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Community Spotlight

Alex Wakeford

Spotlight: January 16, 2024

Forge Features

Games

Halo Infinite

New year, new Forge maps!



Welcome back to Forge Features, where we highlight a selection of the latest and greatest community-made maps and experiences that you can download and play in Halo Infinite.



Let’s take a look at what you’ve been cooking…



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/393ecd77-260d-4437-8501-386012af6685">THE HALO RPG</a> Credits: RedNomster Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/393ecd77-260d-4437-8501-386012af6685">MAP</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/634cab14-d0d8-443e-8ba3-56f3bcc9aedb">MODE</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/393ecd77-260d-4437-8501-386012af6685"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a top-down view on the Halo tabletop RPG map made in Forge" class="wp-image-89721" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Red Nomster has made a turn-based tabletop game using Halo Infinite’s Forge… yes, you read that right.



Through the mark system and approximately 1400 scripting nodes, up to 8 players (4v4 max, 2v2 recommended, 1v1 if you want to settle things in the arena) can experience Halo Infinite as they never have before.



<a href="https://youtu.be/OhWZ4HwpEMM?si=3bf0XG2pv9wInynj">Check out RedNomster’s video on the making of this experience</a>, and don’t forget to learn the four very straightforward rules of how to play:



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the rules for the Halo tabeltop RPG in Forge. Text reads: 1. Mark AI 2. Zoom + Mark to move 3. Two moves per turn 4. Mark here to end turn *. Shoot to swap cam" class="wp-image-89735" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloRPG2-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Your in-game Halo tabletop adventures await!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/153c7ecb-9ba1-44d2-8b92-4d2ffd5504a5">ASSAULT ON THE CONTROL ROOM</a> Credits: Nikos4476, xXBarthXx, HMkiller05 Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/153c7ecb-9ba1-44d2-8b92-4d2ffd5504a5">PART 1</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cb1b91ea-030b-4fd9-aa13-80af8d07dae1">PART 2</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/e3026186-ecf0-49d4-91dd-204d77f08887">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/6173030a-e351-406b-9f82-686811c07449">Normal</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/0a6907e3-c250-449f-97de-4730dde5e3eb">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/8b3d4874-3e71-4207-90d6-66a5486e2bc4">Legendary</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/153c7ecb-9ba1-44d2-8b92-4d2ffd5504a5"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a bridge from Halo: CE's Assault on the Control Room mission recreated in Forge" class="wp-image-89693" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-AOTCR-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



We knew that Halo Infinite’s Forge would be able to create some truly jaw-dropping stuff, and that the ambitions of community cartographers would push the boundaries of what even we believed possible… and here’s another such example, as the entire Halo: CE mission Assault on the Control Room has been remade.



Split into two parts, this is the mission just as you remember it—eerie, repeating Forerunner corridors, bridges over vast mountainous walls, vast snowy landscapes, Scorpion tank carnage… it’s all been recreated down to the smallest detail in enemy encounters.



Be sure to check out Nikos’s video on the making of the map as well!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e555b85a-a933-4d1e-ac7e-f03052a8cfb2">INFINITY DOWN</a> Credits: Sams S033 Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e555b85a-a933-4d1e-ac7e-f03052a8cfb2">MAP</a> Mode: Use with Firefight: King of the Hill



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e555b85a-a933-4d1e-ac7e-f03052a8cfb2"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the UNSC Infinity's hangar bay exterior with a Phantom approaching in Forge" class="wp-image-89749" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Infinity-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



At the start of Halo Infinite‘s campaign, the UNSC Infinity is ambushed by the Banished at Zeta Halo. Take the fight to the hangar bay and capture the hills in order to reclaim humanity’s flagship from the alien invaders.



(Of course, we all know how successfully that goes!)



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/4219bc4d-6c92-44c2-84c4-28fee6d145cb">HALO HILLS</a> Credits: IcyAsh3956 Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/4219bc4d-6c92-44c2-84c4-28fee6d145cb">MAP</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/11333aca-e428-484d-81bd-ce7a528cc1d2">MODE</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/4219bc4d-6c92-44c2-84c4-28fee6d145cb"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Forerunner beam emitter in a cavern made in Forge" class="wp-image-89707" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-HaloHills-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



I must admit that my jaw dropped as I explored this map. It just kept going… and going… and then there was another level above, and then that kept on going…



With battlecruisers hanging in the skies overhead, Banished forces dropping into the caverns below to guard a sunlit Forerunner beam tower, and multiple flags to capture, this is the perfect staging ground for some PvPvE CTF action.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f10b3565-1da0-479c-bf55-1d8540fce8e8">TETHER</a> Credits: SPiriTBomb808 Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f10b3565-1da0-479c-bf55-1d8540fce8e8">MAP</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f10b3565-1da0-479c-bf55-1d8540fce8e8"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a complex constructed around an orbital tether made in Forge" class="wp-image-89763" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/FF24-Tether-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



The orbital tether is something of an iconic element of the Halo universe, though all of their most memorable moments are when they collapse—seeing it fall in Halo 3: ODST, its structural skeleton scattered over the African plains as you head to Voi in Halo 3, and who could forget that harrowing sequence at the turning point of Halo 4: Forward Unto Dawn.



This tether, though, remains intact. In this sprawling complex built around the space elevator, you can unleash some BTB chaos with your friends.



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That’ll wrap us up for this issue—the first of many more to come over the course of this year.



The boundless creativity of the Forge community thrills, energizes, and quite frankly terrifies us as we bear witness to the imaginative ways this tool can be used to create new and entirely unexpected experiences in Halo.



Keep on keepin’ on!

Community Cartography 024

Forge Features: January 12, 2024

Community Update

Welcome to our final Community Update for 2023!



What a year it’s been, eh? From the close of last year’s Winter Update which saw the debut of Halo Infinite’s Forge, to the delivery of multiple seasonal launches that brought new maps and modes, new armor and events, new features—and more.



And that’s just on the game front. The Digsite crew dropped their first release out of slipspace with some of the classic Halo content they’ve been restoring from the deepest reaches of the cutting room floor. We saw the return of the Arbiter and Spartan Vale in Halo: Outcasts, along with five new Waypoint Chronicles—one of which saw Steve Downes, Jen Taylor, and Keith David on-stage together at the climactic Halo World Championship to perform a whole new scene.



We’ve had exciting new partnerships with the likes of Mountain Dew (welcome back, citrus cherry!), Brawlhalla, Sea of Thieves, Dr. Squatch, Honda, Oreo, Calm…



And the Community Update has been here to keep you up to date throughout it all. So, once more unto the breach before we sign off for the year—let’s go!



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



WINTER CONTINGENCY III



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite key art for the Winter Contingency III Operation, showcasing four Spartans in the snow with the central one clad in Santa-inspired armor holding a green sack over their back" class="wp-image-82729" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



As the Combined Arms Operation comes to a close, it will be succeeded next week by the arrival of Winter Contingency III.



Running from December 19 through January 30, you’ll have a new 20-tier Operation Pass full of Holiday-themed customization rewards to deck the (armory) halls with!



We’ll have a full blog with all the information you need to know about Winter Contingency III dropping when the Operation goes live on December 19—stay tuned.



DECEMBER MID-SEASON UPDATE



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite playlist image for Firefight: King of the Hill on Normal difficulty depicting Spartans fighting Banished on the House of Reckoning map" class="wp-image-87190" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/FFKOTHNormal-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



You may or may not be aware that Halo Infinite got a little mid-season update the other week…



Amongst other things, this update brought:



<ul><li>FIREFIGHT: KING OF THE HILL – The latest incarnation of the beloved mode has arrived with nine maps, including the new House of Reckoning map from Halo Infinite’s campaign. <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/firefight-king-of-the-hill-preview" target="_blank">Check out our Firefight: KOTH blog for a deep dive into this new mode,</a> and give our latest Spartan Chatter episode a watch as we sit down with Michael “Forge Lord” Schorr and Technical Designer Connor Kennelly to discuss all things Firefight.</li></ul>



<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="Spartan Chatter: Firefight: King of the Hill" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TcFPhwKyhfs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<ul><li>REPAIR FIELD – A new addition to Halo Infinite’s Equipment, the Repair Field can heal (and revive) allies, vehicles… and enemies. Be wary of those who enter its lovely green field!</li><li>FORGE UPDATES – High Value Targets and bosses from Halo Infinite’s campaign have come to the Forge AI Toolkit, along with the addition of Skull modifiers to node graphs, quality-of-life updates, and more.</li><li>RANKED IMPROVEMENTS – UI and audio elements for Ranked Extraction have been implemented to enhance the ranked experience, and CSR penalties for matches where players quit have been improved.</li><li>CUSTOM GAME BROWSER – As long as enough slots are open, the Fireteam leader can bring their entire party into a CGB session.</li><li>STABILITY & NETWORKING – A new networking system has been implemented into Halo Infinite that will be tested in the Firefight: King of the Hill playlist and is also being tested further in the Combat Workshop.</li></ul>



For a full breakdown of all the new additions and improvements in the December Update, you can <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/december-update-halo-infinite" target="_blank">check out our December Update preview blog</a> or head over to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank">read the Patch Notes on Halo Support</a>.



TRIAL OF RECKONING



Following the debut of Firefight: KOTH, we have a new tie-in Waypoint Chronicle set within the House of Reckoning itself.



Trial of Reckoning is available <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-trial-of-reckoning" target="_blank">here on Halo Waypoint</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/REckoningPDF" target="_blank">as a free PDF</a>, and in <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/ReckoningAudio" target="_blank">audiobook format on YouTube</a>.



<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: Trial of Reckoning | Audiobook" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RE9f-zRLy_o?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



“February 2560. The wreckage of the UNSC Mortal Reverie served as a central rally point and home to human survivors on Zeta Halo, but it was only a matter of time before it was also overrun by the Banished.



A handful of survivors from the battle have been brought to the iron halls of the House of Reckoning where they are forced to take part in a twisted new war game…”



INTEL



Our third piece of Intel for Season 5 has gone live, providing some additional information on Gunnery Sergeant Elena Bobrov—the protagonist of Trial of Reckoning.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/reckoning-intel#S5Intel3" target="_blank">INTEL #3 – MISSING IN ACTION</a>



FORGE AHEAD



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge.jpg" alt="Header image for the Halo Infinite Forge series showing a Monitor" class="wp-image-45890" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forge in Halo Infinite has crossed the threshold of being a year old—and what a year it has been!



In no time at all, the cartographers in the community set about creating all sorts of maps and experiences with more powerful and versatile tools than ever before. And over the course of this year, we have continued to build on those capabilities with new canvases, new objects and palettes, various improvements and fixes… and, of course, the AI Toolkit, which has well and truly changed the game for Forge.



We’ve seen recreations of previous campaign missions and entirely new ones built from scratch; tower defense modes with extensive upgrade systems; zombie modes and the old Custom Games you remember from the old days (you can’t beat a bit of Lightspeed Halo!); classic map remakes from across the series, and so much more.



2.3 million unique maps have been created in Forge since its launch last year.



3.2 million hours (approximately 7.2 million matches!) have been spent playing Custom Games on Forge maps since the mode launched.



From February 2023, there have been 44 community maps brought into our official matchmaking playlists—from Quick Play to Super Fiesta, Husky Raid, Squad Battle, Doubles, Halo 3 Refueled, Firefight: KOTH, and beyond.



And we’re not done yet. Forge will continue to be supported in 2024, and we’ll have more to share with you on that front in the new year.



Until then, keep on Forgin’! We see new creations to fall in love with every single day, and the holidays are the perfect time to lose oneself in the Customs Browser!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HALO TV SERIES</h2>



Earlier this month, Paramount+ released the first teaser for Season Two of the Halo television series.



Due to release on February 8, 2024, the teaser that premiered at CCXP 2023 promises eight new episodes filled with intense action to come as the Covenant threat to humanity escalates.



For a full breakdown, be sure to <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/silver-debrief-season-2-reveal" target="_blank">check out our latest Silver Debrief issue</a>.



<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 The Series | Season 2 First Look Trailer | Paramount+" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pfiTJ2JNDco?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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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HALO GEAR</h2>



Happy Halodays! As you continue to enjoy Season 5, we wanted to share the final design of the exclusive <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/halogearrewards_s5backpack" target="_blank">Halo Gear Rewards Season 5 Tactical Carrier Backpack</a>. The UNSC-style backpack is designed with utility in mind and loaded with design features and Easter eggs to give you that Halo universe look and feel. Check out the new images below!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="http://aka.ms/halogearrewards_s5backpack"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2400" height="1350" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack.jpg" alt="Image of the Halo Tactical Backpack and optional Season 5 patches" class="wp-image-89003" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack.jpg 2400w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /></a></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="http://aka.ms/halogearrewards_s5backpack"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2400" height="1350" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1.jpg" alt="Image of details and decals on the Halo Tactical Backpack" class="wp-image-89017" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1.jpg 2400w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HaloGear_TacticalBackpack1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2400px) 100vw, 2400px" /></a></figure>



There’s still time to earn access to the exclusive Halo Gear Rewards Season 5 Tactical Carrier Backpack and Reckoning Insignia patch. Just complete the full 50-tier Premium Battle Pass and you’ll receive a code in your Waypoint notifications.



After receiving your code, head to the Halo Gear shop to complete your purchase ($140 backpack). Players will also have the option to add-on the Operation: Combined Arms Patch and the Operation: Winter Contingency III Patch for an additional $10 per patch.



The last day to purchase the Tactical Carrier Backpack will be January 29, 2024.



<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/TwXOuHfAyvc?si=Yr81vm24Y4z03MIS">For a closer look at some of the amazing Halo gifts that are perfect to stuff your stockings with, check out our end-of-year community playdate livestream!</a>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">RADAR BLIPS</h2>



<ul><li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/ForgeFeatures023" target="_blank">FORGE FEATURES 023</a> – In our final issue of Forge Features for 2023, we take a look at some of the latest and greatest creations from the community.</li><li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/S5CommunityMontage" target="_blank">COMMUNITY MONTAGE</a> – Send us your showstopping captures from Season 5: Reckoning for a chance to be featured in our Community Montage! Submission ends January 12 at 11:59pm PT.</li><li><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/spotlight-december-2023" target="_blank">END-OF-YEAR SPOTLIGHT</a> – Our final Community Spotlight for 2023 has gone live! Check out our collection of the latest and greatest community creations.</li><li>CANON FODDER: Coming on December 18, our final issue of Canon Fodder will see us out for the year.</li></ul>



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Aaaaand that’s a wrap for 2023!



Thank you all for joining us on this Great Journey, whether you’ve just (re)joined us recently or been here from the beginning. We here at 343 Industries wish you all a safe and happy holidays.



See you in 2024.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card.jpg" alt="2023 Holiday Card from 343 depicting Spartan Santa riding a sleigh pulled by Unggoy with text that reads "Happy Halo-days! From 343 Industries"" class="wp-image-88989" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/HappyHalodays2023Card-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>

Wintertime Wonders

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… time to spend the holidays exploring the wonders of the Custom Game Browser!



If you’re looking for a place to start, I got you—let’s check some out together.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/0b647a3e-a5ac-4f12-8222-566409c18430">WAKA WAKA</a> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3b794534-6c89-4226-9760-feb5018bf3e2">Mode Download</a> Author: McElgun



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/0b647a3e-a5ac-4f12-8222-566409c18430"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Waka Waka map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88929" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WakaWaka-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



This infection map/mode combo is just the right amount of neon RGB for all gamers. There are cubbies with weapons for survivors and lots of twists and turns for zombies to hide. Keep your wits about you as you skulk around in the dark!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/755ad181-e505-4023-b470-5d41f7d49832">DUCK HUNT MINECRAFT</a> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/20e85e97-1067-410a-a202-81575483a686">Mode Download</a> Author: Kirby Oofss



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/755ad181-e505-4023-b470-5d41f7d49832"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Minecraft-themed Duck Hunt map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88887" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/DuckHunt-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



It’s the classic “get-from-point-A-to-point-B-while-not-being-sniped” mode with a blocky twist. Each level brings a new challenge in this cat-and-mouse game of sliding, running, jumping, and dodging to get to the end for a brief moment of respite before continuing through the maze. Good luck!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/53aa6c36-22c3-47a1-ade0-76ec3232ec46">GOOSE HALO</a> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/14ce711b-2bb9-4673-a2cb-c16b2bbb64d4">Mode Download</a> Authors: ArturBloodshot, Hitbox Unknown



<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="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Goose Halo map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88901" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



The classic “Halo on Halo” returns in Halo Infinite. (Does that make it “Halo on Halo on Halo”? Say that three times fast.) You, a Mongoose, and your driving skills vs the eagle-eyed sharpshooter above.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a12d6d0f-2ff1-4927-b85c-b37b43dbdd07">ARCTIC POINT | FIREFIGHT OPS</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ce3ae052-8806-48d4-9f7e-f5d46dc84a4d">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/583a02e4-5073-48c9-a83b-b591ff75860a">Medium</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ca723f5b-2513-4d05-b170-f2d7ee46a686">Hard</a> Authors: UneeQ TV, Mr Greencastle, Azwilko1997, Artifice7285



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a12d6d0f-2ff1-4927-b85c-b37b43dbdd07"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Arctic Point map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88873" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/ArcticPoint-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Jump into Arctic Point and take on the enemy as you progress through this community-created campaign mission. How long can you survive the onslaught? If it’s too easy, try ramping up the difficulty!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3dca1327-2b01-4203-aa64-fa690f7e6b46">CAMPAIGN OP: SNOW SPEAR</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/c22d0ffe-6130-49c7-a6de-6aabbb7330d5">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/34cb31b0-5fdb-4fae-90fc-12f2fcf36907">Mythic</a> Author: seanonix



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3dca1327-2b01-4203-aa64-fa690f7e6b46"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Snow Spear map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88915" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/SnowSpear-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Squad up and take on the enemy in this custom campaign level! Battle Bassus, juke with Jega (and more!) as you try to survive and make it to the end.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TUTORIAL TRAINING</h2>



‘Tis the season, and you can just call Ducain23 “Santa Forge” because he’s back with yet another tutorial for us!



If you want to properly winter-ize your maps but aren’t sure how to go about it, he’s got you covered and you’ll be decking the halls in no time.



<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="Christmas Themed Perfection! (Snow Ground)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddr4aV3fkSg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



SEND NODES



/u/Bricklemore says “no one asked for this,” but after checking it out <a href="https://old.reddit.com/r/halo/comments/18dghfe/forge_infographics_the_anatomy_of_a_node_my_last/">Node Anatomy 101</a> is something I think a lot of aspiring Forgers will certainly appreciate. Nodes can be confusing and this helpful diagram breaks it down into smaller, more manageable chunks.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://old.reddit.com/r/halo/comments/18dghfe/forge_infographics_the_anatomy_of_a_node_my_last/"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1888" height="1345" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph.jpg" alt="Community-made infographic containing details about node graphs" class="wp-image-88943" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph.jpg 1888w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph-300x214.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph-1024x729.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph-768x547.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph-1536x1094.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/NodeGraph-1568x1117.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1888px) 100vw, 1888px" /></a></figure>



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That’s a wrap on Forge Features for the year! We’ll be back with more next year—in the meantime, play hard, win well.



Happy Halodays!

snickerdoodle

Community Cartography 023

Forge Features: December 15, 2023

Spotlight: December 14, 2023

The long-awaited PvE Firefight experience has arrived to Halo Infinite.



<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="Spartan Chatter: Firefight: King of the Hill" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TcFPhwKyhfs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Michael “Forge Lord” Schorr and Technical Designer Connor Kennelly joined us to talk about the mode and the evolution of Firefight from the survival round-based nature in Halo 3: ODST to the King of the Hill version in Halo Infinite. If you missed it, you can catch up on the chatter below. 



Some key highlights include:  



<ul><li>Design philosophy behind Firefight: KOTH </li><li>Addition of High Value Targets from campaign </li><li>Match XP and Career Rank improvements on the way</li><li>Exploring the addition of FF Challenges </li><li>…and more! </li></ul>



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/firefight-king-of-the-hill-preview" target="_blank">You can read more about Firefight: King of the Hill in our deep dive here.</a> 



— 



Spartan Chatter is an audio series, a podcast if you will, hosted on our <a href="http://discord.gg/Halo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">official Halo Discord</a> which brings members of the studio together to discuss all things Halo with a live audience. 



You can find previous episodes of Spartan Chatter on our <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SWLEPaTx4c&list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-" target="_blank">YouTube channel’s Podcasts page</a> and on our Discord server.



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Episode 1: Forge & Multiplayer with Michael Schorr  <a href="https://youtu.be/7QNHxDg0c9A" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/471730128335142912/1104135351133552664" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discord</a> 



Episode 2: Infection, Season 4, & Career Rank with Sean Baron  <a href="https://youtu.be/4SWLEPaTx4c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/471730128335142912/1109279140449894501" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discord</a> 



Episode 3: Ranked Matchmaking with Tashi Hasandjekic  <a href="https://youtu.be/fQn8wuvz6P0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/471730128335142912/1129534622267613216" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discord</a> 



Episode 4: Halo: Outcasts with Jeff Easterling and Alex Wakeford  <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tL2mK1cZhi8&list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">YouTube</a> | <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/471730128335142912/1139676521884286986" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Discord</a>

Firefight: King of the Hill | Spartan Chatter

Would you believe we’re over a month into Season 5 already? We were floored by what folks were creating with the Forge AI Toolkit within the first week, and that momentum is still building with incredible new creations that we can’t wait to share with you.



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<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1bbe31bc-c8a6-4541-aadf-a02de3756bec" target="_blank">THE SILENT CARTOGRAPHER CAMPAIGN</a> Credits: Nikos4476 Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/5ad007d1-705f-43cb-a01f-13f5c8d1fdc3">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/21becbf7-0b04-43fb-8ccb-fdabfeaf7657">Normal</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/bff3d99c-4717-4113-aa42-7b18cd2732ae">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/2645dca7-043e-4465-91dc-0ebb9964472e">Legendary</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1bbe31bc-c8a6-4541-aadf-a02de3756bec"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Silent Cartographer beach assault recreated in Forge" class="wp-image-87126" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/SilentCartographer-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Forgers have no chill. This much has become clear with our first spotlighted map. We anticipated that folks would recreate various moments and scenarios from previous Halo campaigns, but I don’t think we ever expected that we would see the entirety of The Silent Cartographer from Halo: CE remade—the island, enemy placements, substructures, objectives…



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<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/93bd943a-5125-4c7d-aca5-d48fa36cf376" target="_blank">HALO WARS 2 TERMINUS FIREFIGHT</a> Credits: Lemonsquare7609, Trooper509, vacant10086, Arxchangel, Donut Droper, Xitespdrman Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ba099c5f-a2d1-4cb9-8acf-040f8b61f3b9">Halo Wars 2 Terminus Firefight</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/93bd943a-5125-4c7d-aca5-d48fa36cf376"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Halo Wars 2 Terminus Firefight created in Forge" class="wp-image-87112" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HW2Terminus-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Twenty-one waves of Banished enemies are ready to throw themselves at you, your allies, and the cores you must protect. Get upgrades to strengthen your team, use vehicles to bring superior firepower to bear, and prepare to experience Halo Wars from a first-person perspective. (8-12 players recommended.)



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



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/7617ce5f-4a90-4756-9b70-ea3ccd8613dd" target="_blank">CORROSION CAMPAIGN</a> Credits: Private1179529 Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/bb30da74-5366-43dc-8640-5690598472ce">Corrosion Campaign</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/7617ce5f-4a90-4756-9b70-ea3ccd8613dd"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Corrosion mission created in Forge" class="wp-image-87070" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Corrosion-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



The Banished have discovered a rare, highly toxic fluid that they are mining to enhance their fuel rod-based weaponry, and it’s up to you to stop them. Are you taking this on alone, as a Headhunter team of two, or will you deploy a full fireteam of four to bring an end to this dire threat?



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



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b05e1bd-25f9-48ac-b199-b8eae79632c0" target="_blank">FIREFIGHT HELM’S DEEP</a> Credits: AngeloGrotti



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b05e1bd-25f9-48ac-b199-b8eae79632c0"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of top-down view of Helm's Deep created in Forge" class="wp-image-87098" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HelmsDeep-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



“The horn of Helm Hammerhand shall sound in the deep one last time. Let this be the hour when we draw swords together. Fell deeds awake. Now for wrath, now for ruin, and the red dawn. Forth Èorlingas!”



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



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/bd443aee-f7c4-4727-8c28-8e5a00a8a83c" target="_blank">FIREFIGHT BIKINI BOTTOM</a> Credits: Im Adopted69527



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/bd443aee-f7c4-4727-8c28-8e5a00a8a83c"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Bikini Bottom map created in Forge" class="wp-image-87056" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/BikiniBottom-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Plankton has enlisted the aid of the Banished to steal the Krabby Patty formula! Fight to defend Bikini Bottom from this evil, diabolical, lemon-scented scheme!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TUTORIAL TRAINING</h2>



Zechariot has been turning out some fantastic tutorials for Forgers to use in a variety of creative ways. To kick things off, how about a “vending machine” where you can buy AI units for your team?



<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="AI Vending Machine (AI Shop) | Halo Infinite Forge Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVUP41NElig?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



And on the aesthetic side of things, Ducain23 has a guide to help you create murky algae water and custom trees.



<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="Create Murky Algae Water and Custom Trees | Halo Infinite Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mGRDJN9E5C0?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’ll round us out for this issue of Forge Features! If you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a very important appointment with the Custom Game Browser—Bikini Bottom needs rescuing at three, and first light on the fifth day is rapidly approaching so we’ve gotta make sure we’re in the right spot when the forces there look to the east…



Happy Forging!

Community Cartography 022

Forge Features: November 22, 2023

Issue 011

Community Corner: GCustomsCreations

More maps, more experiences, and more jaw-dropping creations leveraging the Forge AI Toolkit have been delivered since Season 5 launched. Being able to create your own mini-Firefight experience, recreate campaign missions, or lose hours of the day by way of various minigames means the options are endless, and we’ve got plenty to show off today!



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



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b99ac94-a0d7-48cf-b1de-474e29215f4c">GRUNT WARS CONVERSION</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ee3ddc3c-0e55-4bd5-a6a5-834e4020b314">Grunt Wars</a> Credits: Hitmonchanel, Shrad Marden



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b99ac94-a0d7-48cf-b1de-474e29215f4c"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars.jpg" alt="Grunts in the hill of Grunt Wars" class="wp-image-85784" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



I saw this in the Custom Game Browser and had absolutely zero clue what to expect, but “Grunt Wars” sounded amazing. So, I jumped in immediately and I was not disappointed. Waves upon waves of Grunts just pouring out from the Behemoth towers, all trying to capture a hill, yielded pure chaos.



10/10 experience.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3f788be8-f692-408d-a91e-33b684335162">TIMBERLAND EVOLVED</a> Credits: Micheal B 2K8, D0ctorSmurf, Okom1, Virus11010, Darth Draius, MikRips, Mr IncrediJON



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3f788be8-f692-408d-a91e-33b684335162"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02.jpg" alt="Big Team Battle map Timberland recreated in Halo Infinite's Forge" class="wp-image-85728" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Picture it. <s>Halo: Combat Evolved</s> <s>Halo: Reach</s> Halo Infinite, 2023. You can take a long stroll through the forest and get the strongest sense of déjà vu. That’s right. Timberland is back as Timberland Evolved, and it’s just as you remember it!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99cf9838-9669-4e6b-8588-4cb437109727">STORM FIREFIGHT</a> Modes: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/2a3f2858-6713-4d9c-8dac-fc831bfae9d8">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/9aaccaf7-df6f-4bcc-b611-500b6b64ff84">Normal</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/3d3d4314-f6c1-4efe-a435-b8895a5f4709">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b141e55e-8e0f-433e-9644-4e0c5802e536">Legendary</a> Credits: RiskiestSole35, DaBratva



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99cf9838-9669-4e6b-8588-4cb437109727"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm.jpg" alt="Recreation of the Halo 3 mission "The Storm" in Halo Infinite's Forge" class="wp-image-85742" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



If you’ve played Halo 3’s campaign, this will look exceedingly familiar. Storm the beach and take on waves of enemies in Storm Firefight, a recreation of—wait for it—the campaign mission The Storm. There’s even a Scarab for you to contend with! Adjust the difficulty as you see fit, and good luck.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/536787d5-78f0-4647-bf57-c09122ef8ced">TOWER DEFENSE ULTIMATE – ALPINE</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/294498da-25a9-4890-b786-0a99ed7edce6">Tower Defense Ultimate</a> Credits: hiBeekle



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/536787d5-78f0-4647-bf57-c09122ef8ced"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate.jpg" alt="A Tower Defense map created in Halo Infinite Forge" class="wp-image-85756" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



This is the tower defense mode you remember—limited lives, numerous enemy waves, and a set path they will attack along. Your job: Defend the towers and hold the line. Don’t let me be the one to sell you on this, check out Beekle’s video for even more info.



<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="Bloons Tower Defense in Halo??? | Tower Defense Ultimate" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aKkCGLeM_-c?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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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FORGE & FANCY-FREE</h2>



Some other little bytes to sate your appetite…



Maybe you find yourself longing to catch ‘em all, Halo style. In that case, <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1718754557293920275">@DanTheBloke</a>’s Battle Arena is just for you.



<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">The Pokemon Battle Arena is finally ready 🎉 Pick your team within a 1000 point limit, arm them and send them into the arena! 💥 First to 5 rounds wins 👊 Find the map and mode here: <a href="https://t.co/qqJDoLUJAR">https://t.co/qqJDoLUJAR</a> (or search pokemon-arena in the browser)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloInfinite?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloInfinite</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloReckoning?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloReckoning</a> <a href="https://t.co/sYTSKRhyE5">pic.twitter.com/sYTSKRhyE5</a>— Dan The Bloke (@DanTheBloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1718754557293920275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/db26fa3e-d94b-4135-97a5-7d1e11953abb"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon.jpg" alt="Recreation of a game allowing you to catch all the Halo enemies in one go." class="wp-image-85770" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/db26fa3e-d94b-4135-97a5-7d1e11953abb">Map Download</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ece61d37-935b-49d2-991f-1ae0f5ac22eb">Mode Download</a>



Or maybe you’re looking to play some soccer with vehicles… also Halo style. <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1721634058130633146">You can do that too</a>!



<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">Haloified Rocket League is ready for action! ⚽️🚗💨 Razorback starts, 5 goals to win! Boosting – Mark while looking forwards/ down Jumping – Mark while looking up Wallriding – Ride walls by driving up them Grab it here: <a href="https://t.co/7Gh1dgaEBZ">https://t.co/7Gh1dgaEBZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloInfinite?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloInfinite</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RocketLeague?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RocketLeague</a> <a href="https://t.co/qggzpioDYx">pic.twitter.com/qggzpioDYx</a>— Dan The Bloke (@DanTheBloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1721634058130633146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/en/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1cd62a8b-5a6a-409c-81d8-4b1701b6ed45">Map Download</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/en/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/d0894af3-1b65-4962-a0a8-711d852405fe">Mode Download</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TUTORIAL TRAINING</h2>



 If you’ve been struggling to create round-based modes that end and properly award the victory screen to the team that wins, let Fourkings13 help you out.



<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="Script a Working Round Lose Trigger and How to Force All Players to One Team - Halo Infinite Forge" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4MPvtLFSjv0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



 Ducain23 is back with another AI toolkit tutorial. This time, he’s showing how to script wave intermissions and endless waves. His tutorial series is a great resource if you’re trying to dip your toes into the world of Forging AI.  



<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="Wave Intermission (Delay) and Endless Waves | Beginner Halo Infinite AI Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-0ZQf_Lipvg?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 will bring this week’s feature to a close. We continue to be surprised and delighted at what you manage to create, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.



In the meantime, see you in the CGB!

Community Cartography 021

Forge Features: November 10, 2023

Remember, remember the month of November… because it’s Halo’s anniversary month and marks the release of Halo: CE, Halo 2, Halo 4, and Halo Infinite!



It’s been an incredibly exciting time recently, with Season 5 having been out in the wild for a few weeks now and folks have gotten to grips with all its new additions—from new maps to the Forge AI Toolkit, and beyond. There’s plenty more to look forward to, but for now let us reflect on all the latest happenings of the last month…



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



SEASON 5: RECKONING



Unless you’ve been imprisoned within a Cryptum or cylix, or something, you’ve probably heard that Season 5 of Halo Infinite launched on October 17.



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It’s quite possible that since then you’ve been learning the layout of the new maps, Prism and Forbidden, and searched for various Easter eggs, sought to master the new Bandit Evo, or simply stared up at the stunning skyboxes. No doubt, you have spent a good amount of time in the Armory deciding which outfit you feel like wearing for your next match now that multi-use helmets have come to the game, and seeing just how gross you can make your Spartan look with the new Flood-infected customization pieces.



Perhaps you’ve already cleared that 50-tier Battle Pass and have been looking to reach FTL speeds in your journey to the maximum Hero rank, where that coveted Infinite Mark VI armor kit awaits… or maybe you’ve jumped into Forge to try out the new AI Toolkit to create new maps on the new canvases featuring Banished enemies, then headed over to the Custom Game Browser to try out the jaw-dropping creations from other community cartographers (and earning Custom Game XP for it!)



All that is to say, if you haven’t yet dived into Season 5 of Halo Infinite, the time to do so has come! Our first Operation (Combined Arms) is due to go live on November 14, bringing with it a new 20-tier Operation Pass with free customization rewards for you to earn by progressing with Match XP.



FORGE FEATURES



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-features-020"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of (from left-to-right) a Brute, Hunter, and Jackal on a dark map" class="wp-image-84630" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Season 5 brought the next evolution of Forge with the AI Toolkit, well and truly changing the game by empowering players to add AI units to the maps you create.



We’ve already seen classic campaign mission spaces recreated, populated by Banished baddies. We’ve seen altogether new missions for you and your friends to try out together, PvPvE experiences, tower defense maps, and so much more.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-features-020" target="_blank">Check out our latest issue of Forge Features</a> to bookmark a selection of these new maps and take a look at some developer and community-made tutorials for how to utilize this new toolkit.



WAYPOINT CHRONICLES



Two new Waypoint Chronicles have arrived! For those not in the know: Waypoint Chronicles are canonical short stories that typically accompany certain in-game elements and events, released on Halo Waypoint, as a free PDF, and in audiobook format on YouTube.



When we learned that we would be joined not only by Steve Downes and Jen Taylor for this year’s Halo World Championship event, but Keith David as well, for the very first time these three would be in the same room together… we knew we had an opportunity to do something special. These three titans of the Halo universe performed a new scene together, set immediately after the events of Halo 5 (and concurrently with events depicted in Halo: Bad Blood) where the Arbiter, the Master Chief, and Dr. Halsey are all in the same place.



Read Halo: Sunrise on Sanghelios <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-sunrise-on-sanghelios" target="_blank">here on Halo Waypoint</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/SunriseOnSangheliosPDF" target="_blank">download a free PDF version</a>, or <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heeAkDRuf5g&ab_channel=HALO" target="_blank">watch the live performance by Steve, Jen, and Keith on YouTube</a>!



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Last week, we also released a new short story for Halloween that centers around a Flood outbreak which culminates in the first known instance of a Spartan succumbing to the parasite.



Halo: Saturn Devouring His Son can be read <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-saturn-devouring-his-son" target="_blank">here on Halo Waypoint</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/SaturnPDF" target="_blank">as a free PDF version</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/SaturnAudio" target="_blank">as an audiobook on YouTube</a>.



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And there are still two more Waypoint Chronicles to come before the end of the year…



SHOP & ULTIMATE REWARD



“Bred for combat, built for war, you are the master of any weapon, pilot of any vehicle, and fear no enemy.”



In the Shop this week is the Combat Evolved Mark V bundle, starting the celebrations of Halo’s twenty-second birthday a little early with this recreation of the classic and iconic Mjolnir Mark V armor worn by the Master Chief in Halo: CE.



This bundle includes:



<ul><li>Combat Evolved Mark V armor kit</li><li>Cinder Ring armor coating</li><li>Viridescent Ring armor coating</li><li>Autumn Evolved visor</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the CE Mark V armor kit" class="wp-image-83294" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



And complete all of your Challenges this week to acquire the latest Ultimate Reward: the Queen’s Gambit weapon charm.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the Queen's Gambit weapon charm" class="wp-image-85698" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULTQueensGambit-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



We’ve seen your memes. Your crumpled and faded bottles on your trophy shelves. We’ve heard your secret dreams whispered into your pillow. Okay, maybe not that, but I’m probably not far off. Point is, we’ve heard you, we understand you…



Something amazing happened in 2007 and we’ve all been chasing that dream ever since. That’s right. Once again, Mountain Dew and Halo are back together for a limited time this holiday season to bring you Mtn Dew Game Fuel Citrus Cherry. The iconic flavor that has fueled some of your favorite Halo memories is back and in stores in 12-packs of 12 oz. cans and single 20 oz. bottles, and fun fact: the very special label was designed by our own community-member-turned-Halo team-member, William “Pixelflare” Cameron.



We’re not just bringing you your favorite memories in drink form. As we do, we teamed up with Mtn Dew to create a suite of eye-catching in-game content with a striking armor coating, two Mtn Dew-inspired visors, a weapon charm (the Halo 3 Chief helmet), and an emblem pack featuring four Halo 3 map blueprints. I’ve said it before, but please, look at the incredible detail of the condensation and ice in those visors… our customization team has once again done an amazing job.



Points earned by entering the codes found on specially marked Mtn Dew, Doritos, and Rockstar products in the US will get you these and other Xbox gaming rewards. You can also enter to win grand prizes like a Halo-inspired Super 73 e-bike (it’s insane, we all want one!), a Starfield-themed Corvette, and more.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-85670" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/MtnDewxHalo-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



And for fans everywhere, we’ve created a limited-edition Halo x Mtn Dew merch collection <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://gear.xbox.com/collections/haloxdew" target="_blank">available now on the Halo Gear Shop</a>.



You’ll find an updated re-issue of a classic Halo 3 x Mtn Dew tee, a jersey inspired by the new Mtn Dew Game Fuel design, a classic hoodie that glows in the dark, a trucker hat to show you’re a person of taste and style, and a koozie so you can make any drink look like a can of Mtn Dew Game Fuel. All of these will go fast, so get yours ASAP.



Feeling nostalgic yet? Ready to jump into the game? That’s the point. We wanted to relive the glory days of drinking Game Fuel Citrus Cherry and playing Halo 3 with you, so we’re doing something we’ve never done before…



Halo and Mtn Dew have teamed up with ArturBloodshot, community Forger, to create a brand-new custom Dew-themed map called Critical Dewpoint, and we’re putting it in an official playlist called ‘Halo 3 Refueled’ which features seven more remade and reimagined Halo 3 maps created by other talented community Forgers. It’s coming on Nov 14th, so join us in this nostalgic adventure—we hope you enjoy it!



This partnership is all about celebrating and involving our community, and we have more to come! Keep your eyes peeled and <a href="https://twitter.com/MTNDEWGaming">follow @MtnDewgaming for more news and giveaways</a>, and we’ll see you out there in your Mountain Tiger armor coating in the Halo 3 Refueled playlist on November 14.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE ARTIST’S CORNER</h2>



Because the Flood has taken center stage for the launch of Season 5, it seemed only fitting that we should feature some Flood-themed artwork from the vault for this Community Update.



This wonderfully grotesque piece comes from artist Tsutomu Nihei, featured in the Halo Graphic Novel that originally released in 2006, depicting a Flood-infected Sangheili combat form.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1654" height="2560" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Graphic Novel artwork by Tsutomu Nihei of a Flood-infected Sangheili combat form" class="wp-image-85656" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-scaled.jpg 1654w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-194x300.jpg 194w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-662x1024.jpg 662w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-768x1188.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-993x1536.jpg 993w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-1323x2048.jpg 1323w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HGN_Flood_TsutomuNihei-1568x2426.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1654px) 100vw, 1654px" /></figure>



The Halo Graphic Novel features four fantastic short stories and additional supplemental art pieces set around the events of Halo: CE and Halo 2.



<ul><li>The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor: Spec-Ops Commander Rtas ‘Vadumee and his squad are deployed to the agricultural support ship Infinite Succor, where a far deadlier threat than the humans has been unleashed… (Written by Lee Hammock, art by Simon Bisley)</li><li>Armor Testing: Maria-062 puts the Mjolnir Mark VI armor through live testing trials before it is shipped off to John-117. (Written and illustrated by Ed Lee, Jay Faerber, and Andrew Robinson)</li><li>Breaking Quarantine: Trapped within the Flood containment facility on Alpha Halo, Avery Johnson fights his way out of hell itself. (Illustrated by Tsutomu Nihei)</li><li>Second Sunrise Over New Mombasa: Journalist and war photographer Benjamin Giraud (yes, that Benjamin Giraud!) experiences the devastating events of the Covenant’s arrival at Earth. (Written by Brett Lewis, illustrated by Jean “Moebius” Giraud)</li></ul>



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/678544/halo-graphic-novel-new-edition-by-by-lee-hammock-simon-bisley-ed-lee-jay-faerber-and-andrew-robinson/" target="_blank">The Halo Graphic Novel received a reprint in December 2021, so you should absolutely pick it up!</a>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE HOUSE THAT MASTER CHIEF BUILT</h2>



Follow Steve Downes, the voice of Master Chief, on a personal tour of his Chicago condo overlooking Lake Michigan.



Check out his home studio where he brings the legendary lines of Halo to life, and even get a peek at the Halo Infinite script! You’ll also get to see some of the fan art he’s collected over the years, and meet his dog Ginger!



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That brings us to the end of this Community Update, which is good news because I’ve got a few more levels of my Season 5 Battle Pass to finish up before the Combined Arms Operation kicks off next week—and I’m sure to be waylaid by some custom games as well…



We’ll be back next month for our end-of-year update before we look ahead to the year of our Didact 2024. See you then!