Fiction

Waypoint Chronicles

Experience the legendary moment from HaloWC 2023 where Steve Downes, Jen Taylor, and Keith David performed a brand new scene together as the Master Chief, Dr. Halsey, and the Arbiter.



Read it here on Halo Waypoint, <a href="https://aka.ms/SunriseOnSangheliosPDF">download a free PDF version</a>, or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heeAkDRuf5g&ab_channel=HALO">watch it performed by Steve, Jen, and Keith on YouTube</a>!



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



HISTORIAN’S NOTE



Sunrise on Sanghelios takes place in the immediate aftermath of Halo 5:
Guardians and concurrently with moments depicted in the novel Halo: Bad
Blood.



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



SANGHELIOS OCTOBER 28, 2558 (UNSC Military Calendar)



The Pelican landed in
the Swords of Sanghelios camp, lit only by the fire of two braziers. A moment
later, several Sangheili warriors clad in copper-crimson armor emerged from the
main tent, and alongside them, Spartan Commander Sarah Palmer, Dr. Catherine
Halsey, and Arbiter Thel ‘Vadam himself.



Gathering at the
landing site, they watched with anticipation as the rear ramp of the Pelican’s
troop bay descended. The unusual welcome committee quickly lowered their
weapons as they saw who was disembarking alongside Spartan Jameson Locke.



Dr. Halsey approached,
her expression a mix of so many conflicting emotions all at once—pride, relief,
horror, guilt . . . but she held these feelings back as she approached the Master
Chief, and simply said:



“It took you long
enough.”



As the moment passed, Palmer snapped into action and ordered the Pelican’s lights to be shut down, as the rest of Blue Team and Fireteam Osiris exited the Pelican.



“Welcome,” the Arbiter
addressed the gathering. “You have my thanks for all you have done. The
Sangheili people owe you a great debt. Although none of us is in a position to
repay it, we will do what we can. You must all be hungry and exhausted. I
insist you join us for a meal and a rest before you depart.” 



“We’re not leaving
tonight,” Dr. Halsey interjected, ignoring the Arbiter tightening his mandibles.
“I didn’t think we’d be able to make this work, but with your Pelican, it’s
possible. I’ve already received a message from Infinity. They’re going
to appear off the far side of Suban—this planet’s nearest moon—tomorrow at
eighteen hundred hours military standard, noon local time.”



Dr. Halsey stepped
away to coordinate further with Palmer and Locke, eventually agreeing on a plan
for the rendezvous.



“We’re here for the
night. We’ll fly out first thing tomorrow,” said the Master Chief. 



“We have butchered and
roasted a number of colo and kuscatu to celebrate our victory over the last of
the Covenant and the end of our civil war.” The Arbiter turned to face the
Master Chief directly. “We would be honored by your presence.”



As the night went on, the
Arbiter took the Master Chief aside while the allied humans and Sangheili
toasted to the victory they had shared against the Covenant.



“I was relieved when I
heard that you had returned, Spartan. Even when our ship was severed in half as
we escaped the great foundry of the Forerunners all those years ago, I had
faith that you were not lost. I have heard many stories, but I would like to
hear the tale from you.”



“Cortana and I were
adrift in space for over four years. We ended up at a shield world called
Requiem where we were led to awaken the Didact.”



The Arbiter’s eyes widened.
“A Forerunner survived?”



“We fought. He
lost,” said the Master Chief. “But now the galaxy is overrun with his
Prometheans, and our victory came at a price . . .”



“Your companion—the
AI. I remember you trusted her with the fate of all when last we fought
together.”



“She . . . changed. I
don’t know exactly what happened, I just know I failed her.”



In his mind, the
Master Chief could still recall Cortana’s parting words to him after they
defeated the Didact together.



“I’m not coming with
you this time . . . Welcome home, John.”



But then, inexplicably,
he had found her again—but not as she once was. Cortana had claimed that
accessing an ancient quantum network known as the Domain had cured her
rampancy, but she had somehow become driven by the same misguided logic that
the Didact himself had sought to impose upon the galaxy.



“Our strength shall
serve as a luminous sun toward which all intelligence may blossom. And the
impervious shelter beneath which you will prosper. However, for those who refuse
our offer and cling to their old ways . . . for you, there will be great wrath.
It will burn hot and consume you, and when you are gone, we will take that
which remains, and we will remake it in our own image.”



There was much he had
to process, but the Master Chief was brought back to the present as the Arbiter
spoke once more, his voice carrying hard-won wisdom.



“We all fail, Spartan.
We all make mistakes.”



The Arbiter paused for
a moment, a silent war raging inside him as to whether he should continue.



“I served the Covenant
as a destroyer of your kind. I have killed more than can possibly be counted,
and though I now fight for peace and unity among our peoples, I know that there
shall come a day where I must count the lives that have been lost because of my
actions. You helped to turn me from that path. Perhaps there is still yet a
chance you can do the same for your companion.”



The Master Chief
recalled the first thing the Arbiter had said to him when they met on Earth,
still uncertain about the nature of their alliance—still seeing this Sangheili,
who had destroyed his home and that of countless others—as an enemy.



“Were it so easy.”



They continued their
discussion long into the night, as the Arbiter recalled to the Master Chief all
that had transpired over the years from his perspective—songs of loss and
sacrifice, but also of victory and unity.



He concluded his tales
with the hope he felt for the future, a grand project that would lift the
species of the galaxy from their conflicts and bring about a prosperous new era.



“An alliance of
species built upon a foundation of strength and unity that comes from honor and
acceptance, mutual trust, respect. A Concert of Worlds in an age of peace.”



The Arbiter slumped
slightly, knowing that an age of peace was a long way off. There were many
factions and threats still out there, Cortana and her Created were just one of
many. Were it so easy, indeed.



An hour before
sunrise, preparations were made for departure aboard the Pelican as the UNSC Infinity
arrived out of slipspace to make a quick pick-up.



“Farewell, Spartan.
When we first met, we were enemies fighting to end each other. Now, as allies,
I am confident we can face this new threat together once more.”



Dr. Halsey passed them
and the Arbiter gave her a pointed glance, to which she returned a haughty
sniff.



The Spartan and the
Sangheili reached out to clasp forearms.



“Thank you.”



Though the Master
Chief was never one for words, he found some resolve and semblance of hope in parting
ways like this, and not through an act of sacrifice or betrayal.



The Pelican lifted off
the ground and blazed through the atmosphere of Sanghelios at incredible speed
as the light of Urs shone over the horizon, leaving the world to face an
uncertain, perilous new dawn.

343 INDUSTRIES

Halo: Sunrise on Sanghelios

Games

Halo Infinite

Alex Wakeford

Season 5: Reckoning Launch

Customization Overview | Season 5

Esports

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For nearly two years we’ve watched the greatest Halo players on Earth wield their Battle Rifles to duke it out at over a dozen global events for millions of dollars in the HCS, as well as each of you inside the various ranked playlists inside the game. This has been some of the most amazing Halo we’ve watched—thank you.



And now, nearly two years later, Season 5 for Halo Infinite launches on October 17 and with it brings big changes to ranked—and we couldn’t be more excited for you to play and compete.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BANDIT EVO</h2>



<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/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83122" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



When the M392 Bandit was introduced in Season 3, we knew it had the potential to capture the hearts of the competitive community. Sure enough, it did. And we heard loud and clear from you that competitive Halo needed a single-shot fire starting gun, something that made you giddy when you got a Perfect kill, something that made you jump out of your chair when you turned around and outgunned someone who had the drop on you, something that rewarded your individual skill more.



That something is
the Bandit Evo.



The M392 Bandit that shipped with Season 3 was designed to be an on-map pickup weapon in the “Assault Rifle” class, and we felt it fit that role just right. However, if we wanted to adapt the Bandit to be the starting gun, it needed a complete overhaul as it was going to fill the utility role.



Competitive Halo requires a utility starting weapon, it is the cornerstone of the entire experience. You need to be able to fight off your spawn even when your opponent has all the power on the map. This meant it needed range so we gave the new Bandit Evo a 1.6x sight so now you can knock that sniper out of scope. It also needed to be reliable in its firing mechanics so we’ve drastically reduced the bloom and recoil. It also needed to fit in a similar time-to-kill to that of the BR so that players always have a chance to come back in a fight and so we’ve decreased the rate of fire a bit. At the same time, it’s important that weapons are balanced against the Bandit Evo, so of course it has descope.



<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/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan aiming the Bandit Evo" class="wp-image-83206" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Here’s the full list of changes from the M392 Bandit to the new Bandit Evo:



<ul><li>Rate of fire: 3.0 -> 2.9. (rounds per second)</li><li>Rounds total initial: 45 -> 60</li><li>Rounds total maximum: 60 -> 75</li><li>Eliminated progressive recoil</li><li>Reduced bloom/error angles</li><li> Zoom magnification 1.4x Iron Sight -> 1.6x Holopoint Sight</li><li>Added descope</li><li>Reticle rework</li></ul>



Additionally, the red reticle range has been increased for both Bandit Evo and M932 Bandit.



When you combine all of these elements together, you get the new starting weapon for Ranked Playlists as well as the Halo Championship Series in Year 3.



<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/S5_PK_BP_13.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83136" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Now, some of you might be thinking, “Well, I liked the original Bandit, what does this mean for that gun?” Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The original M392 Bandit with the normal tuning will still be available in the game and across the various social playlists it’s featured in.



Additionally, all of your Bandit customization will work for the M392 Bandit and the Bandit Evo—you just need to customize it once and the game will automatically apply the changes to both Bandits for you when you load into with a Bandit Evo and pick up an M392 Bandit.



With a new
starting weapon in ranked, this is a great opportunity to jump back in and
prove yourself in time for the Year 3 of HCS kicking off in 2024.



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



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Halo 4’s mode, Extraction, returns to the franchise for the first time in Halo Infinite. Extraction is a tried-and-true, battle-tested game mode that went through the rigors of many tournaments from 2012-2014 and we’re excited to bring it forward to Halo Infinite.



How does it work? In Extraction, teams must enter a zone and plant the Extraction device. Once planted, the device will take 60 seconds to extract and the planting team must defend it while their opponents need to convert the device to Extract for themselves and reset the 60 second timer. Once a team successfully extracts the device, they will score 1 point and the zone will then move to a new pre-determined location. The team that scores 4 points, wins.



Extraction will be played on the following maps in the Ranked Arena playlist when Season 5 launches:



<ol><li>Live Fire</li><li>Recharge</li><li>Streets</li></ol>



Extraction will be
a totally new dynamic to the ranked and HCS rotation and we can’t wait to see
all of the strategies start to form when it releases on October 17.



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



<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/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new maps coming to Season 5 in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-83017" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Introducing Forbidden, a brand-new Halo Infinite 4v4 map built for ranked play. Forbidden is not a remake, but rather a totally new design that harkens back to classic Halo with not only its map layout but also its artistic approach. Forbidden is a symmetrical map and will be featured in the Ranked Arena playlist with Capture the Flag (3 Captures to Win).



In terms of power weapons and power ups on the map, each team receives access to a S7 Sniper which is well suited for the map with its longer sightlines but distinct cover and routes to traverse through the map. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new maps coming to Season 5 in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-83031" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forbidden will indeed be going into the HCS rotation for Year 3, and we’ll announce the final rotation in January before the competitions kick off. There will be some map and mode combinations rotated out in order to make room for Extraction and Forbidden.



Forbidden will be making its way into the Ranked Playlist in the coming weeks after Season 5. We are still fine-tuning weapon layout, equipment, and spawning and want to ensure it’s a great experience that the competitive audience enjoys instead of releasing it in ranked before it’s ready.



Please note that the list of map and mode combinations in Ranked Arena for Season 5 will not be indicative of the final list for when the HCS Year 3 season begins. We will be keeping a close eye on the performance of all the map and mode combinations in the playlist and then making the final decisions in January 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HCS Year 3</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83828" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As announced at the Halo World Championship, we’re excited to confirm that a Year 3 of HCS will be taking place starting in 2024 which leads up to yet another $1 million HaloWC. Until then, we’ll be hosting some open tournaments on FACEIT to give players something to compete for fun in – and they begin later this fall. Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/HCS/">@HCS on Twitter</a> to see the latest.



Thank you once again to everyone who’s supported Ranked Halo Infinite and HCS, and thank you for making this yet another incredible year for competitive Halo.



Season 5 drops on October 17—we’ll see you online!

Official HCS

Ranked Update | Season 5

AI Spawners

AI Nodegraph Scripting

Unyshek

Forge Overview | Season 5

Forbidden & Prism Fan Kit 

Coming with Season 5 of Halo Infinite are two new maps: Forbidden and Prism.



Forbidden takes place within a vast complex of ancient stone ruins on Zeta Halo, and Prism delves into the crystalline caves of Suban—the so-called blood-moon of Sanghelios—as a battle in the sky rages between the Arbiter’s Swords of Sanghelios and Atriox’s Banished forces.



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Both maps will be arriving with Season 5 on October 17, so let’s get you acquainted with them by chatting with multiplayer designer Cliff Schuldt.



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



Season 5 brings two awesome new maps into Halo Infinite’s rotation. How would you summarize Forbidden and Prism?



Forbidden is a map that is visually defined by the ancient stone ruins that strongly evoke the aesthetic of Delta Halo, similar to Forest in Season 4. It’s a symmetrical arena map with snipers on either side, long sightlines, and Power Equipment in the middle—so it’s a map that we think will play really well with competitive, but it’s also a space that you’re just going to want to wander around and explore in a custom game.



Prism is an asymmetrical arena map set on Suban, one of the moons of Sanghelios. It’s where the blamite crystals are mined to be used as ammunition for needle-based weaponry, so it boasts an incredibly unique aesthetic that we’ve not really seen in Halo before.



Last season, we had Forest and Scarr, and we’re leaning even more deeply into some of those unique alien aesthetic elements in Season 5 with these two maps. What can you tell us about the aesthetic design of Forbidden and Prism?



We’re always keen to find subtle ways to communicate to the player where they are on the map, and Forbidden does that in a really cool way. On one side, the map is dried up and dead, while the other side is lush and green, featuring ancient aqueducts that are channeling water around this massive stone complex.



Prism is a mix of a lot of exciting visual elements. It’s set on Suban, so there’s that aspect of Sangheili design; but it’s also a cave system filled with these blamite crystals, so there’s a certain alien-ness to it as a natural formation as well. And there’s a Banished presence here, so their rough industrial equipment adds another visual layer to the map.



<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/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new arena maps coming to Halo Infinite in Season 5." class="wp-image-82947" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



What are some of the unique features that Forbidden and Prism have as Arena maps?



On Prism, one of the power weapons is actually the special Pinpoint Needler variant from Halo Infinite’s campaign, which boasts an increased magazine and much stronger tracking abilities. Because of the theme we were going for with this map, having the Needler front-and-center here—an iconic Halo weapon going back to 2001—just felt right for this map to give it a unique edge.



Oh, and there are some unharvested blamite crystal clusters that players can shoot, making them explode which sends crystal shards flying off. That’s a cool environmental hazard which adds another fun and unique layer to the map.



For Forbidden, ample routes around the space make Capture the Flag matches even more tense—whether you’re attacking, defending, chasing the flag carrier, or trying to navigate your way back to capture the flag. There are a lot of options for the player to utilize in any of these situations which can feel incredibly rewarding. Long sightlines will put your sniping skills to the test, and there are some skill jumps that players can utilize to really level up their play. It’s a map we wanted to be easy for players to grok, but it has additional layers of depth that you can master.



One of the coolest things about Halo maps from the very beginning is that they tell a story, and I think we really lean into that in Prism. What can you tell us about some of those elements?



When we begin designing a map, we don’t like to design a blockout without knowing what kind of aesthetic we’re going for because those details lend so much unique flavor to these maps.



For Prism, we’re leaning into visualizing an area of the lore that you may have read about but certainly haven’t seen before. The mines on Suban are where blamite crystals (used for weapons like the Needler) come from and the Banished have come to claim it for themselves. This tells a story that you’ll see not just in the playable space but also in the battle that is taking place in the skybox where Banished ships are duking it out with the Arbiter’s Swords of Sanghelios.



Similarly with Forbidden, the design of those Delta Halo-inspired stone ruins is so unique—that ancient and elegant chonkiness is an aesthetic that evokes such a sense of mystery and allows us to lean into subtle storytelling elements that make these places feel alive.



Which modes are some of your favorites to play on these maps?



Prism feels great for zone control modes like King of the Hill and Extraction, but also—as mentioned earlier—plays really well with fast-paced One Flag CTF matches.



We had a great time testing CTF, Strongholds, and Oddball on Forbidden as well. The map lends itself to some incredible set-up scenarios and really unique moments!



Both of these maps also have their own unique Infection variants, with new areas to explore while certain paths are cut off.



<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/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Prism is one of the new maps coming to Halo Infinite in Season 5." class="wp-image-82933" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Do you have any fun stories from playtests on these maps?



We had so many good times with these maps, it’s hard to narrow it down to any one moment or thing that happened.



Having unique Infection map variants means it’s always fun when players are looking around to find the best hiding spots, thinking they’ve found the perfect place, and then the “Oh no…” moment when they’re the last survivor and everyone starts charging their position.



We’ve also been blowing each other up with blamite on Prism, and had some really, really close matches of Multi Flag on Forbidden. There have been some jaw-dropping “all or nothing” plays to prevent flag captures that have given me a new appreciation for the sniper rifle and those who are skilled at wielding it!



And aside from the gameplay, it’s been wonderful to just wander around these maps and admire the incredible job that the team did at making them feel like living spaces in the Halo universe. That’s what I used to do when I was young, wondering about what stories could happen in these locations, and hopefully players will get a sense of that on Prism and Forbidden as well.



Are there any hints towards Easter eggs or secrets for players to keep their eyes open for?



A hidden secret lies within stone ruins… maybe it’s a sandwich lol.



Thank you for joining us once again to help us explore the making of these new maps! Do you have any parting words to share?



As ever, please send us your clips of the awesome moments you have playing Season 5. Show us the secrets you find. Everybody poured their love into these maps and we hope you have as much of a good time playing on them as we did making them!





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For more on Season 5 of Halo Infinite, check out our other blogs:



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/battle-pass-operations-season-5">OPERATIONS & BATTLE PASS OVERVIEW</a> – Everything you need to know about how Halo Infinite’s Events are evolving into Operations and the Season 5 Battle Pass.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-gear-rewards-season-5">HALO GEAR REWARDS</a> – Learn more about the Halo Gear Rewards program for Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/extraction-overview-season-5">MODE OVERVIEW</a> – Learn more about the return and revamp of Halo 4‘s Extraction mode.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">FORGE OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about the AI toolkit for PvE, along with new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge </li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ranked-update-season-5-2">RANKED OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about Ranked, sandbox, and balancing updates and changes in Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/customization-overview-season-5">CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW </a>– A complete breakdown of new customization content coming in Season 5, the Battle Pass, Shop changes, and more.</li></ul>

Maps Overview | Season 5

Extraction comes to Halo Infinite in Season 5!



Let’s get you reacquainted with the asset retrieval game mode, the rules of engagement that’ll carry your team to victory, and the different mode variants you’ll be playing.



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



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



<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/MCC_H4_Extraction.jpg" alt="A multiplayer Spartan defends the Extraction site in Halo 4. " class="wp-image-83164" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/MCC_H4_Extraction-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Extraction is an objective-based game mode that was introduced to Halo over a decade ago in Halo 4, where Spartan teams were tasked with an asset retrieval mission. In Halo 4, players used a quantum marker tool to designate slipspace crates for extraction. In Halo Infinite, this beloved mode has a new coat of paint with the latest UNSC and Personal AI tech.



The mode goes as follows:



<ul><li>A neutral Extraction Site appears on the map, where players must enter the site and plant their Extraction Device (all players have one) within its radius to begin the process of Extraction.</li><li>Once an Extraction Device is planted, it is owned by that player and their team, and a timer will begin counting down to Extraction.</li><li>Enemy players can interrupt the Extraction process, and even convert it to their team by interacting with the Extraction Device.</li><li>If the opposing team successfully converts the Extraction Device, then the countdown timer will reset and the battle for that Site will continue until there is a successful Extraction.</li><li>Whichever team successfully completes the Extraction process earns a point, after which a new neutral Extraction Site will appear elsewhere on the map.</li></ul>



Simply put: players must deploy and protect Extraction Sites at different locations on the map to score points, the team with the most points wins.



<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/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg" alt="A multiplayer spartan plays Extraction in Halo Infinite. " class="wp-image-83075" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_Extraction_01_Watermarked_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



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



In Season 5, players will be able to experience a couple of variations of the Extraction experience (and will also be able to customize various settings for Custom Games as well).



<ul><li>ARENA: EXTRACTION</li></ul>



The core Extraction experience with one neutral Extraction Site appearing at a time until one team scores enough points to win.



<ul><li>RANKED: EXTRACTION</li></ul>



A variation in Ranked Arena at launch where players spawn with one Frag Grenade instead of two, motion-tracker is disabled, and friendly fire is enabled.



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



We’ve got plenty more Season 5: Reckoning previews to come, so stay tuned for a detailed look at the following:



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/battle-pass-operations-season-5">OPERATIONS & BATTLE PASS OVERVIEW</a> – Everything you need to know about how Halo Infinite’s Events are evolving into Operations and the Season 5 Battle Pass.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-gear-rewards-season-5">HALO GEAR REWARDS</a> – Learn more about the Halo Gear Rewards program for Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/maps-overview-season-5">MAPS OVERVIEW</a> – Take a guided tour of Forbidden and Prism with our multiplayer designers.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">FORGE OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about the AI toolkit for PvE, along with new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge </li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ranked-update-season-5-2">RANKED OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about Ranked, sandbox, and balancing updates and changes in Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/customization-overview-season-5">CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW</a> – A complete breakdown of new customization content coming in Season 5, the Battle Pass, Shop changes, and more.</li></ul>

Extraction Overview | Season 5

Halo Gear Rewards are back for Halo Infinite’s Season 5: Reckoning!



Halo Gear Rewards is a program that celebrates players for completing specific in-game accomplishments by unlocking access to purchase exclusive limited-edition products in the Halo Gear Shop.



The first reward was introduced in Season 2: Lone Wolves with the amazing Fracture: Entrenched Tanker Jacket and was followed by the introduction of the Pin Program with Season 3: Echoes Within Pins.



<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/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Product photography of the Season 3 Pins that are part of the Halo Gear Reward program. " class="wp-image-82748" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_TW-Post_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



For Season 5, we are introducing a new earnable reward that might just come in handy when carrying around all those previously earned rewards.



Meet the Halo Tactical Carrier—this UNSC-style backpack is mission ready and designed with utility in mind. The Tactical Carrier has three primary compartments, reinforced straps and carry handle, and sufficient nylon and Velcro areas for attaching pins, patches, and other insignia. 



<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/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd.jpg" alt="The prototype of the Tactical Carrier backpack." class="wp-image-82903" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_CP_Backpack_watermarked_1920x1080-65248b0b1fddd-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Players can earn access to purchase the Tactical Carrier by completing the 50-tier Premium Battle Pass. Upon completion, players will receive their unique code via Waypoint notifications to make their purchase in the Halo Gear Shop.



Speaking of patches, players who complete the Reckoning Battle Pass will also earn the Reckoning Insignia Patch. This embroidered patch will be included with the purchase of the Tactical Carrier backpack.



But wait, there’s more! Players will also have the option to add-on the Operation: Combined Arms Patch and the Operation: Winter Contingency III Patch for an additional cost. There is no need to complete specific Operations to access these patches.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="713" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2.jpg" alt="Images of the patches coming as part of the Season 5 offering from Halo Gear Rewards." class="wp-image-82818" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2-300x111.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2-1024x380.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2-768x285.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2-1536x570.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_HaloGearRewards_Patched_Watermarked_1920-2-1568x582.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The Halo Tactical Carrier can be unlocked for purchase through the duration of Season 5: Reckoning and Operations: Combined Arms and Winter Contingency. Purchases must be made by January 29, 2024.



Stay tuned to <a href="https://twitter.com/halogear">@HaloGear</a> for the latest updates.



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



For a closer look at Season 5: Reckoning, take a look at our other blogs below.



<ul><li> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/battle-pass-operations-season-5">OPERATIONS & BATTLE PASS OVERVIEW</a> – Everything you need to know about how Halo Infinite’s Events are evolving into Operations and the Season 5 Battle Pass.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/extraction-overview-season-5">MODE OVERVIEW</a> – Learn more about the return and revamp of Halo 4‘s Extraction mode.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/maps-overview-season-5">MAPS OVERVIEW</a> – Take a guided tour of Forbidden and Prism with our multiplayer designers.</li><li> <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">FORGE OVERVIEW – </a>Find out about the AI toolkit for PvE, along with new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge </li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ranked-update-season-5-2">RANKED OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about Ranked, sandbox, and balancing updates and changes in Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/customization-overview-season-5">CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW</a> – A complete breakdown of new customization content coming in Season 5, the Battle Pass, Shop changes, and more.</li></ul>

343 Industries

Halo Gear Rewards | Season 5

Intel

Season 4 of Halo Infinite has arrived, bringing with it a new collection of Intel—a series of data drops that provide some additional lore and context to elements of each season.



Intel can be found here on Halo Waypoint and in-game in Halo Infinite‘s message of the day carousel.



This blog will be updated over the course of Season 4 with new Intel.



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



<a href="#S4Intel1">INTEL 1</a> | <a href="#S4Intel2">INTEL 2</a> | <a href="#S4Intel3">INTEL 3</a> | <a href="#S4Intel4">INTEL 4</a> | <a href="#S4Intel5">INTEL 5</a>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="S4Intel1">INTEL 1: GOING VIRAL</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349.jpg" alt="Intel 1 image of Spartans infected by Iratus" class="wp-image-70413" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/S4Intel1-6494bc10c2349-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



But there is so much more to see!



The entire history of the Spartan program. Your weaknesses. Your failures. And now all of it belongs to the Banished!



Oh, I shall enjoy every moment of its categorization. So much of your strength is tied to the armor you wear like a second skin. What happens when it is taken away? No… what happens when it is turned against you?



And so many of you here—ah, survivors of the Apparition’s burning wrath, are you? A new generation of heroes to forge a brighter future for your kind. Such delicious naivety!



Know this as you struggle in vain against the inevitable: I shall see you ALL unravel in body and spirit. I shall disseminate every secret held within this facility and within your minds. And the Banished shall feast upon what remains.



Take a look in the mirror, my little Spartans. Thralls of Iratus. Think how much better you’re going to look wearing my face.



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="S4Intel2">INTEL 2: ESCHARUM’S INVOCATION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/ScarrIntel-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the out-of-map vista around Scarr"/></figure>



When we were inducted into the Covenant, the Prophets had us settled on worlds ripe with rich resources. Was this out of respect for our people—a reward for our strength? No. It was simply another way in which we served as a method of their control. A blunt instrument for delicate hands. A deterrent to those who would claim more than what the Prophets would allow. And they knew we could not excavate these resources ourselves, for we were nothing but fodder to be expended on their front lines.



But look around you, brothers. Savor this moment. Understand what we are now. We are the Banished, and we are free. We take what we desire, and we use it to fuel our strength and sustain our spirit.



Never forget what Atriox gave to you. Know that all we are today is because of his vision.



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="S4Intel3">INTEL 3: TRANSLOCATION THEORY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/S4Intel3QT.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan's arm engaging the Quantum Translocator"/></figure>



Back in ‘57, we had the quantum marker—or the MX-1050. Cool piece of ONI tech that we got to play with in some sims before they had the Infinity jump back to Requiem; used it to transport crates from the ship down to research bases. They wanted to drop and gain a foothold in enemy-occupied territory quick and hard, but then we start fighting these Forerunner robots that can zip around the place and suddenly we got a bunch of eggheads workin’ overtime to repurpose the tech to put it on actual people…



I dunno what kinda magic tricks they managed to pull, but the damn thing works! Heard ‘em talkin’ about puttin’ this “Quantum Translocator” on Spartans in the field. Ain’t worked up the courage yet to volunteer for further trials, not since ol’ Haverly was gone for three hours during a test run and came back all pale and shakin’ and refused to say a word about what happened. Tried to calm him down but he just wouldn’t stop crying.



Come to think of it, haven’t seen him in a while…



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="S4Intel4">INTEL 4: ARCHEOHOMINA</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/08/S4Intel4.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the multiplayer map Forest, set on the planet Heian from Halo Legends: The Babysitter"/></figure>



DR. CATHERINE HALSEY, RESEARCH NOTES – 2544



Operation: GREY VEIL was a success, but cost the life of Cal-141, who died from head trauma sustained from a Jiralhanae gravity hammer. We have thus far sustained only a few Spartan casualties as this war with the Covenant approaches its second decade, but strategically each one feels akin to losing an entire world.



The ODST squad that accompanied SPARTAN-141 did, however, return something fascinating. Surveying the ruins on Heian, they discovered evidence of an ancient civilization with architectural designs that I can only describe as unmistakably human—a strange mixture of Greco-Roman and East Asian elements… yet even the most cursory analysis tells us that these ruins far predate those periods in our history, and they were certainly not built with simple stone to have been preserved for so long.



We came to the stars and wondered about alien life, yet these ruins force us to consider whether there might be improbable things about our own past that lie beyond our knowledge. Alas, no further research on Heian is possible due to the Covenant’s presence, and with Miridem under attack it’s not likely that we’ll get to look any deeper into this.



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="S4Intel5">INTEL 5: EMERGENCY CONTACT PROTOCOL</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/09/FloodSpore.jpg" alt="Image of a Flood spore"/></figure>



//WARNING



//WARNING



//SPARTAN CONTAINMENT FIRETEAM COMPROMISED



“This is Captain Alvarez of the UNSC Saturn. I am declaring CORRUPTER and UPSILON protocols. All remaining
groundside personnel have seven minutes to withdraw from Site 22 as the Saturn
moves into position…”

Halo Infinite | Infection Intel

With the release of Season 5: Reckoning on October 17, some of Halo Infinite’s content and engagement vectors are evolving versus what’s been offered in the game thus far. Today, we’d like to get you up to speed on changes you’ll find with the Battle Pass and in-game “Events” (transitioning into “Operations”) once the new season is live.



Overall, content is being delivered in a tighter, more efficient manner with a greater emphasis on moving the community forward together through the same content within the same windows of time.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BATTLE PASS, EVOLVED</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of three Spartans in Season 5 armor" class="wp-image-82715" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5Armors-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Since the initial launch, Halo Infinite seasons have featured a 100-tier Battle Pass which offers various rewards and unlocks across both free and premium tracks. Season 5 will once again offer a Battle Pass full of unlockable content, but the way it’s packaged will be more streamlined than prior seasons.



The Season 5 Battle Pass is comparable to what’s been offered in prior seasons in terms of breadth of content, but now consists of 50 total tiers. Thanks to some improvements with our game systems, we can now include multiple content items in a single tier of the pass. Historically, the Battle Pass may offer a Coating for each Armor Core—represented as individual separate offers across separate tiers. With Season 5, you’ll see a Coating offered in a single tier, and it will work and apply to every Armor Core in the game.



Similarly, rather than having to unlock a left and right shoulder across two separate tiers of your pass, in Season 5, you’ll unlock a full set in a single tier. Being able to consolidate this type of multi-use content into a single tier has resulted in a much tighter, more efficient pass that will net you more content with less grinding. And speaking of grinding, you’ll be able to progress your Battle Pass via Match XP by playing the experiences you want to play (including an all-new Custom Game XP system) in addition to supplemental progression via Challenges.



GO PREMIUM



The Premium Battle Pass will still cost 1,000 credits and will still include 1,000 credits to be unlocked across its 50 tiers. The Premium Pass will still include an extra challenge slot and bonus XP while it’s active, and once purchased it never expires. And, similar to Season 4, the Premium Pass will include an exclusive instant-unlock bonus customization item with purchase (more on that closer to launch!)



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan clad in Flood-infected customization wielding a M247H machine gun" class="wp-image-82673" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FloodSpartan-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



FREE FOR ALL



The free content in the Battle Pass has also been streamlined to span the first 20 tiers of the pass. This free content is similar to prior seasons and will take players less gameplay to unlock. In general, as you’ll see further below with our approach to “Operations,” our intent is for in-game engagement tracks to include 20 tiers of free rewards.



The free Battle Pass will be available until the new “Operation” begins (more on this below!) and will be denoted in the game UI. Season 5’s free Battle Pass will be active until November 14, 2023. Upon expiration, the 20 free tiers of content will no longer be available to unlock if you haven’t already completed those tiers. Players who would like to finish the pass beyond the stated cut-off date, or decide they want the additional 30 tiers of content, can purchase the Premium Pass in the shop at any point. When the free Battle Pass period ends, players will permanently keep all of the free content they’ve unlocked prior to the cut-off date.



SEASON 5 BATTLE PASS TL;DR:



<ul><li>Overall pass is tighter with better-quality content</li><li>Play the way you want! Progress your pass with Match XP (Matchmaking or Custom Games)</li><li>50 total tiers (includes 20 tiers of free content newly streamlined with a similar breadth of content offered in a more efficient manner)</li><li>Premium Pass:<ul><li>Costs 1,000 credits</li><li>Includes 1,000 earnable credits over the course of completing the Premium Battle Pass</li><li>Includes exclusive instant bonus customization item</li><li>Includes an extra challenge slot and Bonus XP when activated</li><li>Never expires; yours to keep and complete at your leisure</li><li>Available for purchase in the Shop at any point after season launch</li></ul></li><li>Free Pass:<ul><li>20 tiers of content</li><li>Availability and access expires on November 13 with the start of a new Operation</li><li>Can be converted to Premium at any time</li></ul></li></ul>



Overall, our hope is that by streamlining the pass and fitting more, high-quality content into fewer tiers, we’re able to reduce friction and make it more obtainable to more players. Additionally, a smaller time commitment coupled with even greater value content hopefully presents a better incentive for players considering a premium upgrade.



The shorter expiration window for the free pass is perhaps one of the biggest changes, but our hope is that providing more content across fewer tiers will offset any potential time pressure. Further, we hope to be able to move the bulk of Halo Infinite’s players forward together, experiencing the same new content at the same time.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ENTER OPERATIONS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite key art for the Combined Arms Operation showing (from left-to-right) a Kig-Yar sat on the back of a Mongoose, a Spartan holding a shard of blamite, a Sangheili Ultra without a helmet, and another Spartan kneeling" class="wp-image-82687" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationCombinedArms-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Since launch, Halo Infinite has featured numerous “Events” which offer free earnable, themed rewards during a specific window of time. While we have enjoyed playing events and earning cool content, we’ve heard feedback that they often feel too limiting (short windows that may not align with player availability) and once they’re gone, there’s no way to ever obtain that content again.



With Season 5, we’re evolving to “Operations” which are similar to “Events” in spirit but brings a few specific changes we want you to be aware of.



One big thing that’s NOT changing: Operations, like Events before them, will continue to launch as totally free activities. Each Operation will include 20 tiers of free unlockable rewards that can be progressed at your leisure over the specified duration of the Operation.



Unlike prior seasonal Events, a typical Operation will run for approximately 4 to 6 weeks, and the reward track is available to progress and unlock for the entire stated duration. All players will have more time to progress and obtain rewards compared to the old Events system. Like the Season 5 Battle Pass and prior seasons’ Events, when the Operation comes to an end, access to the free Operation Pass goes away and players won’t be able to unlock any further reward tiers (unless they have opted into the Premium Operation offer described below). When a free Operation pass ends, players will retain all of the earned content they’ve unlocked up to that point regardless of whether they choose to go premium.



An Operation will always offer 20 tiers of free earnable rewards, but for players who choose to go premium a few additional options are available. First, players may choose to upgrade an active Operation for 500 credits, which will instantly unlock an exclusive bonus customization item while also making 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.



A second premium option for 2,000 credits instantly unlocks all 20 tiers at purchase as a convenience and additionally includes the exclusive bonus customization item.



To directly address player feedback and provide more flexibility, an Operation won’t disappear forever once it concludes. Once an active Operation has ended, the Operation pass be purchased at any point thereafter via the Switcher or Shop (for both the 500 and 2,000 credits instant-unlock offer).



The way you progress an Operation is also changing compared to how Events used to run. Historically, players had to focus on completing challenges as the only means of unlocking the 10 tiers of free content. Starting with Season 5, Operations progression is based on Match XP so you can play whatever playlist you want (even Custom Games) and make progress across 20 tiers. Challenges are still there as another source of XP for players on top of Match XP.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/OperationWinterContingency.jpg"><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" /></a></figure>



OPERATIONS TL;DR:



<ul><li>Free 20-tier reward track</li><li>Play what you want to progress (including Custom Games)</li><li>More time to complete than pre-Season 5 “Events”</li><li>Free access expires at the end of the Operation (but you retain everything you’ve already earned)</li><li>Premium Upgrade:<ul><li>500 credits includes special instant unlock bonus cosmetic</li><li>2,000 credits includes above + instant unlock all 20 reward tiers</li><li>Operation Pass never expires</li><li>Includes Bonus XP and extra challenge slot when active</li></ul></li><li>When an Operation has ended, it becomes available for purchase in the Shop.</li></ul>



 SEASON 5 OPERATIONS



Season 5 will include two Operations on the heels of the launch Battle Pass:



<ul><li>“Combined Arms” – Begins November 14</li><li>“Winter Contingency III” – Begins December 19</li></ul>



Please note that these details are subject to change—please refer to the official information within Halo Infinite for the latest and greatest info once Season 5 has launched.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">LOOKING AHEAD</h2>



We’re excited to jump into all the new features, content, and experiences coming with the launch of Season 5 on October 17.



In the meantime, keep an eye on Halo Waypoint for more about what’s coming including a deeper dive into some of the new notable Spartan and weapon customization content coming to the game.



And, for a closer look at the full Season 5 Battle Pass and more Operations details, join us live from the Community Stage at the 2023 Halo World Championships for a special Season 5 presentation (in-person at the Washington State Convention Center and streamed live on Saturday, October 14).



Updated 10/14



SEASON 5 ROADMAP Straight from the Community Stage here is the Season 5 Roadmap with some top-level details of all the goodness coming to Halo Infinite. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="768" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-1024x768.jpg" alt="The Season 5 Roadmap with visuals of the Mode (Extraction), New Arena Maps (Prism and Forbidden), Equipment (Repair Field), Multi-Use Helmets, Battle Pass & Customization, Hero Rank Reward (Infinite Mark VI Armor), Forge Canvases & Objects, Forge AI Toolkit and Operations (Combined Arms and Winter Contingency 3). Firefight King of the Hill, Repair Field and Operations will arrive later in Season 5." class="wp-image-83859" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-300x225.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-768x576.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-1536x1152.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01-1568x1176.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/2023_S5_Roadmap_Full-R03_ForWaypoint01.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>







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Keep an eye out for our upcoming blogs covering Season 5.



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-gear-rewards-season-5">HALO GEAR REWARDS</a> – Learn more about the Halo Gear Rewards program for Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/extraction-overview-season-5">MODE OVERVIEW</a> – Learn more about the return and revamp of Halo 4‘s Extraction mode.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/maps-overview-season-5">MAPS OVERVIEW </a>– Take a guided tour of Forbidden and Prism with our multiplayer designers.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">FORGE UPDATES OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about the AI toolkit for PvE, along with new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ranked-update-season-5-2">RANKED OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about Ranked, sandbox, and balancing updates and changes in Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/customization-overview-season-5">CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW</a> – A complete breakdown of new customization content coming in Season 5, the Battle Pass, Shop changes, and more.</li></ul>