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Halo: Battle for the Academy – Part 1

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Forge Features: May 8, 2025

Last Stand Operation Launch

Firefight continues to evolve in Halo Infinite. You’ve already had a taste of this version when the mode first released and now, it’s time to battle at the Academy. Say your ardent prayers as you prepare to fight. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked.png" alt="Spartans and Marines running and gunning while the Academy is under attack by Banished forces." class="wp-image-136724" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size">BATTLE BRIEF</h2>



The Banished were invited in by Iratus and it’s up to you to repel the forces from the steps of the Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science. In your typical fireteam size of four you’ll be squadding up to stand your ground.



Our first taste of this linear Firefight mode came with Ardent Prayer back at launch.



“What does linear Firefight mean?” 



Thank you for asking, I’d love to tell you. Rather than simply defend hills or race ahead to each hill, you’ll find this mode progresses and gets a bit more difficult at each turn. 



a campaign, this experience moves forward sequentially – you’ll need to finish one battle before you can move forward and start another. In short, Firefight: Battle of the Academy is raising the stakes and is asking you to defend the bases from the onslaught. The goal? Keep the Banished from getting their hands on humanity’s best kept secrets<a>.</a>



Don’t forget to read the upcoming Waypoint Chronicles for more color and insight into the battle. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size">LAY OF THE LAND</h2>



You’ll be going Out With a Bang as you enact the Cole Protocol in this playlist. Okay, not really but those are the two maps you’ll be playing on as you engage in the Battle of the Academy.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">Out With A Bang</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020.jpg" alt="The Firefight: Battle of the Academy map "Out With A Bang" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-136668" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Bookmarks: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6dc27650-715a-4b0f-a2f9-2bae7afa23a0">Map</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b84e61e7-0e54-457c-9e01-d0f741a5cedf">Mode</a>



If you’re gonna go out, is there any better way than going out with a bang? I thought not. Under cover of darkness, you’ll be tasked with making your way to the evac zone but it’s no easy task. Battle through chokeholds, fight alongside the Marines you find along the way, work your way through the facility, and even brush up on your parkour a bit. Scavenge for ammo/weapons and keep moving!



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009.jpg" alt="The Firefight: Battle of the Academy map "Cole Protocol" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-136682" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Bookmarks: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/571afb7f-63c3-40a4-9c21-06ef921eb415">Map</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b84e61e7-0e54-457c-9e01-d0f741a5cedf">Mode</a> Credits: Cousin Tim, Timmyforges



Established by Admiral Preston J. Cole (only the most interesting man in Halo if you ask me), the Cole Protocol is a directive set to prevent the Covenant (or other enemies) from discovering Earth or other colonies.



Now, it is up to you to defend the data and knowledge. Armed with your weapons, wit, and the Marines battling alongside you, repel the Banished forces and hold your ground. Good luck.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size">MUTILATOR MADNESS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness.png" alt="The Juggernaut holding the Mutilator in Mutilator Madness." class="wp-image-136710" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The fabled Mutilator arrives in Halo Infinite. Previously the stuff of legends, the brutal cross between a shotgun and Gravity Hammer takes no prisoners and has no mercy. The Mutilator boasts a double barrel that fires one shell at a time in primary fire mode or fires both at once in the alt-fire mode. And the melee packs a punch! You know <s>what</s> who else packs a punch?



Juggernaut.



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/tenrai-iv-playlist">As we learned before</a>, the Juggernaut has some good perks:



<ul>
<li>Buffed shields</li>



<li>Increased damage resistance</li>



<li>Speed Boost</li>



<li>Quantum Translocator</li>



<li>Gravity Hammer</li>
</ul>



In Mutilator Madness, the same applies except as the Juggernaut you won’t wield the Gravity Hammer. Instead, you’ll be equipped with the Mutilator and Grappleshot. If you kill the Juggernaut, get ready! It’s your turn to be a menace.



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Well, what are you waiting for? The battle’s begun, get in there, Spartans!

snickerdoodle

Summer 2025 Playlists

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NA Champions

NA Results

EU Champions

EU Results

MX Champions

MX Results

ANZ Champions

ANZ Results

Esports

The road to Dallas is complete!



GGs to everyone who competed and congratulations to all teams who stamped their tickets to the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dh-dallas-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Dallas Open at DreamHack</a>!



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



<ul>
<li><a href="#leaderboards">Leaderboards</a></li>



<li><a href="#na">NA Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#eu">EU Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#mx">MX Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#anz">ANZ Results</a></li>
</ul>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="leaderboards">Leaderboards</h1>



Regional Leaderboards following the HCS Open Series: Road to Dallas.







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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="na">NA Results</h1>



The rag-tag team Incognito claims the #5 seed – Congratulations to your NA Qualifier Champions!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/envy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Incognito (Envy)</a> – Descendant – Precision – Piggy – Yakzn</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Spacestation</a> – Eco – Lucid – SnakeBite – StelluR</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-na-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8mVj-c2Grs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Qualifier / Day 1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KjdRkCl4D8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Qualifier / Day 2</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-na-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHwckOCOGz8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #1 / Day 1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPkqoFFAtME" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #1 / Day 2</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="eu">EU Results</h1>



The #7 seed is locked in for <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nemesis</a>!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – WuTum</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – WuTum</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-eu-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2450026694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Qualifier</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-eu-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2395141548?t=00h14m01s" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Open #1</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="mx">MX Results</h1>



<a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETHR Gaming</a> earns travel coverage to compete in the HCS Dallas Open Bracket!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETHR Gaming</a> – Acid – Drift – Leuor – Tapping Buttons</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETHR Gaming</a> – Acid – Drift – Leuor – Tapping Buttons</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-mx-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-mx-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="anz">ANZ Results</h1>



Australia’s finest, <a href="http://x.com/mindfreak">Mindfreak</a>, are ready to take on the HCS Dallas Open Bracket!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Plasma – Scoobmeistr – Swayz – Wryce</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Plasma – Scoobmeistr – Swayz – Wryce</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-anz-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-anz-os1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

Official HCS

HCS Open Series: Road to Dallas (2025)

Summer Update 2025 | Halo Infinite

Click here to purchase tickets to the Halo World Championship 2025

HCS Year 4 has kicked off and we’re already deep in planning for the HaloWC 2025 which will be hosted right here in Seattle, WA on October 24-26.



As we lead into the big event, we wanted to do things a little differently. Each month we’ll be releasing a new edition in our Road to Halo World Championship blog series. We want to deliver the absolute best experience possible for those joining us live in-person at the event as well as for those watching from home, and the goal of this blog series is to keep you informed on our progress towards delivering that.



In this month’s blog we’re going to cover some of the fundamentals that we’ll be updating and also confirm that a few long-standing traditions will continue to be part of this year’s HaloWC.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BUY TICKETS NOW</h2>





<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1024x576.png" alt="Photo collage of moments from the Halo World Championship 2024" class="wp-image-121182" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETS & FLOOR PLAN</h1>



We’re fortunate to say that the HaloWC has sold out every year, and in 2025, we’re aiming even higher. That’s why we’ve increased the number of General Admission tickets by roughly 30%, giving more fans the chance to join in on the action. That means more Halo friends to connect with, more energy and passion in the crowd, and more opportunities for new faces to witness the best of the best compete for their share of $1,000,000 – all while enjoying the epic festivities you’ve come to expect from the HaloWC.



In order to accommodate this many fans, we’ve had to make a number of changes to the floor plan, which we mostly haven’t needed to change since the first HaloWC for Halo Infinite back in 2022. Now, the Entrance Hall and what’s inside of it will be different, where the various stages are will be different (along with more seating at these various stages), we’re making upgrades to the Playable Area (which we’ll detail in the coming months), and we’ll also be refreshing the look of the Mainstage which we’re excited for fans to see!



Not only will these changes allow us to accommodate more fans, but we also think they will help give the HaloWC a fresh look and feel for those who have joined us in the past!



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">VIP EXPERIENCE</h1>



One thing that hasn’t changed is the amount of VIP tickets allotted. We did talk about this since we were going to increase the amount of GA tickets available, but we felt it was best to keep it at the same quantity to ensure we kept the same quality.



Our guiding philosophy is to focus on delivering a VIP-worthy experience in the venue; and what we’ve learned is that when the quantity goes up too much that experience can get compromised in some areas (like VIP seating, for example).



Overall, we’re excited to continue to build on the VIP experience year-over-year and provide VIP ticketholders with an even better experience than before!



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage.png" alt="Fans competing on the Halo Community Stage" class="wp-image-136238" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO COMMUNITY STAGE</h1>



Over the years the Community Stage has played a critical role in giving a home for non-esports Halo fans and helping fulfil our vision of having HaloWC be a “Halo Fest” of sorts.



We’re excited to share that the Community Stage will once again return with many familiar panels, as well as some new ones. As usual, the Community Stage will be live on Friday and Saturday of the event for a full 8-hours of programming each day. We’ll be sharing the specific panels and details later but you can expect more developer panels, more cosplay, and more fun games that you’ll get to participate in.



No matter why you love Halo, we want the HaloWC to feel like it has something for everyone, and the Community Stage will continue to be a space where you can connect, share, and celebrate what you love!



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO COSPLAY</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1024x576.png" alt="Halo Cosplay Contestants posing at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-136252" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Speaking of cosplay – We’re also excited to confirm that the Cosplay Contest is returning with yet another $5,000 prize pool!



We were absolutely in awe of the amazing craftsmanship and creativity that went into all of the beautiful builds last year, and we cannot wait to see what you’ve all be cooking up this year. Whether you decide to participate in the contest or not, we welcome all cosplayers to join us at the event for a good time. And as usual, we will have dedicated repair and changing rooms for cosplayers to use on site.



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO MAKER’S CONTEST</h1>



Related, but totally new to this year’s HaloWC, is a Halo Maker’s Contest.



In the community we see not only a lot of fans building armors to wear, but also weapons and other gadgets from the Halo universe and lore whether they’re human, Covenant, Forerunner or something else. We wanted to officially recognize this craft at the event and look forward to welcoming all participants. With a prize pool of $2,500, we’re hoping to see the finest handcrafted or printed items that the Halo community is able to offer.



NOTE: All Entries must be fabricated by the maker. The use of Laser cutters, 3d printers, C&C machines are all allowed but the design must be created and owned by the maker!



We just wanted to get the word out today so the community out there can start thinking about what they’d like to build. We’ll have the full rules of these competitions in the coming months!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1024x576.png" alt="Fan-created Pod Infector from the 2024 Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-136224" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">ONSITE COMPETITION</h1>



Esports fans and competitors will also have their own fair share of prize money to earn as you can still expect:



<ul>
<li>$1,000,000 – Halo Infinite 4v4 (Main tournament, need to qualify to compete)</li>



<li>$25,000 – Halo Infinite Free-For-All Championship. (Open to all attendees)</li>



<li>$5,000 – Halo Infinite, Halo 5, and Halo MCC Side Events. (Open to all attendees)</li>
</ul>



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



The road to the HaloWC begins now, and we can’t wait to see you all there. What do you want to see in next month’s blog? Be sure to let me know on X!



Thanks,



<a id="_msocom_1"></a>

Tashi

Road to the HaloWC 2025: April

Click here to purchase tickets to DreamHack Dallas 2025

Click here to for more info on the HCS Open at DreamHack Dallas

Click here to view the Open Bracket results from the HCS Arlington Major 2025

OpTic Gaming are your HCS Arlington 2025 Kickoff Major Champions!

Community Spotlight

Welcome back to the Community Corner! In this series, we’ll share cozy Q&A’s with notable creators from the Halo community. Today’s entry features a personal history and lessons in handiwork from artisan armorer SangheliosCustoms (a.k.a. Oscar Fabozzi).



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Hi, Oscar! Thanks for sharing your story with us here on the Community Corner. Before we get started, can you give our readers a sense of who you are and what you do?



Hi, I’m Oscar Fabozzi! I’m 37 years old, and I’m from Italy. I live in a small town 30 minutes from Naples, and I have a hardware store where I’ve been working for almost 20 years. I’ve always loved video games—but I would only call myself a real nerd if I had more time to dedicate to them.<a id="_msocom_1"></a>



Follow Oscar on social media: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sanghelios_customs/">Instagram</a> | <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sanghelioscustoms">Facebook</a> | <a href="https://x.com/sangheliosc">X</a><a id="_msocom_3"></a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">A HALO HISTORY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-1024x576.jpg" alt="Oscar Fabozzi sits on concrete steps and aims his model Skewer." class="wp-image-135712" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_001-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Tell us about your Halo origin story. Where did you first encounter the series?



I remember when I was young, a friend of mine bought the first Xbox and Halo: Combat Evolved. He was the only one who had it, so we all gathered at his house to play it together. I later bought my first Xbox to play Halo 2, and from that moment I never left Halo! I have played all the games, seen all the various films and series, and I own the entire collection of books that have currently been released in Italy.



Are you more of a campaign player, a multiplayer diehard, or a mix?



It’s absurd to say, but when I started playing Halo, I didn’t even have a console! I went to my friend’s house to play Halo: Combat Evolved multiplayer, and sometimes we even managed to gather two consoles and eight players for a larger get-together. Some of my friends even bought controllers just to play and enjoy multiplayer together.



Once I bought my first Xbox, I played the campaign a lot. I really like the story! Having played it in co-op with many different friends, I really don’t know how many times I must have completed the campaigns on any difficulty.



Now I have little time to play, but when I can I eagerly jump into the multiplayer experience of Halo Infinite, where I always meet many friends online who invite me to their team.



What’s your favorite Halo game and why?



It all started with Halo 2 for me. The Arbiter was a character that struck me instantly, and his story made me fall in love with the series right away. Since it was love at first sight, I’d have to admit that my favorite game is Halo 2.



I am also very attached to Halo 5: Guardians for the return of the Arbiter, fighting on Sanghelios, and the inspiration to create my Warden Eternal cosplay. Those things truly changed me and so I will be forever grateful for that chapter of the Halo story.



Do you have any other favorite Halo media?



As I mentioned, I have all the Halo games, films, series, and books. I have never been a great reader, but when I started reading the Halo books I immersed myself in the lore and discovered many things that I would never have even imagined! I must say that the books are truly a great strength of Halo, and I hope that other editions translated into Italian will come out in the future because I would really like to enjoy them all.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-1024x1024.jpg" alt="A composite image featuring multiple angles of Oscar Fabozzi's Arbiter cosplay." class="wp-image-135726" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-768x768.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_002.jpg 1564w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Who are some of your favorite Halo characters?



It goes without saying that the Arbiter is my favorite character. He has charisma, he has honor, and I’ve always had a weakness for enemies in video games with a great backstory.



But the real thanks goes to the Warden Eternal. He was crazy as a villain and he really deserves a lot of credit. He’s one of the most esteemed and hated bosses in the history of Halo at the same time. That’s why I wanted to create his cosplay—a project that was nothing short of ambitious, difficult, and almost unrealistic.



And yet I worked so hard, and the satisfaction it gave me is impossible to quantify. The best thing that happened is that, with this cosplay, I managed to encourage others to revisit and form a greater appreciation for that character.



What do you love about the Halo community?



Being part of such a community is truly a fantastic dream. Being someone who has contributed to the world of Halo is not easily explained or expressed.



Thanks to my Warden Eternal cosplay, I got to meet the Halo team directly. We’ve already discussed it in the past and I still can’t believe that all my childhood dreams have truly come true! I’ll forever be grateful for this truly unique experience.



As a community, we manage to always keep the passion and love for this masterpiece alive—and I love that the studio encourages cosplayers like me and the rest of the community to participate. That is and will always be something that a fan will never forget.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">COSPLAY CREATIONS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="960" height="960" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_003.jpg" alt="Oscar Fabozzi wears his Warden Eternal cosplay. The armor glows menacingly from the face, torso, and extremities in a dimly lit room." class="wp-image-135740" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_003.jpg 960w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_003-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_003-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_003-768x768.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 960px) 100vw, 960px" /></figure>



How did you get into creating custom armor and weaponry? What do you love about it?



I entered the world of cosplay thanks to Halo! As I grew up, I had less and less time to play—but ten years ago, I decided to create my first Arbiter armor. Because I created it while I was in the hardware shop, I was able to combine my work and my passion.



I wanted to somehow leave a mark in the world of this series, which felt like a challenge because there were already so many crazy cosplays which were incredible to say the least. How could I ever make a difference and get noticed among all these amazing artists?



And so, I decided to create the Arbiter cosplay—an ambitious, difficult, and long project, but it didn’t weigh on me even for a day. When you create something you really love, all the problems and all the difficulties in creating such demanding things pass.



It was a very difficult project, but I was determined. It took me almost two years to complete. And with the release of Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Halo 2: Anniversary, I managed to recreate all the best details and finish this great challenge.



After I completed the Arbiter, that’s when the wild idea arrived to create the Warden Eternal, and the rest is history.



Can you share your armor crafting process?



I started in the hardest way—not using foam, but fiberglass. Yes, real madness! I created every single part with simple paper using images online, and then used fiberglass to mold the pieces, smoothed them, and finally painted them. All without experience! And starting with the Arbiter, I had to create not only the armor, but also a real alien body.



And then, still looking to challenge myself further, I created my cosplay of the Warden Eternal, who does not have a body at all—only floating armor. So: the pieces were still created in fiberglass, but this time I used plexiglass in-between to suspend them, with LEDs across the whole body to hide it as much as possible.



Is the process different for weapons and props?



For weapons, I fortunately know 3D design. Since I bought a 3D printer I have started to produce a lot of projects. At the moment I only create Halo props with my printers, but I hope to finally create my first Spartan armor soon. And—a little spoiler—I will surely dedicate some time to my lovely Arbiter.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1441" height="2560" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-scaled.jpg" alt="A Heatwave weapon prop created by SangheliosCustoms." class="wp-image-135754" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-scaled.jpg 1441w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-169x300.jpg 169w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-577x1024.jpg 577w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-768x1364.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-865x1536.jpg 865w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-1153x2048.jpg 1153w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_004-1568x2785.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1441px) 100vw, 1441px" /></figure>



What was your favorite weapon or prop you’ve created?



For weapons, it is very difficult to choose. I love every prop that I create. Each is a personal project that I start from scratch and realize in every little and particular detail.



But surely one of the great beauties and toughest challenges was the Gravity Hammer, a real beast at two meters and full of LEDs inside. Crazy to say that I’m building another hammer right now that is absolutely stunning.



I really love to create props with LEDs inside in particular, with docks for the batteries, switches, and circuits for the cables. It’s a challenging task but one that gives almost too much satisfaction when you see it completed. Indeed, I recently created my first Heatwave, and it’s been an unforgettable process.



How do you choose a subject to create?



I always try not to do things that have already been created or are well known. I like to aim for almost impossible projects. Ask yourself why it has never been done before, and only then will you have the true inspiration to create a real masterpiece.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-1024x683.jpg" alt="Oscar Fabozzi aims a replica MA40 Assault Rifle." class="wp-image-135768" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-2048x1365.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_005-1568x1045.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Have you attended any events in cosplay?



I have only attended a few comic cons in Italy, but I took part in some competitions with my Halo cosplays. I admit that going around fairs with such big armors is unfortunately very difficult; you need to have a lot of friends to give you a hand getting there. That’s why I prefer to enjoy events with simpler or textile costumes, which are light and allow you to move more independently.



Can you recommend any tips for those interested in cosplay?



After years, I’ve come to understand that making something you are passionate about really makes a difference. When you are immersed in the process of making something you love, the work is easier and the end product is even more satisfying.



Even if you think you don’t have enough experience, you can be sure that good work will come out if you love the character you want to create. Experience will be acquired with time.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PARTING SHOTS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="581" height="581" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_006.jpg" alt="Oscar Fabozzi mows his lawn with a push mower while dressed as the Arbiter." class="wp-image-135782" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_006.jpg 581w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_006-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/CC_SangheliosCustoms_006-150x150.jpg 150w" sizes="(max-width: 581px) 100vw, 581px" /></figure>



Care to share a random fact about yourself?



One very funny thing is how I got my customers used to this fantastic world. At my hardware store, my customers are bricklayers, electricians, plumbers, and other such professions. Many years ago, they saw me creating things while I was working, and they would look at me, and often make fun of me, saying, “Hey, you! Think about working instead of playing.”



Today everything is different. My customers can’t wait to see what new project I’m creating. While they are buying maybe a faucet for the bathroom, they also take some photos with a sniper rifle I’ve just assembled.



Are there any exciting things coming up that we should look out for?



Oh, the more things Halo adds to this fantastic fictional world, the sooner I’ll try to make them in the real one!



But there is one thing I want to announce: I’ve always wanted to create a real Energy Sword. I’ve tried several times and failed, but I feel close to finally being able to create a truly realistic one. Stay tuned!



Is there anyone you’d like to give a shout out to?



I definitely greet all the people who are around me and believed in my projects, but a special thanks will always be dedicated to Halo. This series will always be with me.



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Thanks for reading! Follow <a href="https://x.com/sangheliosc">SangheliosCustoms</a> to check out Oscar’s latest creations, and stay tuned to <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news?category=community">Halo Waypoint</a> and our <a href="https://x.com/halo">social channels</a> for more community coverage.