Winter Contingency II Press Kit

Games

Halo Infinite

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



The Winter Contingency event has returned to Halo Infinite!



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



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



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



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



Yes, that absolutely is a nightcap for your Spartan.



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



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



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



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



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



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

Alex Wakeford

Winter Contingency II Event Launch

Community

Community Update

Happy Halodays!

Yuletidings & Yonder

Canon Fodder

Issue 135

Canon Fodder: Auditory Additions

Forge Features

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



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



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<h2>MAPS & MODES</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<h2>COMMUNITY CREATIONS</h2>



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



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



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



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



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

Community Cartography 003

Forge Features: December 13, 2022

Community Spotlight

Spotlight: December 9, 2022

MCC Plug 'n' Play

MCC Mod Uploader

Halo: MCC | December 2022 Update

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



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



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



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



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



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<h2 id="cgb">CUSTOM GAME BROWSER</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<h2 id="empyrean">ENTER EMPYREAN</h2>



The Pit has come to Halo Infinite!



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



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



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



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



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



Empyrean is available now in Matchmaking and Custom Games.



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<h2 id="coresncoatings">COMPLIMENTARY COSMETICS</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<h2>QUALITY OF LIFE IMPROVEMENTS</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<h2>THANK YOU!</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



See you in 2023!



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

Halo Infinite | December 2022 Update

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



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



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



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<h2>MAPS & MODES</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<h2>COMMUNITY CREATIONS</h2>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe title="Forge Tutorial | Spawns and Weapons [Halo Infinite]" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0muc94w943c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Looking at some of the more practical elements of how to publish your maps and how to update your published maps in Halo Infinite, Ducain23 has put together a handy guide.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe title="How To Publish and Update Maps In Halo Infinite! | Halo Infinite Forge Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BPKMGW_Aa9Q?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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

Community Cartography 002

Forge Features: December 2, 2022

Issue 004

Community Corner: Red Nomster

It is with great sadness that we report that Greg Bear, one of the giants of science-fiction and author of Halo’s Forerunner Saga, has passed away at age 71. Greg is survived by his wife, Astrid, and their two children, Chloe (co-author of Halo: Rebirth) and Alexandra.



Greg Bear was one of the world’s most prominent contemporary science-fiction authors, having written over forty books—including original hard sci-fi works as well as contributions to Star Trek, Star Wars, Isaac Asimov’s Foundation series, and countless others. He was one of the architects of the San Diego Comic-Con event that has been running since 1970 and, every year, brings together over a hundred thousand people in celebration of pop culture entertainment and literature.



In 2010, as Halo 4 was on the horizon, Greg was brought aboard to write a trilogy of novels that would dive into the deepest mysteries of the Halo universe concerning the Forerunners.



Worshipped as gods by the Covenant, their immense constructs and weapons strewn across space, and possessing a strange connection to humanity, the ancient era of the Halo universe was the perfect playground for Greg’s decades of sci-fi experience. Ever has Greg’s literature been at the cutting edge of dealing with real questions of science, technology, society, and culture—from exploring compelling answers to the Fermi paradox in The Forge of God (1987) to being the very first sci-fi author to detail nanotechnology in Blood Music (1985).



It was these gripping and unique elements of his oeuvre that he brought to Halo, weaving a vast tapestry of rich history spanning countless millennia that begins from the perspective of a young Forerunner—Bornstellar-Makes-Eternal-Lasting—who embarks on an adventure that leads him to awaken the Didact and set into motion the final movements of a cosmic game of vengeance by those who created us all, reborn in the terrifying shape of the Flood.



From the shores of Erde-Tyrene to the palaces of pain on Zeta Halo; from the hallowed halls of Maethrillian to the sealed-off tomb of Requiem, and beyond the expanse of our galaxy, Greg took us on a journey unlike any other.



As Halo was on the cusp of celebrating its tenth anniversary, it was Greg who played no small part in building elements of the universe that would not only see the series continue for another decade, where we are today, but also all the years we have yet to come. In truth, we may never hit bedrock with the breadth and depth of history his imagination gave to this series.



We wish Greg’s family and friends all our love as they grieve and mourn his passing. May his spirit—which has inspired generations of minds with wonder and wisdom—be as the namesake of his protagonist: eternal and lasting.

343 INDUSTRIES

In Memoriam

Greg Bear (1951-2022)