Games

Halo Infinite

Mutinous Core

Play Halo Infinite now through October 7.

Operation: Warpath Now Live

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Phase 1, UNSC Scout



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



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 1, UNSC Sentry



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



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, UNSC Warrior



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



<li>MK50 Sidekick</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, UNSC Operator



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



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, UNSC Skirmisher



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



<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, UNSC Headhunter



<ul>
<li>BR75</li>



<li>VK78 Commando</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, UNSC Healer



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



<li>MK50 Sidekick</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, UNSC Marksman



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



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, UNSC Sentinel



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



<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, UNSC Heavy



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



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>



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



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



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



Phase 1, Banished Sentry



<ul>
<li>Mangler</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



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



Phase 1, Banished Scout



<ul>
<li>Needler</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, Banished Marksman



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



<li>Plasma Pistol</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, Banished Hunter



<ul>
<li>Heatwave</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>



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



Phase 2, Banished Sapper



<ul>
<li>Ravager</li>



<li>Needler</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



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



Phase 3, Banished Headhunter



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



<li>Pulse Carbine</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



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



Phase 3, Banished Warrior



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



<li>Mangler</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



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



Phase 3, Banished Sentinel



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



<li>Vestige Carbine</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



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



Phase 3, Banished Medic



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



<li>MA40 Assault Rifle</li>



<li>Spike Grenade</li>



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



Phase 3, Banished Dark Assassin



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



<li>Disruptor</li>



<li>Plasma Grenades</li>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



You came looking for glory but you found a grave.



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



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



Last Road: where the only traffic is incoming fire.



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



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



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



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



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



Broadcasting live from the edge of chaos.



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



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

snickerdoodle

Invasion

Community

As HELLDIVERS 2 arrives on Xbox Series X|S, we’ve partnered with Arrowhead Studios to commemorate the occasion with a new, ODST-inspired Warbond.



<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="Helldivers 2 x Halo: ODST Legendary Warbond | PS5 & PC Games" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2O_9hwQ8jLw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Starting today, HELLDIVERS 2 players on all platforms can purchase the HELLDIVERS 2 x Halo: ODST Legendary Warbond, containing two ODST armor sets, UNSC-themed capes, “green and mean” vehicle patterns, and weapons inspired by the iconic armaments of Halo 3: ODST.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT THE “HELL?”</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-scaled.jpg" alt="Two Helldivers clasp hands in a ruined city. They wear the A-35 Recon and A-9 Helljumper ODST armor sets." class="wp-image-147537" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Helldivers-2_14-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



By an absurd twist of fate, the similarly named Obedient Democracy Support Troopers (also known in their universe as “Helljumpers”) are the stars of a beloved animated series on one of Super Earth’s most popular state-sanctioned broadcasts.



This Legendary Warbond gives Helldivers the chance to live out the cartoon heroes’ most patriotic exploits! <a href="https://news.xbox.com/en-us/2025/08/19/helldivers-2-halo-odst-crossover-warbond-xbox-launch/">Read more at Xbox Wire.</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">INTO THE UNJUST</h2>



<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="Helldivers 2 - Into the Unjust Deep Dive" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dJi8VsvnkoE?start=298&feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Check out this video from Arrowhead Studios for a closer look at the Legendary Warbond and all the Halo-inspired weaponry arriving in the HELLDIVERS 2 Into the Unjust update.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ABOUT THE COLLAB</h2>



Ready to dive feet-first into game dev? Watch the latest <a href="https://www.youtu.be/CxUOcdLBl9g">Official Xbox Podcast</a> video to hear Halo Studios and Arrowhead Studios developers explain the story behind this orbital hot-drop.

Available now on all platforms.

HELLDIVERS 2 x Halo: ODST Warbond

Play Halo Infinite now through September 9.

Operation: Shadows Out Now

From the shadows comes a voice…



“GET TO THE FALCON!”



Operation: Shadows is the first Operation of our 2025 Fall Update but it will not be going quietly into that dark night. With the Falcon in the skies and the Vestige Carbine in hand, Operation: Shadows launches Famished Famished Falcons and Banished Slayer into the spotlight.



Let’s check those out!



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



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



Look! Up in the sky! It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s a cast of Falcons!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons.png" alt="A squad of Spartans piled into a Falcon with one holding the Flag during a match of Famished Famished Falcons." class="wp-image-146322" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/FFFalcons-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Why are Falcons flocking to fly furiously across the sky in pursuit of the furled flag? Why, it’s because they’re famished, of course!



Based loosely off a children’s game featuring starving river horses, Famished, Famished Falcons pits four teams of three players against each other. Work together as a team, pile into your Falcon, and race to the middle with the ultimate goal: Capture the Flag.



To make things a bit more fun, everyone has a Plasma Pistol (which can EMP vehicles!) and a Grappleshot allowing you some creative freedom and movement opportunities.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005.jpg" alt="The Falcon resting on a launchpad on top of the yellow, blocky base of Skyblocks." class="wp-image-146336" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/falcon_005-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1e940e54-600e-4992-ab27-4400abb61918">Bookmark</a>



This is the (very colorful) map you’ll be having your aerial dogfights on. Remember what color platform you start on so you know where to bring the flag!



Just remember…no one said you had to be on your Falcon to capture the flag. You just gotta get the flag to your zone to score a point.



Four teams, four falcons, 12 Spartans, one flag. You do the math.



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



Get locked and loaded… It’s time for Banished Slayer! 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff.jpg" alt="A Spartan holding the new Vestige Carbine, one of the featured weapons in the new playlist." class="wp-image-146364" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_313-689154b0b04ff-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



This asymmetrical matchmaking mode will have you thinking strategically (who am I kidding, you should always be doing that anyway…) and working together to out-play the enemy (should be routine as well!).



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">Looking at Loadouts</h2>



Before you come for me for the “l” word, it’s simply a way to differentiate starting gear for both teams and has some nice alliteration. Banished Slayer is a two team mode that features asymmetrical “loadouts.” What does that mean, exactly? One team will spawn with UNSC gear:



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



<li>MA5K Avenger</li>



<li>Frag Grenades</li>
</ul>



While the other team has some of the Banished armory at their disposal, as well as the Infected Banished overlay:



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



<li>Pulse Rifle</li>



<li>Spike Grenades</li>
</ul>



For those that played it, this may feel somewhat familiar to Invasion Slayer from Halo: Reach. Beyond the starting equipment, everything else is business as usual. Team based slayer, race to 50 kills, everyone has access to content on the map, etc.



If you’re looking to get your hands on the Vestige Carbine and put it through its paces, this is a great mode for that since half the lobby will be spawning with it. If you spawned with a Bandit Evo, well… You know how you can earn one. 😈



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">Experience Ecotone</h2>



You’ll be playing on nine maps that should be familiar such as Forest, Prism, Dredge, and many others, along with a new Community Forge map, Ecotone! You should also be able to find Ecotone in Quick Play Slayer, KOTH, Oddball, and Strongholds if those are your jam.



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



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/0dd44301-7eb2-4732-bb97-dc421431b6b3">Bookmark</a> Credits: Yeehaw J24, Scrubulba, Igrizhar, Jovaliant



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002.jpg" alt="A U N S C themed map created in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-146378" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/ecotone_002-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Danger could be lurking around any corner…on any level. Also, say hi to Fret when you find him. 



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And with that, it’s time to venture out, feel the power of the Vestige Carbine, hear the spin of the Falcon rotors, and put your skills to the test! Read more about the update in our 2025 Fall Playlist blog.



See you on the battlefield!

Fall 2025 Playlists

Fall Update 2025 | Halo Infinite

Play Halo Infinite now through August 5.

Operation: Reclaimer Out Now

Book Preview

Fiction

Waypoint Chronicles

A new Halo short story anthology is on its way!



For almost three years, the series of online short stories known as “Waypoint Chronicles” have been released in support of Halo Infinite’s ongoing updates, notable game anniversaries, and even the odd Flood-infested Halloween special.



Coming in March 2026, all of these stories and more will be collected in the print edition of Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume One.



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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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The cover art was made by Levi “Leviathan” Hoffmeier, who has previously contributed illustrations to the likes of the Halo Encyclopedia (2022) and Halo: Evolutions.



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Waypoint-Chronicles/Jeff-Easterling/Halo/9781668215227" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PRE-ORDER HALO: WAYPOINT CHRONICLES – VOLUME ONE</a> 



<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="1080" height="1680" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall.jpg" alt="Halo: Waypoint Chronicles - Volume One cover art with mechanicals illustrated by Levi Hoffmeier depicting Despondent Pyre, a Promethean Knight, Ilsa Zane, a Flood-infected Spartan, Laurette Agryna, Escharum, Fahl 'Nto, and Jun-A266" class="wp-image-142567" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall.jpg 1080w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall-193x300.jpg 193w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall-658x1024.jpg 658w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall-768x1195.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/WaypointChroniclesVolumeOneSocialTall-987x1536.jpg 987w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></a></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT’S IN THE BOOK?</h2>



Waypoint Chronicles seek to provide greater texture to the grand tapestry of the Halo universe.



These stories explore concepts that have lived in the periphery of the franchise’s extensive lore, expanding on moments referenced or only glimpsed in the games, or simply spending more time with beloved characters in the gaps between their grand battles against overwhelming odds.



What does a typical day look like for the UNSC Spirit of Fire’s crew on the Ark, or the humans and Sangheili working together on Anvil Station? What did Noble Team look like before the fall of Reach when Thom-A293 and Rosenda-A344 were around? How does a Promethean Knight see the world? What happens when a Spartan is compromised and infected by the Flood? What are the Created up to in the wake of Cortana’s demise on Zeta Halo?



And, perhaps most importantly… what did the Master Chief and the Arbiter discuss after that legendary barbeque on Sanghelios at the end of Halo 5?



All this and more is explored within!



Included in this anthology are the following short stories from 2022-2025:



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Vertical Umbrage</td><td>Winter Contention</td><td>Precipice</td><td>Duality</td></tr><tr><td>Sunrise on Sanghelios</td><td>Saturn Devouring His Son</td><td>Battle for the Blood-Moon</td><td>Trial of Reckoning</td></tr><tr><td>Hippocratica</td><td>Fireside</td><td>The Third Life</td><td>Anvil Accord</td></tr><tr><td>The Machine Breaks</td><td>Venezian Sonata</td><td>Age of Retribution</td><td>Whispers from the Pyre</td></tr><tr><td>From the Soil to the Stars</td><td>Tulpamancy</td><td>Battle for the Academy – Part 1</td><td>Battle for the Academy – Part 2</td></tr><tr><td>Moonrise Over Mombasa</td><td>‘Ghosts & Glass’ by B. Giraud</td><td>Ascension on Atropos</td><td>Fifth Canticle</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



There are also ten new short stories that will be added to this print anthology novel.



Further additional content includes all of the Halo Infinite Intel drops that spanned Season 2: Lone Wolves through Season 5: Reckoning, along with every Armory Infinitum entry from the last few years of Canon Fodder issues—micro-stories that detail a moment in time when the special weapons in Halo Infinite were used.



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Published by Gallery Books and our friends over at Simon & Schuster, Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume One is currently scheduled for release in March 2026.



Stay tuned as there are still four more Waypoint Chronicles to be released over the next few months, concluding in October with a story celebrating the tenth anniversary of Halo 5.



<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>

Halo Studios

Halo: Waypoint Chronicles – Volume One | Cover Reveal

The Master Chief’s fight against the Banished continues in Halo: Edge of Dawn!



Coming this December, the next novel by acclaimed author Kelly Gay picks up in the immediate aftermath of Halo Infinite’s ending.



Here is the official description of what awaits in the Master Chief’s next adventure:



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



2560. After eliminating War Chief Escharum and sending the Banished leadership into chaos, the Master Chief continues the fight on Zeta Halo, accompanied by his new AI companion and their loyal pilot Fernando Esparza.   As Spartan-117 searches for scattered allied forces, a young combat medic—tortured and imprisoned for months by the Banished and the enigmatic Harbinger—may hold the key to unlocking deeper mysteries within this ancient ringworld. But every step toward answers is haunted by the sinister and elusive blademaster Jega ‘Rdomnai, who is hellbent on vengeance…



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We are thrilled to also reveal the cover art by Chris McGrath, who has previously illustrated the covers for the novels Halo: Epitaph, Shadows of Reach, Oblivion, and Silent Storm.



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Edge-of-Dawn/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017555" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">PRE-ORDER HALO: EDGE OF DAWN</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Edge-of-Dawn/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017555"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1080" height="1676" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal.jpg" alt="Halo: Edge of Dawn novel cover depicting the Master Chief and the Weapon" class="wp-image-142242" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal.jpg 1080w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal-193x300.jpg 193w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal-660x1024.jpg 660w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal-768x1192.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawnCover_TallFinal-990x1536.jpg 990w" sizes="(max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" /></a></figure>



Akin in many ways to Halo: First Strike, this story serves as a glimpse into the aftermath of its preceding events, the novel dealing with the immediate fallout of what took place in Halo Infinite‘s campaign while embarking on its own new, self-contained adventure.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">RECOMMENDED REVISITING</h2>



Edge of Dawn will ostensibly serve as a standalone story that any reader can jump into, whether this is your first Halo novel or if you’ve been following along for years.



Of course, December is a while away, so in the months leading up to publication here are some stories you can explore for maximum context around the Master Chief’s journey leading into this book and the mysteries of Zeta Halo.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/halo-infinite?msockid=10fb3b4054ab63a132432e3e554b6279#purchaseoptions"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1280" height="360" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloInfiniteCampaignBanner.jpg" alt="Crop of Halo Infinite cover art depicting the Master Chief on Zeta Halo" class="wp-image-141853" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloInfiniteCampaignBanner.jpg 1280w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloInfiniteCampaignBanner-300x84.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloInfiniteCampaignBanner-1024x288.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloInfiniteCampaignBanner-768x216.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /></a></figure>



<a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/halo-infinite?msockid=10fb3b4054ab63a132432e3e554b6279#purchaseoptions">HALO INFINITE CAMPAIGN</a>



Experience the Master Chief’s epic return as he battles against the Banished forces occupying Zeta Halo, uncovers the truth about Cortana’s demise, faces a mysterious new threat in the form of the Harbinger, and builds a new partnership with his AI companion “the Weapon” and a reluctant Pelican pilot out of his depth.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-The-Rubicon-Protocol/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147884"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1280" height="360" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/34TheRubiconProtocol-2.jpg" alt="Cover art of Halo: The Rubicon Protocol" class="wp-image-78128" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/34TheRubiconProtocol-2.jpg 1280w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/34TheRubiconProtocol-2-300x84.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/34TheRubiconProtocol-2-1024x288.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/34TheRubiconProtocol-2-768x216.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1280px" /></a></figure>



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-The-Rubicon-Protocol/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147884">HALO: THE RUBICON PROTOCOL</a>



Follow the events of the battle for Zeta Halo through the eyes of other members of the UNSC Infinity’s crew as they evacuate to the surface of the ringworld and must survive as they are hunted by the Banished.



Building on many of the audio logs found in Halo Infinite’s campaign, The Rubicon Protocol is the perfect way to get acquainted with combat medic Lucas Browning.



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Published by Gallery Books and our friends over at Simon & Schuster, Halo: Edge of Dawn is currently scheduled for release in December 2025.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Edge-of-Dawn/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017555"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2160" height="1465" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover.jpg" alt="Full Halo: Edge of Dawn cover art depicting the Master Chief, the Weapon, Jega 'Rdomnai, and Zeta Halo, illustrated by Chris McGrath" class="wp-image-141970" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover.jpg 2160w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-300x203.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-1024x695.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-768x521.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-1536x1042.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-2048x1389.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/EdgeOfDawn_FullCover-1568x1063.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2160px) 100vw, 2160px" /></a></figure>

Halo: Edge of Dawn | Cover Reveal

Legacy Operation Launch