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Halo Infinite

Earlier this year, we revealed the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-forge-finalists" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">finalists</a> for the Halo Fest Forge Contest, and now it’s time to jump in and experience their creations for yourself! 



Starting today, the Halo Fest Showcase playlist arrives in Halo Infinite matchmaking, featuring all 10 finalist maps across a variety of Arena modes. 



Whether you’re looking to find a new favorite, check out the finalists ahead of Halo Fest, or simply celebrate the creativity of the Forge community, the Halo Fest Showcase has you covered. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Fest Showcase Playlist Maps | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/P655XGiBEVM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Let’s take a look at the maps and modes you’ll be playing! 



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size" style="text-transform:uppercase">Abundance</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance.jpg" alt="Forge map "Abundance" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177874" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Abundance-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: Cold Nightshade, LNeedMoreBleach, spartan blood 1, AddiCt3d 2CHa0s, JoValiant



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/079c9710-b86c-4a3f-be77-fd6979cf1a6c">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes:



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena </li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena </li>



<li>Strongholds: Arena </li>



<li>Slayer: Arena </li>
</ul>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BITS AND PIECES</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces.jpg" alt="Forge map "Bits and Pieces" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177888" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/BitsAndPieces-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: JoValiant, Igrizhar, Small Napkins



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c451e00d-b801-4516-a878-05d4585e7278">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes: 



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="text-transform:uppercase">CASCADE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade.jpg" alt="Forge map "Cascade" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177902" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Cascade-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: SE7ENGINE, Zaffiro Creep, JDzirkus



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/06afa94a-b9f4-452d-9c6d-393096eb7760">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes:



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>Oddball: Arena</li>



<li>Strongholds: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="text-transform:uppercase">EULOGY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy.jpg" alt="Forge map "Eulogy" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177916" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Eulogy-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: ShredderMcgenty



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/0409acab-5742-4437-9030-7059e45f7368">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes: 



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena</li>



<li>Oddball: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="text-transform:uppercase">HIERARCH</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch.jpg" alt="Forge map "Hierarch" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177930" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Hierarch-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: xDTx Kaos



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a29543f6-04c1-4a2c-aa70-8f85a3696d65">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes:



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum.jpg" alt="Forge map "Sanctum" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177944" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sanctum-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: OG SaLoT, Tyrant Hacker, JoValiant



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e99cd4b2-5c40-4af8-94fa-7bae8a2fe52a">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes: 



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena</li>



<li>Strongholds: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SHADE’S PROMISE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise.jpg" alt="Forge map "Shade's Promise" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177958" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/ShadesPromise-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: Zaddy Hammer



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c28e821d-6bbe-44c2-9404-9ae4ecae7863">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes: 



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>Strongholds: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff.jpg" alt="Forge map "Sluff" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177972" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sluff-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: Igrizhar, JoValiant



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b779652d-f897-43d6-bb96-a17fd847bcc6">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes:



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn.jpg" alt="Forge map "Sojourn" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-177986" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Sojurn-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: Squally DaBeanz



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/177c57fc-54b7-4abe-bf62-ce2956c3a541">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes: 



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena</li>



<li>Strongholds: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed.jpg" alt="Forge map "Unconveyed" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-178000" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/11/Unconveyed-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Forgers: Mr Greencastle, Uneeq TV



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8d7ab30d-20a3-4158-bf26-fc6dd023280b">Bookmark on Halo Waypoint</a>



Modes:



<ul>
<li>CTF: Arena</li>



<li>King of the Hill: Arena</li>



<li>Oddball: Arena</li>



<li>Slayer: Arena</li>
</ul>



Note: this is an altered version of “Conveyance” that has static conveyor belts for a better player experience



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



Ten maps, a variety of Arena modes, and plenty of incredible community creations to explore. 



Jump into the Halo Fest Showcase now and experience all 10 finalists for yourself. Then, join us at Halo Fest as we celebrate the Forgers behind them and reveal the final results of the Halo Fest Forge Contest! 



We’ll see you in matchmaking.

Halo Studios

Halo Fest Showcase | Halo Infinite Playlist

Fiction

Waypoint Chronicles

By Jeremy Patenaude

Halo: Elegy

Halo Fest

Tashi

Halo Fest: Silent Brickographer

Halo Fest Update: Authors and Artists

Halo25Together

Your Halo Story Chapter 14

Esports

This December at Halo Fest, eight invited teams will battle for their share of a $150,000 prize pool in the HCS Invitational. Last week, we revealed the 8 representatives that accepted invitations and will have the opportunity to build and lead a roster into Halo Fest’s premier competitive event. Without further ado, here are the full rosters that will be competing: 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">Invitees and Rosters</h2>



<ul>
<li>Shopify Rebellion: CyKul, Frosty, ItzTheLastShot, Royal 2 and coach Bestman</li>



<li>Spacestation Gaming: Bound, Cearion, Eco, Stellur and coach King Nick</li>



<li>Cloud9: Avucy, Barcode, Bubu dubu, Lethul and coach Senscr </li>



<li>ENVY: Acid, Piggy, Precision, Yakzn and coach Thug Nasty </li>



<li>Team Lucid: Lucid, Falcated, Kuhlect, Pznguin and coach Hoaxer</li>



<li>Team SnakeBite (TSM): SnakeBite, Lqgend, Taulek, Trippy and coach TreyTri  </li>



<li>Team SLG: SLG, Descendant, Glory, Ryanoob and coach Callous</li>



<li>Team Soul Snipe: Soul Snipe, Druk, Sab, Suppressed </li>
</ul>



Congratulations to the organizations and players that will be competing in the HCS Invitational! As a reminder, these invitees were selected through a holistic review of several factors, including:



<ul>
<li>HCS partnered teams that are still actively involved in the community/ecosystem. </li>



<li>Top pros or teams competing consistently (and performing well). </li>



<li>Positive contributors to the Halo community and franchise. </li>
</ul>



World champions, championship-winning organizations, fan favorites, community leaders. These are some of the most recognizable names of the competitive Halo Infinite era. Thank you to this group for the continued positive contributions to the competitive Halo ecosystem. 



It’s important to note that there were more than eight deserving candidates for this event. The limited field size meant difficult decisions had to be made, and many accomplished organizations and players who strongly fit our selection criteria were ultimately unable to be included. That level of competition speaks to the talent, passion, and depth that continues to define the competitive Halo community heading into Halo Fest. 



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



The format for the HCS Invitational will be slightly different than previous LAN events, as we have the GSL format for group play. Teams will begin in one of two four-team GSL groups (seeded by 2026 HCS points), where every match matters. Win twice and advance, lose twice, and you’re eliminated. The top two teams from each group will move on to the four-team championship bracket that begins Saturday night, leading into Championship Sunday where we will crown the winner! 



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



Halo Fest is a celebration of 25 years of Halo, and the HCS Invitational will bring together some of the most influential competitors and organizations of the Halo Infinite era. With the rosters now confirmed, we’re excited to see these teams battle for first place and the lion’s share of the $150,000 prize pool this December. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-small-font-size">-Richie Heinz, HCS Competition Coordinator</h2>

Mutinous Core

HCS Invitational: Rosters Revealed

Book Preview

Halo: Parasite’s Wake, a new horror novel by Tim Lebbon connected to the events of Halo: CE, is out now!



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



2552. As the planet Reach falls to the alien alliance known as the Covenant, a lone human ship—the UNSC Pillar of Autumn—fled into slipspace and has arrived at a place that could change the course of this decades-long war. An ancient, mysterious ringworld: Halo.



With human forces scattered across the surface of this immense alien construct, Staff Sergeant Marvin Mobuto must now lead his fellow crewmates—survivors from the ship’s brig—back to the Autumn’s crash site to rally and regroup with their allies. Desertion, drunk and disorderly, and murder are only a few of the charges that Mobuto’s squad carries—and keeping them in line might prove to be just as difficult as surviving the zealous, entrenched Covenant warriors who believe they have found the gateway to paradise.



But as war rages across the ring’s landscape for control of the installation’s weapons and secrets, a far more terrible threat from deep within Halo’s underworld is hellishly unleashed that transforms this conflict into a desperate battle of survival for UNSC and Covenant alike…



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



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Parasites-Wake/Tim-Lebbon/Halo/9781668226834" data-type="link" data-id="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Parasites-Wake/Tim-Lebbon/Halo/9781668226834">Halo: Parasite’s Wake is available in trade paperback, ebook, and unabridged audiobook formats.</a>



The audiobook is narrated by Michael Crouch, Lisa Flanagan, Kevin R. Free, Joshua Riley, and Tim Dadabo—the voice of 343 Guilty Spark himself.



The cover art was illustrated by beloved community artist Rythaze.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Parasites-Wake/Tim-Lebbon/Halo/9781668226834"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1400" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover.jpg" alt="Cover art of Halo: Parasite's Wake depicting Staff Sergeant Marvin Mobuto and several other marines along with a Sangheili fighting against the Flood on Alpha Halo with the Library visible in the background" class="wp-image-160975" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover-300x219.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover-1024x747.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover-768x560.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover-1536x1120.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/HaloParasitesWakeCover-1568x1143.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>

Alex Wakeford

Halo: Parasite’s Wake | OUT NOW

Just a few weeks ago in our final Canon Fodder issue we announced that a new novella by Kenneth Peters, former Senior Franchise Writer at Halo Studios, is in the works titled Halo: Burn the Road Home.



We are tremendously excited to reveal the cover art for the book, created and illustrated internally by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1888" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo: Burn the Road home cover art by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood" class="wp-image-176804" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-300x221.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1024x755.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-768x566.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1536x1133.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-2048x1511.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1568x1157.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



2560. Over seven years after Covenant forces invaded the planet Criterion, its human survivors are still struggling to rebuild amid mounting resentment toward the Unified Earth Government. When separatists ambush a reconstruction convoy and steal critical equipment, Colonial Administration Authority Marshal Imani Havel uncovers a conspiracy far more dangerous than local rebellion.



With contact from Earth mysteriously silent and Criterion’s defenses stretched thin, Havel’s pursuit leads through abandoned industrial ruins and a vast graveyard of human and Covenant warships orbiting the planet. But as shadowy off-world operatives emerge from the darkness, she realizes the stolen resources are only the beginning—and that an unimaginable threat has already been set in motion.



Outmanned, outgunned, and with no Spartans coming to the rescue, Havel and a battered UNSC assault force must expose the enemy’s true plan before Criterion’s violent past comes crashing down upon its fragile future….



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



Burn the Road Home is due to release later in 2027.



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122">PRE-ORDER HALO: BURN THE ROAD HOME</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="858" height="1273" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text.jpg" alt="Halo: Burn the Road home cover art with mechanicals by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood" class="wp-image-176790" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text.jpg 858w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-202x300.jpg 202w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-690x1024.jpg 690w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-768x1139.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 858px) 100vw, 858px" /></a></figure>

Halo: Burn the Road Home | Cover Reveal

Since we announced Halo Fest back at HaloWC 2025 last year we’ve been providing near monthly updates on what to expect about the experience. Well, it’s been a year and we thought it’d be best to provide a recap on what we’ve announced to bring it all to one location. 



Without further ado, let’s get right into it.  



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



First, if you want to read all of the announcement posts in their original form, see below: 



<ul>
<li>Announcement blog: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-announced" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-announced</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Contests: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>GDQ + Artists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-february" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-february</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Esports: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-march" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-march</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Special Guests + Venue: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-may" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-may</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Artists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Open Competition: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-july" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-july</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Forge Contest Finalists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-forge-finalists" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-forge-finalists</a>  </li>
</ul>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157266" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Kicking off Halo Fest is of course the 25th anniversary concert at Benaroya Hall on December 11. We’ve been developing an entire setlist that takes players through 25 years of this incredible music.  



The show will begin at 7:00PM PT and will run until 9:30PM PT with a 20-minute intermission in the middle.  



VIP ticketholders will have access to an exclusive lounge and as a collectible keepsake each VIP ticketholder will also receive a page of sheet music from the Halo Fest concert score. Be sure to trade with others to find the part of the show that resonates with you the most! 



Finally, a logistical pro tip: for those attending the Concert and the Convention, you’ll be able to pick up your Convention credentials a day early at the Concert. This way you can skip some of the lines and go right into the Convention on Saturday. 



We’ve seen some conversations of folks thinking to “dress up” for the concert – we think this is awesome! However, for those that want to show up in more casual attire then by all means, go for it. You should dress how you want, and Benaroya has no formal dress code.  



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



As a reminder, Cosplay and Maker’s Contest registration is now OPEN for all: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://t.co/rFZyTzsza0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://aka.ms/HF-CosplayForm</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://t.co/gBJwZOUez7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://aka.ms/HF-MakersForm</a> </li>
</ul>



And for the Short Film contestants, don’t forget that the submission window closes on November 2. 



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1024x576.png" alt="Master Chief statue at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-141782" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Back in May we announced that venue will now be the Arch Building inside the Seattle Convention Center where we will have over double the square footage compared to HaloWC last year and over double the amount of attendees now as well. Let’s jump into recapping the key details and releasing some new ones starting with the scheudule.



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



Saturday, December 12: 



<ul>
<li>VIP Doors: 9:30 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>General Admission Doors: 10:00 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Event Closed 8:00 PM </li>
</ul>



Sunday, December 13: 



<ul>
<li>VIP Doors: 9:30 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>GA Doors: 10:00 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Event Closed 7:30 PM </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">HALO GAMES DONE QUICK </h2>



The amazing team at GDQ (Games Done Quick) will be in attendance for Halo Fest in what we’re envisioning is the “Super Bowl” of Halo speedrunning. This event will have its stage within Halo Fest for fans to watch one run or all of the runs. We’re working with GDQ as well to provide travel support for the speedrunners to ensure we get as many of the talented runners in the community over the event as possible to take part in the speedrunning festivities.  



We’ll be releasing the full schedule later but here’s a sneak peek for what you can expect: 



<ul>
<li>Halo CE LASO by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Chronos">Chronos </a></li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo 2 Any% by <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/mistermonopoli">MrMonopoli</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo: Reach Legendary Co-op by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/qup01">Qup</a>, <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Caboose">caboose</a>, <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/RogerKills">RogerKills</a>, and <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/koma">Koma </a></li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo Infinite All Missions Legendary by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Caitlin">Caitlin_HR</a> </li>
</ul>



We’ve got two full days of runs plan so there’s much more to be shared later.  



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png" alt="Halo Fest - Voice Actors of Master Chief and Cortana. (Steve Downes and Jen Taylor)" class="wp-image-166914" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



In May we also announced four special guests that will be joining us at Halo Fest to be part of panels and interviews but more importantly to spend time meeting as many of you as possible. 



<ul>
<li>Steve Downes – the voice of the Master Chief </li>



<li>Jen Taylor – the voice of Cortana </li>



<li>Tim Dadabo – the voice of 343 Guilty Spark </li>



<li>Jeff Steitzer – the voice of the Multiplayer announcer </li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-170000" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



We will have plenty of posters and cards with art exclusively made for Halo Fest that you can use to get signatures but feel free to bring your own things you’d like signed as well!  



We’re also going to be hosting several authors from Halo’s beloved novels to participate in panels for your entertainment, but you’ll also get the chance to meet and chat with them as well. Be on the look out for details next week on what this looks like including the revamped Community Stage which will feature some key changes from iterations in the past that we’ll reveal starting next week.  



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-90692" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Halo Fest will also host the HCS Invitational tournament featuring the best 8 teams in the scene fighting for $150,000 in prize pool.  



Invites have already been rolling out and yesterday we confirmed that all 8 invitees have accepted and now are confirmed. Early next week, we’ll be releasing a blog sharing who those invitees are among teams and top players. Roster lock will take place on October 26. 



At Halo Fest, there will be an HCS Stage and a smaller featured stage. Every match in group play and bracket stage will be broadcasted so fans in the venue and at home can enjoy the action.  



Format: 



<ul>
<li>Saturday: 2 GSL double elimination groups of 4. Top 2 from each group move to Championship Bracket, bottom 2 are eliminated. </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Sunday: Championship bracket continues with final 4 teams. </li>
</ul>



All of the action will be broadcasted from the HCS YouTube as well as twitch.tv/hcs and twitch.tv/hcs_red 



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="936" height="528" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-176840" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1.png 936w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1-768x433.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 936px) 100vw, 936px" /></figure>



$50,000 in prizing is up for grabs for all attendees across generations of Halo titles. Don’t forget to bring your controller! We’ll share the full schedule in the coming weeks so you and your squad can plan ahead. 



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



Artistry is a huge part of Halo and how fans connect to the franchise. At HaloWCs in the past we only dabbled with celebrating Halo’s art but for Halo Fest it will be a significant part of what fans can enjoy and learn more about.  



To start, we’ve commissioned two dozen artists and a small group of prior artists who have worked on Halo professionally to create all new art just for Halo Fest and in celebration of the franchise turning 25. You can see the full list here: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june</a> 



Next week we will be revealing the art that we’ve commissioned which you will then later see around Halo Fest in various forms from signs, to banners, to postcards, and many more touch points. 



We’re also excited to confirm an artist alley where, for the first time, artists from the community will create all new art to showcase and sell at Halo Fest. We’ll share more about who the artists are and give a sneak peek at what they’ve been cooking up for all of you but we are absolutely delighted for the 4 artists to join us at Halo Fest, and we hope that you support them there! 



Finally, we will feature an art gallery for fans to enjoy even more art from the franchise.  



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



Here’s a bit of news that we haven’t shared in the past – we’re making a Halo Fest mobile app! The app is a companion to help you navigate and make the most out of the event. Not only will it feature the full floor plan but it also feature the full event schedule which you can customize your own personal schedule from.  



The app will also be where you register ahead of time for things like meet and greets with the special guests. Rather than waiting in line for half a day, you can just register for a timeslot and show up for the block of time when it’s your turn. Please note that there are not enough hours in the day to get every person to meet every special guests so prioritize your time wisely and make sure you register ahead of what you’re looking to do. 



The app will feature a challenge system where doing various things around the event will help you win some epic prizes.  



The app will be available in late November on for Android and iOS and we’ll have a full app preview just before it comes out so you can learn more about it. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">MORE STAGES! </h2>



In addition to HCS and GDQ we will also have a Main Stage and a Community Stage. The broadcast schedule and programming will come later but want to take a moment to share a brief synopsis so you know what to expect. 



Main Stage: The Main Stage is your main portal into everything happening at the event. You’ll hear from all the special guests, you’ll get a view into all of the experiences, and with dedicated panels for two days of pure entertainment.  



Community Stage: The Community Stage is back but with a twist – all of the content on the Community Stage will be hosted by – you guessed it – the community. We will be hiring select folks from the community to host two days of panels, fireside chats, presentations, and more. We’ll share more about the content schedule in November.



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



We want to thank everyone for their continued support of Halo and Halo Fest. We’re no longer just relying on the monthly blogs to communicate – each week we’re going to be releasing more and more information about event at a quicker pace. Halo is special to all of us – we want to celebrate this amazing franchise and it’s even more amazing community. 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Halo Fest Update

Your Halo Story Chapter 13