Canon Fodder

Community

Alex Wakeford

Issue 136

Canon Fodder: New Year, New Lore

Games

Halo Infinite

2023 is here, which means we’re back—well fed and rested—to say goodbye to those post-holiday, mid-January blues and kick off a new year of Halo Infinite with the Joint Fire Event!



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Joint Fire Trailer | JFO-class Armor | Free 10-tier Event Pass" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ex3iWwyqhFQ?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



The Joint Fire Event runs from January 17-31 and brings a free 10-tier Event Pass featuring Halo: Reach-themed rewards.



Joint Fire is all about the JFO-class Mjolnir (for your Mark V [B] Armor Core), which many of you will no doubt remember from Halo: Reach, which you’ll be assembling by completing Event Challenges in the Joint Ops playlist.



You’ve had the opportunity to get to grips with Covert One Flag when it launched with the Winter Update, but for those who may need a tactical briefing on this asymmetrical mode…



Covert One Flag is 4v4 CTF with one flag up for grabs over multiple rounds. Attackers have unlimited active camouflage while defenders have unlimited threat sensors, with plenty of cat ‘n’ mouse “spies versus mercenaries” carnage to ensue.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards.jpg" alt="Image of the reward track for the Joint Fire Event Pass" class="wp-image-54815" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Joint-Fire-Event-Rewards-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Playable across Arena maps in Halo Infinite (including the recently added Empyrean, the remake of Halo 3’s The Pit), your mission is simple: Jump into the Joint Ops playlist, complete Event Challenges to progress your free 10-tier Event Pass, and assemble the pieces of your fancy new JFO armor!



Oh, and while you’re at it, don’t forget to complete all of your Challenges this week to earn the Tactical Clippy weapon charm. You wouldn’t want to upset Clippy, would you? You really wouldn’t like him when he’s upset…



Stay silent. Stay vigilant. Stay deadly.



<a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/HaloInfinite/jointfirepresskit-1302a3f63fd24bdfb46b53455603293c.zip">Grab the press kit for the Joint Fire Event here!</a>

Joint Fire Event Launch

Forge Features

Welcome to our first Forge Features blog of 2023!



This week we’re highlighting some of the best creations we spotted over the holidays. In addition to debuting on the list below, these maps can also be found in the “Recommended” section of the Content Browser when you play Halo Infinite.



Let’s see what grabbed our team’s eye this time around!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MAPS & MODES</h2>



SKYLINE Credits: Epetr0 Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/056e1ea7-6a2e-4f38-8498-cbdcce985397" target="_blank">Skyline</a> 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/056e1ea7-6a2e-4f38-8498-cbdcce985397"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54673" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Skyline-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Skyline from Halo 4, rebuilt for Halo Infinite.



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PHASESHIFT Credits: CaptainDireWolf, Julianoz, Death Weaponxx Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/733e882d-a95b-40ae-b463-65e78aca465e" target="_blank">Phaseshift</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/733e882d-a95b-40ae-b463-65e78aca465e"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54659" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Phaseshift-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Phase and shift between dimensions with the push of a button.



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PAINT THE HALLS Credits: Kat Rat A Tat, b0b is here Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/064738a3-83f3-4bd9-af7f-d555b1c84e61" target="_blank">Paint the Halls</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/064738a3-83f3-4bd9-af7f-d555b1c84e61"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54715" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Paint-The-Halls-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Everyone plays paintball with their family during the holidays, right?



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GUARDIAN Credits: xXxFLACOxXx, MikeLuvN Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/fee24a66-bf76-4f88-8128-7fe18e69ebc7" target="_blank">Guardian</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/fee24a66-bf76-4f88-8128-7fe18e69ebc7"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54729" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Guardian-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Built for the ultimate showdown. It’s time to 1v1 your old friends.



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PERILOUS Credits: Sikamikanico, Whos Blaze Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/5ce22703-8ce9-41a2-976e-db932bd2f2eb" target="_blank">Perilous</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/5ce22703-8ce9-41a2-976e-db932bd2f2eb"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54743" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Perilous-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



There’s something in the water…



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SALVATION Credits: Black Picture, InfiniteForges Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e1d4a838-d686-4ccb-88b5-02faf2223927" target="_blank">Salvation</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e1d4a838-d686-4ccb-88b5-02faf2223927"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54757" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Salvation-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Seek penance to get Salvation. Or, just bookmark it, that works too.



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REFINERY Credits: AngelitoCO, tHe PR gAmEr117 Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/704e6259-86fb-4633-8cd1-778c3e0df841" target="_blank">Refinery</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/704e6259-86fb-4633-8cd1-778c3e0df841"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54771" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Refinery-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Zanzibar. Last Resort. Stonetown. Refinery.



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OAXACA STATION Credits: DanZama22, Starkey213036, ArturBloodshot, Ricardootino Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/eaa00774-2b02-402a-bc60-d7221f41bbf4" target="_blank">Oaxaca Station</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/eaa00774-2b02-402a-bc60-d7221f41bbf4"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54785" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Oaxaca-Station-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



We hear it has a great view of the Malta.



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VALKYRIE Credits: Daomum Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/64a527a1-c254-478e-8d8e-b55247860c3c" target="_blank">Valkyrie</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/64a527a1-c254-478e-8d8e-b55247860c3c"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54799" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Valkyrie-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Remember this place. Home.



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GOOSE HALO Credits:  ArturBloodshot, Hitbox unKnown Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/53aa6c36-22c3-47a1-ade0-76ec3232ec46" target="_blank">Goose Halo</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/53aa6c36-22c3-47a1-ade0-76ec3232ec46"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2048" height="1152" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54617" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/GooseHalo-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2048px) 100vw, 2048px" /></a></figure>



Halo on Halo returns. Please play with a friend named John Halo.



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SANDBOUND Credits: Spacetrooper741 Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99376dfd-8448-4364-945a-84a25f784bfc" target="_blank">Sandbound</a> 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99376dfd-8448-4364-945a-84a25f784bfc"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-54687" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/Sandbound-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



I don’t like snow. It’s cold and rough and irritating, and it gets everywhere.



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



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="VidGamesPete (opens in a new tab)" href="https://twitter.com/VidGamesPete" target="_blank">VidGamesPete</a> has been creating helpful Forge tutorials, with a focus on scripting and node graph. In his most recent video, we learn how to build a motion sensor walkway. This example assembles a bridge underneath a player as they walk across a gap that would otherwise be empty.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Scripting with Pete - Building a Motion Sensor Walkway" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/yujDxZpAd3E?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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That’s all for now, but stay tuned here on Halo Waypoint and follow <a rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="@Halo (opens in a new tab)" href="https://twitter.com/Halo" target="_blank">@Halo</a> on Twitter to see more Forge goodness!

Unyshek

Community Cartography 004

Forge Features: January 13, 2023

Esports

Our aim for Year 2 of HCS with regards to map and mode combinations is to refine the list to respond to player and fan feedback, as well as well provide a platform for competitive and entertaining matches all year long. We believe it’s important that there’s a stable foundation of maps and modes throughout the season, but that we’re also making additions, subtractions, and adjustments as we go. There’s a fine balance here that we believe we struck in Year 1 and we hope to strike again in Year 2 of HCS. 



Below is the list of map and mode combinations for the start of Year 2 of HCS, expect this to evolve as more maps and modes release for Halo Infinite.



<ul><li>Capture the Flag<ul><li>Argyle (New addition for Year 2)</li><li>Empyrean (New addition for Year 2)</li><li>Aquarius</li></ul></li><li>Slayer<ul><li>Empyrean (New addition for Year 2)</li><li>Aquarius</li><li>Live Fire</li><li>Recharge</li><li>Streets</li></ul></li><li>King of the Hill<ul><li>Recharge</li><li>Live Fire</li><li>Streets</li></ul></li><li>Strongholds<ul><li>Recharge</li><li>Live Fire</li><li>Streets</li></ul></li><li>Oddball<ul><li>Recharge</li><li>Live Fire</li><li>Streets</li></ul></li></ul>



We’re excited to see the new additions of Empyrean (The Pit) as well as Argyle be played on the main stage!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Balance Updates</h2>



Regarding balance updates, we know the competitive community has shared a lot of critical feedback since launch as well as since the most recent updates in November and December 2022. Here’s what we’re working on and when you can expect the updates.



Update 1: Empyrean and Argyle, Tuesday Jan 10. (RANKED / HCS ONLY)



<ul><li>Argyle:<ul><li>CQS48 Bulldog: Replaced with MK50 Sidekick</li></ul><ul><li>VK78 Commandos: The VK78 Commando in each base will become BR75 Battle Rifles</li></ul><ul><li>Fusion Coils: Removed</li></ul></li><li>Empyrean:<ul><li>Fusion Coils: Removed</li></ul><ul><li>Scrap Cannon: Removed</li></ul></li><li>Detachment:<ul><li>Drop Wall: Total charges reduced from 2 to 1</li><li>Fusion Coils: Removed</li></ul></li></ul>



Update 2: Sandbox tweaks, targeted for mid-February ahead of HCS Major Charlotte. 



<ul><li>Ammo Rack Update: <ul><li>In the Ranked Arena playlist and HCS, each Weapon Rack will now be set to a “Red Rack” meaning once a weapon is picked up, the Rack won’t spawn another until the weapon is despawned. </li></ul></li><li>Frag Grenades:<ul><li>Damage radius will be reduced</li></ul></li><li>Drop Weapon mechanic:<ul><li>Speed will be at parity with normal weapon switching.</li></ul></li><li>S7 Sniper Hip Fire:<ul><li>Reduction in random error angle when no-scoping.</li></ul></li></ul>



Update 3: We’re still finalizing all of the changes
we’re looking to make here so please don’t consider these to be 100% final
until we circle back and confirm in February. The soonest that these could release
is Season 3. 



<ul><li>Footstep audio: <ul><li>We adjusting footstep audio to better suit competitive play. Enemies are now harder to hear at distance and easier to hear when very close, and we improved accuracy of enemy location based on footstep audio when enemies are above, below, or behind you. </li></ul></li><li>Mangler: <ul><li>Will vault from competitive. Will undergo a rework in the future before being reintroduced.</li></ul></li><li>Sword: <ul><li>Will vault from competitive. Will undergo finer tuning before reintroducing as well as updated placing on maps better suited for the weapon.</li></ul></li><li>VK78 Commando: <ul><li>Slight retuning to reduce effectiveness. We felt the Winter Update pushed the needle a little too far, tuning again to find the sweet spot.</li></ul></li><li>Spike Grenades: <ul><li>Reducing randomness to alleviate frustration.</li></ul></li><li>Disruptor: <ul><li>Overall, we’re looking to reduce effectiveness and/or utility of the weapon in order to find the sweet spot. </li></ul></li><li>Pulse Carbine: <ul><li>Will vault from competitive, will explore a rework in the future. </li></ul></li><li>Plasma Pistol: <ul><li>Slight retuning to reduce effectiveness in order to find the sweet spot. </li></ul></li><li>Ammo Reduction: <ul><li>For competitive, we’re reducing ammo for Heatwave, Stalker Rifle, CQS48 Bulldog, and Shock Rifle.</li></ul></li></ul>



There will be new additions in Season 3 coming into the game as well as ranked/HCS. These include Shroud Screen equipment as well as the M392 Bandit Rifle. We’re expecting these to have a meaningful impact on the gameplay meta and we can’t wait to see how they all perform in your hands.



Once these updates have been released, our intention is to more quickly respond to player feedback and make smaller tweaks throughout the season that maintain a fine competitive balance rather than waiting longer and having to make much larger tweaks. With regards to timing, our intention is never to pull the rug out from our competitors and make significant updates just before an event. There will be times however where we prioritize ensuring the event is played on as balanced/competitive sandbox as possible and thus may enter moments where players wish they had a bit more time to familiarize themselves with tweaks. Things that we will avoid in that tightened timeframe would be the addition of new maps, new modes, new equipment, new weapons, etc. However, you could see the removal of certain items, or slight adjustments to existing items. As we did with the updates above, we will work to let players and fans know what’s changing and when in order to be more transparent and ensure players can be as prepared as possible.


HCS Year 2 is just around the corner and we can’t wait to see you all at the Kickoff Major in Charlotte on February 24-26. Be on the lookout for tickets to go on sale later this week. For all the latest on the HCS follow <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hcs">@HCS on Twitter</a>.

Official HCS

HCS Year 2 Maps, Modes, and Settings

Winter Contingency II Press Kit

Well folks, it’s that time of year again! Craig’s debut Holiday album has released, featuring all-new hits for the Banished on Zeta Halo, such as “Hot Rod Slay”, “O Come, O Come, Escharum”, and—oh, hang on, sorry this is the wrong intro… ah, there it is.



The Winter Contingency event has returned to Halo Infinite!



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Winter Contingency II | Free 10-tier Event Pass | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HanM7OXjdNg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Winter Contingency II runs from December 20 through January 3, bringing a free 10-tier Event Pass containing new Holiday-themed cosmetics.



For the Event Pass this year, you can progress it simply by completing Challenges, which means that you can complete the entire Event Pass at any point during the time in which the Winter Contingency II event is running. This comes as the result of community feedback from last year’s event, so we hope that this change gives players more agency to earn this free content at their own pace.



Let’s take a look at what those free ‘n’ festive cosmetics are…



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1.jpg" alt="Event Pass cosmetics for the Winter Contingency II event" class="wp-image-54388" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/WC2-Event-Pass-1920x1080-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Yes, that absolutely is a nightcap for your Spartan.



Speaking of the return of Flipflop, we’ve got a brand new two-part mini-comic featuring the return of Flipflop. The cosmetics you’re earning in the Event Pass? He’s gathered them up in his travels since the events of the Yappening, but he’s also brought with him some festive cheer as well.



Find the first part of the comic below, the second part releases December 27.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">Flipflop returns and has brought some festive cheer, a free 10-tier Event Pass full of new Holiday-themed cosmetics from December 20 through January 3. 🦌🛷 Winter Contingency II is now live on all platforms. <a href="https://t.co/CmNwv1IK2J">https://t.co/CmNwv1IK2J</a> <a href="https://t.co/HZ9FKOQXJf">pic.twitter.com/HZ9FKOQXJf</a>— Halo (@Halo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo/status/1605274102733873169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2022</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Happy Halodays to you all, see you on the battlefield.



Oh, and be sure to tag all your Holiday-themed Halo art with #HaloSpotlight so we can feature them in January’s Community Spotlight blog!



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‘Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the land Master Chief was ready, prepared to take a stand His armor was polished, his rifle by his side He stood guard, vigilant, ready to fight and abide   The Banished were stirring, their presence drew near But Master Chief was ready, with no hint of fear He loaded his rifle, and he readied his sword Determined to protect humanity, to keep them safe from the alien horde   The Banished attacked, their numbers vast But Master Chief fought on, his skill unsurpassed He battled with valor, with courage and might And with the last shot fired, he finished the fight



With the aliens defeated, their threat no longer abound Master Chief emerged victorious, humanity was safe and sound The people rejoiced and celebrated, their savior stood in sight And Master Chief was hailed as a hero, on that fateful Christmas night.

Winter Contingency II Event Launch

Community Update

Happy Halodays!

Yuletidings & Yonder

Issue 135

Canon Fodder: Auditory Additions

Welcome to our third installment of Forge Features—our final one for 2022 before the Holidays!



The community continues to make amazing Forge content that we at 343 are thoroughly impressed by; every week is made all the more exciting with the knowledge that we’re going to see some truly inspired creations, so let’s take a look at some of our latest favorites.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MAPS & MODES</h2>



MAUSOLEUM Credits: Pwn Jones, RANMAN10, TheHoodedManZ, microbistic9576 Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/39649f84-aa6b-4ba9-872e-be3841f07c36" target="_blank">Mausoleum</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/39649f84-aa6b-4ba9-872e-be3841f07c36"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53983" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Mausoleum-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Mausoleum is a map that is inspired by and takes elements of The Pit from Halo 3, something that you can see in the screenshot above, and reforges them into something altogether new.



I love the Delta Halo-inspired aesthetic, the angular simplicity and symmetry, the creative use of decals—all of which come together to make this map feel like a true, living location as well as a stellar multiplayer map for some good ol’ fashioned Slayer action!



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ABSOLUTION Credits: Anvil Prime 52, Savesme6464, b0b is here Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/2182e9f8-7555-4955-874d-1afa6053ea62" target="_blank">Absolution</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/2182e9f8-7555-4955-874d-1afa6053ea62"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53941" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Absolution-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Absolution has some familiar aspects of a few different maps. You might find yourself thinking of Guardian from Halo 3 at times, Sanctuary from Halo 2 at others, and you’ll notice that this is also very aesthetically reminiscent of the ancient structures seen on Delta Halo. There really is just something about those weathered stone structures…



This is a fantastic 4v4 map which supports Slayer, CTF, and King of the Hill. Hop in and give it a go with some friends!



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SANDTRAP REMAKE Credits: JRGodoy Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/08d7d9f0-e319-4088-9ba1-3e0f0fc9e9fe" target="_blank">Sandtrap Remake</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/08d7d9f0-e319-4088-9ba1-3e0f0fc9e9fe"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53997" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Sandtrap-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



The culmination of these ancient and weathered stone-based structures naturally brings us to a remake of this iconic favorite.



It’s Sandtrap as you know and love it! Well, if you want to get technical, it’s actually Sand Tarp—the variant of the map in Halo 3 without Elephants.



I hear this version of the map is so loyal to the original, JRGodoy has ensured exactly the same number of grains of sand are present on this remade version. I leave the task of confirming the veracity of that statement (which I definitely didn’t just make up) to you.



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BETRAYAL Credits: Dellsoto Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c5337567-285e-4d80-9300-90f4649d25f0" target="_blank">Betrayal</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c5337567-285e-4d80-9300-90f4649d25f0"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53955" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Betrayal-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Betrayal might be one of my favorite maps I’ve seen thus far. If you’re a fan of the Forerunner aesthetics of Halo: Combat Evolved, that fascinating mix of alien materials which evoke stone and metal, you’re going to have a great time just walking around this incredible interior space.



No expense has been spared in paying close attention to detail, and you might well imagine that this could have been a real Forerunner space in the campaign.



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LG JUMP PROGRESSION (PARKOUR) Credits: Lord Guntaz Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/7960591b-a757-45fd-9503-59539bbd42ea" target="_blank">LG Jump Progression</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/7960591b-a757-45fd-9503-59539bbd42ea"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-53969" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Jump-Course-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Trick jumps in Halo. Are they super cool? They sure are! Can I do them? Absolutely not…



But if you’re among those skilled movement artists with a penchant for chain slides, curbslides, equipment jumps, and so on, you should totally check out this movement course from Lord Guntaz.



Current record time is apparent 5 minutes and 50 seconds by Exi, so go and see if you can beat them!



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



Moving over to additional Community Creations, we’re kicking off with DEWtheMCCOY who is now on day 34 of expediently covering the things you’ve been making.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Infinite DAY 34 Forge Community Map Showcase" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tEW4s35VZUo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Of course, it always helps to be reminded of the basics, right? Koma has helpfully put together a Forge tutorial which covers just that, which should be useful for folks just joining us—or those who simply want a reminder of the new systems and features of the Halo Infinite Forge Beta.



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Forge Basics | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/F8JcdTkCOAk?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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And finally, PengiPlays has put together a tutorial on how to script player traits through nodegraphs. Active camo, additional shields, infinite ammo, player gravity, headshot protection… all of these and more are options at your disposal!



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="How to Script player traits in Halo Infinite | Halo Infinite Forge Scripting" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XXqhY8pRK2g?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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And that’ll about do it for this issue. With the Holiday break coming up, we hope you all have some time to rest and jump into Forge to let loose your creativity.



Forge Features will be back in January, and we can’t wait to see what you’ve made!