Click here to register for the next HCS tournament in your region.

Click here to create an account on FACEIT.

Click here for the full HCS Points Leaderboards.

Click here for more details about the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to see the HCS 2025 Code of Conduct

HCS Points Leaderboards

Click here for full HCS points player leaderboards

NA Champions

NA Results

Esports

The race to the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Charlotte Major</a> is nearly complete!



Teams in all regions will throw down in the Major Qualifiers this weekend with hopes of securing a paid trip to Charlotte on October 3-5.



Have what it takes? Assemble your squad and register below!



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><a href="#dates">Tournament Dates</a> <a href="#qualifiers">Major Qualifiers</a> <a href="#compete">How to Compete</a> <a href="#leaderboards">Leaderboards</a></td><td><a href="#na">NA Results</a> <a href="#eu">EU Results</a> <a href="#mx">MX Results</a> <a href="#anz">ANZ Results</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="dates">Road to Charlotte – Tournament Dates</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/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-1024x576.png" alt="HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte" class="wp-image-146873" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCS-Open-Series-Road-to-Charlotte-Dates.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>North America Starts @ 12p ET <s>August 16-17: Open #1</s> <s>August 23-24: Open #2</s> <s>August 30-31: Open #3</s> September 6-7: Pool Play Qualifier</td><td>Europe Starts @ 12p BST <s>August 17: Open #1</s> <s>August 24: Open #2</s> <s>August 31: Open #3</s> September 7: Pool Play Qualifier</td><td>Mexico Starts @ 12p CT <s>August 17: Open #1</s> <s>August 24: Open #2</s> <s>August 31: Open #3</s> September 7: Open Bracket Qualifier</td><td>Australia / New Zealand Starts @ 12p AEST <s>August 17: Open #1</s> <s>August 24: Open #2</s> <s>August 31: Open #3</s> September 7: Open Bracket Qualifier</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="qualifers">Charlotte Major Qualifiers</h2>



Following the HCS Open Series, teams from all regions will battle it out in their respective Charlotte Major Qualifiers for Pool Play seeds and/or Travel Coverage to compete in the Open Bracket!



<ul>
<li>Free to Enter</li>



<li>Double Elimination</li>



<li>NA/EU Prize: Pool Play Seeds, HCS Points, & Travel Coverage</li>



<li>MX/ANZ Prize: HCS Points & Travel Coverage</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">POOL PLAY QUALIFICATION</h3>



<ul>
<li>NA Charlotte Qualifier: Top 4</li>



<li>NA HCS Point Totals: Top 2 (After Qualifier)</li>



<li>EU Charlotte Qualifier: Top 1</li>



<li>EU HCS Point Totals: Top 1 (After Qualifier)</li>
</ul>



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



<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/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-1024x576.png" alt="OpTic Gaming's Renegade, celebrating after a map win." class="wp-image-139415" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/SLC25-OS-OpTic-Renegade-Popoff.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="compete">HOW TO COMPETE</h1>



Want to see how you stack up against players in your region? Follow the steps below and prove you have what it takes to claim glory!



STEP 1: Create FACEIT Account Official HCS tournaments take place over at FACEIT. You will need to create an account and link it with your Halo Gamertag.





STEP 2: Sign up for the next tournament. Assemble your squad and register for FREE in your region. Your teammates will also need FACEIT accounts to join your team!





STEP 3: Climb the HCS Points Leaderboard. Compete for Cash Prizes as you climb the HCS Points Leaderboards ahead of the LAN Qualifiers.





STEP 4: Qualify for LAN. Place well in the LAN Qualifiers or stack up enough HCS Points and secure Travel Coverage to compete live at the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major">HCS Charlotte Major</a>!





<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="handbook">Player Handbook & Code of Conduct</h2>







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



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



Regional Leaderboards following Week 3 of the HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte.







<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Charlotte Pool Play Breakdown</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/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png" alt="HCS Charlotte Major 2025 - Pool Play Breakdown" class="wp-image-147492" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/CLT25-Pool-Play-PRE-Logic-WAYPOINT.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



NOTE: The following teams have qualified for Pool Play at the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major">HCS Charlotte Major</a> via placements at <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Salt Lake City 2025</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>1st Place <a href="http://x.com/shopifyrebels">Shopify Rebellion</a> – CykuL – Frosty – Last Shot – Royal2</td><td>2nd Place <a href="http://x.com/optic">OpTic Gaming</a> – Bound – FormaL – Lqgend – Reengade</td><td>3rd Place <a href="http://x.com/fazeesports">FaZe Clan</a> – Lucid – Pznguin – Trippy – SnakeBite</td><td>4th Place <a href="http://x.com/spacestation">Spacestation</a> – Eco – Falcated – StelluR – Suppressed</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



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



The final HCS Open Series goes to the defending LAN champs – <a href="http://x.com/shopifyrebels">Shopify Rebellion</a>!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><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>Week #3 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=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 #2 / 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>



Europe’s finest go 3-for-3 on the road to Charlotte!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Week #3: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td><td>Week #2: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td><td>Week #1: Champions Team: <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg">Team Nemesis</a> – Glory – SLG – Snipedrone – Wutum</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><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>



<a href="http://x.com/akaveesports">Akave Esports</a> remains dominant in Mexico!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Week #2: 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>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>



<a href="https://x.com/Mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mindfreak</a> keeps a firm grip on the ANZ region!





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><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>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>

Official HCS

HCS Open Series: Charlotte Major Qualifiers – Register Now!

Click here to purchase tickets to the Halo World Championship 2025

Click here to see more details for the Halo World Championship 2025

Community

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

Tashi

Road to HaloWC 2025: August

Click here for more details on the HCS Open Series

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>

Ranked and HCS Map Pool Update

Click here to purchase tickets to the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to purchase a Team Pass to the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to see Rules for the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

HCS Charlotte Major 2025 (October 3-5) Buy Tickets Now!

Click here to purchase tickets to the HCS Charlotte Major

Click here to purchase a Team Pass for the HCS Charlotte Major

Click here to see more details for the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to register for the HCS Open Series

Click here to see more details for the HCS Open Series.

Click here to view the Open Bracket results from the HCS Salt Lake City Major 2025

HCS SLC 2025 - Halo Infinite FFA

Shopify Rebellion are your HCS SLC 2025 Champions!

Click here to purchase Tickets to the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to purchase a Team Pass for the HCS Charlotte Major 2025

Click here to purchase Tickets to the Halo World Championship 2025

The 2025 HCS Season is in full swing!



Don’t miss your chance to join us live – tickets to the remaining 2025 LAN events are available now!



Checkout the page below for more details, and be sure to follow <a href="http://x.com/hcs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@HCS</a> on socials to stay up to date!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png" alt="HCS 2025 Season - Buy Tickets Now at halo.gg/tickets" class="wp-image-147474" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/2025-HCS-Roadmap-CLT25-WAYPOINT.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/optic-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major #1</a></td><td><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dh-dallas-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">DH Open</a></td><td><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major #2</a></td><td><a href="#major3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Major</a><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"> </a><a href="#major3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">#3</a></td><td><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/esports/halowc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HaloWC</a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>









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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="major3">Up Next: HCS Charlotte Major 2025 (Hosted by FaZe Clan)</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/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-1024x576.png" alt="HCS Charlotte Major 2025 Hosted by FaZe Clan - October 3-5, Charlotte,Convention Center" class="wp-image-147206" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/HCSCharlotte2025-VisID-BROADCAST.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



The HCS returns to North Carolina with the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/faze-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Charlotte Major</a> hosted by <a href="http://x.com/fazeesports">FaZe Clan</a>!



Be sure to follow <a href="http://x.com/hcs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@HCS</a> and <a href="http://x.com/fazeesports" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@FaZeEsports</a> to be notified when Team Passes go on sale!



<ul>
<li>October 3-5</li>



<li>Charlotte, NC</li>



<li><a href="https://www.charlottemeetings.com/charlotte-convention-center" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Charlotte Convention Center</a></li>



<li>Prizing: $250,000+</li>
</ul>









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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading" id="halowc25">Halo World Championship 2025</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-1024x576.png" alt="Halo World Championship 2025. October 24-26. Seattle Convention Center." class="wp-image-129060" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/01/HaloWC25-VisID-BROADCAST-1920x1080-1.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



October 24-26, the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/esports/halowc" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halo World Championship</a> is once again coming home to Seattle, Washington!



The Halo World Championship will determine not only who gets the lion’s share of the $1,000,000 prize pool but, more importantly, the title of the best Halo team in the entire world! And once again, the HaloWC is the home for all fans in the Halo community, not just HCS fans. You can expect the triumphant return of the Community Stage with special guests and dev panels galore, as well as fun festival-like activities for everyone to enjoy.  We’re also working on introducing some new elements to HaloWC as well as working on layout design changes to spice things up compared to prior years. We hope to see you there!



<ul>
<li>October 24-26</li>



<li>Seattle, WA</li>



<li>Seattle Convention Center</li>



<li>Prizing: $1,000,000+</li>
</ul>

Halo Esports – Buy Tickets Now!

Wow, what an event <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">HCS Salt Lake City</a> turned out to be. Congratulations to <a href="http://x.com/shopifyrebels">Shopify Rebellion</a> on an epic performance and being crowned champions! The best players on the biggest stage always provide some amazing Halo Infinite moments.  



As we move forward, the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/fall-update-2025-halo-infinite" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fall Update for Halo Infinite</a> is almost here! Before we dive into what’s next for Ranked players, we wanted to say thank you for trying out our newest mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/sd-extraction-launch">S&D Extraction</a>. We hope you had fun out there, and you can expect to see this again (with some tweaks) as a Ranked Rotational playlist in the future. Make sure to submit your best S&D Extraction plays <a href="https://forms.office.com/pages/responsepage.aspx?id=v4j5cvGGr0GRqy180BHbR2T5fZwAik1LrhEXYWgd_BJUNDhQNUc5TUlGVlpCN1RHUktXWU82RVRJMC4u&route=shorturl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">here</a> for a chance to be in our next <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCfSvnlyhEs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Ranked Top 10 video</a>!



Ok, so what’s next for Ranked? In our upcoming Operation: Shadows, there will be 2 new maps and a new weapon entering the Ranked suite! 



Let’s get right to the details on what you can expect when you launch into Ranked when Operation: Shadows is live. 



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">LATTICE</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-3-1024x576.jpg" alt="Lattice" class="wp-image-146165" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Lattice-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Lattice, an original asymmetrical design created by timmyforges and Kat Rat A Tat, arted by dellsoto and h8yse with support from Squally DaBeanz is coming to Ranked play and the HCS rotation.



This fast-paced map brings with it versatility and a unique look. Players will be able to find Lattice in Ranked Arena and HCS in the form of King of the Hill, Oddball and Strongholds. It will also be available in Ranked Slayer, Ranked Doubles and Ranked Tactical. When Ranked Snipers rotates in, Lattice will be available there, as well. Great job to all the forgers who worked hard to get Lattice into Ranked and ultimately onto the main stage at HCS! 



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">Serenity – Ranked</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/Serenity-3-1024x576.jpg" alt="Serenity" class="wp-image-146179" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/Serenity-3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



This one is tried and true – Serenity, a remake of the iconic “Sanctuary” from Halo 2, now has a Ranked version. With some sandbox tweaks and adjustments made to improve sightlines and map flow for competitive play, Serenity will be making its Ranked debut.



While Serenity (Ranked) will not become a part of the HCS map pool, you’ll still be able to play the modes you’ve played on this map for as long as you can remember – CTF (3 Captures to win) and Neutral Bomb in Ranked Arena. Arena isn’t the only Ranked playlist where you will be able to play Serenity either – it will be in Ranked Slayer and Ranked Tactical with the launch of Operation: Shadows too. It will be implemented into Ranked Doubles in the near future, and of course, be included in the Ranked Snipers playlist when that rotates back in, just like with Lattice.



Thank you again to UneeQ, Mr Greencastle and MikRips for designing this beautiful remake! 



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">VESTIGE CARBINE</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/shadow_pk_703-1024x576.jpg" alt="The Vestige Carbine rifle as seen in the Weapons Bench. Its angular stock is purple, and its silver barrel is winged with pointed ejection ports. Green lights glow on the barrel and grip." class="wp-image-145947" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/08/shadow_pk_703-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Along with two maps coming to the Ranked suite, we’ll also be introducing Halo Infinite’s newest weapon into Ranked: the Vestige Carbine!



As beautiful as it ever has been, the Carbine is a precision weapon that gives players another way to compete against other medium and long-range weapons like the Battle Rifle, Stalker Rifle and more. You’ll find the Vestige Carbine available on the Ranked versions of Forbidden, Lattice, Live Fire, Origin, Recharge, Serenity, Solitude and Streets.



Jump in now and try it out! 



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">HCS MAP POOL</h1>



As mentioned at the HCS Salt Lake City Major and above, Lattice will be entering HCS with King of the Hill, Oddball and Strongholds. With that, we felt it was appropriate to swap out some gametypes as new ones are introduced.



Starting with the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/open-series#:~:text=UP%20NEXT%3A%20ROAD%20TO%20CHARLOTTE">HCS Open Series: Road to Charlotte Open #1</a> (August 16-17), Solitude King of the Hill and Streets Oddball will be exiting the HCS map pool. Based on feedback, Streets Oddball will be exiting the Ranked Arena map pool as well, while Solitude King of the Hill will still be available in Ranked Arena, but at a lower weight. As for HCS, we will continue to monitor community feedback and data on all gametypes as we move towards the final stretch of the season. 



All new Ranked content will be available tomorrow with the launch of Operation: Shadows – good luck and have fun out there, Spartans!

Operation: Shadows – Ranked Update

Welcome back!



In this blog series, we’re posting new HaloWC 2025 updates every month, and can you believe we’re already just about through July and almost into August?! HaloWC will be here before we know it! For those who missed the first three, links are below for you to catch up on:



<ul>
<li>April: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-april</a></li>



<li>May: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-may">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-may</a></li>



<li>June: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-june">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc25-june</a></li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING UPDATE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-74230" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Crowd.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As always, we’re going to start with a ticketing update for HaloWC. If you remember back in April, we announced that we’re going to be selling about 1/3 more tickets than we have in the past. Well today I’m delighted to announce that we’ve already sold more tickets than HaloWC 2024 and are over 70% sold out for the whole event. We are really excited about this because it means more of the Halo community will be under the same roof together than ever before for HaloWC.



And, <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-infinite-hcs-update">in case you missed it</a>, this year’s HaloWC will be even more special as it will be the last Official HCS Competition for Halo Infinite. After having transitioned from H2A and then from Halo 5, we know that the final event always means something a little more not only for the competitors but also for the fans who have built shared memories together over the years. This is an important part of Halo history, and we’d love for you to be part of it in person here in Seattle where we can all celebrate this amazing game and community together.



Tickets: <a href="https://www.eventbrite.com/e/halo-world-championship-2025-tickets-1388344669279?aff=oddtdtcreator">Halo World Championship 2025 Tickets, Fri, Oct 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SPECIAL GUESTS</h2>



This year we’re excited to welcome back Steve Downes and Jen Taylor, the voices of the Master Chief and Cortana. Halo events are always more special with these two in attendance and we’re very thankful to have them joining us once again for HaloWC.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-1024x576.png" alt="Steve Downes and Jen Taylor at the Halo World Championship 2022" class="wp-image-74244" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/HaloWC-Featured-Steve-Needler.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Steve and Jen will only be in attendance Friday and Saturday of the event where they’ll be participating in fun panels on the Community Stage, signing sessions for all fans, as well as VIP-exclusive photo opportunities. We’ll be sharing their detailed schedule closer to the event date.



Thank you once again Steve and Jen, we can’t wait to see here in Seattle!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PARTNERED TEAM BOOTHS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="683" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-1024x683.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-145744" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-768x512.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3-1568x1046.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/07/DD-HCS-KC-MAJOR-042922-091-1-X3.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Last month we confirmed that both Spacestation and Shopify were going to have a booth at HaloWC, and this month we’re excited to confirm that Cloud9 will be representing in full force. The team at Cloud9 are eager to represent at HaloWC and are in the kitchen cooking up a great experience for fans in attendance. Keep a close eye on their <a href="https://x.com/Cloud9" data-type="link" data-id="https://x.com/Cloud9">channels</a> to see what they’re going to be bringing to the table!



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



To everyone competing this weekend at the HCS Major Salt Lake City this weekend, we wish you the best of luck. To see the latest, head to the official event page: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major</a>. 



We’ve got only two more majors on our road to the final HaloWC for Halo Infinite – may the best team win and we’ll see you in the arena!



Thanks,



Tashi

Road to HaloWC 2025 – July

Halo World Championship 2025: Buy Tickets Now! (Oct 24-26, Seattle WA)

When HCS first started in 2014 we were competing on Halo 2: Anniversary which delivered our first season champions in Evil Geniuses along with so many historic moments. Just a year later, we moved onto Halo 5: Guardians which ushered in a new era of competition as well as the Halo World Championship format. And in 2021, the Halo Infinite launch brought Halo esports into a new echelon.



Over the next few months, the HCS will host the 2 planned Majors as well as the almost sold out and highly anticipated Halo World Championship on October 24-26. Once a world champion is crowned in October, the HCS will be retiring Halo Infinite from Official HCS Competition. This means we will still support Halo Infinite and the tournament scene in 2026, but HCS will be moving on from Halo Infinite for official competition following this year’s Halo World Championship.  



As the studio continues to shift more and more towards the next era of Halo, we feel this is the right time for Official HCS Competition to move on from Halo Infinite. Year 4 will be the final Official HCS events for Halo Infinite, and now’s your last chance to be part of this momentous chapter of Halo esports history.



In 2021 we launched with a Ranked playlist and tournament maps and modes, as well as observer mode, and partnered team cosmetics – all on Day 1. And that week we announced the full year roadmap with all LAN and online event dates and locations for all regions, with the first tournaments kicking off just 3 days after launch.



We put our all into it – and you all showed up.



To all the players, the fans, staff, and the partners that believed in Halo Infinite and kept supporting the game and HCS, we are deeply grateful for what has been a very special period in Halo’s rich 24-year franchise history.



HCS events have become an important gathering place for the whole community, as well as our studio and developers. You’ve made it all a place where no matter why you love Halo, you can feel at home and you’ve welcomed new Halo fans to HCS who maybe never followed competitive Halo in the past. For the studio, these experiences and lessons with you all have shaped us and the games, now and into the future.



And, now, we’re just a few months away from closing out the 4th year for Halo Infinite – the longest a single Halo esports title has held major competition. And after all this time, players continue to wow us and put on a show for the entire community, and the level of competition continues to rise. We’ve got a few more Major events and of course HaloWC 2025 where we will crown a final champion for Halo Infinite and celebrate the franchise we all love. At HaloWC we will also be crowning the MVP for Year 4, as well as the MVP for Halo Infinite’s entire HCS duration starting from 2021.



HCS Major Salt Lake City hosted by Spacestation Gaming – <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ssg-major</a>



HCS Major Charlotte hosted by FaZe – <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/hcs-tickets#major3" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/hcs-tickets#major3</a>



Halo World Championship 2025 – <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halowc2025</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT’S NEXT</h2>



Looking forward to 2026, while the studio is fully focused on the future of Halo, you can expect there to still be more online and on LAN competition for Halo Infinite. We will be supporting events with prizing and player travel, and even Halo 5 and MCC as we’ve done consistently via side events. We know the competitive Halo community just loves to play and compete, so we will still offer some light competition. And let’s not forget that 2026 is Halo’s 25th anniversary and we plan to celebrate the occasion in style with the whole community. Stay tuned to HaloWC this year where we’ll share the initial details of what’s to come.



So, when will Official HCS competition return for a new title? While we look forward to the day, it will not be in 2026. As always, we will keep the community up to date with the latest and expect another update from us on that front at some point late next year.



On behalf of the HCS team and the whole studio, thank you. We hope you’ll join us for these few historic months of Halo Infinite HCS competition!