Winter Contingency II Press Kit

Games

Halo Infinite

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



The Winter Contingency event has returned to Halo Infinite!



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



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



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



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



Yes, that absolutely is a nightcap for your Spartan.



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



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



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



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



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



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

Alex Wakeford

Winter Contingency II Event Launch

Community

Forge Features

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

Community Cartography 003

Forge Features: December 13, 2022

In the spirit of the Holiday season, how about some early presents for Halo Infinite?



On the heels of the Winter Update, which launched just last month, we’re tremendously excited to deliver our latest game update for Halo Infinite which brings with it some brand new features and a variety of key improvements to the game experience.



The team has been working hard on addressing player feedback, and so—before we break for the Holidays—we’re bringing you a new (yet familiar) map, free armor cores and coatings, some quality-of-life improvements, and the early release of the Custom Games Browser…



The latest update is available now, for free, on Xbox and PC. So, let’s talk a little bit more about what’s just arrived!



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="December Update | Custom Game Browser | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bTjL_AMaWns?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<a href="https://support.halowaypoint.com/hc/en-us/articles/11284528984084">Visit the Halo Support site to review the official patch notes.</a>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="cgb">CUSTOM GAME BROWSER</h2>



Since the release of the Forge Beta with the Winter Update, just a month ago, the floodgates have well and truly opened to a barrage of incredible community-created maps and modes. For a look at some of our favorites, <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-features-2">be sure to check out our Forge Features blog series</a>.



Of course, in order to unlock the true potential of Forge and make these wonderfully unique experiences (which have long been such a definitive aspect of Halo) more accessible to everyone, we’re excited to announce that we’re debuting the V1 of the Custom Game Browser today—months ahead of our original target!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1.jpg" alt="Screenshot of the Halo Infinite Custom Games Browser" class="wp-image-52646" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CGB-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Previously scheduled to release in Season 3, we fully agree with players who felt that the Custom Game Browser should be a priority—it’s a key support structure for what players create in Forge and a pillar for the community.



The team worked incredibly hard to land this feature so much further in advance, but with that comes the caveat that this is a “V1.” It is therefore likely to have some rough edges, but we felt it was more important that we get this in the hands of players sooner rather than later. The CGB will, of course, continue to evolve with support over time.



For more information, including instructions on how the CGB works, please refer to this article on the Halo Support site.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/HaloCGBFeedback" target="_blank">Give us your feedback on Halo Waypoint</a>, and be sure to <a href="http://aka.ms/HaloSupport">report any bugs and issues on Halo Support</a>.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="empyrean">ENTER EMPYREAN</h2>



The Pit has come to Halo Infinite!



This beloved map from Halo 3 has been officially rebuilt in Forge by the 343 Industries team and is now reborn as Empyrean.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean.png" alt="Screenshot of Empyrean in Halo Infinite" class="wp-image-52660" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-Empyrean-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



Empyrean is a reimagining of The Pit, complete with some refreshed aesthetics over its familiar layout, and no expense spared on attention to detail.



For those of you familiar with The Pit (or even its Halo 4 incarnation, Pitfall), you already know the dance. The immediate rush to grab the rocket launcher, the sniper duels atop its two opposing towers, the potential close-quarters perils of the control room—but this time, there are some new notes to be added to this symphony as it comes with the additional layer of Halo Infinite’s gameplay and sandbox features.



How do Halo Infinite’s toys, like its limited-use Equipment, alter some of those dynamics and affect how you traverse the combat dance floor? Maybe the enemy team managed to grab the rockets first, but you went and acquired the Repulsor to protect yourself (and hopefully your teammates as well). We can’t wait to see what new memories are forged in this proving ground!



Empyrean is available now in Matchmaking and Custom Games.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="coresncoatings">COMPLIMENTARY COSMETICS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot showing multiple Spartan Armor Cores with Cadet Coatings" class="wp-image-52674" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-CoresAndCoatings-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Over the last year, we’ve received a lot of feedback around Halo Infinite’s armor customization, and we are keenly aware that players—both new and returning—may have missed out on some unique content from over the course of Seasons 1 and 2.



We want to ensure that all players have a suite of customization options open to them from the get-go, and as a result of that feedback we are hoping that this update opens a number of those doors.



<ul><li>All present Armor Cores are now available to all players. This means that all players now possess the Mark VII, Mark V [B], RAKSHASA, YOROI, and EAGLESTRIKE Armor Cores for free.</li></ul>



<ul><li>All 10 Cadet Coatings have been added to existing Armor Cores. Similar to the above, each Armor Core now has a starting suite of 10 Cadet Coatings—this includes the non-default Cores, and they will also be included with all future Cores.</li></ul>



Variety, as they say, is the spice of life, and we hope that having these options as the bedrock of customization in Halo Infinite provides players more options to outfit their Spartan to their liking.



Simply log into Halo Infinite and these Cores ‘n’ Coatings will be automatically added to your cosmetic inventory.



Visit the Armor Hall today to explore these updated customization options!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENTS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite action screenshot of multiple Spartan Armor Cores with Cadet Coatings" class="wp-image-52688" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-QOL-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



As we continue to support Halo Infinite, we have been working to bring various fixes and improvements across the title which are directly aimed at addressing key areas of player feedback.



Here are a few notable callouts that have come with this update…



<ul><li>Mouse & Keyboard: Improvements have been made to mouse and keyboard input. This includes aiming improvements, enabling red reticle, adding a walk button (which has its own suite of custom options around speed and hold/toggle), and improvements have also been made to the mouse scroll wheel input.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Networking & Desync: Improvements have been made to networking, which should reduce instances of “desync.” Vehicles desycning, melee attacks not registering, and blank shots (due to fake reloads) should all see improvements with this update.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Player reporting: In-game player reporting has been added to the scoreboard (accessed during a match by pressing the Back button) and post-game carnage report. Players can also be muted from the Back button scoreboard.</li></ul>



<ul><li>Sandbox updates: Melee clang logic for the Energy Sword has also been updated—if both players have no shields and melee each other, both players will now trade melees and die in order to prevent the Energy Sword from tearing through teams without trading. <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/sandbox-balance-updates-winter-update" target="_blank">Check out the details in our Sandbox blog.</a></li></ul>



<a href="https://support.halowaypoint.com/hc/en-us/articles/11284528984084">Find the full patch notes on Halo Support.</a>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THANK YOU!</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY.jpg" alt="Halo infinite screenshot of CTF match on Empyrean" class="wp-image-52702" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/HI-DecUpdate-FlagRunTY-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The last thing we want to say to close this update out is thank you!



Thank you to all our players who continue to provide us with feedback that enables us to continue supporting Halo Infinite, forging it into a better experience as we move forwards.



This first year of Halo Infinite has been one of many tough lessons learned, but we are confident that we are turning that corner in 2023 as we look forward to delivering Season 3 and more—more content, more features and options, more weapons, more cosmetics, more updates—on a regular cadence that keeps the Halo hype rolling all year long.



In the meantime, be sure to hop into Halo Infinite to check out the Winter Update. This free content update brought with it Campaign Network Co-Op and Mission Replay alongside some new Achievements, the Forge Beta, a free 30-tier Battle Pass, new maps, a new mode, and we’ve got two free new events as well (Winter Contingency 2 in December and Joint Fire in January).



We’re excited to continue taking these positive steps forward together, and on behalf of the entire 343 Industries team we hope you have a wonderful Holiday season.



See you in 2023!



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<a href="http://aka.ms/DecemberUpdatePressKit">Grab the Halo infinite December Update press kit here!</a>

Halo Infinite | December 2022 Update

The best thing is when a Halo player logs into the game and says those three magical words: “It’s Forgin’ time!”



It’s barely been a month since the Winter Update released, bringing with it the long-awaited Forge Beta, and already we have seen the floodgates well and truly open to endless waves of excitement and creativity over what people are making with this tool.



And so, that naturally brings us to our second Forge Feature, where we showcase some of our favorite community-created content. Let’s get right to it!



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



BANISHED NARROWS Credits: AngelitoCO Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/02d79c17-79e5-4140-9583-118db700ee11" target="_blank">Banished Narrows</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/02d79c17-79e5-4140-9583-118db700ee11"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-scaled.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Banished Narrows made in Forge" class="wp-image-52433" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banished-Narrows-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Narrows from Halo 3, as you’ve never experienced it before…



We’ve not even given you a Banished-themed Forge palette yet, but here it is, plain as day (or, well… night)—Narrows has been revamped with an all-new aesthetic and it looks utterly spectacular.



You know this dance floor well. Man cannons on either side of a long, multi-level bridge—perfect for those intense sniper duels. Rockets on the light bridge at bottom-mid, Overshield and Active Camo on opposing sides. It’s a map that rewards strong teamwork and precise coordination, and it looks pretty as both Forerunner skybridge and a Banished outpost.



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UNEEQ | LOCKOUT REMAKE Credits: UneeQ TV, Soxxxie, Saucy Situation, wild1551, Surasia Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/40172af0-4348-4ad8-bcb2-497613c9ac9a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Uneeq | Lockout Remake</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/40172af0-4348-4ad8-bcb2-497613c9ac9a"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-scaled.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Lockout made in Forge" class="wp-image-52447" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Lockout-Remake-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



While we’re on the subject of map remakes, this one is a 1:1 recreation of Lockout from Halo 2.



Return to perhaps one of the most iconic multiplayer maps in all of gaming, whether that’s to 1v1 a friend of yours and settle a score or if you’re looking for some classic team-based 4v4 action.



This Lockout remake supports classic modes—Slayer, King of the Hill, Oddball. Grab your friends and indulge that Halo 2 nostalgia.



Oh, and er… please let us know if you spot any supernatural occurrences. It’s been said that old places like these are known to have the odd ghost…



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BANSHEE BATTLE: SPACE COVE Credits: zreakz Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1cf403f6-dfad-44fa-a613-219fbaba7e39" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Banshee Battle: Space Cove</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1cf403f6-dfad-44fa-a613-219fbaba7e39"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-scaled.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Banshee Battle: Space Cove made in Forge" class="wp-image-52461" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Banshee-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Look, sometimes you just wanna get together with your friends, hop into some Banshees, and shoot at each other while navigating a bunch of asteroids. Sometimes, that’s what Halo is all about.



Zreakz knows this well and has created just such a map to satisfy that need.



Play Banshee Battle: Space Cove with up to 28 players and jump in with either FFA or Team Slayer modes for some dogfighting carnage. Zreakz recommends setting the respawn timer to instant for more hectic gameplay, and I think that’s a recommendation worth listening to!



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OUTCAST Credits: RyzenFox64 Bookmark: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b89a12cf-b87f-4448-924f-74180e836855" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">Outcast</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b89a12cf-b87f-4448-924f-74180e836855"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-scaled.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Outcast map made in Forge" class="wp-image-52475" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Outcast-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Are you a fan of Derelict from Halo: CE? Outcast from RyzenFox64 isn’t exactly that, but it certainly feels like it’s got a lot of that map in its DNA—the Forerunner aesthetic of the original Xbox map has been lovingly recreated with Halo Infinite’s modern fidelity, and that same eerie sense of isolation in a long-forgotten place is palpably present from the few glimpses you can get of the outside (ring)world.



Also, seeing the blocky green teleporters from Halo: CE recreated in Infinite just really hits the spot!



Hop into the map to explore the artistry that went into its creation, or try it out for some 4v4 Slayer and King of the Hill.



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SOLUTION Credits: I Crush All, unsorted guy, Black Picture, Foge, b0b is here, MythicFritz, NightAvenger01, CertifiedChamp, tdubfed1, Max Extra, Kabe, The Xzamplez Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/590025e2-f6d5-42a4-8e60-5bec5ec5567d" target="_blank">Solution WIP</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/590025e2-f6d5-42a4-8e60-5bec5ec5567d"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-scaled.jpg" alt="Screenshot of Solution map made in Forge" class="wp-image-52489" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/12/Solution-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Solution is one of those maps where every detail in every corner had me saying “Wow!” out loud. The screenshot above gives just an impression of the space, which is dense in its immersive atmosphere.



Both at a glance and upon close inspection, it’s a map that you could quite convincingly tell someone shipped with the game. With an extensive credits list of the dirty dozen collaborators who contributed to this map, the overall cohesion and thoughtfulness of this map really is admirable.



2-12 players are recommended. If you somehow find yourself stuck wondering what to play next during a customs night, this is your Solution. (Come for the map recommendations, stay for the toe-curlingly terrible puns!)



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



In case you missed it, just the other week we sat down for a Community Corner chat with Red Nomster, who has provided us with some insight into his journey as a Halo fan and content creator for both lore and Forge.



If you’re looking to get started with Forge and are wanting some advice from a seasoned map maker, then be sure to give it a read for some helpful tips!



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/community-corner-red-nomster" target="_blank">Community Corner: Red Nomster</a>



DEWtheMCCOY has been posting daily videos that showcase Forge content from the community. The dedication is thoroughly admirable, as he’s posted these videos (along with individual map showcases and “top ten Forges of the week” round ups) twenty-four days in a row. If you’re looking for a constant stream of Forge content to check out, you’re definitely going to want to keep an eye on DEW’s channel.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Infinite Day 23 Forge Community Map Showcase" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K4OWaO2CPmU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Looking for some more tutorials to get a better understanding of the myriad systems and tools at your disposal in Forge? UnknownEmerald has got you covered!



In their latest videos, UnknownEmerald has helped us understand <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E7xHdm6N4OI" target="_blank">Bot Movement & Scripts</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q8WnnFyI20U" target="_blank">Setting Up Gametypes</a>, and Spawns & Weapons.



<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="Forge Tutorial | Spawns and Weapons [Halo Infinite]" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0muc94w943c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Looking at some of the more practical elements of how to publish your maps and how to update your published maps in Halo Infinite, Ducain23 has put together a handy guide.



<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="How To Publish and Update Maps In Halo Infinite! | Halo Infinite Forge Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BPKMGW_Aa9Q?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Finally for this issue, if you’re wondering how to use navigation markers in your map, be sure to give this helpful guide from Soft Sharp a watch.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Infinite Forge how to use Nav Markers in your map" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HA3aYM72rRU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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 We continue to be in half-jawed awe of the Forge community’s cunning creativity, the flurry of content that appears daily to deliver unique experiences and provide countless hours of fun. Even just hopping into these maps to look at how they’ve been crafted and feel inspired is great!  



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://forums.halowaypoint.com/t/official-forge-fedback-thread/553696" target="_blank">Looking to give us feedback on Forge? Head over to our Forge Feedback thread on the Halo Waypoint forums and let us know your thoughts.</a>



Also, while sharing your Forge content online, just like with other community creations, be sure to tag it with #HaloSpotlight.



We’ll catch you in the next Forge Features blog!

Community Cartography 002

Forge Features: December 2, 2022

Community Cartography 001

Forge Features: November 18, 2022

Halo Infinite | Winter Update Launch

As we look to the arrival of the Winter Update in Halo Infinite on November 8, which brings with it the highly anticipated Forge Beta, our support for the game with Halo Waypoint’s continues to expand.



Today, we’re excited to share that Halo Waypoint’s latest update brings the Halo Infinite Content Browser to the web—making it incredibly easy to find and share community creations.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1650" height="1140" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C.jpg" alt="Recommended content on the Content Browser" class="wp-image-49829" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C.jpg 1650w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C-300x207.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C-1024x707.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C-768x531.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C-1536x1061.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-C-1568x1083.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1650px) 100vw, 1650px" /></figure>



Halo Waypoint’s Content Browser is how you can search for and bookmark Forge creations from other players. We’re bringing this powerful in-game tool (which can be accessed from the main menu’s Community tab) to Halo Waypoint, putting it in the hands of our players, wherever they may be.



At the landing page of the Halo Waypoint Content Browser, you’ll find 343 Recommended content, as well as popular maps, modes, and prefabs (these are things like Forge objects and scripting nodegraphs created by other players that you can download and place in your maps).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1650" height="1728" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B.jpg" alt="Popular maps and modes on the Content Browser" class="wp-image-49815" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B.jpg 1650w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B-286x300.jpg 286w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B-978x1024.jpg 978w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B-768x804.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B-1467x1536.jpg 1467w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-B-1568x1642.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1650px) 100vw, 1650px" /></figure>



Explore below to see how the Content Browser looks and the filters and tags it offers to refine your search.



With the Content Browser at the tip of your fingertips, you’re never far from being able to try out the next great map and mode from the community, or from implementing objects and nodegraphs into your own maps under construction.



Whether you’re a cartographer looking to share your content, or a player looking to try out something new, the Content Browser is your one-stop hub for everything you need!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1061" height="2560" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-scaled.jpg" alt="Content Browser "Browse All" page" class="wp-image-49843" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-scaled.jpg 1061w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-124x300.jpg 124w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-424x1024.jpg 424w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-768x1853.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-636x1536.jpg 636w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-849x2048.jpg 849w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Content-Browser-D-1568x3784.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1061px) 100vw, 1061px" /></figure>



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We’re excited to continue supporting Halo Infinite and Halo Waypoint experiences across the board, and today’s update is another step on that great journey.



If you have any feedback about this latest update, please be sure to share it with us on our <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://forums.halowaypoint.com/" target="_blank">Forums</a>. If you come across any technical issues, please let us know on the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank">Halo Support site</a>.



Thank you for your continued support and feedback, and we can’t wait to see what you make!

Halo Waypoint | Content Browser

The Winter Update for Halo Infinite arrives on November 8 and brings with it a plethora of free new content, including a 30-tier Battle Pass that never expires.



Based around fan-favorite Halo: Reach cosmetics, this Battle Pass celebrates a year of Halo Infinite with a return to the “Heroes of Reach” theme. And, speaking of celebrations, make sure you head over to the Shop when the update drops to pick up your free Birthday Bash Kill Effect gift.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash.jpg" alt="Free Halo Infinite Birthday Bash Kill Effect" class="wp-image-49785" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/HI-Bday-Bash-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The Winter Update Battle Pass will be the first one that players can progress with the new Match XP system, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/match-xp-beta-progression-winter-update" target="_blank">which you can read more about in our Match XP & Progression blog</a>. Though, if you’ve not completed your Season 1 or Season 2 Battle Passes, you’ll be able to progress them with Match XP as well! This is our first step in overhauling player progression in Halo Infinite and we’re keen to hear your feedback about how this new approach feels, so let us know online and on <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://forums.halowaypoint.com/" target="_blank">our forums</a>.



In the meantime, let’s throw it over to John Junyszek and Sean Baron for a closer look at the Winter Update’s free Battle Pass!



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Battle Pass Preview | Winter Update

343 INDUSTRIES

Halo Infinite | Forge Beta FAQ

In today’s blog covering the improvements landing with the Winter Update, we’re focusing on a few substantial ways in which your matchmaking experience will improve in Halo Infinite.



Here’s a TL;DR of these updates landing next week:



<ul><li>Local Region Matchmaking will make its debut</li><li>Improved logic for CSR progression</li><li>Improved rules for quitting with uneven teams</li><li>And more!</li></ul>



All these updates are great additions to Halo Infinite, so let’s dive into the details!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055.jpg" alt="A Spartan is running with a Ravager in their hands." class="wp-image-49555" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_055-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Local Region Matchmaking</h2>



We know that having good latency to the server is an important part of what makes Halo (or any FPS) fun, and we prioritize latency quite high within our matchmaking. However, we know that some folks want more control over their latency, so (as we discussed in a previous post) we’re working to give you that control. To that end, we’ve added a new feature that allows players to choose to match exclusively into games hosted within their local region.



This option can be found in the settings, under Gameplay->Matchmaking->Search Region. The default is “Expanded”, which is the existing behavior: we try to match you in your region but will allow matches outside. Changing the setting to “local” will limit your matches just to your region.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080.jpg" alt="A settings screen showing the local region matchmaking feature." class="wp-image-49626" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/SearchRegion_Expanded_FullScreen_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Choosing to search only in your local region will generally improve your latency to the server, because all your games will be played on a datacenter within that region. However, it may also increase your matchmaking time and reduce the fairness of matches you get.



We decide your local region based on the datacenters that you have the best ping to, and the regions we are currently using are:



<ul><li>Asia</li><li>Australia</li><li>Brazil</li><li>Europe</li><li>North America</li></ul>



It’s important to note that each region may have multiple datacenters. So you still may see some change in ping from game to game as a different datacenter is chosen within your region depending on which of those datacenters is better for the players in the game.



A couple notes about how this feature works with fireteams:



<ul><li>The Fireteam leader’s setting is used to determine whether a search region is “local” or “expanded”</li><li>If the players in your fireteam are located in different regions, the matchmaking system will pick a single region that strikes the best balance for all the players in your Fireteam. So, for example, if your four-person fireteam has two players in Europe and two in Australia, it’s likely that your fireteam’s region will be set to Asia to get the best possible experience.</li></ul>



When this launches, please be sure to let us know how it feels. And, as a reminder, if you end up having long queues in your region, please try re-enabling “Expanded” to find matches faster.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040.jpg" alt="A Spartan with a VK78 Commando jumps into action." class="wp-image-49569" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_040-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



We’ve received a lot of feedback that the CSR progression doesn’t feel right<s>,</s> and that the CSR gains and losses were too closely based on personal statistical performance, which doesn’t always represent the impact a player can have in the game. (e.g., communication, map positioning, spawning knowledge, etc.)



To address these concerns, we have overhauled the algorithm that determines CSR gains and losses after a match. We’ve made it more configurable and set up the configuration so that a win or loss for the whole team matters more than individual performance when determining the CSR gains and losses for each player.



We’d love to hear your feedback on how the new algorithm feels. We’ll monitor these changes and community feedback to help inform future updates as the new CSR season progresses.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reduced & Clearer penalties in Ranked games with uneven teams</h2>



Currently, when a player fails to connect to a ranked match or quits early in the match, other players are forced to play out the entirety of the match even though it may not be fun (particularly for those on the quitter’s team), because the team that’s short will likely lose. To address this in the near term, we’re making some changes to the penalties that players will see when they quit in these situations.



There are two types of penalty for quitting early in Ranked matches: bans and CSR penalties. Both of those will be improved with an upcoming change, which is currently set to land on Nov 10, shortly after the Winter Update’s launch.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM.png" alt="A Spartan with a gold armor coating takes aim with their S7 Sniper." class="wp-image-49583" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM.png 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/Halo-Infinite-11_3_2022-3_21_29-AM-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Improved ban logic in uneven Ranked matches</h3>



Currently anyone who quits will receive a “flag” and getting too many flags in a short period of time will result in a ban. We’re updating the rules so that only the first person to quit will receive a flag. Everyone else in the game may quit without fear of getting banned.



A couple notes on this:



<ul><li>Network disconnects count as quits. Unfortunately, if they didn’t, bad actors could just pull their network cables when they wanted to quit.</li><li>Other offenses like cheating, team killing, or going idle will still always result in a flag regardless of whether others have quit.</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Improved CSR logic during uneven Ranked matches</h3>



 Currently anyone who quits a ranked game will lose 15 CSR points, regardless of when they quit or whether others quit first. We’re changing the rules so that the first person to quit will always lose 15 CSR points, but if that first person quits early in the game, the CSR losses and gains for everyone else will be capped at +/- 5 CSR points. That means anyone who leaves the match after an “early quitter” will only lose 5 CSR points.



A few more notes about specifics here:



<ul><li>“Early in the game” means the first couple minutes</li><li>As covered above, network disconnects count as quits</li></ul>



We’re limiting the first person quit timer for this CSR logic to prevent potential abuse of this new rule. If the timer goes too late into a match, one player could quit after noticing the game wasn’t going their way just to reduce the CSR impact on their teammates.



We believe we’ve landed on a good time window, but we’ll monitor these updated rules around ban flags and quitting to make sure they land well out in the wild.



Additionally, come the Winter Update, we will reset CSR ranks so that we can give everyone a fresh start in Ranked with all these updates.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101.jpg" alt="A red Spartan with a red BR75 moves around on Live Fire." class="wp-image-49597" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_101-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Future Matchmaking Improvements</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Clearer display of CSR changes</h3>



In addition to making the size of CSR changes more sensible, we are making changes to the in-game UI so that it’s easier to see how many points you actually gained or lost after a game. Instead of just showing a visual progress bar for your rank, we’ll also show your current CSR, the CSR value for the next rank, and your CSR progress in your most recent game, all as numbers.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">CSR-based matchmaking</h3>



Last, but certainly not least, we are also working on an update to Ranked matchmaking that will primarily match players based on their current CSR. Our existing system matches purely based on skill rating (MMR), which is closely tied to CSR, but led to some confusion when viewing the ranks in the Post-Game Carnage Report.



Even though our system will still know your MMR and it’s still the underlying basis of CSR, we expect that this new approach, combined with the CSR improvements landing in the Winter Update, will make matchmaking feel fairer and more focused on winning rather than in-game performance.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100.jpg" alt="A blue Spartan is throwing a frag grenade towards an opponent." class="wp-image-49611" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/11/October2022_100-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Our team is constantly energized by your passion and input on the matchmaking experience in Halo Infinite, and we’re excited to bring you these improvements in the Winter Update on November 8th and November 10th.



Stay tuned here on Halo Waypoint for more updates on matchmaking in the future as well.



We’ll see you online!