Esports

As mentioned in the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/operation-infinite-preview" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Operation: Infinite Preview Blog</a>, this is the last major content update currently planned for Halo Infinite.



Throughout the past four years, there have been countless memories made in the competitive space – both online in Ranked matchmaking and in-person at our HCS events. Friendships forged and championships won… with a little bit of sweat here and there. Thank you to the Ranked and HCS community for the feedback & enthusiasm to help make Halo Infinite into the game and into the community that it is today.



Without further ado, let’s talk about the new Ranked content coming in Operation: Infinite 



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">RANKED UPDATES</h1>



Bragging rights are forever. Operation: Infinite introduces a new asymmetrical map for select Ranked modes and a fresh Ranked Seasons calendar to keep your skills sharp. The new map, Vacancy, was commissioned by HCS and we hired two forgers who have never let us down – <a href="https://x.com/MikRips">MikRips</a> and <a href="https://x.com/EthanHibbs9">Ethan Hibbs</a>.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">NEW MAP: VACANCY</h1>





Forged by: <a href="https://x.com/MikRips">MikRips</a>, <a href="https://x.com/EthanHibbs9">Ethan Hibbs</a> 



On a quiet square sits the Hotel Kijani, a cozy, but modest inn practically baked into its surroundings by years of mid-afternoon heat. Hours after the markets have closed, when the last fruit truck has packed away its wares, the alleyway staircases and typically busy thoroughfares have emptied, and long shadows begin to grow on the crested archways of this storied city—only then do warriors strafe its scenic courtyards in pursuit of glory. 



You can check in anytime you like, but you can never leave. 



Vacancy arrives in Ranked Arena, Ranked Slayer, Ranked Doubles, and select ranked rotational playlists on November 18, 2025. 





<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">RANKED SEASONS</h1>



More Ranked Seasons are on their way. Every few months, skilled tacticians will get the chance to secure a spot on the seasonal leaderboard and claim exclusive Spartan customizations from a new slate of Ranked Rewards before Competitive Skill Rank (CSR) values reset at the conclusion of each Ranked Season. 



During Ranked Seasons, the Ranked Rotational playlist will periodically change to offer fresh challenges with a mix of strategic, throwback, and tactical modes. The next Ranked Rotational playlist to go live will be Ranked Snipers. 



Here’s a friendly reminder that recently, the Ranked fireteam restrictions were loosened – now, if party members are within your skill range, you can play in parties of 3 or 4 at any rank! 



The next Ranked Season begins November 18.



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO AT DREAMHACK</h1>



Last but not least, stay tuned for the recommended map pools for <a href="https://www.dreamhack.com/birmingham/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dreamhack Birmingham</a> (March 27-29, 2026) and <a href="https://dreamhack.com/atlanta/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Dreamhack Atlanta</a> (May 15-17, 2026). 



We’ll see you on the battlefield, Spartans!

Official HCS

Operation: Infinite (Ranked Update)

Community

Shopify Rebellion are your 2025 Halo World Champions!

Community Spotlight

Whether you joined us in Seattle or on our live broadcast, we’d like to thank everyone in the Halo community for making this year’s Halo World Championship in Seattle such an unforgettable experience.



Between swapping stories with Halo fans, watching elite Halo Infinite players duke it out on the main stage, announcing <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HCEAnnounce25">Halo: Campaign Evolved</a>, and seeing our community raise a whopping $67,000 for <a href="https://www.gamersoutreach.org">Gamers Outreach</a>, it’s hard to pick a favorite moment from this incredible weekend—so we thought we’d share a whole collection of them!



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Thank you! | Halo World Championship 2025" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KB6Ag-2QEoI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Check out more highlights from this year’s Halo World Championship below.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Congrats to Shopify Rebellion</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1708" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-scaled.jpg" alt="Shopify Rebellion claims the trophy at the Halo World Championship Grand Finals." class="wp-image-153966" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-2048x1366.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/ShopifyRebellion_HWCChampions-1568x1046.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



After three days of intense competitive heat, Shopify Rebellion clutched up and came out on top against OpTic Gaming in the best-of-seven Grand Finals. It was a remarkable journey from this year’s earliest HCS events to the Halo World Championship stage, and their relentless dedication certainly paid off on Sunday!



Congratulations to Shopify Rebellion, our 2025 Halo World Champions, and to all the teams that made this year’s tournament the most attended HCS event to date.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Cunning Cosplay</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020.jpg" alt="A group photograph of cosplayer contestants from the Halo World Championship Community Cosplay Contest." class="wp-image-153924" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Halo cosplayers really know how to strut their Spartan stuff! This year’s Community Cosplay Contest welcomed 85 cosplayers to the Community Stage, where they showed off their stellar handiwork and a flair for dramatic entrances.



Congratulations to Miss_Boof (as Olympia Vale), James (as Crochet Master Chief), and Sola Mors (as Flood Spartan) on ascending to the Main Stage, and to all our heroic contestants who dazzled the crowd at the Community Cosplay Contest!



Download photos from the contest: <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay1">Part 1</a> | <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay2">Part 2 </a>| <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25Cosplay3">Part 3</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Mighty Makers</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069.jpg" alt="A row of custom Spartan helmets sits under a VK78 Commando replica painted with a pepperoni pizza design." class="wp-image-153938" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0069-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



This year’s Maker’s Contest was filled with impressive armaments, curious creations, and oddly satisfying oddments. Check out photos from the top three winners below!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078.jpg" alt="Creations from the Halo World Championship Maker's Contest hang displayed on a wall. A mounted trophy head of Jega 'Rdomnai hangs above a scale replica of an Elite Bloodblade, surrounded by more replica Halo weaponry." class="wp-image-153952" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_0078-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Draxes took first place with his Jega ‘Rdomnai bust and Elite Bloodblade (above), followed closely by MightyMarkProps with an extra-lethal Hydra model and Fallen922 with a Craigtastic bass guitar (below).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030.jpg" alt="MightyMarkProps holds a replica Hydra beside Fallen922, who stands proudly with her Craig-inspired bass guitar." class="wp-image-153882" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0030-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Meet-up Memories</h2>



It’s always a treat to meet so many Halo fans IRL! During this weekend’s event, the Halo Studios community team held daily Community Meet-ups featuring Halo-themed games and limited-edition posters by <a href="https://x.com/Soul_ant19">Soul_ant19</a>, <a href="https://x.com/OutletChief729">OutletChief729</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/entransing">entransing</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251.jpg" alt="A group photo of Halo fans and members of the Halo Studios Community Team holding entransing's poster design at a community meet-up." class="wp-image-153896" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-3_0251-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



We’re so grateful to everyone who stopped by to say hello, play games, and sign our posters for the Halo Studios office! If you couldn’t attend in person, don’t forget to <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HWC25MeetUps">snag a digital copy</a> of this year’s Community Meet-up posters.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Halo Fest 2026</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Fest: 25 Years of Halo. HaloFest.com." class="wp-image-153980" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HaloFest-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



Don’t miss your chance to join us in Seattle, WA again for <a href="https://www.halofest.com">Halo Fest</a> in December 2026.



The event begins with an orchestral performance of iconic Halo music, in concert for one night only on December 11, followed by a two-day convention celebrating Halo’s legacy, story, and unrivaled community. We hope you can make it!

Mutinous Core

Thank you for joining us!

Halo World Championship 2025

Halo Fest

2026 marks the 25th anniversary of the Halo franchise and the game started it all – Halo: Combat Evolved. A momentous occasion such as this calls for a celebration!



Today at the Halo World Championship we announced the return of Halo Fest – a community event for you and all of your Halo-loving friends to celebrate the franchise and for any reason you may love it. If you’re a fan of the campaigns, the universe, the rich characters – Halo Fest welcomes you. If you love the music and anytime you see a saxophone you think of Halo 3: ODST – Halo Fest welcomes you. If you love all forms of multiplayer including cooperative and competitive – Halo Fest welcomes you. And if the community at large is a big part of why you continue to love this franchise – Halo Fest welcomes you all.





Over the course of the next year, we’ll be providing monthly updates on Halo Fest where you can learn more, but here are the initial details.



Halo Fest is a three-day event spanning December 11-13, 2026, and is comprised of two components: the Concert and the Convention.



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



Music plays a critical role in the Halo franchise and in the hearts of fans around the world. If you’re like us, the first few monk chant notes alone are enough to give you goosebumps. For the first time ever, Halo will be hosting an official full-length concert celebrating 25 years of the iconic scores that played a part in making Halo the cultural touchstone it is today. The Concert will take place at the beautiful Benaroya Hall and performed by the legendary Seattle Symphony – you won’t want to miss this!



The basics:



<ul>
<li>December 11</li>



<li>Benaroya Hall</li>



<li>200 University St, Seattle, WA 98101</li>
</ul>



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



If you’ve ever been to the Halo World Championship you’ll have noticed that the event offers more than just an esports competition, but rather acts as an annual pilgrimage for the whole community with the Community Stage, voice actors in attendance, cosplay contest, meetups, and more. Halo Fest will be the realization of that vision. In the Summit building of the convention center has a larger footprint than the Arch where HaloWC has been historically held and we plan on offering twice as many tickets compared to this year’s HaloWC.



No matter why you love Halo, we want you to feel at home at Halo Fest and have plenty to do with your fellow community members.



<ul>
<li>The basics:</li>



<li>December 12-13</li>



<li>Seattle Convention Center (Summit Building)</li>



<li>900 Pine Street, Seattle, WA 98101</li>
</ul>



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



Halo Fest tickets will be going on sale in just two months on December 10, 2025. In the November blog we will provide a full deep dive on the ticketing packages and what to expect. We will be offering tickets for both components on one ticketing platform, and fans will have access to both the Concert and the Convention on the same day. Please note that the capacity at Benaroya Hall of the Concert is significantly less than the capacity at the Convention. We expect the Concert tickets to sell out first and foremost so please keep that in mind as you’re determining your Halo Fest plans.



CONCLUSION



We are very thankful to have such a vibrant community who loves Halo from Year 1 to Year 25. And at Halo Fest, you will be able to take part and celebrate with the community like you never have before. Be on the lookout for next month’s blog where we’ll share more about the event and ticketing information.



Thanks,



Tashi



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<a id="_msocom_1"></a>

Tashi

Halo Fest Announced

Earlier in the summer we announced that Year 4 would be the final year for Official HCS competition on Halo Infinite, and today at HaloWC we announced some more information about what competitors can expect in 2026.



Competitive Halo is important to you, the community, and it’s important to us as well. For 2026, we’re partnering with key members of the esports ecosystem and community to host Halo Infinite competitions and even one of our own. Let’s jump into the details.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="878" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/DH_Halo_Birmingham_Black-1024x878.png" alt="" class="wp-image-153597" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/DH_Halo_Birmingham_Black-1024x878.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/DH_Halo_Birmingham_Black-300x257.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/DH_Halo_Birmingham_Black-768x658.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/DH_Halo_Birmingham_Black.png 1078w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Halo has had a long history with DreamHack at this point and they’ve been great hosts for the entire Halo community. We’re excited and thankful to announce that Halo will be coming to DreamHack Birmingham on March 27-29 in the UK. There will also another event at a US-based DreamHack event in 2026 to be announced by DreamHack later this year.



With a prize pool of $100,000, travel awarded for the top teams, and featuring an open bracket – these events across both NA and EU are ones you will definitely want to be a part of!



We will be loaning DreamHack tournament equipment from HCS including consoles, monitors, and headsets, as well as providing the prize pool and travel funding for teams. Both parties are making significant investments in bringing Halo to the amazing DreamHack events.



These events will be owned and hosted by DreamHack with HCS as partners, so you can expect to hear official updates from them on the competition, ticketing, etc.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Partnered Team Support</h2>



The HCS Partnered Teams are also stepping up to support the Halo Community in 2026. We are still working on the details and tournament sizing but can confirm that the following teams are committed to partnering with us:



<ul>
<li>Cloud9</li>



<li>FaZe</li>



<li>Shopify</li>



<li>Spacestation</li>
</ul>



HCS will continue to support the teams by contributing to prize pools and ensuring cohesion from a scheduling perspective across the ecosystem.



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



We will also be partnering with legends from the community and HCS Grassroots partners, LVT as well European Halo League to support them in their Halo events. HCS will be contributing prizing for them to host more Halo online competitions throughout 2026.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Halo Fest 2026</h2>



And, in case you missed it, we also announced that Halo Fest will be coming to Seattle to celebrate 25 Years of Halo. This community event will be home to Halo fans no matter why they love Halo, and esports is certainly a part of that.



At Halo Fest 2026, we will be hosting an HCS Invitational for the top invited teams to participate in, which will be put on stage for the fans in attendance and broadcasted for fans at home to watch.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="800" height="450" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HCS-2026-Partners-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-153611" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HCS-2026-Partners-1.jpg 800w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HCS-2026-Partners-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HCS-2026-Partners-1-768x432.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px" /></figure>



We’re very thankful for the amazing community and ecosystem partners who will continue supporting Halo, and we’re excited to partner with them to bring more competition and content for fans.



Thank you once again for supporting the Halo Championship Series and we will see you in the New Year.



Thanks,



Tashi



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />

Halo Esports 2026 Update

Rebellion goes back-2-back! Congrats to your HCS Charlotte Major Champions!

Welcome back!  



HaloWC is just a few weeks away and today we’re sharing the final “Road to HaloWC” blog. By this point we’ve shared just about everything to expect at HaloWC and it’s time to share the final bit of news. 



But first, here are links to the other blogs if you’re looking to catch up: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc-august" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Augu</a><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc-august">st 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-july">July 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">June 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-may" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april">April </a><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025</a></li>
</ul>



Let’s go!



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING UPDATE</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-141768" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



At this point HaloWC has been sold out for quite a while. We typically sell out every year but usually in the week leading up to the event. This time we sold out about 2 months before, which is by far the earliest we’ve ever sold out. And if you consider the significant increase in ticket allotment compared to prior years – it’s truly remarkable. Thank you to everyone joining us at the event. 



If you’ve been following along on social you may have seen that we released another small batch of tickets and to our surprise they sold out in 30 seconds. After working with the venue and fire marshal we were able to open up another small batch of tickets. 



These FINAL tickets will go on sale on Wednesday, October 1 at 11am pt.  





This is the LAST CHANCE to get tickets for HaloWC 2025. We will not be selling tickets at the door as we normally do. This is it!



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO COMMUNITY STAGE</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-1024x576.png" alt="Halo Community Stage" class="wp-image-151597" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/Halo-Community-Stage-module.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Community Stage at HaloWC holds a special place in our hearts and this year is no different. If you’ve been following along you know that we’ll have panels for Steve Downes and Jen Taylor (the voices of Master Chief and Cortana), panels to celebrate anniversaries of Halo: Reach and Halo 5: Guardians, Canon Fodder Live, Cosplay Contest judging, and of course playdates where you can get on a stage for some fun matches yourself. 



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Back in June</a> we let the community know that we’d be continuing the conversation from last year’s HaloWC and the “A New Dawn” video and sharing more about what we’ve been working on. Like last year we’ll be on the Main Stage to talk about it but this year we’ve also got a “deep dive” panel planned for the Community Stage that you won’t want to miss.  



Both the segment on the Main Stage and the panel on the Community Stage will be going down early Friday afternoon on October 24 at HaloWC. Make sure you’re there early so you don’t miss a second! 



After the Charlotte Major in less than two weeks we’ll be sharing the full schedule for HaloWC so you know exactly when and where to tune in.  



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">GAMERS OUTREACH</h1>



The amazing folks at Gamers Outreach will once again be attending HaloWC with a booth featuring Halo streamers all in continuation of their mission to use games as a way to bring joy and normalcy to children in hospitals. Gamers Outreach have been longstanding partners with the HCS and we’re excited to continue this at HaloWC.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png" alt="Gamers Outreach - HaloWC 2025" class="wp-image-151569" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Gamers-Outreach-WAYPOINT.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



If you’re at the event or even just watching online, please consider donating and rallying the community for the kids! 



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALOWC MERCH</h1>



At HaloWC we’ll also be selling exclusive event merchandise. Here’s a sneak peek at what will be available: 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-1024x576.png" alt="HaloWC 2025 Exclusive Event Merch" class="wp-image-151555" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/09/HaloWC25-Merch-Tease-WAYPOINT-V2.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



We will have a full collection onsite, with even more gear for those looking to commemorate this momentous occasion in Halo esports history. 



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO INFINITE MVP</h1>



Each year the pro players attending HaloWC have the opportunity to vote on the MVP for that year. This year, as it’s the final official HCS event for Halo Infinite, we will also be gathering votes and awarding a special trophy for the MVP across all of Halo Infinite’s 4 year tenure.  



As we’ve seen in the past, this is a very special award. For Halo 5: Guardians, none other than Frosty went home with the award – who would you vote as the MVP across Halo Infinite? 



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO MAKER’S CONTEST</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-1024x576.png" alt="Halo Pod Infector from the Halo World Championship 2024" class="wp-image-141695" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Halo-Makers-Contest.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



This year we’ve added the Maker’s Contest to HaloWC to celebrate those fans who love creating different items from the Halo universe, and not just armors. Weapons, equipment, and all types of artifacts and items from the Halo universe now have their home at the Maker’s Contest.  



Registration for the Maker’s Contest is now open and we’re about half<s> </s>way filled up. If you’d like to register head to: <a href="https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/7e5db11a88ee4cc79626fafb826a4280" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LINK HERE</a> 



Again, there’s a $2,500 prize pool for this contest (in addition to the $5,000 cosplay contest). We hope to see everyone bring their best creations to the event! 



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">CONCLUSION</h1>



The Halo World Championship 2025 begins on October 24 and we can’t wait to host the Halo community here in Seattle. The support for HCS over the years, especially in this Halo Infinite era has meant the world to us and we want to look back fondly and celebrate with you all. Are you going to the event? Let know if you’re coming and what you’re most looking forward to! 



Thank you – and we’ll see you this weekend in Charlotte, and again in just a few weeks in Seattle. 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Road to HaloWC 2025 – September

The road to Charlotte is complete!



GGs to everyone who competed and congratulations to all teams who secured a trip to the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Charlotte Major 2025</a> hosted by <a href="http://x.com/fazeesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FaZe Clan</a>!



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">CONTENTS</h1>



<ul>
<li><a href="#next">Up Next</a></li>



<li><a href="#leaderboards">Leaderboards</a></li>



<li><a href="#na">NA Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#eu">EU Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#mx">MX Results</a></li>



<li><a href="#anz">ANZ Results</a></li>
</ul>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="next">Up Next: HCS Charlotte Major</h1>





The HCS returns to North Carolina with the HCS Charlotte Major hosted by <a href="http://x.com/fazeesports">FaZe Clan</a>.



Don’t miss your chance to join us at the final Major of the 2025 season as the world’s best teams throw down for qualification to the Halo World Championship! Tickets and team passes are available now!







<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="leaderboards">Leaderboards</h1>



Final HCS Leaderboards following the HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte.







<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="na">NA Results</h1>



Team Envy claims the #5 seed ahead of the Charlotte Major!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/envy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Envy</a> – Yakzn – Precision – Descendant – Piggy</td><td>Week #3: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/shopifyrebels" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shopify Rebellion</a> – Last Shot – Cykul – Frosty – Royal2</td><td>Week #2: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/optic">OpTic Gaming</a> – FormaL – Bound – SnakeBite (Sub for Renegade) – Lqgend</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/optic">OpTic Gaming</a> – FormaL – Bound – Renegade – Lqgend</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/CLT25-na-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0-silbaE9Y" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Qualifier / Day 1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZuGCmk7_YO0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Qualifier / Day 2</a></td><td>Week #3: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/CLT25-na-os3" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kzrdkk2xF9I" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #3 / Day 1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AuC5g773558" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #3 / Day 2</a></td><td>Week #2: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/CLT25-na-os2" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qLE1ORz5FA4" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #2 / Day</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQm87HAihM0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/kHkAeK2_7Uw?si=gBJj9kBp4LmMe6d1&t=4493" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JtPWFqeR8Nk" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #2 / Day 2</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/CLT25-na-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">LVTHalo</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T0UwSEEYJ98" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #1 / Day</a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQm87HAihM0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/kHkAeK2_7Uw?si=gBJj9kBp4LmMe6d1&t=4493" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">1</a> – <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ev-2C_yCHHQ" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Open #1 / Day 2</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="eu">EU Results</h1>



The #7 seed at HCS Charlotte goes to team <a href="http://x.com/majin_club">Majin Club</a>!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/majin_club" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Majin Club</a> – Bastoss – Mighty – Tchik – Septiq</td><td>Week #3: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td><td>Week #2: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-eu-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2560422389" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Qualifier</a></td><td>Week #3: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-eu-os3" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2554480756" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Open #3</a></td><td>Week #2: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-eu-os2" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2548451743" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Open #2</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-eu-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a> Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EuroHaloLeague</a> – <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2542413724" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">EU Open #1</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="mx">MX Results</h1>



Team <a href="http://x.com/akaveesports">Akave Esports</a> secures a paid trip to represent Mexico in the Charlotte Major Open Bracket!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/akaveesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akave Esports</a> – Magico – Acid – Drift – Leuor</td><td>Week #3: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/akaveesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akave Esports</a> – Leuor – Acid – Drift – Noblc</td><td>Week #2: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/akaveesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akave Esports</a> – Magico – Acid – Drift – Noblc</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/akaveesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Akave Esports</a> – Magico – Acid – Drift – Noblc</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-mx-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #3: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-mx-os3" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #2: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-mx-os2" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-mx-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="anz">ANZ Results</h1>



Australia’s best, <a href="https://x.com/Mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a>, are set to fight through the Charlotte Major Open Bracket!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>ANZ Qualifier: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Barcode – Swayz – Scoobmeistr – Wryce</td><td>Week #3: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Pipz (Sub for Barcode) – Swayz – Scoobmeistr – Wryce</td><td>Week #2: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Barcode – Swayz – Scoobmeistr – Wryce</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> – Barcode – Swayz – Scoobmeistr – Wryce</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Qualifier: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-anz-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #3: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-anz-os3" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #2: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-anz-os2" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td><td>Week #1: Results <a href="http://aka.ms/clt25-anz-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte (2025)

Welcome back!  



The Halo World Championship is just two months away and we’ve still got even more things to reveal that we think you’ll love! But first, here are links to the other blogs if you’re looking to catch up: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-july">July 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">June 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-may" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">May 2025</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april">April </a><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2025</a></li>
</ul>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING UPDATE</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-1024x576.png" alt="Halo fans enjoying free-play at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-138536" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/HaloWC25-May-Featured.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



At this point, HaloWC is now over 95% sold out and we are expecting a packed house like HaloWC’s never had before. 



If you haven’t picked up your ticket yet, at this rate you’ve only got a few more days before they’re gone.  



Also, we’ve seen some conversations around the idea of extra VIP tickets being put on sale which I’d like to address so there’s an official source of info. We will NOT be opening up additional VIP tickets for sale. While they sold out almost instantly and there’s definitely appetite for more – it’s important to us that we deliver a great experience for our existing group of VIP ticket holders before we expand it further.







<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HALO COMMUNITY STAGE</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-1024x576.png" alt="Halo: Reach, George" class="wp-image-148134" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HALOWC-George.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The Halo Community Stage is almost locked, but we’ve still got a gem for you all. Halo 5: Guardians is not the only game with an important anniversary taking place this year – we’re also going to be celebrating 15 years since Halo: Reach was released. A landmark game in the franchise, Reach introduced us to the amazing cast of characters that make up Noble Team and made us feel their sacrifice for the costly war against the Covenant.  



To relive the memories and hear untold development stories our very own <a href="https://x.com/ske7ch">Ske7ch</a> will be kicking it back with some of his old Bungie pals. 



Reach is near and dear to all of our hearts and really holds a special place in the Halo franchise so we’re all very excited for this panel. If you’ve got any questions – feel free to drop <a href="https://x.com/ske7ch" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ske7ch</a> a line on X! 



In next month’s blog (which will be the last of the series) we’ll be sharing the full schedule for the Halo Community Stage so you’ll know when each panel will be going down! 



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TEAM BOOTHS</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-1024x576.png" alt="Partner Booths at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-141796" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Booth-Experience.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



At this point we’ve confirmed that <a href="https://x.com/shopifyrebels">Shopify</a>, <a href="https://x.com/spacestation">Spacestation</a>, and <a href="https://x.com/cloud9">Cloud9</a> will have booths at HaloWC – and today we’re excited to confirm that <a href="https://x.com/tsm">TSM</a> will also be joining us onsite here in Seattle! 



In their booth you’ll be able to meet the players to get autographs and photos, and take part in giveaways going on throughout the weekend.



A big thank you to all of our partners for helping make this year’s HaloWC so special!



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">MAKER’S AND COSPLAY CONTESTS</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-1024x576.png" alt="Halo cosplayers on the main stage at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-148176" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HaloWC-Cosplay.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Today we’re also excited to open submissions and registration for the Halo Maker’s and Cosplay Contests at HaloWC.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CONTEST ENTRY</h2>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://aka.ms/HaloWC-Cosplay-Contest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aka.ms/HaloWC-Cosplay-Contest</a></li>



<li><a href="https://aka.ms/HaloWC-Makers-Contest" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aka.ms/HaloWC-Makers-Contest</a></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">CONTEST RULES</h2>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://aka.ms/HaloWC-CosplayRules" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aka.ms/HaloWC-CosplayRules</a></li>



<li><a href="https://aka.ms/HaloWC-MakersRules" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">aka.ms/HaloWC-MakersRules</a></li>
</ul>



If you’ve got any questions – don’t hesitate to reach out and ask!



Also for the maker’s contest explicitly, we’ve enlisted the help of <a href="https://x.com/nobleofdeath16">Jonah (NobleofDeath16)</a>, one of the 405th’s fearless leaders to ensure this is a smoothly run competition. If you’ve got any specific questions for Jonah, you can feel free to reach out to him.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">COMMUNITY MEETUPS</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-141768" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Spartans-Crowd.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Like last year, the Community team will be hosting daily community meetups at the Halo World Championship! All fans in attendance are welcome to hang out with fellow Halo fans, show off their cosplay, play some games, be a part of group photos, and meet some folks at Halo Studios as well.  



The meet up schedule will be posted on the <a href="https://x.com/halo">Halo</a> social channels during the event itself so keep an eye out, and if you miss the announcements then be sure to visit the Info desk onsite for those details.  



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">CONCLUSION</h1>



We’re nearly at the finish line for the season as well as Halo Infinite for official HCS competition and we want to make sure that the HaloWC is as great of an event as fans expect it to be. The studio, alongside our partners, are working hard to deliver just that! Remember, we’re just a few more days away from selling this event out – thank you to everyone who’s purchased a ticket and we’ll see you all there! 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Road to HaloWC 2025: August

Hey everyone, earlier this month we announced changes to the HCS map pool, and we’d like to go into a bit more detail on the thought process for those changes along with providing an update on Neutral Bomb in Ranked/HCS.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Map Pool</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-1024x576.png" alt="Lattice map. A green crystal emanates light from a pedestal in an industrial research laboratory. Electricity links two severed halves of the large, green shard." class="wp-image-146036" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice_Watermarked.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



While adding Lattice KotH, Oddball and Strongholds, we removed Solitude KotH and Streets Oddball. Over time, the map pool has increased and increased without much removal. Players have long been asking for a new asymmetrical competitive map. We’re excited for Lattice to freshen up the meta and strengthen the quality of our asymmetrical objective suite as well – something that we feel has plateaued. And with the addition of a new map, we knew that some shuffling was needed. The quantity was already higher than desired by both players and HCS alike so to keep the balance per mode reasonable, we felt it was best to remove 1 KotH and 1 Oddball. When surveying Ranked players, Live Fire and Recharge both score better as competitive maps than Solitude and Streets, so while it wasn’t an easy decision, we felt removing those kept the map pool its strongest. 



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Assault Update</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-1024x576.png" alt="Aquarius Neutral Assault returns" class="wp-image-147935" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Aquarius-Assault.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Regarding Assault, as shared earlier Neutral Bomb had a bug resulting in the mode being removed from HCS and Arena temporarily. This bug has been fixed, and you will see Neutral Bomb return to Ranked today. Since the temporary removal, we’ve seen the negative response to Fortress Bomb and while there are still some that enjoy it, we will be removing it from both Ranked Arena and HCS. Aquarius Bomb will be returning to Ranked today and HCS play beginning this weekend. Thanks everyone for continuing to voice that feedback! 



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Moving Forward</h1>



The gametypes that you will see in the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/open-series" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Open Series</a> this weekend will also be the gametypes played through the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Charlotte Major</a> and the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/esports/halowc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halo World Championship</a> in October. 



We’ll see you there!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-1024x576.png" alt="HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte - Compete Now!" class="wp-image-147921" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Open-Series-VISID-Dates.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>