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343 INDUSTRIES

INSIDE INFINITE – MARCH 2021

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Unyshek

ZETA ZONE

Community Spotlight

snickerdoodle

SPOTLIGHT: MARCH 4, 2021

Esports


<p>Welcome to the second installment in our new blog series, <em>Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem</em>. The goal of this blog series is to detail how we are working to develop a healthy and sustainable ecosystem for Halo esports. If you’re interested in our philosophical approach to esports as a fan, player, team, tournament organizer, or even sponsor, then this blog series is for you! If you’re hoping to learn specifics about format and roadmap, stay tuned because that info will come as we get closer to the launch of Halo Infinite.</p>



<p>In the first blog we set the table and talked about our approach at the highest level, as well as our role in the ecosystem. Thank you to everyone who read the first installment and gave feedback, it’s great to see so much interest in how we are thinking about the ecosystem strategically. </p>



<p>In this month’s blog we’re going to do a deep dive into tournament operators. What’s the role of tournament operators? (outside of the obvious running of tournaments) What are the types of tournament operators we’ll be working with? How does HCS Grassroots fit into the picture?</p>



<p>Let’s do this!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ROLE OF TOURNAMENT OPERATORS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/hcs/body/halowc-kyle-409ce836c4f841df86f71feada960be7.jpg" alt="H C S tournament operator "/></figure>



<p>Tournament operators (TOs) are a critical part of any esports ecosystem and Halo is no different. In Halo, we are taking a tiered/multipronged approach with the relationship and types of TOs that we work with in the ecosystem. The reason we’re taking this approach overall because it allows for long term and sustainable partnerships in the ecosystem, as well as scaliblity on a global scale so that we can better support the participating regions. This starts with Official HCS events which are fully funded by us. There’s also a hybrid approach where we are jointly funding events with tournament operators. As well as the grassroots scene where we are there to support with promotion, prize pool, and more. Over the last few years, we’ve been experimenting with different business models at different times to learn and inform how we want to structure Halo Infinite’s esports ecosystem. While the different models had been done in a more staggered way, Halo Infinite is when all the tournaments in this tiered system will be taking place at the same time.</p>



<p>At a high level, TOs are the executional arm of both competition and broadcast typically made up of tournament administrators and broadcast producers. Additionally they are responsible for booking event venues, setting up the stage and event, and ultimately executing the event. Even for Official HCS events (think HCS Invitational at SXSW) we hire tournament operators and spend months working with them closely on executing and delivering our vision. Often times the vision will start at a high level and then will be molded and crystalized as both parties share ideas and collaborate, as well as make adjustments due to logistical hurdles that might arise. We prefer to work with partners who can bring ideas and creativity to the table and are as passionate as we are at delivering a great player, fan, and viewer experience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESPORTS ENGINE</h2>



<p>To take this a step further, we created a role for Halo Infinite esports called “Global Management Partner”. We knew that as a relatively small team we would need support in solidifying and executing our vision for the Halo esports ecosystem from competition, broadcast, sponsorship, and so much more. That’s where <a href="https://www.esportsengine.gg/">Esports Engine</a> comes in. As an extension of our team, we work day-in and day-out with Esports Engine. On top of that, we’re excited to say that we’ve hired Esports Engine to be the main operating partner for official HCS events for Halo Infinite as well as the Halo World Championship. We stated in the past that we see Halo Infinite esports as a continuation of 2018 programming and events, and this the same core team (plus more!) who we worked with back then.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1024x684.jpg" alt="Event Staff and 343 employees at the 2018 Halo World Championship on stage with fire works exploding around them" class="wp-image-5531" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1568x1048.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GLOBAL OPERATORS</h2>



<p>While the HCS team is based here in the United States, we do have a global vision in place for Halo Infinite esports where we are looking to host competition for players in Europe, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand to start. To help us operate in those regions, we’ve also been working to enlist the help of tournament operator partners local to those regions. Our vision is to find operators who are able to partner alongside us in the local Halo community to grow the scene. Often times in esports, tournament operators are running events on a game but have little to no support from the publisher and are often left to fend for themselves. As architects in the ecosystem, we want to work with tournament operators in a way that is sustainable long term so that they can see return on their investment and increase their investment over time as the scene grows. Finally, it’s important that TOs are investing alongside us in our players and ecosystem because it means they are more incentivized and ultimately care more about the success of everything. This philosophy allows us to scale globally at the start of Halo Infinite’s esports journey and sets the path for future expansion.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HCS GRASSROOTS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="229" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-1024x229.png" alt="HCS Grassroots logo" class="wp-image-5544" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-1024x229.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-300x67.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-768x171.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250.png 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p> Like always, HCS Grassroots will continue to support standard tournament operators (UGC Classic or Gamers Outreach are good examples) as well as community tournament operators (think Halo Australia, GTHalo, etc). For us, it’s about supporting these existing partners who had already been operating before HCS Grassroots even existed, but also about adding new partners to the Halo ecosystem and working to ensure that each of them have opportunity to grow. Philosophically, we still very much believe that these tournaments are great for the ecosystem and players (new and veteran alike) – and in the future, they will supplement the main HCS league.</p>



<p>Ultimately for some HCS Grassroots TOs (not necessarily community TOs), deciding to invest in Halo is a business decision as well as one of passion. We’ve been talking to TOs and learning more about what it would take for them to run Halo tournaments not just at launch but well beyond that as well – our goal is to help lay the foundation for a long term sustainable ecosystem. And we’ve also been learning about what things we can do to help in this area, while also keeping in mind the scenes on a regional level and what the player experience is. Our vision and aspiration is that players feel like there’s always something to compete in, which would be a mix of official HCS tournaments, HCS Grassroots tournaments, and other partner tournaments. This would also include a variety of formats and game settings/modes which would make up a bustling and varied tournament scene.</p>



<p>Finally, as an evolution of HCS Grassroots, certain events will be made eligible for sanctioning which means they would adhere to the same game settings and rules as the official HCS league, as well as give players the opportunity to earn HCS points that will help improve their seeding.</p>



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



<p>At a high level, our aim is to have an ecosystem with a healthy group of tournament operators in the scene, on a global level, who have the ability to run tournaments on a consistent basis over the long term.</p>



<p>If you’d like to learn more about the HCS Grassroots program, you can read more and even apply.</p>



<p>Finally, if you’re a tournament platform interested in participating in the Halo esports ecosystem, you can feel free to reach out to me.</p>



<p>As always, interested to hear what folks think so feel free to send any comments on <a href="https://twitter.com/Tashi343i" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">twitter </a>as well.</p>



<p>Until next time,</p>



<p>Tashi</p>


Tashi

Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem – February

Canon Fodder


<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ISSUE 112</h4>



<p>Welcome back, canonites! Wait, that’s <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi3C2FXS0lp7oYVbGKTg2qA"><strong>Toa Freak’s thing</strong></a>. Anyway, thanks for joining us for Issue 112 of <strong>Canon Fodder</strong>. While I’m admittedly still on cloud nine after watching another “twelve” lead my hometown team to an emphatic American football Super Bowl win not long ago, I’m also stoked to take a fiction-focused look at some awesome upcoming content slated for future inclusion in <em>Halo: Master Chief Collection</em>.</p>



<p>And speaking of which, in case you missed it, <strong>last issue</strong> we took a similar jaunt around the canonical underpinnings of Anvil Station and some of its related Mjolnir-development components. Check it out if you get the chance! Today though, we’re taking a look at some items that some folks—specifically many of those that are part of the <strong>Halo Insider</strong> program—will begin seeing pop up in-flight very soon. Oh and if you like books, make sure you stay till the end. Let’s dive in, shall we say, feet first?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">RAVEN MAD</h2>



<p>The star of the show for the upcoming season will be a tribute to the members of Fireteam Raven. Players first encountered the helljumping quartet in the eponymous arcade game that saw you hot drop into the middle of the battle on Installation 04 to experience the events of <em>Halo: Combat Evolved</em> from an entirely new perspective.</p>



<p>Orbital Drop Shock Troopers, or ODST, are a prime example of how you don’t necessarily have to be a seven-foot-tall augmented super-soldier with cutting edge power-armor to make a difference in humanity’s battle for survival. Of course, it’s not like the ODST were short on cutting edge tech of their own. While each operative had a heart bathed in bravery and burning for battle, they were also often outfitted with top-of the line technology that helped give them any all-important advantage possible in the (literal) heat of conflict.</p>



<p>In fact, ODST gear was so proficient that it was often adapted for use by Spartans as well. Funny enough, <em>Halo 3</em> was one of the first hints at this notion, with one of the ODST helmet variants being part of the game’s original customization suite. And now, it has some much-deserved company. Coming soon to the MCC, you’ll be able to outfit your H3 Spartan with gear directly derived from the ODST heroes of Fireteam Raven.</p>



<p>Let’s take a quick look at the options you’ll have available. Also remember that the images below are always still work-in-progress while in flighting, so don’t be surprised if you see a tweak or two by the time an item eventually makes its way into the game proper. </p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ODST\TAC</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-tac-38bd21b2557945bc8925b43b7de2c38d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>The ensemble of choice when you need to stomp the Covenant, but on a budget.</em></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ODST\DEMO</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-demo-a71c8bf299cd4b559bbf7298a1ba072c.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>Obstacles to progress are measured by the number of satchel charges they rate.</em></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ODST\COMM</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-comms-07e0ac6505b043cd82482b45059f55c6.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>The ensemble for an ODST that wants to reach out and touch someone with artillery and ortillery support.</em></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ODST\HVY</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-heavy-8d13efa2bcf24d62bdffebc711a7482d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>As they say during ODST screening: the best defense is an overwhelming offense.</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ALSO PERFECT FOR CARRYING TEAMMATES</h2>



<p>One particularly cool new detail coming to MCC cosmetic customization is the addition of “back attachment” gear, and leading the way is some battle-tested equipment ready to augment your Spartan’s available repertoire.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">TACTICAL PACK</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-tactical-back-3ba7b42b6ab345458d21a4b19d87e17f.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>All-purpose hardened storage perfect for providing diverse loadout options while out in the field.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">DEMOLITIONS PACK</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-demo-back-e4c864806675420ca1ecc79b9acc7022.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>A one-stop shop for your front-line combat engineer, providing exactly the right tools to breach any enemy fortification. Mickey Crespo himself would be proud.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">COMMUNICATIONS PACK</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-comms-back-73bf227cf69843858f1600a2cced252c.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Battle network relay. Provides the user with a multi-channel secure network uplink. The case meets or exceeds all UNSC mil-spec standards for temperature, impact, moisture, vibration, and foreign particulate resistance.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">AMMO PACK</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-ammo-back-013e7eb2eea2483f96beb6a276247419.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Keep the party going with additional ammunition reserves and a back-up knife. In field situations packs such as these extend the duration of combat excursions and reduce the need for supply drops, but in training environments they have no effect.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ANVIL ADDITIONS</h2>



<p>In addition to the tactical gear pulled from the helljumper ranks, you’ll also eventually be able to unlock some new prototype tech forged in Anvil Station’s skunkworks departments.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">INFILTRATOR</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-infiltrator-98863458254148098aa83eb47f9d8706.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Experimental intrusion suites developed by ANVIL collaboration teams can be quickly applied to cross-generational platforms.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">NOMDAGRO</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-nomdagro-e77301277c584bbeb18b5f8a4cabe3d7.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>The assistance of ANVIL Station’s Sangheili lorekeepers in deciphering data recovered from ancient vessels have provided unprecedented opportunities for advancement.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">HAMMERHEAD</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-hammerhead-770f8216ceea429eaf5171f6bac95c33.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Some Mjolnir prototypes being tested on ANVIL Station are being evaluated for use in exotic atmospheres and irradiated environments.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">COS</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-cos-373311b447264778bdfa2d45fcca3770.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>ANVIL cyber operations specialists use this chassis to mount experimental counter-intrusion modules.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">LANCER</h4>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-lancer-ec47fb93646746a6bc04992d72262219.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Data gleaned from millennia-old war constructs has been carefully integrated into select components for ANVIL testing.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">POST-LAUNCH TLC</h2>



<p>Perhaps one of the <em>most </em>exciting things coming online for the Master Chief Collection in future updates is the addition of brand-new multiplayer maps within the H3 portfolio. To celebrate, we thought it would be fun to talk a bit more about the lore behind a couple of the new playspaces—we figured you wouldn’t mind peeking at certain presents a bit early, no?</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">WATERFALL</h4>



<p><em>The UNSC constructed many secret holdfasts during the final years of the Covenant War.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_waterfall_env_1920-1df68b46e2f949bfaff33974a7c68a03.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>On a far-flung world in the Zezar system, the UNSC has maintained a network of facilities acting as a fallback option for key personnel and assets. In addition to providing shelter from hostile encroachers, the UNSC has taken great interest in what might lie beneath the planet’s icy surface, as well as peculiar findings on its two prominent moons.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">EDGE</h4>



<p><em>The remote frontier world of Partition has provided this ancient databank with the safety of seclusion.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-edge-f74841a89f804cdebc855e4a308892ec.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>The Forerunner data archival site on Partition holds potentially incredible significance, with untold information stored within its cliffside hold. Surrounded by breathtaking vistas and jungles teeming with exotic flora and fauna, Partition represents a remarkable opportunity for study, with hopes that the knowledge gleaned might represent a paradigm shift in humanity’s understanding of the Forerunners’ technological legacy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OFFICE OF NOVEL INTELLIGENCE</h2>



<p>But wait—that’s not all! We’re also excited to announce a new novel in the Halo universe, <em>Halo: Divine Wind</em>, by Troy Denning, wrapped elegantly in this awesome cover by Benjamin Carre.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-dw-cover-wm_500-9ef33979682c4594958f0585fe6d6c48.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>(<em>click this for bigness</em>)</p>



<p>We’ll go into more detail in the near future, but rest assured fans of <a href="https://twitter.com/TDenningauthor"><strong>Troy Denning</strong></a>’s unique Halo work will likely be able to ferret out a few key details about what’s planned for the upcoming adventure.</p>



<p>But speaking of new books, for <em>now </em>we wanted to remind you that our next novel, <em>Halo: Point of Light </em>by <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay"><strong>Kelly Gay</strong></a>, <strong>drops on March 2</strong>(!!). If you’re looking for some words to whet your appetite while you wait (aside from reading <em>Halo: Renegades</em> of course), the indefatigable Alex “<a href="https://twitter.com/haruspis"><strong>Haruspis</strong></a>” Wakeford has a rad <strong><a href="https://haruspis.blog/2021/02/23/halo-point-of-light-review-non-spoiler/">spoiler-free review</a></strong> and <a href="https://haruspis.blog/2021/02/12/everything-that-happened-to-343-guilty-spark-after-halo-3/"><strong>a primer to catch you up</strong></a> on Spark’s history and journey so far that’s well worth the read, if nothing else for the exquisite artistic imagery contained within the article.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_haru-chakas-summary-3775c2ce3f144416a6358ba400375b09.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>And speaking of Spark, don’t forget that the Guilty voice himself, Tim Dadabo, will be narrating the audiobook. Trust me… it’s <em>quite </em>acceptable.</p>



<p>And if video previews are also up your alley, the Halo Canon YouTube channel has a great one to get you prepped.</p>



<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="The Road So Far – A Halo: Point of Light Primer" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ihhkl7wZVqE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p> The book is shaping up to be one that Halo universe fans are going to probably be discussing for quite some time if early adopters are anything to go by, and we couldn’t be more excited to see the, well… excitement. <3 </p>



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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Point of light was, wow! The New Lore! The potential! This book literally touches every corner of Halos long standing story. It bring new information to light, and holds a revelation that is pretty mind blowing! <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Halo</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/GalleryBooks?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GalleryBooks</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KellyHGay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/pixelflaregfx?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@pixelflaregfx</a> <a href="https://t.co/rZol3wZo5W">pic.twitter.com/rZol3wZo5W</a></p>— Installation00 (@Installation001) <a href="https://twitter.com/Installation001/status/1364631219158269953?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">POV of my note taking while reading Halo Point of Light<a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KellyHGay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@halo</a> <a href="https://t.co/bjujhwNJH7">pic.twitter.com/bjujhwNJH7</a></p>— Krysta 😭Halo Infinite😭 (@KonanXD_) <a href="https://twitter.com/KonanXD_/status/1362621593428643842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">POV of my note taking while reading Halo Point of Light<a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KellyHGay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@halo</a> <a href="https://t.co/bjujhwNJH7">pic.twitter.com/bjujhwNJH7</a></p>— Krysta 😭Halo Infinite😭 (@KonanXD_) <a href="https://twitter.com/KonanXD_/status/1362621593428643842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Rion Forge Saga may very well be my favorite series in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/halo?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#halo</a> ‘s extended lore. <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KellyHGay</a> gives fans another sci-fi adventure that packs tons of drama, knowledge, and character for new and veteran fans in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PointofLight?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PointofLight</a>. Kind of generic preview review but… (1/2)</p>— Oran Domingue (@OranDomingue) <a href="https://twitter.com/OranDomingue/status/1362816337895170052?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>You can preorder <em>Halo: Point of Light </em>from your favorite retailer <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Point-of-Light/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147860"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>



<p>Aannnnd that will do it for today’s edition. Oh, wait! Just in case you missed it, you should probably go and check out the <strong>latest edition of the Inside Infinite blog series</strong>. Just sayin’.</p>



<p>Okay for real that’s all. For now.</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and don’t let Rion wander off. </p>



<p><strong><a href="https://twitter.com/grimbrotherone"><3 Grim</a></strong></p>


GrimBrother One

Hot Drops

INSIDE INFINITE – FEBRUARY 2021

LOVELY LETTERS

Spotlight: February 4, 2021


<p>Welcome to the first installment in the <em>Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem </em>blog series where month by month we will do a deep dive examination into how we at 343 Industries are working to develop a healthy and sustainable long-term esports ecosystem for Halo Infinite. The main focus of today’s blog is to set the foundation for how we think about the ecosystem as a whole, and details our mission, our overall goals, and more. The core of his blog and specific sections like Our Mission and Goals were ripped straight from our Power Point presentations that we share internally as well as with external partners. If you’re interested in our philosophical approach to esports as a fan, player, and even potential partnered team, sponsor, tournament operator or otherwise, then this blog is likely up your alley. We know there are some folks who are just interested in seeing the roadmap and format – we totally understand but fair warning, this blog might not be for you. That information will come down the road as we get closer to launch, and you can get the latest on that (and some more items) in last month’s Community Update.</p>



<p>Let’s get right into it!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OUR MISSION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="279" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-1024x279.png" alt="Crowd looking at the main stage of the 2018 Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-5466" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-1024x279.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-300x82.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-768x209.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300.png 1100w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Our mission is to provide epic entertainment to Halo fans through the thrill of competition.</p>



<p><strong>We believe in:</strong></p>



<ul><li>Cultivating and uniting communities</li><li>Providing sustained content for fans around the world to watch</li><li>Creating a platform for players, teams, and partners in the ecosystem to thrive on.</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PROGRAM GOALS</h2>



<p>These are the goals and how we will determine the success of the program and ecosystem. Success in these areas means we can expand and grow over time, failure in these areas means we may need to rethink our approach.</p>



<ul><li>Extend engagement outside of our games with players, and potential players. (Viewership and social media impressions/reach)</li><li>Build a platform that players, teams, sponsors, tournament operators, and content creators can sustain successful businesses around. (Participating and investing in Halo needs to provide returns based on their goals)</li><li>Build a vision and aspiration for our fans, players, and gamers to create a movement. (We want to create as many 1 + 1 = 3 scenarios as possible. If we all band together, we can truly create something special)</li><li>Create exciting and epic moments in gaming culture. (When are the times we are creating a moment and capturing the attention of the greater online gaming community?)</li><li>Player retention, loyalty, engagement, and more in-game. (The development team will own these goals more than the esports team, but still important for us to track and contribute to.)</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT’S A PLATFORM?</h2>



<p>You might have heard about certain things in tech being called “platforms”, like Xbox for example. Try to imagine all of the different people and groups who see the Xbox as a valuable platform to invest their time and money into. If you’re a player, you want to get enjoyment out of your Xbox with the games you play and apps that you invest your time and dollars into. As a developer, you invest a lot of resources to bring your games to the Xbox platform either as multiplatform or exclusive.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="597" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1024x597.png" alt="Shapes showing how connected players, developers, and Xbox are to the HCS ecosystem." class="wp-image-5479" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1024x597.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-300x175.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-768x448.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1536x896.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1568x915.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155.png 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Now, try to imagine all the things that Xbox does to provide value back to these groups. For players, the Xbox team created the most powerful console ever in the Series X and also put a ton of work into backwards compatibility – both of which are great for players. For developers, the Xbox platform is easy to develop for, and offers a ton of power to give developers the freedom to make great games. Having the games be great is also very valuable to players as well, and thus Xbox is providing “indirect” value to players that way. By putting out great games on a platform that has a lot of players, the developer has an opportunity to see a return on their investment. This is just a tiny snapshot of the overall picture, but hopefully you can start to see the dynamics of how platforms work and how interconnected all of the different groups are. And not only are they interconnected, they depend on each other for their success in the ecosystem, this is a critical component.</p>



<p>This is the type of platform we have been working to create for Halo Infinite esports, but obviously with our own set of groups and means to provide value to those groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE KEY GROUPS</h2>



<p>For the launch of Halo Infinite esports, who are the key groups or audiences that invest their time and money into Halo that we need to provide value back to?</p>



<ul><li><strong>Players (Pro, Amateur, and general competitive players): </strong>This one is obvious. The players are central to the entire ecosystem and without a healthy player base for the entire game, the ecosystem is not sustainable. This is mission critical.</li><li><strong>Fans (Viewers, Event Spectators, fans who engage in-game): </strong>Fans and viewers are also critical – we want as many people watching Halo Infinite tournaments and content as possible, and it’s important for us to take strides to increase viewership.</li><li><strong>Teams</strong> (Tier 1 and Tier 2 esports teams)</li><li><strong>Tournament Operators</strong> (Live event operators, online tournament platforms, and HCS Grassroots partners)</li><li><strong>Sponsors</strong> (Endemic to gaming/esports, as well as non-endemic)</li><li><strong>Other</strong> (Viewing platforms, Content Creators, Talent)</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="600" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1024x600.png" alt="Key pillars of the HCS Halo Infinite program." class="wp-image-5492" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1024x600.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-300x176.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-768x450.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1536x900.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1568x919.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160.png 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Once we identified these groups we started to think about and talk to them about what their goals are, what they were trying to accomplish, and how Halo can help them achieve their goals. From there, we were able to see how one group could provide value to back to us to meet our goals directly, or indirectly by providing value to another group. The priority is finding ways for one group to provide value directly to another group first. As an example, it’s more important that teams use funding to support their roster and fans, than it is for funding to go directly to us or other partners in the ecosystem.</p>



<p>This is just a high-level overview, and we’ll do a deeper dive on each of the key groups in the upcoming blogs so you can get a more granular view of the relationship and our approach with each of the groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OUR ROLE</h2>



<p>While we truly believe that we need to all rely on each other in order to have a successful Halo esports ecosystem, we understand that we play a larger role and have a larger impact than any of the other groups. So, what do we at 343 Industries consider our role in the ecosystem to be?</p>



<ul><li><strong>Developers</strong>: First and foremost, we are of course the makers of the game which is at the center of this all. It’s our responsibility to create a great Halo game that fans and players love. The esports team specifically does not develop the game, but we consult on various aspects including features and gameplay, and we provide insights from the competitive community.</li><li><strong>Architects</strong>: From an esports perspective, we see ourselves as the architects of the ecosystem. It’s our responsibility to identify the puzzle pieces and work to make them fit together. How do teams fit in? How to tournament operators fit in? That’s on us, and that thinking is really the foundation of the esports ecosystem. Ultimately however, we don’t own the decisions of the each of the groups, we try to provide the best opportunities possible for them. And finally, as architects we also believe it’s our duty to take in feedback, and be the catalysts for growth and improvement in the ecosystem.</li><li><strong>Sanctioning body</strong>: We are also the central sanctioning body for the ecosystem. While there are many tournament organizers big and small, we determine who runs official HCS tournaments and dictate the rules and regulations for those tournaments including but not limited to format, game settings, and Code of Conduct. We don’t want this to seem as a sort of dictator-like function however, we are collaborators in the space and work closely with our tournament operator partners to determine the best way forward. And of course, we are closely partnered with Esports Engine who are our main partners in the ecosystem and really act as an extension of the 343 Esports team.</li><li><strong>Broadcasters</strong>: Additionally, we are the main broadcasters for Halo esports. That means for official HCS events, it’s our responsibility to decide the broadcast scope and execute on it alongside our operator partners of course. It’s important to us that we’re not the only ones broadcasting in the ecosystem however, as we generally believe that the more broadcasters covering matches in the Halo Infinite ecosystem the better. Finally, we also determine broadcast talent for official HCS shows, and overall creative direction and tone for those shows.</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OPEN ECOSYSTEM</h2>



<p>By now you’ve probably realized that Halo Infinite esports is an open ecosystem. This means that while we don’t officially partner with everyone in the ecosystem, we do not control who enters and leaves the ecosystem. To provide an example, if a brand new team organization decided that they wanted to pick up a pro Halo roster and earn their way to the championship, then that’s totally ok. If you’re a long-time competitive Halo fan you might be thinking, “well yea, that’s just how it’s always worked right?” and the answer is yes. This is consistent with the legacy of Halo esports and not only touches on organizations like teams and tournament operators, but also players. Halo esports was built on open tournament structures where any group of players could work their way up to the top and would have opportunities to play against the best in the world. This will still be true for Halo Infinite esports. Esports as an industry has continued to evolve and grow however, and while there are some leagues that more closely resemble closed ecosystems like you see in traditional sports, Halo Infinite’s journey will begin as an open ecosystem. We are however, as noted above and will be detailed in future blogs, partnering more closely with groups in the ecosystem than Halo ever has in the past.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/hcs/body/trophy-354edc4bb0204a13876bd72cdd9b0f79.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Ultimately this decision was based on where the ecosystem is at today and what we’re trying to accomplish. If some numbers of years down the road we decide the best way to improve and grow the sport and ecosystem is to change our approach, then we will adjust our strategy. For now, Halo Esports will be an open ecosystem, and we’re very thankful for the groups that want to participate in it.</p>



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



<p>Well, that will do it for the first entry in this blog series. We made a promise to be more transparent about our plans and intentions and we hope you enjoyed and appreciated this look behind the curtains.</p>



<p>As this is the first in the series, we’d appreciate hearing your thoughts overall. Did you enjoy it? Do you have any more questions about our goals, ecosystem design, and platform aspirations? Hit us up on twitter and we’ll work to incorporate answers in future blogs.</p>



<p>Thanks – see you online!</p>



<p>-Tashi</p>


Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem-January

INSIDE INFINITE – JANUARY 2021