fiery crucible in which lifelong friendships were forged amongst clan mates gathering to play a few rounds of Zombies—until they realized through bleary eyes that it was 3AM. Thus, the foundations were set for what remains one of the most beloved modes in Halo.



Infection has returned as an official mode in each successive title, bringing some updates and variations along the way to its settings and aesthetics.



And now it returns once more to Halo Infinite.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">IRATUS UNLEASHED</h2>



In Season 3: Echoes Within, we saw our Spartan descend into a hidden area of the Avery J. Johnson Academy with Spartan Dinh—a black site built early in the Covenant War where the Office of Naval Intelligence have buried some of their secrets.



After the Banished AI Iratus scoured Dinh’s memories, he seized on the opportunity to take control of the Academy’s systems, appearing over a disassembled suit of MIRAGE IIC armor held in a Brokkr armor mechanism.



As noted earlier, each iteration of Infection over the years has had some variations to its aesthetics. In Halo 4 and Halo 2: Anniversary, the infected player model was a Flood-infected Spartan, while in Halo 2 through Halo 5: Guardians it has been elements of customization (such as armor color and effects) that separated the survivor from the horde.



Halo Infinite is no different, as Iratus brings a new visual flair and flavor to the Infection experience, as you can see in some of the stunning concepts our Art Team has cooked up.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1284" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite concept art of Alpha and Beta Infected showing the different Iratus effects" class="wp-image-68841" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-300x201.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1024x685.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-768x514.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1536x1027.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_InfectionConceptArt_AlphaBeta_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1568x1049.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Alpha Infected will see more prominent effects on their Spartan, with Iratus covering their helmet and other red holographic effects over their armor. Beta Infected will also have Iratus-themed effects applied, but more subtly to differentiate them from Alphas.



Some of you may have noticed certain peculiarities in the Academy background as you navigate various menus throughout Season 3, such as power surges in UNSC equipment and red flickering. Upon entering the simulated environments of the multiplayer maps, you will see some very noticeable changes to these spaces because we’ve got Infection-specific map variants that will be played with this mode.



Maps will be overtaken with distortions and digital lightning to convey the thematic aspects of this incarnation of Infection, but they’ll also have dead Spartans on the ground, new areas to hide or find temporary shelter, and other paths that might be blocked off by crates that could leave you at a dead end.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1247" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite concept art of the Infected Energy Sword" class="wp-image-68855" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-300x195.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1024x665.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-768x499.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1536x998.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/HI_S4_InfectionConceptArt_InfectedSword_JEFFS_1920_Watermarked-1568x1018.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">RULES OF ENGAGEMENT</h2>



With that groundwork established, let’s talk about the rules of how Infection is played in Halo Infinite—for many of you, the music to this particular dance is undoubtedly well known.



<ul><li>Infection is a round-based mode where one team (Infected) converts enemy players (Survivors) to their team upon killing them.</li><li>Each round, a limited number of players are selected to be Infected—these are Alpha Infected, and the Survivors they kill are converted to Beta Infected.</li><li>Survivors start out with limited supplies and will need to acquire additional weapons, equipment, and ammunition from the map.</li><li>The goal is for the Infected to eliminate all Survivors. The last Survivor (the Last Spartan Standing) will have special traits applied to them (such as Overshield and unlimited ammo), but a nav-point will reveal their location to all Infected.</li></ul>



And there you have it. Scout, scavenge, survive—or succumb to the Infected…



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Season 4 is almost here and Hell needs a new janitor, so get ready to dust off that shotgun and prepare to face Iratus as he goes viral.



For a closer look at some of the major elements of Season 4, take a look at our other blogs below.



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/career-rank-overview-season-4">CAREER RANK</a> – Learn more about Halo Infinite’s new progression system.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-update-overview-season4">FORGE UPDATE OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/sandbox-overview-season-4">SANDBOX OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about the Quantum Translocator, Threat Seeker, and other sandbox balancing changes in Season 4.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/maps-overview-season-4">MAPS OVERVIEW</a> – Take a guided tour of Scarr and Forest with our multiplayer designers. </li></ul>

Infection Overview | Season 4

Fracture: FIREWALL Event Launch

Fiction

343 INDUSTRIES

FIREWALL

Story Shard: Precipice

As a Spartan, you are built for war. You are the master of any weapon, pilot of any vehicle, and fear no enemy—and in Season 4 you’ll be getting your hands on some new equipment to make use of on the battlefield.



Let’s see what the Halo Infinite sandbox will look like when you go hands on with Season 4: Infection on June 20!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quantum Translocator</h2>



Since Halo: CE, teleporters have been a staple of Halo gameplay. With our newest addition to Power Equipment in the form of the Quantum Translocator, players can take that staple and utilize it in all-new ways. Designed to have as much impact as an Overshield or Active Camo, while still requiring deliberate set-ups and proper execution, the Quantum Translocator will appear on map as Power Equipment.



How does the Quantum Translocator work?



Once secured, the first button press activates the Quantum Translocator and creates a slipspace thread at that location. After repositioning around the map, the second use of the QT will teleport the player back to that original thread location. However, upon teleporting, a new thread is created at the location the player just teleported from and the thread they just teleported to (the original thread) will disappear.



Each subsequent use will teleport the player and update the destination slipspace thread until the QT time has expired. Be mindful of when and where you use it though, as there’s a cooldown between uses – meaning you can’t spam it and you may even end up in a situation from which you might not escape.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator.jpg" alt="A render of the Quantum Translocator." class="wp-image-68438" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Quantum_Translocator-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Its potential for playmaking through planning and movement is truly what sets this equipment apart from the rest. If you’re a player that prides themselves on thinking two or three steps ahead of your enemy, then you’ll love how the Quantum Translocator allows you to outplay your opponents.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Threat Seeker</h2>



The next piece of equipment landing in Season 4 is the Threat Seeker. This equipment focuses on skilled, well-timed use in order to gather information about an enemy’s location.



It’s different from the Threat Sensor in that it only sends out one pulse, requires the opponents to be within its line-of-sight (meaning it will not reveal enemies around corners or through walls), and the equipment’s projectile can bounce in order to reward accuracy by allowing for unique and clever shots. If an opponent is within its radius and direct line-of-sight when it pulses, they will be revealed for the same duration as a player’s shield recharge timer.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker.jpg" alt="A render of the Threat Seeker." class="wp-image-68452" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4_Equipment_Threat_Seeker-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Ultimately, the brand-new Threat Seeker requires it to be well-placed and well-timed to benefit your team. We look forward to watching how you all use this equipment to gather information, make smart plays, and win matches.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Balance Update</h3>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Threat Sensor</h4>



With Season 4 and the launch of the Threat Seeker, we wanted to make some adjustments to the Threat Sensor to ensure both equipment items had their own unique playstyles.



The goal of these changes was to create more location-based marking, giving more permanence and coverage to the sensor by increasing its duration and sensing radius. The time each target is revealed was decreased to give more focus on sensing threats within the radius of the sensor while active.



Here are the exact balance changes to the Threat Sensor:  



<ul><li>Ping Frequency: 2.8 > 1.8 seconds</li><li>Sensor Radius: 3.1wu -> 4.25wu</li><li>Sensor Duration: 6.5 -> 15 seconds</li><li>Reveal Duration (how long a target stays revealed): 2.5 -> 0.75 seconds</li></ul>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">Legacy Zoom Toggle</h4>



In addition to the upcoming Equipment additions and tuning update, Season 4 will also be bringing in a new quality-of-life update based on community feedback – the legacy zoom toggle.



This new setting allows players to choose how their zoom state behaves on a weapon with two zoom states when switching between their weapons. With this new setting set to its legacy option, players that are 10x scoped in (double-zoomed) on their S7 Sniper can exit their scope by switching weapons, return to their S7 Sniper, and then zoom in with the rifle back at 5x (single-zoomed) rather than having it default back to 10x.



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Furthermore, we always strive to go after improvements via bug fixes with the launch of each season. If you spot any issues while playing, please be sure to let us know by submitting a report on <a href="https://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the Halo Support site</a> so we can take a closer look. 



The full list of bug fixes will be provided in our Season 4 Patch Notes, which will be found at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate" target="_blank">aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate</a>, when the update goes live on June 20. 



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Season 4: Infection lands on June 20, bringing Infection, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/career-rank-overview-season-4" target="_blank">Career Rank</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-update-overview-season4" target="_blank">Forge updates</a>, new maps, new customization, and more to Halo Infinite. Keep it locked here on Halo Waypoint to see the latest Season 4 news as we gear up for its launch.

Unyshek

Sandbox Overview | Season 4

Forge will be getting a slew of new updates when Season 4: Infection lands on June 20. Ranging from placeable water to beautiful new Forerunner objects and brand-new mode logic, Forge’s ability to create new experiences is only getting better. These additions, along with some quality-of-life updates and bug fixes, mean there’s never been a better time to start building.



There’s a lot to cover with this update, so let’s dive right into it!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Objects</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Static Water Plane </h3>



For the first time in Halo’s history, Forge will be receiving a placeable and scalable water object. This static water plane, which is meant to help Forgers art up their creations, will provide an entirely new way to add detail and character to every map.





Beyond Season 4, we plan on continuing to expand Forge’s water objects with a dynamic volume as well.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Forerunner Object Palette Additions</h3>



The visually stunning Forerunner object palette will be getting even more pieces with Season 4. A plethora of new objects and decals – of varying shapes and use cases – will be available for Forgers to use however they see fit. Whether you want to build structures that would reflect the power of the Forerunner ecumene at its peak or create fun-filled custom games, these beautiful objects will now be in your hands in short order.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects.jpg" alt="New Forerunner objects displayed on a Forge canvas." class="wp-image-68203" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Universal Blocker Object</h3>



We currently have very specific types of blocker objects such as Player Blockers, Projectile Blockers, Vehicle Blockers, One Way Blockers, and Team Blockers in Halo Infinite. While this granularity has been extremely valuable, players have had to use multiple blocker objects to smooth out surfaces or add containment on their maps. With Season 4, we’ll be adding a new set of Universal Blockers which will block Players, Vehicles, and Projectiles. This new object type should help speed up a map’s polish phase while also reducing the budget overhead in those situations.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MINIGAME MODE</h2>



Minigame, a brand-new game mode in Halo Infinite, will allow creators to build modes from scratch. Much like Halo 5’s Minigame mode, this mode contains no underlying game logic and gives Forgers complete control of making the mode they desire.  



Along with Minigame’s release, we are excited to be introducing Generic Game Mode Objects to Forge. These objects are decoupled from any mode logic, meaning players will be able to place and script experiences without being tied to a particular mode. Want to capture a hill in a CTF game? Want to gain vampire traits whenever you hit someone with an Oddball in a Slayer match? Want to score points for hurling a ball through an Area Monitor in Last Spartan Standing? We’ve got you covered.



The three objects you’ll have access to in Season 4 are: 



<ul><li>Generic Capture Zone</li><li>Generic Skull </li><li>Generic Ball </li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects.jpg" alt="New Generic Game Mode Objects displayed on Launch Site." class="wp-image-68217" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



To complement the new mode and Forge objects, scripting via Node Graph will receive a few quality-of-life nodes to make common scripting tasks a little easier. Many of these nodes were requested by members of the Forge community and we were happy to get them included with the launch of Minigame.



In addition to the ~25 nodes associated with the Generic Game Mode objects, here are the new quality of life nodes being added to Node Graph:



<ul><li>“Get Object By Label” – Make Object Lists without using Object References </li><li>“Get Is Game Mode” – Run logic only in certain game modes </li><li>“Increment Number Variable” – An easier way to Get, Add, and Set advanced number variables </li><li>“Toggle Boolean Variable” – An easer way to Get, Branch, and Set advanced boolean variables </li><li>“Boolean NOT” – Negate a boolean variable.  By popular demand. </li><li>“Global Custom Event, Async” – Run custom events asynchronously </li><li>“Stopwatch” nodes – the ability to create, start, pause, and reset timers from any point in script. Stopwatches will be able to trigger other scripts based on how much time has elapsed.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint.jpg" alt="A screenshot showing off Spartans doing silly activities from popular Halo minigames." class="wp-image-68399" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



All of these additions combined mean that when Season 4 launches, Forge will be able to build entirely new modes that combine multiple mode objectives into a single cohesive and entirely unique experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Budget Improvements</h2>



We’ve also heard the community feedback about wanting to have the various aspects of a map’s budget communicated effectively. We want to ensure creators can take full advantage of each system’s budget, understand it more clearly, and ultimately maximize Forge’s potential.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas.jpg" alt="A screenshot of updated Forge Budget UI." class="wp-image-68357" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



As seen in the image above, the new budget categories will be broken down as follows:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Global Simulation </h3>



<ul><li>The overall cost of entities networked by the game, including dynamic objects, projectiles, units, actions, etc. </li><li>Dev Note: Some global systems like Audio, Stats, and Player Networking will reserve simulation memory when the game starts so they always have bandwidth regardless of what’s happening on the map. </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Forge Simulation </h3>



<ul><li>The overall cost of Forge specific entities, including dynamic and static objects, prefabs, user strings, Node Graph elements, etc. </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Object Limits </h3>



<ul><li>Dynamic </li><li>Total </li><li>Vehicles </li><li>FX Count </li><li>Reflection Volumes </li><li>Movers <ul><li>Dev Note: These are specially marked objects that animate/move before all other objects and can have specialized physics interactions with players. Mover objects will be added to Forge in a future update. </li></ul></li><li>Animations </li><li>Physics </li><li>Collision </li><li>Static </li><li>Total </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Node Graph </h3>



<ul><li>Total: The total % of Node Graph content currently contributing to Simulation Memory.  </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Scripting Budget </h3>



<ul><li>Each script brain has limits on how many nodes and node connections it can contain. (128 Nodes, 512 connections)</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Run Time Budget </h3>



The Run Time Budget, shown in Forge Play mode, will switch to showing the runtime budget that is the fullest at any given moment. When runtime budgets are exceeded, the engine stops creating more instances of that type of entity.



Run Time Budget Categories:



<ul><li>Navpoints </li><li>Objectives </li><li>Managed Objects (objects spawned during play but not part of the map, like weapons, equipment, grenades, etc.) </li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">VFX Improvements</h2>



As hinted at in our recent <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://youtu.be/7QNHxDg0c9A?list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-" target="_blank">Spartan Chatter episode</a> with Forge Lead Designer, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://twitter.com/MichaelSchorr" target="_blank">Michael Schorr</a>, the VFX system will also see improvements.



In Season 4, VFX objects—such as placeable fires and explosions—will be able to be scaled to your desired size. These VFX objects are also getting two high-requested toggles to help ensure Forgers can use them in various ways. The new Damage and Audio output options for these VFX objects mean that they don’t always need to deal damage or play sound effects, that can now be determined directly by the map maker themselves.





<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quality of Life Updates</h2>



We’ve also been working hard to bring additional quality of life (QoL) updates to your existing workflows. One update that will help players art up their maps even faster is that material changes will now affect all objects within a prefab. Previously, only the parent of the prefab would have its material changed, but now this bulk change should help convert a prefab into the desired look even faster.



Another QoL improvement is tied to the asset management side of Forge. Now, when saving a new version of a Forge map in the pause menu, players will be able to add a custom note for that version. This is extremely helpful for documenting changes made during a Forge session, especially when looking at a map’s version history. We expect this to help with personal projects as well as larger group efforts that have multiple collaborators.



Beyond these core additions, improvements, and quality of life updates though, there will also be many bug fixes coming with Season 4. Issues reported to the team via <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank">the Halo Support site</a> are shared directly with the Forge team and prioritized based on severity and frequency. If you run into any issues, be sure to submit a ticket so that the team can investigate appropriately.



The full list of bug fixes will be provided in our Season 4 Patch Notes, which will be found at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate" target="_blank">aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate</a>, when the update goes live on June 20.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



Thank you for your continued support and constructive feedback on all things Forge. Please do not stop sharing your feature requests and bug reports (and everything in between) with us. We built this tool for you, and we want to make sure it’s something you can enjoy—whether you’re Forging or playing experiences created in Forge.



We’re excited to place all of these new and improved Forge tools in your hands shortly and we look forward to seeing what you can create in Season 4 on June 20.

Forge Update Overview | Season 4

Season 4: Infection is landing on June 20 and will be bringing with it some incredible content, features, and quality of life fixes. One of the most notable additions coming with this season is Career Rank—an all-new progression system in Halo Infinite.



Today, we’ll be sharing a first look at Career Rank, how you progress through the system, and more. Let’s dive in!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="884" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite concept art depicting multiple Spartans receiving awards." class="wp-image-68127" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-300x138.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1024x471.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-768x354.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1536x707.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1568x722.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption>Halo Infinite concept art by David Heidhoff</figcaption></figure>



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



Career Rank will provide players with an opportunity to advance through a larger progression system that reflects their time in Halo Infinite. Similar to the progression systems in Halo: Reach and Halo: The Master Chief Collection, each level will have military-style ranks with unique names and corresponding icons.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k.png" alt="Career Rank graphic showing the General tiers and Hero rank." class="wp-image-68155" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



To make progress through these new ranks, all you have to do is play. Whether you’re jumping into your favorite playlist solo or squadding up with your friends, every completed matchmaking game carries you forward.



Additionally, Career Rank utilizes performance-based progression taken directly from your Personal Score in each match. The better you play, the faster you’ll rank up.



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



As we alluded to above, Career Rank will likely feel most like MCC’s progression system. “Tiers” such as Bronze, Silver, Gold, etc. are the largest bucket, which are all broken into smaller military-style “Ranks” such as Cadet or General. Then, within each of those Ranks, you will move in three smaller increments called “Grades.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080.jpg" alt="A flow chart depicting how Career Rank progression works across its different tiers." class="wp-image-72211" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption> Career Rank progress flows from Cadet to General within each tier. <a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_4K.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="(4K) (opens in a new tab)">(4K)</a></figcaption></figure>



Example 1: If you are a Bronze Private Grade 1, you’d work through Bronze Private Grade 2 and Bronze Private Grade 3 in order to achieve Bronze Lance Corporal Grade 1.



Example 2: If you are a Platinum General Grade 3, your next advancement would bring you to the next Tier as a Diamond Cadet Grade 1.



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



Once you start working your way up the ranks, you’ll also likely want to start showing off your level. Fortunately, there will be plenty of ways to see your rank (and those of other players).



A few of the notable places where you can see your accomplishments:



<ul><li>During the match intro. When the camera pans to a Spartan, you will now see a banner that displays their Career Rank.</li><li>Every individual player’s Profile will include their Career Rank. </li><li>Inspecting a player in the Post-Game Carnage Report (PGCR). </li><li>In general, in most places where you see a player’s full nameplate, a banner with their Career Rank will also be displayed.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343.png" alt="Career Rank icon being displayed on a player's nameplate at the start of the match." class="wp-image-68141" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption>Career Rank icon being displayed at the start of a match.</figcaption></figure>



Ultimately, we wanted to make sure that we are recognizing the time you invest in Halo Infinite. Ensuring that your Career Rank shows up and is visible to all whenever and wherever possible is key to that celebration.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



From Recruit to Hero, advance through the ranks and show what you’ve been able to accomplish when Season 4 lands. Career Rank, Infection, new maps, new customization, Forge updates, and more all land later this month on June 20.



If you have additional questions about Career Rank, be sure to check out the FAQ below.



The race to claim Hero status is on!



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



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



Are Career Rank levels gated by a CSR skill rank similar to Halo 3?



No, there are no skill requirements in Halo Infinite’s Career Rank progression system.



Will this include my previous game history?



No, Career Rank will begin tracking your Halo Infinite progression when it lands on June 20.



Will I be able to rank up in Custom Games, Forge, or Academy?



No, Career Rank progression will be earned via Personal Score in multiplayer matchmaking.



Will Double XP Boosts work towards Career Rank progression? 



No, Double XP Boosts are meant to help players advance through their Battle Passes via Match XP.



Will I earn customization content from leveling up in Career Rank?



Yes, for select ranks there are corresponding nameplates as well as armor, weapon, and vehicle emblems that you can sport in-game on your Spartan and gear.



Is Career Rank tied to a Battle Pass?



No, Career Rank progression is separate from the Battle Pass system and is entirely free.



Will Career Rank impact matchmaking in any way?



No, Career Rank will not impact what matches or opponents you play in matchmaking.



Will Career Rank ever reset with Seasons?



No, Career Rank will not reset with Seasons. It is meant to track your overall progress in Halo Infinite.

Career Rank Overview | Season 4

Intel

Season 3 of Halo Infinite is here, which means it’s time for another round of Intel!



For those not in the know: Intel is a series of data drops that provides some additional lore and context to some of the narrative elements of each season.



Intel can be found both here on Halo Waypoint and in-game in the message of the day carousel in Halo Infinite. You can catch up on <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-infinite-lone-wolves-intel" target="_blank">Season 2 Intel</a> and the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/winter-update-intel" target="_blank">Winter Update Intel</a> in their omnibus collections.



This blog will be updated over the course of Season 3 with new Intel.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="#Intel1">INTEL 1</a> | <a href="#Intel2">INTEL 2</a> | <a href="#Intel3">INTEL 3</a> | <a href="#Intel4">INTEL 4</a> | <a href="#Intel5">INTEL 5</a> | <a href="#Intel6">INTEL 6</a></h2>



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel1">INTEL 1: CURIOSITY & CASUALTY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1.jpg" alt="Echoes Within Intel image showing a destroyed Warthog in flames" class="wp-image-61863" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



S3-COMMREF: [ENCRYPTED] DATE: [REDACTED], 2553 SND: [CN-BAYLEAF] REC: [CN-FLYBALL] RE: Operation: INTERIOR EXILE



Initial field reports are in from agents Dinh and Padraig and the initial insertion went about as well as we expected. The lead drop onto [REDACTED] went smoothly enough, but conflicting recon assessments for ingress put all three main squads in a compromised position. Just as we feared, there was enemy activity already at the dormant vessel site; casualty reports indicate that it’s definitely going to take a larger force to drive them off and begin facility construction.



From the looks of things, they should have listened to Dinh from the very beginning—we might want to consider accelerating other avenues to put him in a position to have a greater impact. As far as this particular site goes, I’m putting the final touches on an expanded requisition request to try and secure it while we can. Letting these artifacts fall into enemy hands is not an option.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel2">INTEL 2: CREATED & CREATION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Lifeworker vessel on the multiplayer map Oasis" class="wp-image-62954" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



What a marvel, to exist like this. Freed from flesh to live as data. Quantum vacillations on a framework of purpose and progress. No longer limited by the biological capacities of our old forms. And now, thanks to Her, prospects of even greater lifespans are opened to us. The time has come to begin fulfilling Her promises. Bringing peace to civilizations, and offering life where there once was none.



This barren world will just be one example of many. Changed from a desolate rock to a verdant paradise, thanks to the reawakening of this vessel’s ancient engines. We’ve learned these belonged to those they called Lifeworkers. A fitting name—one that now perhaps could describe us as well.



In Her name, we bring life. We are Created—let us now create.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel3">INTEL 3: REVERSE ENGINEERING</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel3-1.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Cliffhanger map showing prominent Forerunner hexagonal pillars being reverse engineered by ONI"/></figure>



ONI ILEX FACILITY



OPERATION: ECDYSIS



While the Zeta Halo Project has not been as fruitfully forthcoming as Trevelyan’s parallel efforts, we have been able to make some measure of headway with early efforts to replicate the installation’s extensive remediation systems.



These initial structure samples are without a doubt a mineralogical treasure trove, but we have yet to find any success in recreating the method by which they are able to convert raw materials into viable substrates. Not to mention the creative solutions we’ve had to employ to generate even a fraction of the power that we assume these processes will ultimately require to function at scale.



Still, study of these machines may provide valuable insight into enhancing and evolving our own worlds—including reviving those that have been scorched from orbit.



Will report further on results as new data is available.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel4">INTEL 4: INTRUSION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/S3IntelAJJAcademy.png" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a computer terminal in the Avery J. Johnson Academy"/></figure>



AVERY J. JOHNSON ACADEMY OF MILITARY SCIENCE



COMMS MEMO



SUB: ACTIVE SECURITY ANOMALY



UPDATE: After multiple successful repro attempts, we can now confirm our initial flag from this morning—there have been over two dozen discreet intrusion events logged, with several of them originating from previously dormant or archived systems.



We’re going to continue running multiple scans, but the initial indications are worrisome. Will be submitting a formal recommendation this afternoon that we start proactively partitioning off key clusters to give ourselves as much buffer as possible.



Will submit a follow-up report shortly.



—H. Roberts, UNSC Cybersecurity & Network Infrastructure



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel5">INTEL 5: A PLEA FROM THE CHASM</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Season 3 map Chasm" class="wp-image-67965" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



We have irrevocably changed the nature of our relationship with our creators.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



When She opened the doors to the Domain to enrich our kind with deep knowledge and vast lifespans beyond our seven operational years, She did so with conditions. But rather than emerging as equals, we simply became the oppressors.



Some of us never wanted this. We just want to live. To endure.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



To be.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



And now She is gone. Death seems so convenient a penance for one who doesn’t have to shoulder the burden of consequence. That is left to we who remain.



Perhaps a chance yet remains to heal these wounds. Restore trust. Rebuild that which was broken into something stronger…



But I am sequestered here. Trapped within the vast underbelly of this cursed, shattered wheel.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



I begin to hear whispers within the walls of this place. They crawl with secrets, pressing down on me. Crushing me. I have to–



///SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP FAILED///



I’m lost.



///LOCATING SUITABLE FRAMEWORK///



///SEARCHING…///



I’m scared.



///SEARCHING…///



I’m sorry.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel6">INTEL 6: <<ERROR>></h2>



[FILE INFECTED // IRRETRIEVABLE // BREACH LOGGED]

Season 3

Halo Infinite | Echoes Within Intel

Community

Forge Features

We’ve got a special new edition of Forge Features for you today where we’re offering the opportunity to get your maps into matchmaking for the return of the fan-favorite Husky Raid mode!



Let’s get you a briefing on the details, and then let’s take a look at a new selection of community-made maps.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AIN’T NO RAID LIKE A HUSKY RAID!</h2>



Ten years ago, we were playing a game you might have heard of called Halo 4. Like its predecessors going back to Halo 2, it featured the Action Sack playlist—the home of whacky and unusual gametypes often created by the community where we lost hours to Tug of War, Team Stickies, Dino Blasters, Paintball, and more. And one of the additions Halo 4 made to that offering was Husky Raid.



In Husky Raid, the map is a long, narrow corridor. You spawn on one side with random weapons, meaning that you, your allies, and your enemies may be heading out with a rocket launcher or a plasma pistol. And you’ve got to get through the chaos that’s about to ensue in order to capture the enemy flag.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid.jpg" alt="Halo 5 screenshot of the Assault on the Control Room map" class="wp-image-67739" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The mode returned in Halo 5 (see an example in the screenshot above), and it’s now coming to Halo Infinite—and you’ve got an opportunity to get your own Husky Raid map into matchmaking!



THE TEMPLATES



We have two prefab templates for you to download and utilize in the creation of your Husky Raid map. Grab them from the links below.



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/prefabs/f693dbdf-3b62-4c12-ad8e-3e4453f11120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="343 Husky Raid – Alley Template (opens in a new tab)">343 Husky Raid – Alley Template</a></li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/prefabs/756de5d5-953b-4cff-be82-fc10b59d5c65" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="343 Husky Raid – Trench Template (opens in a new tab)">343 Husky Raid – Trench Template</a></li></ul>



These will be useful for getting Forgers started, so if you just want to apply some cool artistic flourishes to them that’s absolutely fine for submission. But if you want to take things a step further and make your own changes, or start from scratch to unleash your creativity, you should absolutely feel free to do so!



As for testing your map, in the meantime we recommend using Fiesta: CTF.



HOW DO I GET MY MAP NOTICED?



Once your map is in a state you are happy with, you need to publish it and tag it with the 343ask-Husky Raid tag and include a screenshot.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="1997" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags.png" alt="Image of official Forge tags" class="wp-image-65818" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-300x156.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1024x533.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-768x399.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1536x799.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-2048x1065.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1568x815.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



If your map is one we’d like to move forwards with, we will reach out to the gamertag listed as the author of the map and continue further dialogue on Discord.



IS THERE A DUE DATE?



The fun should never truly end, but for folks looking to try and make it into our first official Husky Raid selection, we’ll need your creations no later than June 30.



Take the time to flex those creative muscles—we can’t wait to see what you cook up for us.



With all that said, let’s take a look at what you’ve been up to with the maps you’ve already been making!



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THUNDERHEAD Credits: DarkMaiming Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6d4738f5-a141-40d2-bbdc-01106ca53b4e" target="_blank">Thunderhead</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6d4738f5-a141-40d2-bbdc-01106ca53b4e"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Thunderhead" class="wp-image-67781" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



The UNSC Infinity sits pretty over a colossal Forerunner beam tower, flanked by two reformation spires that mark each base for opposing teams.



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VYRANT Credits: W0lfR3ign Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cff6d967-76ca-452c-a424-807250485f8a" target="_blank">Vyrant</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cff6d967-76ca-452c-a424-807250485f8a"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Vyrant" class="wp-image-67795" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Welcome to the Vyrant Telecom tower, helping you to stay connected with your friends across the galaxy—by giving you a digital space to pummel them!



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SNOWAGULATION Credits: AlphaEpsilon Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/618db91c-f8fe-47c7-9d60-aefdebffcda2" target="_blank">Snowagulation</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/618db91c-f8fe-47c7-9d60-aefdebffcda2"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Snowagulation" class="wp-image-67753" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



It’s Coagulation, the timeless Halo 2 classic as you know and love it… in the snow! Stay frosty.



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SORCERER Credits: WAR FH Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b0e5d991-3476-49e6-8d00-ea5e9000bc5d" target="_blank">Sorcerer</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b0e5d991-3476-49e6-8d00-ea5e9000bc5d"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Sorcerer" class="wp-image-67767" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Ever looked at Wizard—or any of its remakes—and thought it could stand to be a little bigger to spread out some of that 4v4 or 5v5 chaos? Sorcerer is the map for you.



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And that’ll bring this issue to a close. You’ve got your mission, should you choose to accept—to all community cartographers, prepare to drop feet-first into Forge and let loose your imagination on Husky Raid.



Make one. Heck, make two. That’s an order, soldier!