“People of Reach, I bring you blessings…”



The Halo television series returns on February 8 exclusively on Paramount+, and we’ve got a new trailer that showcases the epic action to come.



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo The Series | Season 2 Official Trailer | Paramount+" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GBEgoaLZzXM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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“Master Chief John-117 leads his team of elite Spartans against the alien threat known as the Covenant. As humanity’s best hope for winning the war, John-117 discovers his deep connection to a mysterious alien structure that holds the key to humankind’s salvation, or its destruction—the Halo.”



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Stream two episodes at premiere and a new episode every Thursday through March 21st.



<a href="https://www.paramountplus.com/">Get your Paramount+ free trial now and start streaming!</a>

343 INDUSTRIES

Debrief 014

Silver Debrief: Season 2 Trailer

Esports

HCS Off-Season 2023

Happy new year! Just in time for Year 3 of HCS, we’ve made a
significant number of updates to the maps in Ranked Arena in an effort to
foster a stronger competitive balance, address player feedback, and breathe
some life into these maps many of which have had the same layout and stale meta
since the game’s launch. These changes are NOW LIVE in Ranked Arena and Custom
Games.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">All Maps:</h2>



<ul><li>Deleted many scenic dynamic objects: Many maps use small set pieces of scenery to immerse the player. These objects, however, have caused network-related instabilities that impact player movement on the map. (This excludes Forbidden which did not have scenic dynamic objects.)</li><li>“Red racked” equipment: Before today’s update, when a piece of equipment was picked up, a new one started spawning immediately. With this update, the equipment must be depleted of its charges or despawn in order for a new one to start spawning. This will reduce potential for imbalanced scenarios where equipment is stacked on an individual player or a team. At the same time, this will add an additional layer of strategy with players have more control over when the new equipment will spawn.</li><li>Custom Games: The ranked version of the maps now have their own file names in Custom Games with the naming convention of, “[MAP NAME] Ranked”. For example, “Live Fire Ranked”.</li></ul>



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



Aquarius was one of the maps we felt needed the biggest changes. There were items that were super valuable, and also items that were not valuable. Additionally, many CTF matches are ending on time instead of score, and we wanted to bring that in line with the other modes.



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout<ul><li>Swap BR and Commando placement.</li><li>Remove Thrusts from each courtyard, add one Thrust Top Middle (3 Charges)</li><li>Remove Sidekicks</li><li>Move Heatwave to Bottom Mid  </li><li>Remove Quantum Translocator </li><li>Overshield added to front P1  </li><li>Needler replaced with Plasma Pistol  </li><li>Dynamo Grenades replaced with Plasma Grenades  </li></ul></li></ul>



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



For Argyle, we needed to find ways to promote flag scoring so that games end on score vs time more often, as well as address some feedback around weapons on map.



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout<ul><li>S7 Sniper Rifle respawn timer increased from 2:00 to 2:30.</li><li>Removed Sniper-side window Bandit Evo</li><li>Remove Disruptor in PC / Screens area</li><li>Swap Sidekicks to Disruptor  </li></ul></li><li>Objective:  <ul><li>Flag Plate moved off base platform and towards front of the base</li></ul></li></ul>



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



We felt very few changes were needed to promote games ending on score instead of time for CTF, and to address some player feedback.



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout<ul><li>Removed Drop Wall </li><li>Removed Needlers </li><li>Swap Heatwave to Bulldog  </li></ul></li><li>Map<ul><li>Crates inside Flag area have been moved to the Plat wall to allow for additional viable flag routes.</li></ul></li></ul>



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



As a new map we only wanted to make sure the equipment charges were consistent across the whole ranked experience.



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout:<ul><li>Threat Seeker charged reduced from 2 to 1</li></ul></li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Live Fire</h2>



This was another map we felt needed the most amount of work in order to address feedback, improve the overall balance (including King of the Hill), and provide new gameplay challenges for players and teams to learn and solve.



<ul><li>Weapon/Map Layout:<ul><li>Quantum Translocator added Back Green  </li><li>Plasma Grenades Front Green where Repulsor spawned originally</li><li>Spike Grenades moved to Cuts  </li><li>Removed Needler </li><li>Removed Shroud Screen</li><li>Overshield replaced with Active Camo (2:30 respawn time)</li><li>Repulsor moved to Bottom Mid </li><li>Removed Heatwave </li></ul></li><li>King of the Hill:<ul><li>Removed hill surrounding Overshield (now Camo) </li><li>Added a new hill Bottom Bridge near Mud area </li><li>Moved hill in House area slightly towards Scoreboard area </li></ul></li></ul>



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



Much like Live Fire, Recharge was in need a larger overhaul to address balance issues and provide a fresh experience for players, particularly with King of the Hill.  



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout:<ul><li>Repulsor removed </li><li>Shroud added in Blue Pipes area </li><li>Moved Frag Grenades from Red Pipes to Turbine area </li><li>Removed Needler </li><li>Sidekick swapped with Battle Rifle</li><li>Disruptor swapped with Battle Rifle</li></ul></li><li>King of the Hill<ul><li>Removed hill in Elevator area </li><li>Add new hill in Batteries area  </li><li>Created new hill rotation order :<ul><li>Batteries</li></ul><ul><li>Blue Pipes</li></ul><ul><li>Turbine</li></ul><ul><li>C Platform</li></ul><ul><li>Bottom Middle</li></ul></li></ul></li><li>Spawns<ul><li>Deleted Respawn Point on Grappleshot Ledge  </li></ul></li></ul>



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



For Streets, most of the feedback stemmed from the feeling of there being too much power on the map in the form of strong weapons in more ideal to use locations. We wanted to address that feedback while also again providing new ways for players and teams to play on the map.



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout<ul><li>Rocket Launcher swapped with Camo (spawns 30 seconds into match)</li><li>Bandit EVO removed from B-Stairs</li><li>Stalker Rifle moved to Red Room</li><li>Removed Threat Seeker</li><li>Shroud Screen moved to back A in original Threat Seeker location</li><li>Repulsor added to Driveway area in original Shroud Screen location</li><li>Threat Seeker swapped to Shroud Screen</li><li>Commando Rifle in Top A replaced by Battle Rifle</li><li>Bandit EVO in Café replaced by Commando Rifle</li></ul></li></ul>



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



The main objective with Solitude was to update King of the Hill to address balance and player feedback particularly around the “snow ball” effect on the map. 



<ul><li>Weapon/Equipment Layout<ul><li>S7 Sniper Rifle swapped Shock Rifle  </li></ul></li><li>King of the Hill <ul><li>Removed Top Middle hill   </li><li>Removed Bottom Dip hill </li><li>Added a new hill Bottom Middle</li><li>Added a new hill in Yard </li><li>Created new KOTH rotation order:<ul><li>Bottom Middle</li></ul><ul><li>Yard</li></ul><ul><li>Café Ramp</li></ul><ul><li>Driveway</li></ul><ul><li>Nest</li></ul></li></ul></li></ul>



We hope these changes not only provide a fun new experience for all players in Ranked Arena to enjoy, but also a more competitive experience for HCS Year 3. For all things Halo Esports and Competitive Halo, be sure to follow <a href="https://twitter.com/HCS/">@HCS</a> on Twitter.

Official HCS

January 9 Ranked Arena Updates

F-23 FALCATA V/STOL HEAVY FIGHTER

Spartan Ops: Lancer

Canon Fodder

Fiction

Alex Wakeford

Issue 148

Canon Fodder: Fiction Festivities

WINTER CONTINGENCY III PRESS KIT

Games

Rockin’ around Zeta Halo At the all-night customs hop, Rockets spawn where you can see, Every teammate tries to stop!



The Winter Contingency III Operation is here! From December 19 through January 30, you can deck your Spartan and arsenal out with 20 tiers of free Holiday-themed customization rewards and bring some festive cheer to the battlefield!



<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="Winter Contingency III Trailer | Season 5: Reckoning | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_eq7qBHE3dg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WINTER CONTINGENCY III OPERATION PASS</h2>



Hark! The herald angels sing: The Winter Contingency III Operation Pass features 20 tiers of free customization rewards, including new armor pieces (like the Santa-inspired Winterknight helmet), new coatings, and new nameplates and emblems.



Take a look!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2160" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards.jpg" alt="Image showing the Winter Contingency III key art along with the free reward track featuring 22 items" class="wp-image-89088" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards.jpg 2160w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-768x768.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-2048x2048.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_OperationPassRewards-1568x1568.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2160px) 100vw, 2160px" /></figure>



Like with our debut Operation, Combined Arms, the Operation Pass for Winter Contingency III comes with premium upgrade options:



<ul><li>500 credits instantly unlocks an exclusive bonus customization item, makes the Operation Pass durable (it will not expire), and—when equipped—offers bonus XP and an extra Challenge slot during the Operation’s live window.</li><li>2,000 credits instantly unlocks all 20 tiers of the Operation Pass at purchase and includes the exclusive bonus customization item.</li></ul>



Purchase either of the options above and you will additionally unlock the exclusive Ice Fissure armor coating.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the switcher showing the 500 credit premium pass (featuring the exclusive Ice Fissure armor coating and the 2000 credit premium pass" class="wp-image-89551" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SplashScreen-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption> Winter Contingency Premium Pass Screen</figcaption></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SHOP & ULTIMATE REWARD</h2>



Deck the halls with Spartan Santas! The Santa’s Little Helper bundle is available in Halo Infinite’s Shop, featuring the following items:



<ul><li>Stocking Stuffer MK50 Sidekick, Slay Bells BR75, & Holiday Cheer M41 SPNKr weapon models</li><li>Santa’s Little Helper, Good Morning, Payment Due, & Krampus Coat weapon coatings</li><li>Yule Kick, Blood Jumper, & Hearth Fire armor coatings</li><li>Gifted Step mythic armor effect set</li><li>Winter Step & Winter Lights armor effects</li><li>Chill Out kill effect</li><li>Snowballer weapon charm</li><li>Kaleidobolt, Kaleidoshot, and Kaleidochip nameplate & emblems</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the Santa's Little Helper bundle" class="wp-image-89046" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_SantasLittleHelper-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



And be sure to complete all of your Challenges this week to unlock the latest Ultimate Reward: the Sui Generis Snowflake weapon charm.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the Sui Generis weapon charm" class="wp-image-89060" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/WCIII_UltimateReward_SuiGeneris-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



We’ve got some great options for those looking to kick back and have a Halo-day party of their own. Be sure to check both experiences, live now!



FIREFIGHT: KOTH (LEGENDARY)



There won’t be any Holidays if we don’t stop the Banished.



Firefight: Legendary King of the Hill has arrived! You know the drill: you’ll be battling waves of Banished enemies across a variety of maps, including the House of Reckoning from Halo Infinite‘s campaign, but those looking to test their mettle can jump into the action on Legendary for a limited time.



Fight hard. Die well.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite playlist image for Firefight: King of the Hill on Legendary difficulty depicting Spartans fighting Banished on the House of Reckoning map" class="wp-image-89102" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/FFKOTH_Legendary-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



MATCH XP, CAREER RANK, & CHALLENGES



We’re improving the experience for folks who are loving Firefight and want to spend their time fighting the Banished. First, Match XP (Battle Pass) payouts for some hill completions in Heroic and Legendary will be incrementally higher to reward the level of challenge. And secondly, both Heroic and Legendary will also have slightly increased Career Rank payouts thanks to an Applied Score modifier to ensure they align more closely with other playlists.



Last, but certainly not least, the Challenges offered each week will be adjusted to better serve the PvE experience. Since we are leveraging existing Challenges, that will means folks may see similar Challenges in their given deck for the foreseeable future.



SQUAD BATTLE IN THE COMBAT WORKSHOP



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan holding a plasma pistol standing in front of a snowman made in Forge" class="wp-image-89116" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/winter_pk_208-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Try out our updated networking model in Squad Battle through the Combat Workshop playlist!



The Squad Battle experience you know and love has been updated to run on our new networking model for a limited time. Enjoy a mix of Slayer and objective modes on fan-favorite maps while we gather feedback and data about the online experience.



The Combat Workshop is your one-shop stop to check out work-in-progress maps, modes, and other new experiences. If you’ve already jumped in to play in the Workshop: Squad Battle Networking playlist, <a href="https://aka.ms/SquadBattleNetSurveyWaypoint">we want your feedback!</a>



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That’s a wrap for us today, which means it’s now time for you to unwrap the gifts of Winter Contingency III.



Maybe you can’t get enough of Firefight: King of the Hill, or the incredible community-made PvE creations in the Customs Browser; perhaps you’re still riding on that Mountain Dew high and it’s time to jump back into the Halo 3 Refueled playlist; or you crave the chaotic carnage of Husky Raid and Squad Battle…



Whatever way you choose to play, you’ll earn Match XP to progress that Operation Pass!



And so, we bid our farewell to 2023. The Holidays await, and we here at 343 Industries hope you all simply have a wonderful time—warm and safe with full bellies, surrounded by good company, and ready to jump into “just one more game…”



Oh the weather outside is frightful, but Season 5 is so delightful—and since we’ve no place to go… Play Halo! Play Halo! Play Halo!



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PRESS KIT</h2>



<a href="https://aka.ms/WCIIIPressKit">Download the official Winter Contingency III Press Kit here!</a>

Winter Contingency III Operation Launch

Community

Community Update

Welcome to our final Community Update for 2023!



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



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



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



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



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



WINTER CONTINGENCY III



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



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



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



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



DECEMBER MID-SEASON UPDATE



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



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



Amongst other things, this update brought:



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Spartan Chatter: Firefight: King of the Hill" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TcFPhwKyhfs?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<ul><li>REPAIR FIELD – A new addition to Halo Infinite’s Equipment, the Repair Field can heal (and revive) allies, vehicles… and enemies. Be wary of those who enter its lovely green field!</li><li>FORGE UPDATES – High Value Targets and bosses from Halo Infinite’s campaign have come to the Forge AI Toolkit, along with the addition of Skull modifiers to node graphs, quality-of-life updates, and more.</li><li>RANKED IMPROVEMENTS – UI and audio elements for Ranked Extraction have been implemented to enhance the ranked experience, and CSR penalties for matches where players quit have been improved.</li><li>CUSTOM GAME BROWSER – As long as enough slots are open, the Fireteam leader can bring their entire party into a CGB session.</li><li>STABILITY & NETWORKING – A new networking system has been implemented into Halo Infinite that will be tested in the Firefight: King of the Hill playlist and is also being tested further in the Combat Workshop.</li></ul>



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



TRIAL OF RECKONING



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo: Trial of Reckoning | Audiobook" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RE9f-zRLy_o?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



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



INTEL



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



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



FORGE AHEAD



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo The Series | Season 2 First Look Trailer | Paramount+" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pfiTJ2JNDco?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



Aaaaand that’s a wrap for 2023!



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



See you in 2024.



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

Wintertime Wonders

Forge Features

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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/53aa6c36-22c3-47a1-ade0-76ec3232ec46"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Goose Halo map made in Forge" class="wp-image-88901" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/12/GooseHalo-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Christmas Themed Perfection! (Snow Ground)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ddr4aV3fkSg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



SEND NODES



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



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



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



Happy Halodays!

snickerdoodle

Community Cartography 023

Forge Features: December 15, 2023

With the launch of the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/december-update-halo-infinite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">December Mid-Season Update</a>, we included the latest updates to our networking model in the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/firefight-king-of-the-hill-preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="Firefight: King of the Hill (opens in a new tab)">Firefight: King of the Hill</a> mode. 



We wanted to roll it out in this PvE experience first to have a safe testbed to see how it behaves at scale before enabling it in a PvP mode. However, after listening to player feedback and getting many requests to try this in multiplayer, we decided to expand the experiment to the Squad Battle playlist. 



That’s right, the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/squad-battle" target="_blank">Squad Battle</a> experience you know and love has been updated to run on our updated networking model for a limited time in the Combat Workshop. The Combat Workshop is your one-shop stop to check out work-in-progress maps, modes, and other new experiences. In this playlist you’ll be able to enjoy a mix of Slayer and objective modes on fan-favorite maps while we gather feedback and data about the online experience.



If you’ve already jumped in to play in the Workshop: Squad Battle Networking playlist, we want your feedback!







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<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/SquadBattleNetSurveyWaypoint" target="_blank">-> START THE SURVEY <-</a></h2>



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And, if you experience any technical issues, please be sure to report them to us by using the Halo Support site at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank">aka.ms/HaloSupport</a>.



Thank you for your continued feedback, and we’ll see you online in Squad Battle!

Unyshek

Combat Workshop: Squad Battle Networking

Community Spotlight

Spotlight: December 14, 2023

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



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



Some key highlights include:  



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



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



— 



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



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



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



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



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



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

Firefight: King of the Hill | Spartan Chatter