Canon Fodder

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<p>So, what did you think?</p>



<p>Welcome back to Canon Fodder, your recurring regaling of story-centric Halo happenings. Last issue, we took a look at some of the new locations and sandbox elements encountered in last month’s multiplayer flights and celebrated seven years of this feature being on the air. Well, in print. Online, technically. Whatever, you get the picture.</p>



<p>Today, we’re here to celebrate a few more new events of interest to fiction-focused folks like yourself, and I couldn’t be more excited. Let’s go ahead and dive in, shall we?</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HOPE IN WORLD</h2>



<p>Chief among those aforementioned events was yesterday’s anticipated reveal of gameplay from the rapidly-approaching <em>Halo Infinite </em>campaign. If you haven’t seen it yet, first of all I’m impressed, second of all you can check it out for yourself right here (be warned, while there aren’t any specific story spoilers, if you want to go in completely dark, might be best to hold off):</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Infinite | Campaign Overview" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tgn8VOv9dc0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p>Now, speaking of spoilers, since I’m not about to start providing any, we’re going to largely let the video contents speak for themselves. That being said, we’re stoked that you’ve finally got a bit more campaign goodness to dissect and discuss in the lead up to December. It’s the next chapter in the Master Chief’s epic adventure, and he’s got new friends and foes alike to try and make sense of while trying to unravel the recent events on Zeta Halo. Our beloved old Installation 07 has always been rife with intrigue and importance within the larger Halo narrative, but if you think you can’t teach an old ring new tricks, you might be in for a surprise or two.</p>



<p>The Banished have hold of the installation and are trying to make it their own, though to what end—and for what reason—remains unknown. One thing is certain: they aren’t going down without a fight. And speaking of unknowns, we also got our first look at the Harbinger. We don’t have a lot to say about this curious character at the moment, but I will give you this: They’re definitely not a Prelate.</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo Infinite | The Banished Rise" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hXrMkGXtk0c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p>We’re going to continue to have more to say about the campaign and its enigmatic narrative threads as the days march ever closer to its December 8 release. For now, keep replaying the new reveal video and sleep with dreams of careening headlong into a Banished outpost with a stolen Banshee, immediately freeing several captured UNSC Marines, giving them all your best weapons, piling them in a reclaimed Razorback, and laying waste to the crimson-covered bladed baddies standing in your way. It’s some of the most fun you can have this side of the Auditorium.  </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_inf_bansheeaction-ac7e65b1efb74fb6938bdb868845b1ae.png" alt="Halo Infinite Campaign moment of Banshee action"/></figure>



<p>Oh, and make sure you take back every UNSC Forward Operating Base you can. Rumor has it they have stories to tell…</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_inf_fob-9cbde140458b4792beb8e9f0fc4451de.png" alt="UNSC Forward Operating Base taken over by the Banished"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DIVINE WIN</h2>



<p>But that’s not all! Last week, we also released the latest story addition to the Halo universe with <em>Halo: Divine Wind</em>, a new novel by <strong><a href="https://twitter.com/TDenningauthor">Troy Denning</a></strong> that follows the Ferrets as they try and keep enemy factions (yes, plural) from enacting galaxy-damaging shenanigans on the Ark. If that plot initially feels a <em>little</em> familiar, we understand. This time however, events might just play out in ways you aren’t quite expecting.</p>



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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Listen to an excerpt from <a href="https://twitter.com/TDenningauthor?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TDenningauthor</a>'s Halo: Divine Wind, available now from <a href="https://twitter.com/SimonAudio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SimonAudio</a>! <br><br>📖 <a href="https://t.co/L6rnRPb5GQ">https://t.co/L6rnRPb5GQ</a> <a href="https://t.co/y1jZMmmVWA">pic.twitter.com/y1jZMmmVWA</a></p>— Halo Gear (@HaloGear) <a href="https://twitter.com/HaloGear/status/1450461746943172622?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 19, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>If you haven’t checked it out yet, you can take a look at some spoiler-free previews from folks like <strong><a href="https://haruspis.blog/2021/10/19/halo-divine-wind-review-non-spoiler/">Haruspis</a></strong>—if you’re more the reading type—or the <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/HaloCanon">Halo Canon</a></strong> or <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/SacredIcon/videos">Sacred Icon</a> </strong>YouTube channels—if you’re more the watching type. Or you know, both. Both is good. </p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo: Divine Wind – Spoiler-Free Review" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qhRBxlBxf1E?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo: Divine Wind Spoiler-Free Review (Feat. Haruspis)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wDyIFWNpwQo?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p>We also found a fun interview with Troy Denning on the <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/c/GameDevBreakdown/videos">GameDev Breakdown</a></strong> YouTube channel that focuses less on the story itself and more on the writing and collaboration process. Check it out below:</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Exclusive Interview with Halo Author Troy Denning" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/7Z8426yWh54?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p>You can <strong><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Divine-Wind/Troy-Denning/Halo/9781982174903">pick up a copy of <em>Halo: Divine Wind </em>for yourself right here</a></strong> from your favorite retailer. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ENHANCED AVAILABILITY</h2>



<p>To help enhance your new novel experience even more, we thought we’d provide a little gift of sorts. If you remember, last year’s release of <em>Halo: Shadows of Reach</em> included a short story titled “Sacrifice” that was exclusive to Wal-Mart purchasers. Seeing as how it also works as a pretty perfect companion piece to <em>Halo: Divine Wind</em> with its connections to the Ark and other relevant reasons, we’re excited to make it available to all in downloadable PDF form right here:</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/halo_sacrifice-352e807233c6432e8d0e2102c733732b.pdf"><strong><em>HALO: SACRIFICE </em>(DOWNLOAD PDF)</strong></a></h4>



<p>Hope you enjoy! Plus, other publishing partners wanted to get on the action as well, and since we had so much awesome art already overflowing beyond the binding of the  <a href="https://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/3354/definitive-guide-halo-universe"><strong>upcoming </strong></a><em><a href="https://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/3354/definitive-guide-halo-universe"><strong>Halo Encyclopedia</strong></a>, </em>our friends at <a href="https://twitter.com/DarkHorseComics"><strong>Dark Horse</strong></a> were kind enough to let us share this awesome piece by <a href="https://twitter.com/stantonfeng"><strong>Stanton Feng</strong></a> to celebrate the events of <em>Halo: Divine Wind</em>. Meet Krelis, one of the Jiralhanae members of the Keepers of the One Freedom. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_krelis_art_1120-c4afb90ae58a419ba3b364a4ad3ed88d.jpg" alt="Krelis, one of the Jiralhanae members of the Keepers of the One Freedom. "/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HOLIDAY TRIMMINGS</h2>



<p>Before we go, I wanted to mention a few housekeeping details recently discussed in the <strong>Waypoint vNext FAQ blog</strong> by the illustrious <strong><a href="https://twitter.com/asalisbury">Andy Salisbury</a></strong>. Specific to the interest of the Fodder faithful is the note regarding changes to the Universe section and the current article archive. Here is it straight from the KP’s dialogue digits:</p>



<p><strong>Will there be any other notable parts of Waypoint that will change?<br>KP:</strong> <em>The Universe section is something of a relic of a prior age of Waypoint, standing now only as a monument to <a href="https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne">Grim</a>’s sins. Less dramatically, this content was central to previous video efforts and we have not maintained it as stand-alone web content. We also know the community has stepped in to fill this role, in greater detail and with more freedom for intrigue. Check out our friends at <a href="https://www.halopedia.org/">Halopedia</a>, for example.</em></p>



<p>So in short, the “Universe” section is being sunset and only select back issues of Canon Fodder will be carried forward onto the new platform. Now, while some might see this as a bit of a bummer, it’s also an opportunity to check out some of the incredible community resources curated by passionate and dedicated lore fans just like you. As KP mentions above, Halopedia is a great example—in fact, they’ve gone so far as to create a pretty amazing archive of Halo Waypoint content that currently includes content up to May of 2021:</p>



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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">With Halo Waypoint's upcoming vNext update dropping the Universe articles, we are announcing a brand new part of the Halopedia Archive: the Halo Waypoint archive! <br><br>This archive contains all news and universe posts on Waypoint prior to May 2020!<a href="https://t.co/gBbHPFv03t">https://t.co/gBbHPFv03t</a> <a href="https://t.co/EwV1Cz0gLG">pic.twitter.com/EwV1Cz0gLG</a></p>— Halopedia (@Halopedia) <a href="https://twitter.com/Halopedia/status/1448370882150379524?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 13, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p>Plus, with Waypoint’s growth comes the opportunity to explore new fiction-focused avenues in the future. As this new era continues to unfold, we’ll be eager to find new ways to showcase your favorite corners of the Halo universe. Plus, we <em>do </em>have <strong><a href="https://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/3354/definitive-guide-halo-universe">a pretty incredible official encyclopedia</a></strong> on the horizon… Oh did I mention that already? Sorry, I’m excited about it. </p>



<p>And that will do it for today! But don’t worry, I don’t think we’ll be gone too long. Have an awesome week!</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and seriously, just give all your Marines power weapons and pile them in a Razorback. It’s the best.</p>



<p><strong><3 Grim</strong></p>


GrimBrother One

ISSUE 120

Zeta Testing


<p>Welcome back! I don’t know about you, but I’m pretty excited about the particular moment in time we find ourselves. American football has kicked back off, playoff baseball is nigh, the leaves are changing, the weather is cooling, and there’s some sort of new sci-fi video game coming out soon as well. <em>Spacehoop Eternal</em> I think it’s called? As many of you are already well aware, we’re in the midst of a double-header weekend of flighting for <em>Halo Infinite </em>multiplayer, which means that more and more people are able to get their hands on more and more of the game as we hurtle towards the ever-impending December 8 launch date. With that all in mind, we thought we’d take a few moments (if you have them to spare, that is) to catch you up on some recent and/or upcoming elements you’ll be interacting with during your flight time. Unfortunately, none of them will be a “Wet Floor” sign.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TECHNICALLY SPEAKING</h2>



<p>One of Halo’s greatest qualities is the underlying sense of “belonging” even the smallest object can seem to possess. Whether it’s hopping in a vehicle, picking up a new weapon or piece of equipment, or even just taking a good long look at some well-designed space crates, the universe always seems to try and help you feel at home in it—even if that also involves running for your life from encroaching aliens or enemy fireteams. The latest <em>Halo Infinite </em>multiplayer flights have added a few new sandbox items to encounter, both from last weekend’s Arena focus to the upcoming Big Team Battle bonanza. Let’s take a look at some of their underlying lore!</p>



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



<p><em>M808 Main Battle Tank</em></p>



<p><em>Widely considered the apex of UNSC tank design, the M808 is effectively a massive mobile battle platform armed with an M512 smoothbore heavy cannon and supplementary machine gun for ancillary engagements.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/1120x630_haloinfinite_scorpion_watermarked_v2-06a33caefe3541c58c03ae29d4f9583b.png" alt="Image of the M808 Main Battle Tank"/></figure>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">SHOCK RIFLE</h4>



<p><em>Sicatt Workshop Volt Piercer</em></p>



<p><em>Charged and maintained at local armory outposts, the Shock Rifle is a long-range Banished electrolaser, the latest in a long line of experimental voltaic appli­cation devices that represent some of the only remaining vestiges of the Jiralhanae’s own great technological age.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/1120x630_haloinfinite_banished_shockrifle_01_darkbg-97b4b94cff77400aa729d156c2b032aa.png" alt="Sicatt Workshop Volt Piercer"/></figure>



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



<p><em>Once employed by Forerunner Warrior-Servants, the Heatwave is a robust hard light projector that fires multiple energized shards which can effectively slice through living creatures while bouncing off dense terrain or architecture. Equipped with alternate firing modes that allow its wielder to tune the weapon’s variable impact geometry on demand.  </em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/1120x630_haloinfinite_heatwave_watermarked-6cf04e56393c43fc81129c929c63c7b2.png" alt="Once employed by Forerunner Warrior-Servants, the Heatwave is a robust hard light projector that fires multiple energized shards which can effectively slice through living creatures while bouncing off dense terrain or architecture. Equipped with alternate firing modes that allow its wielder to tune the weapon’s variable impact geometry on demand.  "/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PLAY PLACES</h2>



<p>One of the best things about multiplayer maps is that they provide an opportunity to explore different locations or scenarios that you might not necessarily see otherwise. Two of the maps encountered in the current flight do just that, giving their own unique glimpses of Installation 07, inspiring players to ponder the form and function laid out before them.</p>



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



<p>Set within one of Zeta Halo’s myriad canyons, Fragmentation is rife with enigmatic elements to take in and mull over. From ancient artifacts and nebulous nodes to networked beacons channeling untold energies, this map is one to add plenty of wonder to the wander.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/1120x630_haloinfinite_fragmentation_02_watermarked-3bacdec859bd4d4587c3aa3f2f196443.png" alt="Halo Infinite Map of Fragmentation"/></figure>



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



<p>Amidst the backdrop of a vast desert landscape, Behemoth offers a glimpse at one of Zeta Halo’s tectonic fabrication seams—architectural features built to serve a multitude of parallel purposes, from remediation to transportation.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/1120x630_haloinfinite_behemoth_01_watermarked-b23ee4a4cce44d47aeac035bcbfc546c.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite map of Behemoth"/></figure>



<p>And speaking of Behemoth, content creator <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJvPBZ8sacy_saMv3An3EIA"><strong>Sierra I07</strong></a> put together a really awesome ambient edit of the map featuring some perfectly-fitting <em>Halo Infinite </em>music. Definitely check it out for the full vibe.</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="𝐁𝐄𝐇𝐄𝐌𝐎𝐓𝐇 - ʜᴀʟᴏ ɪɴꜰɪɴɪᴛᴇ ᴛᴇᴄʜɴɪᴄᴀʟ ᴘʀᴇᴠɪᴇᴡ" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BE7SsdtyU4c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FROM ART TO FINISH</h2>



<p>In case you missed it, <strong>last week we released a hefty collection of concept art</strong> from <em>The Art of Halo Infinite </em>book, showcasing a host of early explorations into the game’s development. There’s nothing specifically story-spoilery in there, but it does give further insight into the intention and “feel” of <em>Halo Infinite</em> and its particular pocket in the universe. If nothing else, there is some <em>primo </em>desktop wallpaper material in here, that’s for sure.</p>



<p>Check out some of the available pieces below, and if it strikes your fancy, you can download the collection here: <a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/BlogPost/HaloInfinite/artofhaloinfinite4k-d01181a15fa24d0a9dca4824f3db7003.zip"><strong>4K Zip File</strong></a> | <a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/BlogPost/HaloInfinite/artofhaloinfinitehd-83543864d57b4722b7844b920a805cfe.zip"><strong>HD Zip File</strong></a></p>



<p>And of course, you can preorder a copy of the upcoming art book yourself <a href="https://www.darkhorse.com/Books/3005-865/The-Art-of-Halo-Infinite-HC"><strong>right here</strong></a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/hd_haloinfinite_conceptart_046-959f3b5b79274f378d2b7c5b805466a6.jpg" alt="Concept art from The Art of Halo Infinite book"/></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/hd_haloinfinite_conceptart_028-00b23daa874547e8bc1a9ebfd8e42ebc.jpg" alt="Concept art from The Art of Halo Infinite book"/></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/hd_haloinfinite_conceptart_025-c9794675d0f04914a72b696a51e790cb.jpg" alt="Concept art from The Art of Halo Infinite book"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">RESOURCE INTENSIVE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_previouslybannercrop-1f642246ea864f3ab265a54e49cfcfcc.jpg" alt="Catch up on the complete story of Halo through previouslyonhalo.com"/></figure>



<p>Recently, community story stalwart <a href="https://twitter.com/haruspis"><strong>Alex “Haruspis” Wakeford</strong></a> put together a <em>monumental </em>resource that helps summarize and catch folks up on basically every piece of Halo media available. It’s a brilliant exploration for fans both new and old, and it’s a great way to pass the time as you await the arrival of <em>Halo Infinite</em>’s campaign experience this December. If you haven’t checked it out yet, make sure you go do so on <a href="https://previouslyonhalo.com/"><strong>previouslyonhalo.com</strong></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CANON, CURATION, AND CURIOSITY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_issueone_banner-7c35cee599aa48a6aefc4c43f771b1e6.jpg" alt="Timestamp of Grimbrother One's first issue of Canon Fodder"/></figure>



<p>Today’s edition is a bit of a special milestone I must say. Last week happened to mark the seventh anniversary(!) of the Canon Fodder blog series, which saw its first issue drop on Sept 24, 2014, during the lead-up to <em>Halo: The Master Chief Collection</em>. It’s been an epic adventure so far, and I certainly hope it will be around for many more issues and anniversaries to come. In thinking back on its run thus far, it’s only fitting that we now find ourselves in the midst of another runway to launch—this time for an adventure taking us to, fittingly enough, Installation 07. With <em>Halo Infinite </em>primed to introduce fans to a host of new moments, memories, and mysteries, and across more platforms and places to play than ever, it’s expected that we likely have plenty of new readers coming on board—both in recent months and still to come. With that in mind I thought it might be a good time to offer a bit of a refresher on not just the feature itself and its purview, but also on the nature of Halo’s lore and universe all up.</p>



<p>Long-time readers of this feature will no doubt have a good idea of what to expect from these particular pages (and this particular penman, for that matter). Canon Fodder was an idea that was built from the very beginning to look at the Halo franchise specifically through the lens of its lore, making fiction the foundational focus no matter what subject we tackled. Sometimes it was diving deep into hard core canon and continuity questions or looking closer at a particular event or element to offer new insight into its story significance. We’ve offered both elucidations and revelations alike, but we’ve also taken the opportunity to put a fiction-focused spin on other aspects of the brand. We <strong>interviewed real-life star-searching scientists</strong> to get their thoughts on the relationship between science and science fiction. <strong>We asked Halo pro players</strong> what their favorite campaign and story-related aspects of Halo were to celebrate the Season 1 Finals of the then-fledgling <a href="http://www.halo.gg/"><strong>Halo Championship Series</strong></a>. And of course we’ve covered cross-over adventures with the likes of <strong>Killer Instinct</strong>, <strong>Gears of War</strong>, <strong>Rocket League</strong>, and more. Over the years, this feature has also become a go-to outlet for announcements and reveals of new story-related products, from new novels and comics to guidebooks and gear. Canon Fodder is a celebration of <em>all</em> things Halo, as viewed from a tailored perspective specifically aimed at fiction-focused fans.</p>



<p>Let’s talk about Halo fiction for a moment though. For newcomers, it might be daunting to dwell on the prospect of a universe with <em>so much </em>“established” detail and history. It can definitely seem like a lot. Fortunately, you have official outlets like this one alongside scores of others across the incredible Halo “lore” community all eager to welcome folks in to discuss and learn, from blogs and forums to YouTube channels and podcasts. And if you’re unsure what we mean by “canon,” it’s essentially the curated collection of “official” fiction and story elements, which includes a mix of games, novels, reference books, and comics, as well as various “linear media” elements like animated features, live action mini-series, and even certain marketing trailers and content. Part of what makes the Halo universe so enthralling <em>is </em>that very history. The depth that seems to always give you more to look for, to discuss and discover. Of course, even for old veterans there’s always more to learn. Sometimes it’s easy to make assumptions or jump to certain conclusions, but it’s always good to remember that world-building and storytelling in a universe as vast as Halo is an incredibly complex endeavor, and that surprises can be around any corner—no matter how long you’ve been exploring that universe.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf119_module-fc7957141bca4b72a4e78164a88c8889.jpg" alt="Concept art from The Art of Halo Infinite book"/></figure>



<p>And with that, we draw today’s edition to a close. Thanks for spending the last seven years reading these crazy love-letters to lore, and here’s to at least another seven more! So don’t think we’re going anywhere. We have a <em>lot </em>to discuss in the coming age—new moments, new memories, new mysteries. Actually that also reminds me, we have another book coming up soon so we should talk about that a bit more in the nearish future, shouldn’t we?</p>



<p>In the meantime, go read the <strong>latest Inside Infinite article</strong> and also check out the most recent <strong>Technical Preview Overview</strong> to get updated on all the current flighting information. And when you’re ready, grab a fireteam, check your schedules, and go put your new Mjolnir to the test!</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and always be ready to learn new things.</p>



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


Issue 119

Preview Purview

ISSUE 118

Myths & Mysteries

Master Class


<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ISSUE 116</h4>



<p>So, it’s been a pretty good month for new Halo news I feel like. <strong>Last issue, we covered some of the more lore-related elements of our multiplayer reveal in the Xbox & Bethesda Games Showcase</strong>, as well as touching on further similarly-themed goodness (speaking of which, <strong>have you signed up for the Halo Insider program</strong> yet?). This edition, we’re looking ahead to a brand-new addition to the story, one that will pair with your <em>Halo Infinite </em>campaign experience like an extra helping of your favorite dish. And speaking of dish, let’s do so.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CROSSING THE RIVER</h2>



<p>Kicking things off, today we’re excited to announce the next novel in this universe we all love—<em>Halo: The Rubicon Protocol</em>, penned by our stellar stablemate <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay"><strong>Kelly Gay</strong></a>. In her last novel, <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Point-of-Light/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147860"><strong><em>Halo: Point of Light</em></strong></a>, Kelly made a pit stop onto the surface of Zeta Halo while on a galactic gallivanting tour with our favorite <em>Mariner</em>-class spacecraft and its daring denizens. This time, our popular pen pal is heading back to Installation 07, but on a very different mission, and with a very different cast of characters.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_the_rubicon_protocol_cover_art_lrg-cd9f507a658e442c9d43bd2e3a411366.png"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_trp-novel_1120_wmec-f74eeae7458d4384961774c677976ecb.jpg" alt=""/></a></figure>



<p><em>Click the image for a bigger, cleaner version!</em></p>



<p>As you may have been piecing together throughout previous trailers and information drops, <em>Halo Infinite</em>’s campaign begins roughly six months after UNSC forces were ambushed at Zeta Halo. During that time, the UNSC has been mounting a resistance on a shorn fragment of the ring, desperately trying to hold out long enough for hope to arrive. In <em>Halo: The Rubicon Protocol</em>, you’ll get a unique glimpse of humanity’s struggle to survive amidst a growing Banished occupation that takes place in that period.</p>



<p>To be clear, this adventure stands on its own—but if you find yourself enjoying and eager to learn more about some of the scattered stories you might encounter while playing the game, then <em>Halo: The Rubicon Protocol </em>will be right up your alley when it drops next March.</p>



<p>We’ll certainly have more to share down the road, but in the meantime, enjoy the fantastic cover art above, composed by the talented <a href="https://twitter.com/pixelflaregfx"><strong>William “Pixelflare” Cameron</strong></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MARK INSTALLATION</h2>



<p>This week we launched Season 7 of <em>Halo: The Master Chief Collection</em>, which focuses primarily on Sangheili customization items. If you’re interested in learning more about some of the lore behind the armors we added, <strong>check out Issue 114</strong>.  But that’s not all we added!</p>



<p>To celebrate the upcoming <em>Halo Infinite</em>, we’re adding the prototype for the Mk.VII helmet—KEYSTONE—into Halo 4 within the MCC. It’s a pretty awesome opportunity to look ahead to the studio’s latest brand-new adventure by placing a small piece of it in our first one.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_keystoneclean-343f3ddd8a11426bbe421e3901892dcc.jpg"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_keystoneclean_1120-3762ec83e14e499c808621031b6a472a.jpg" alt=""/></a></figure>



<p><em>Behold! Even more pixel flair.</em></p>



<p><em>The KEYSTONE enhancement suite represents a Materials Group evolutionary design study that—when combined elements developed on earlier Mk. VII iterations, such as the example seen worn by Spartan Naomi-010, as well as the GEN2 DECIMATOR suite, among others—eventually formed the basis of the production Mk. VII in Mjolnir’s third development generation.</em></p>



<p>If you want to get your hands on—or, head in, I guess—one for yourself, make sure you pick it up for free at the Exchange in-game!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HIGHWAY TO HELMET</h2>



<p>As we mentioned up top, last issue we touched on a number of different sandbox elements from our universe that fans saw show up in last week’s showcase of <em>Halo Infinite </em>multiplayer goodness. Several fans noted that were some obvious items that we didn’t highlight, including some examples of pieces—helmets in particular—that had actually already been seen as far back as our first Inside Infinite development blog this past December. We figured that seemed like a logical spot to reach a revelatory compromise, so today, we’re bringing back those items and giving you a few additional little lore details to attach to them.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ANUBIS [GEN3]</h4>



<p><strong>Manufacturer</strong>: Lethbridge Industrial</p>



<p><em>The ANUBIS is unusual in that its structural frame and core electronics are “grown” inside Sangheili assembly forges, though final assembly and integration uses traditional fabrication techniques.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_anubis_1120-33b9deae14e4452dbc3546894ef014af.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_anubis_4k-26f9b829cdde48289e0da3725de54674.png"></a></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">MK.V ZETA [GEN3]</h4>



<p><strong>Manufacturer:</strong> Materials Group</p>



<p><em>Spartans assigned to ONI’s Xeno-Materials Exploitation Group on Installation 07 found that their upgraded MARK V’s mix of high-threat response and surveillance interlinks were ideal for the ring’s peculiar operating environment.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_mkvzeta_1120-4c6cab5a1fdd4febae912757d648df97.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_mkvzeta_4k-4513ba57cee24a17b09d08e97ab96a94.png"></a></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">CAVALLINO [GEN3]</h4>



<p><strong>Manufacturer: </strong>Emerson Tactical Systems</p>



<p><em>The CAVALLINO expands Emerson’s offerings with MJOLNIR-platform helmets, tailored for the needs of fireteam leaders, trainers, and combat observers.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_cavallino_1120-9338ca49d2714378be8a0dda0ad9c6c9.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_cavallino_4k-32673c5c6416434db5b64088be00867e.png"></a></p>



<p>The above options pieces were developed from the ground up as the initial wave of the GEN3 Mjolnir suite. Of course, you’ll also have the opportunity to pursue the GEN1 Mjolnir Mk.V(b) platform as well, with its own array of available modifications. This technology dates back to the Covenant war era but has been fully reconditioned and upgraded with newer and more optimized components, giving life to older tech at an integral time, and offering a new generation of Spartans the opportunity to take to the battlefield outfitted in the same style of armor that some of their own heroes once donned. Let’s take a look at once such example:</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">GRENADIER [GEN1]</h4>



<p><strong>Manufacturer</strong>: Materials Group</p>



<p><em>GRENADIER helmets are officially categorized as prototypes, as NAVSPECWAR wrestles with the overwhelming cost of its lightweight armored composite shell.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_grenadier_1120-bf50ff67891041239de4de04f5c5f918.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p><a href="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_grenadier_4k-afd9644d9ed44bb2859c02885672acf5.png"></a></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DIVINE WIN</h2>



<p>Before we close for today, we thought we’d bookend this issue with some extra bit of novel news. <strong>Back in Issue 112</strong> we announced the next novel from the acclaimed penman Troy Denning, <em>Halo: Divine Wind</em>. We gave you the title, the author, and the cover—which you can see here again, by the fantastic Benjamin Carre. Today, we thought you might enjoy a more detailed description of the adventure to whet your whistle.</p>



<p><em>October 2559. With the galaxy in the suffocating grip of a renegade artificial intelligence, another perilous threat has quietly emerged in the shadows: the Keepers of the One Freedom, a fanatical and merciless Covenant splinter group, has made its way beyond the borders of the galaxy to an ancient Forerunner installation known as the Ark. Led by an infamous Brute named Castor, the Keepers intend to achieve what the Covenant, in all its might, failed to: activate Halo and take the last steps on the path of the Great Journey into transcendence…</em></p>



<p><em>But unknown to Castor and his new, unexpected ally on the Ark, there are traitors to the cause in their midst—namely the Ferrets, composed of Office of Naval Intelligence operative Veta Lopis and her young team of Spartan-IIIs, who have been infiltrating the Keepers to lay the groundwork for Castor’s assassination. But with ONI’s field operations now splintered and cut off by the Guardian threat, Veta’s original mission has suddenly and dramatically escalated in scope. There’s simply no choice or fallback plan—either the Ferrets somehow stop the Keepers or the galaxy faces an extinction-level event….</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_dw_wrapart_1920-88850fb780384093939bcce7247e3a7f.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>Veta. Lopis. Fanclub.</em></p>



<p><em>Halo: Divine Wind </em>is slated to hit store shelves, digital displays, and audio instruments on October 19, and you can <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Divine-Wind/Troy-Denning/Halo/9781982174903"><strong>secure your own copy by heading here</strong></a>!</p>



<p>Before we head out, just in case you missed it, go and <strong>check out our latest edition of Inside Infinite</strong>, which dropped yesterday. It covers some cool new info about upcoming updates to Halo Waypoint (both in web and app forms!) as well as some new progression details on how you’ll be able to expand your personal arsenal in <em>Halo Infinite</em>—with new items within the Halo universe, as well as some that fall decidedly <em>outside </em>of our canon in some cool and unique ways. But more on that another day…</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/BlogPost/InsideInfinite-June2021/infinite_fractures_tenrai_branded_1120x630-bc5f89c7719a466d8d53a2a4590c4a9c.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>For now, that will do it for us this time around. Don’t wander off too far though… we do have a bit of a special milestone coming up next issue it seems like.</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and it’s <strong>Spartan Agryna</strong> [ah-GREEN-yuh]. Laurette is her <em>first </em>name.</p>



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


Parallel Threads

Showcase Sensitive


<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ISSUE 114</h4>



<p>Wait, weren’t we just here? Fancy that! That tends to happen when you’ve got a whole marvelous mess of Halo happenings all dropping around the same time. Just last week we released <strong>Issue 113</strong>, which introduced fans to some pretty cool upcoming elements to be encountered in <em>Halo Infinite </em>when it finds its way into your home. And I’m particularly excited about <em>today’s</em> edition of <strong>Canon Fodder</strong> as it’s covering something near and dear to my Halo heart. Let’s keep the preamble short for this one and get right to it, shall we?</p>



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



<p>So the Master Chief Collection has certainly been on a bit of a roll lately, in fact, <strong>Issue 112</strong> covered a bunch of the awesome additions that came to the game as part of Season 6: Raven. In today’s edition, we’re going to do a similar dance, but <em>this </em>time, we’ll be hopefully quenching the thirst of a particularly passionate corner of the fanbase—those dedicated to the noble warriors of Sanghelios.</p>



<p>Let’s take a little preview of some elements we’re hoping to include in <strong>MCC Season 7: Elite</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HARNESS THE POWER, DINO FIGHTERS</h2>



<p>While Season 7 is still in the proverbial oven, some members of the <strong>Halo Insider</strong> program might start seeing some alien content showing up in upcoming flighting builds very soon (which you can keep up with via Postums’ <strong>handy dandy update threads</strong> right here on the Waypoint forums). <strong>And as always, it’s important to remember that just because something appears in a flight <em>doesn’t </em>necessarily mean it will ultimately make the cut when it comes to eventually making it into the full game in a future season</strong>. That being said, let’s take a look at some of the particularly pertinent items that are currently undergoing evaluation.</p>



<p>As we covered a bit further in <strong>Issue 111</strong>, Anvil Station is a clandestine site where members of the UNSC and allied Swords of Sanghelios work together to develop new technologies and strategies in a joint effort that seeks to build upon a foundation of cooperation in hopes to move the futures of both species forward in a positive direction. While you’ve already seen some of the developmental fruits of the UNSC’s labor in the added armor sets of previous MCC seasons, it’s finally time to take a look at some of the combat harnesses developed and/or utilized by our zygodactyl-handed friends.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">KEEPWARD</h3>



<p><em>Analogous in many ways to an Honor Guard, the Keepwards are often tasked with maintaining the safety of a region’s kaidon.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-keepward-9cfd012b51b847b788600d886afb9647.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ACCORD</h3>



<p><em>One of the first Sangheili combat harnesses designed primarily by human engineers as part of the Anvil Initiative.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-accord-a92bf5ec000548c5843ce1b62cb9d3ed.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">GENERAL</h3>



<p><em>Even after the war, many Sangheili warlords chose to don harnesses of high esteem on the battlefield—some looking to fill a power vacuum left by an empire’s fall, others seeking to reclaim a far older sense of honor.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-general-e916a989be3445ae963ae678203283a8.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">SENESCHAL</h3>



<p><em>Little is known of the Evocati’s seneschal order, but documents uncovered after the Covenant War have begun to shed new light on the true purview of the role.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-senschal-c867944fe1bf4729ac085e7af171f3ab.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">SCION</h3>



<p><em>Typically held by Sangheili females, the role of scion is most often granted in the event of a kaidon’s death. As Arbiter Thel ‘Vadam has grown in influence, the scion has become an increasingly respected and valued position across their people.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-scion-8cddc5d3b8fd4178bb8a386f6e0dc3d1.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">OSSOONA</h3>



<p><em>One of the harness patterns favored by the “Eyes of the Prophets,” many who once held this title are now considered enemies of the keep for traitorous actions during the Great Schism. </em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-ossoona-c52ddf0ce6a6413dbe73f9077d3745ef.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">ARTISAN</h3>



<p><em>While still adept warriors in their own right, Sangheili artisan armorers are accomplished craftsmen who—free from San’Shyuum oversight and coercion—are entering a renaissance period of warsmithing.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-artisan-3c11b1df7d11441f93acbe25610f82d8.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



<p>Before we let the folks over in the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGTQEIXyveioCVzqyMTwp4Q"><strong>Covenant Canon</strong></a> community catch their collective breath, let’s move on to one of my personal favorite additions to Halo 3’s alien arsenal: some newly skinned energy swords. Because nothing makes a season truly Elite like a diverse and expanded range of options for the Sangheili’s most beloved tools of the trade.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">EVOCATI’S EDGE</h3>



<p><em>Only the most adept blademasters were chosen to wield the Ultra’s holy fire.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-evocatisedge-2d23731eaef94bc1979f2c5fc042c48e.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">NECROPLASMA</h3>



<p><em>The glow of fury for those who refuse to become pawns of the creeping death.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-necroplasma-3cbdd9dd06b34eca92c9fd8288a56b5f.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">LIGHT OF JOORI</h3>



<p><em>Joori’s warm light helps give Sanghelios life. This blade is for all who defend her.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-lightofjoori-38a282c2f1cf43eb8ec2c9f95ca3166d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">KAIDON’S GUARD</h3>



<p><em>The Swords of Sanghelios brandish blades bound by honor—to defend a keep not bound by borders.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-kaidonsguard-15f0ac7efad14f1cb3feebceebebc7d7.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">DARKSTAR</h3>



<p><em>Will Fied call out your name in the Hall of Eternity when your last breath has been spent?</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-darkstar-2d312d378b704150a2582513769cff49.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">BLOODBLADE</h3>



<p><em>Hidden. Active. Deadly. The Silent Shadow have been. The Silent Shadow remain.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-bloodblade-c5aa55db2ec743aaa4ce3706342109aa.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">LANCE OF SUBAN</h3>



<p><em>Only Subanese natives may possess blades infused with a shard of the moon’s own bounty.</em></p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-lanceofsuban-5e6b07475cd04686a73914b19c1f108f.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>We look forward to sharing further about MCC’s seventh season in the future, so stay tuned to all your normal Halo haunts to learn more as its ready.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DARK HORSE DEEP DIVES</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-comiccrop-16f9bf16a5e547c0b0838a65398f16c0.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Last issue we mentioned our partners at Dark Horse Comics were re-releasing the <em>Halo Graphic Novel</em>, but that’s not all they’re up to. Also getting another go is <em>Halo: Legacy Collection</em>, a fantastic comic compendium featuring every issue from three different comic mini-series: <em>Halo: Uprising, Halo: Helljumper, </em>and <em>Halo: Bloodline</em>. If you haven’t checked these stories out for yourself, this is the perfect way to jump in. If you are a collector that likes things all in one place, it’s an ideal addition there too! For more details, <a href="https://www.darkhorse.com/Blog/3322/relive-legacy-new-halo-collection-dark-horse"><strong>check out the article direct</strong></a> from the Dark Horse’s mouth.</p>



<p>Short and sweet. Or would that be “short and leet?” Anyway, that’s all that we’ve got for today, but I imagine that we’ll have plenty more to talk about in the coming months. We’ll see you then.</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and wort wort wort!</p>



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


Art of Wort


<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ISSUE 113</h4>



<p>Aaaaand we’re back! Another month has passed in 2021(!) and we always appreciate you stopping by your friendly neighborhood Waypoint to say hello. And hey, since we’re both already here, might as well make the trip worth your while, right? How about a little <em>tiny</em> bit of <em>Halo Infinite </em>info (just a little bit)? Is that okay? Actually speaking of Infinite info, before we get started, if you haven’t checked out the latest <strong>Inside Infinite </strong>blog, you should go and do that—it’s a delightful amalgamation of PC talk, pretty pictures, and personal proclamations. Also, if you missed the last issue of Canon Fodder itself, you can check it out <strong>here</strong>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BOSS MITIGATION</h2>



<p>So back in <strong>Issue 108</strong>, we introduced you to a new character by the name of Jega ‘Rdomnai, a Sangheili blademaster loyal to Escharum and the Banished forces. We also mentioned that he was only one of several characters you would encounter in your adventures on Zeta Halo. Some will make their intentions obvious, while others might only give hints at their own deeper history. Each is designed to help introduce you to the nature and evolving presence of the Banished in the Halo universe, and I have a feeling that different folks will find different favorites.</p>



<p>To help hold you over a bit until you learn more in the coming months, here’s a couple of Brute brothers you’re likely to run across. A word of advice: they aren’t big fans of Spartans.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-hyperiusconcept-3abec560076f42fe90a58cb656878089.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



<p><em>Hyperius concept (David Heidhoff)</em></p>



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<p><em>Tovarus concept (Nuare & Zack Lee)</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SCRAP PARTY</h2>



<p>Also, beefy Brutes tend to need a beefy weapon. Say hello to the Scrap Cannon. Early on, it’s nickname was the “gatling mortar.” What’s that? You don’t enjoy hot metal being hurled at you from uncomfortable distances while you’re just trying to mind your own business and defend humanity? Well, too bad so sad, shouldn’t have made the Brutes mad. Anyway, before I go and make a song out of something else, take a peek at this cool concept art for this deadly and detachable damage-dealer.</p>



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<p><em>Scrap Cannon concept (Daniel Chavez)</em></p>



<p>What? You want <em>more</em>?!</p>



<p>Sheesh… fine.</p>



<p>One more.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WOO PIG SOOIE</h2>



<p>So we heard you like taking Marines on adventures and stuff. Well, let me introduce you to the Razorback. Think of it as the Warthog’s more spacious and robust cousin—perfect for crashing Banished house parties with and taking on scenic drives.</p>



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<p><em>Razorback concept (Darren Bacon & Sparth)</em></p>



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



<p>I mean it.</p>



<p>Don’t look at me in that tone of voice!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE LIGHT STUFF</h2>



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<p>Moving along, in case you hadn’t heard, our most recent novel released not too long ago. Penned by <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay"><strong>Kelly Gay</strong></a>, <em>Halo: Point of Light </em>has provided a wealth of awesome opportunity for community discussion, and it certainly seems to be hitting several solid notes with story fans if online discourse is anything to go by. We’ve seen a number of great reviews, recaps, and author interviews around the community and thought we’d gather up a couple here to help keep the discussion going.</p>



<p>Kicking us off, Windows Central’s resident Halo loremaster <a href="https://twitter.com/BrendanLorLowry"><strong>Brendan Lowry</strong></a> put <a href="https://www.windowscentral.com/halo-point-light-interview"><strong>together a great chat with Kelly</strong></a>, talking about the new novel from another very knowledgeable perspective.</p>



<p>Sticking with the in-print train, <a href="https://twitter.com/paulsemel"><strong>Paul Semel</strong></a> gathered Kelly’s thoughts on the book’s development as well, which you can <a href="https://paulsemel.com/exclusive-interview-halo-point-of-light-author-kelly-gay/"><strong>read right here</strong></a>.</p>



<p>Once you <em>have </em>given the book a proper go, head over to the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/HaloCanon"><strong>Halo Canon</strong></a> YouTube channel for a spoiler-laden recap and breakdown, which you can check out here:</p>



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<p> Likewise, <a href="https://twitter.com/PodcastEvolved"><strong>Podcast Evolved</strong></a> put out a great author interview and review that you should definitely check out: </p>



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<p>And wrapping this particular train up is <a href="https://haruspis.blog/2021/03/01/halo-point-of-light-an-interview-with-kelly-gay/"><strong>another interview and <em>Point of Light </em>primer</strong></a> from Alex “<a href="https://twitter.com/haruspis"><strong>Haruspis</strong></a>” Wakeford.</p>



<p>If you <em>haven’t </em>grabbed your own copy of the book yet, <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Point-of-Light/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147860"><strong>you can do so here</strong></a>, and don’t forget that if audio books are your jam, this particular one is fittingly narrated by none other than Spark himself, <a href="https://twitter.com/davocal1"><strong>Tim Dadabo</strong></a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CANON-CURIOUS CALLOUTS</h2>



<p>Speaking of community, we wanted to mention a couple of other great podcasts and other aural treasures that have popped up recently-ish—particularly ones that often have a lore and story focus.</p>



<ul><li>One of the newest additions to the fray is <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/6zb5aggQnodCEcmcfkKRN6?si=Co6fTnxPSjmGarNF3dxK2A"><strong>The Luminary</strong></a>, a great lore-focused podcast from <a href="https://twitter.com/monicalowry"><strong>@monicalowry</strong></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/Josie_CD"><strong>@Josie_CD</strong></a>. They’re just getting started, so it’s the perfect time to get in on the ground floor.</li><li>Not really rookies anymore, but the <a href="https://open.spotify.com/show/4bADp7ekNH3n82wDlTrT8U?si=fk2Fj6IHSkyuhOmTlkqJZQ"><strong>Sacred Icon Podcast</strong></a> from <a href="https://twitter.com/bryansbane"><strong>@bryansbane</strong></a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/jovialjoshy"><strong>@jovialjoshy</strong></a> is always great for solid conversation about a variety of Halo topics including plenty of lore and universe discussions.</li><li>The <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjQrco3qSmVgmLeB71VCaBQ">Installation00</a></strong> YouTube channel started a new series that showcases a dramatized reading of different sections of the <strong><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Halo-Mythos-Guide-Story/dp/1681193566/">Halo Mythos</a></strong> story guide. It’s pretty rad to see the words brought to auditory life in a cool way—definitely give the first couple of entries a watch!</li></ul>



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<p> Before we go, our friends at Dark Horse Comics recently announced a re-release of an absolutely marvelous momento for Halo lore fans: the <em>Halo Graphic Novel</em>. Originally developed in-house at Bungie and released way back in 2006, this gem features awesome stories and incredible art—but has also been pretty darn tough to find these days. If you’ve been wanting to add a copy to your own collection, here’s a new chance to do so! </p>



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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Legends never die! New edition of the graphic novel that introduced Halo to comics arrives this summer. Includes 4 classic Halo stories by Simon Bisley, Lee Hammock, Tsutomu Nihei, Ed Lee, Andrew Robinson, Jay Faerber, Brett Lewis, Moebius. More: <a href="https://t.co/58mox2tElG">https://t.co/58mox2tElG</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HaloGear?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HaloGear</a> <a href="https://t.co/wRfvn1eGo4">pic.twitter.com/wRfvn1eGo4</a></p>— Dark Horse Comics (@DarkHorseComics) <a href="https://twitter.com/DarkHorseComics/status/1383095364941660160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p> And for a deeper dive on the history of the <em>Halo Graphic Novel</em>, check out yet another awesome video by the Halo Canon YouTube channel. </p>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">EXTENDED APPRECIATION</h2>



<p>Actually, speaking of cool ways to celebrate additional Halo lore, our friends at <a href="https://www.megaconstrux.com/en-us/halo/sets"><strong>Mega Construx</strong></a> have started showing off more awesome Halo sets, including new items like the Banished Brute Chopper, which also features Spartan-II stalwart Fred-104 to celebrate Blue Team’s epic conflict in the <strong><em><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Halo-Shadows-Reach-Master-Chief/dp/1982143614">Halo: Shadows of Reach</a> </em></strong>novel alongside the Banished war chief Escharum. Make sure you’re following the <strong><a href="https://twitter.com/halogear">HaloGear</a> </strong>social channels for further details and keep a close eye out for more sets like this yet to come!</p>



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<p>And with that, we wrap up today’s festivities. Hope you have a great week! We’ll see you soon.</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and this is my favorite blog on the Citadel.</p>



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


Peek Design


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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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<p> The book is shaping up to be one that Halo universe fans are going to probably be discussing for quite some time if early adopters are anything to go by, and we couldn’t be more excited to see the, well… excitement. <3 </p>



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



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



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



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



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


Hot Drops


<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ISSUE 111</h4>



<p>Happy new year! January has brought with it a fantastic feeling of fresh starts and eager outlooks, so we figure it’s only natural that we add to the festivities with the first Canon Fodder of 2021. We’ve got some MCC armor lore to discuss and some recent announcements to resurface, so let’s get to it, shall we?</p>



<p>Also, in case you missed it, we <strong>recently announced a brand-new novel from Kelly Gay</strong> on the way on March 2. What you might not know is that we <em>also </em>recently announced that the audio book will be read by none other than the lightbulb liaison himself, Mr. Tim Dadabo! For those of you who enjoyed his dulcet tones in the audiobook for <em>Halo: Primordium</em>, you already know what a treat you’re in for. We figured considering the subject matter, there was no better person for the task, and we’re thrilled that the right stars were able to align to make it happen.</p>



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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We're thrilled to announce that Tim Dadabo (<a href="https://twitter.com/davocal1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@davocal1</a>), voice of 343 Guilty Spark, will be narrating the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/audiobook?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#audiobook</a> edition of Halo: Point of Light by <a href="https://twitter.com/KellyHGay?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KellyHGay</a>, coming March 2!<br><br>Pre-order it via <a href="https://twitter.com/SimonAudio?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SimonAudio</a>: <br>Audible: <a href="https://t.co/VX1ktUTj2q">https://t.co/VX1ktUTj2q</a><br>Google Play: <a href="https://t.co/8eTd2mRRCa">https://t.co/8eTd2mRRCa</a> <a href="https://t.co/rdfUUt8Qe0">pic.twitter.com/rdfUUt8Qe0</a></p>— Halo (@Halo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo/status/1351613091369218048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2021</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<p><em>Halo: Point of Light </em>follows up on the story first forged in <em>Smoke & Shadow</em> and <em>Renegades</em>, and we can’t wait for you all to read it.</p>



<p>And speaking of forging, now might be the time to transition over to today’s main event. And for all you secret smiths wondering “how soon is now?” Well, you gotta strike while the iron’s hot.</p>



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



<p>As many of you know, we recently announced that we’re adding items from the experimental <em>Halo Online </em>project into the Master Chief Collection as part of the Season 5 slate of customization options. Keen-eyed fiction fans will likely recognize certain aspects that surfaced in various ways over the past few years, but their inclusion in MCC <em>Halo 3</em> multiplayer will mark their first “true” inclusion into proper canon, including more definitive lore and robust integration into the overall universe.</p>



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<p>Of course, for time-capsule types who prefer to keep their clocks set to 2007, there’s an option to toggle off any new cosmetic content such as skins for weapons and vehicles as well as armor add-ons.</p>



<p>When you boot up <em>Halo: The Master Chief Collection</em> on Jan 27, you’ll be greeted with a brand new season, appropriately titled “<strong>Anvil</strong>.” As the name implies, these new customization items find their fictional foundations within a classified facility known as Anvil Station. In case you aren’t familiar with this particular element of our universe, let’s catch you up.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">ANVIL STATION</h4>



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<p>Following the close of the Covenant War and the aftermath of the Great Schism, the UNSC entered into a classified partnership with the Swords of Sanghelios, a faction of allied Elites loyal to Arbiter Thel ‘Vadam and his cause. The foundation of this partnership was a retrofit orbital facility coined Anvil Station. Alongside the ANVIL Initiative was a complimentary program codenamed Project: CRUCIBLE, which involved the establishment of a joint task force made of both humans and Sangheili across a number of disciplines and specializations, from artisan armorers and technical experts to battle-bred warriors and steel-willed super-soldiers. With the decades long conflict placing both species at precarious moments in their respective civilizations, the hope was that by putting aside differences, cooperation could become the cornerstone of a robust rebuilding effort that aimed to see both humans and Sangheili alike benefit from a long-term partnership.</p>



<p>At Anvil Station, the UNSC would test skunkworks technologies and clandestine prototypes, some destined for full and successful production runs, other merely serving as a stop-gap in the development pipeline of Mjolnir components, weapon advancements, and more. Warriors from both sides were eager to face off in field test simulations, hoping to not only advance their respective technologies, but hone their personal proficiency in battle.</p>



<p>Many of these elements you might recognize from their “production run” state in later games, variants like DEADEYE, PIONEER, WARRIOR, and SOLDIER. And just like real life, sometimes a concept makes it to production with very few adjustments—and sometimes there are changes more robust than others.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CRUCIBLE CARAPACE COLLECTION</h2>



<p>Let’s take a closer look at the armors you’ll be able to earn in Season 5, and how their lore is laid out.</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">AIR ASSAULT</h4>



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<p><em>A favorite of Spartans tasked with assisting ANVIL Station security personnel.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Employed by interceptor squadrons assigned to ANVIL Station.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>A prototype Mjolnir suit tested at ANVIL Station on behalf of unidentified third parties.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Acheron Security hopes that ANVIL testing will prove out improvements made after the suit’s use on Installation 03.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Even mainline armor kits can benefit from evaluation in ANVIL training courses.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>ANVIL Station is the ideal equipment testing environment for Spartans tasked with eliminating localized Flood infestations.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Spartan combat medics and specialized Mjolnir are a new experiment series approved for ANVIL testing.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Specific technologies being worked on for Mark VII have found their way into ANVIL prototypes for focused evaluation.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Contains experimental multi-band sensory receptors produced aboard ANVIL Station by Swords of Sanghelios artisan-armorers.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Cross-training with Sangheili rangers on ANVIL Station will improve the suit’s stealth capabilities.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Even the Sangheili aboard ANVIL Station are impressed with the resilience of this human harness.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>ANVIL Station testing has proven this is one of the Mjolnir platform’s most versatile variants.</em></p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HOMETEAM HELM</h2>



<p>Of course, <em>Halo </em>3 isn’t the only closet in the collection receiving a few new additions to the wardrobe. In <strong>Issue 109 we dove into the lore</strong> surrounding one of the new helmets being added to <em>Halo: Reach</em>’s customization suite. Today, we’re going to tackle the other. Joining AKIS is the new MARINER helm, which also includes a few curious variants all its own.</p>



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



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<p><em>Standard MARINER suite is optimized for Sabre, Baselard, and Nandao flight systems.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>Even in the violent and chaotic rigors of space warfare, MARINER remains unbowed.</em></p>



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



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<p><em>An enhanced optical suite for detecting polyband thermal and chemical signatures.</em></p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">MISTER CHIEF</h4>



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<p><em>The absolute zenith of human endeavor and a perfect encapsulation of human talent.</em></p>



<p>Okay, that last one might not be hard canon. Or actually, maybe it’s the “Kilroy” of the 26<sup>th</sup> century. Hmm…. Anyway, I digest. Depress. Digress. Whatever.</p>



<p>Oh! and let’s not forget that new chest piece:</p>



<h4 class="wp-block-heading">EXO/TSCS</h4>



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<p><em>Modified for exo-atmospheric engagements, with onboard Tactical Signals Intelligence Collection System.</em></p>



<p>And speaking of new armor before we go, in case for some reason you missed it, last month we dropped a pretty substantial bit of new info on <em>Halo Infinite</em>, all wrapped up in a pretty little bow in the <strong>December 2020 edition of the “Inside Infinite” development update</strong>. More than a few folks have already begun discussing thoughts and speculation about fiction-focused details surrounding the new armor elements shown off in the aforementioned feature.</p>



<p>Maybe we should talk about those sometime soon.</p>



<p>And with that, we bid you a fond farewell as far as this edition goes. But as we’ve said before, we’re going to have a lot more to discuss later this year, so don’t go getting <em>too </em>cozy.</p>



<p>Until next time… Live well, play Halo, and give more compliments to people. Also, GO BUCS!</p>



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