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SPOTLIGHT: MARCH 4, 2021

Esports


<p>Welcome to the second installment in our new blog series, <em>Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem</em>. The goal of this blog series is to detail how we are working to develop a healthy and sustainable ecosystem for Halo esports. If you’re interested in our philosophical approach to esports as a fan, player, team, tournament organizer, or even sponsor, then this blog series is for you! If you’re hoping to learn specifics about format and roadmap, stay tuned because that info will come as we get closer to the launch of Halo Infinite.</p>



<p>In the first blog we set the table and talked about our approach at the highest level, as well as our role in the ecosystem. Thank you to everyone who read the first installment and gave feedback, it’s great to see so much interest in how we are thinking about the ecosystem strategically. </p>



<p>In this month’s blog we’re going to do a deep dive into tournament operators. What’s the role of tournament operators? (outside of the obvious running of tournaments) What are the types of tournament operators we’ll be working with? How does HCS Grassroots fit into the picture?</p>



<p>Let’s do this!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ROLE OF TOURNAMENT OPERATORS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/hcs/body/halowc-kyle-409ce836c4f841df86f71feada960be7.jpg" alt="H C S tournament operator "/></figure>



<p>Tournament operators (TOs) are a critical part of any esports ecosystem and Halo is no different. In Halo, we are taking a tiered/multipronged approach with the relationship and types of TOs that we work with in the ecosystem. The reason we’re taking this approach overall because it allows for long term and sustainable partnerships in the ecosystem, as well as scaliblity on a global scale so that we can better support the participating regions. This starts with Official HCS events which are fully funded by us. There’s also a hybrid approach where we are jointly funding events with tournament operators. As well as the grassroots scene where we are there to support with promotion, prize pool, and more. Over the last few years, we’ve been experimenting with different business models at different times to learn and inform how we want to structure Halo Infinite’s esports ecosystem. While the different models had been done in a more staggered way, Halo Infinite is when all the tournaments in this tiered system will be taking place at the same time.</p>



<p>At a high level, TOs are the executional arm of both competition and broadcast typically made up of tournament administrators and broadcast producers. Additionally they are responsible for booking event venues, setting up the stage and event, and ultimately executing the event. Even for Official HCS events (think HCS Invitational at SXSW) we hire tournament operators and spend months working with them closely on executing and delivering our vision. Often times the vision will start at a high level and then will be molded and crystalized as both parties share ideas and collaborate, as well as make adjustments due to logistical hurdles that might arise. We prefer to work with partners who can bring ideas and creativity to the table and are as passionate as we are at delivering a great player, fan, and viewer experience.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ESPORTS ENGINE</h2>



<p>To take this a step further, we created a role for Halo Infinite esports called “Global Management Partner”. We knew that as a relatively small team we would need support in solidifying and executing our vision for the Halo esports ecosystem from competition, broadcast, sponsorship, and so much more. That’s where <a href="https://www.esportsengine.gg/">Esports Engine</a> comes in. As an extension of our team, we work day-in and day-out with Esports Engine. On top of that, we’re excited to say that we’ve hired Esports Engine to be the main operating partner for official HCS events for Halo Infinite as well as the Halo World Championship. We stated in the past that we see Halo Infinite esports as a continuation of 2018 programming and events, and this the same core team (plus more!) who we worked with back then.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="684" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1024x684.jpg" alt="Event Staff and 343 employees at the 2018 Halo World Championship on stage with fire works exploding around them" class="wp-image-5531" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1024x684.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-300x200.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-768x513.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1536x1026.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069-1568x1048.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p2_2.26.2021_1600x1069.jpg 1600w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">GLOBAL OPERATORS</h2>



<p>While the HCS team is based here in the United States, we do have a global vision in place for Halo Infinite esports where we are looking to host competition for players in Europe, Latin America, Australia and New Zealand to start. To help us operate in those regions, we’ve also been working to enlist the help of tournament operator partners local to those regions. Our vision is to find operators who are able to partner alongside us in the local Halo community to grow the scene. Often times in esports, tournament operators are running events on a game but have little to no support from the publisher and are often left to fend for themselves. As architects in the ecosystem, we want to work with tournament operators in a way that is sustainable long term so that they can see return on their investment and increase their investment over time as the scene grows. Finally, it’s important that TOs are investing alongside us in our players and ecosystem because it means they are more incentivized and ultimately care more about the success of everything. This philosophy allows us to scale globally at the start of Halo Infinite’s esports journey and sets the path for future expansion.</p>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="229" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-1024x229.png" alt="HCS Grassroots logo" class="wp-image-5544" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-1024x229.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-300x67.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250-768x171.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemFebruary_HCS_In_Article_p3_2.26.2021_1120x250.png 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p> Like always, HCS Grassroots will continue to support standard tournament operators (UGC Classic or Gamers Outreach are good examples) as well as community tournament operators (think Halo Australia, GTHalo, etc). For us, it’s about supporting these existing partners who had already been operating before HCS Grassroots even existed, but also about adding new partners to the Halo ecosystem and working to ensure that each of them have opportunity to grow. Philosophically, we still very much believe that these tournaments are great for the ecosystem and players (new and veteran alike) – and in the future, they will supplement the main HCS league.</p>



<p>Ultimately for some HCS Grassroots TOs (not necessarily community TOs), deciding to invest in Halo is a business decision as well as one of passion. We’ve been talking to TOs and learning more about what it would take for them to run Halo tournaments not just at launch but well beyond that as well – our goal is to help lay the foundation for a long term sustainable ecosystem. And we’ve also been learning about what things we can do to help in this area, while also keeping in mind the scenes on a regional level and what the player experience is. Our vision and aspiration is that players feel like there’s always something to compete in, which would be a mix of official HCS tournaments, HCS Grassroots tournaments, and other partner tournaments. This would also include a variety of formats and game settings/modes which would make up a bustling and varied tournament scene.</p>



<p>Finally, as an evolution of HCS Grassroots, certain events will be made eligible for sanctioning which means they would adhere to the same game settings and rules as the official HCS league, as well as give players the opportunity to earn HCS points that will help improve their seeding.</p>



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



<p>At a high level, our aim is to have an ecosystem with a healthy group of tournament operators in the scene, on a global level, who have the ability to run tournaments on a consistent basis over the long term.</p>



<p>If you’d like to learn more about the HCS Grassroots program, you can read more and even apply.</p>



<p>Finally, if you’re a tournament platform interested in participating in the Halo esports ecosystem, you can feel free to reach out to me.</p>



<p>As always, interested to hear what folks think so feel free to send any comments on <a href="https://twitter.com/Tashi343i" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">twitter </a>as well.</p>



<p>Until next time,</p>



<p>Tashi</p>


Tashi

Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem – February

Canon Fodder


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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-tac-38bd21b2557945bc8925b43b7de2c38d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-demo-a71c8bf299cd4b559bbf7298a1ba072c.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-comms-07e0ac6505b043cd82482b45059f55c6.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-odst-heavy-8d13efa2bcf24d62bdffebc711a7482d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-demo-back-e4c864806675420ca1ecc79b9acc7022.png" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-comms-back-73bf227cf69843858f1600a2cced252c.png" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-ammo-back-013e7eb2eea2483f96beb6a276247419.png" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-infiltrator-98863458254148098aa83eb47f9d8706.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-nomdagro-e77301277c584bbeb18b5f8a4cabe3d7.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-hammerhead-770f8216ceea429eaf5171f6bac95c33.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-cos-373311b447264778bdfa2d45fcca3770.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-lancer-ec47fb93646746a6bc04992d72262219.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_waterfall_env_1920-1df68b46e2f949bfaff33974a7c68a03.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-edge-f74841a89f804cdebc855e4a308892ec.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-dw-cover-wm_500-9ef33979682c4594958f0585fe6d6c48.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf_haru-chakas-summary-3775c2ce3f144416a6358ba400375b09.png" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="The Road So Far – A Halo: Point of Light Primer" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Ihhkl7wZVqE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p> The book is shaping up to be one that Halo universe fans are going to probably be discussing for quite some time if early adopters are anything to go by, and we couldn’t be more excited to see the, well… excitement. <3 </p>



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



<p>You can preorder <em>Halo: Point of Light </em>from your favorite retailer <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Point-of-Light/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781982147860"><strong>here</strong></a>.</p>



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



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



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



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


GrimBrother One

Hot Drops

Games

Halo Infinite

343 INDUSTRIES

INSIDE INFINITE – FEBRUARY 2021

Community Update

Unyshek

LOVELY LETTERS

Spotlight: February 4, 2021


<p>Welcome to the first installment in the <em>Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem </em>blog series where month by month we will do a deep dive examination into how we at 343 Industries are working to develop a healthy and sustainable long-term esports ecosystem for Halo Infinite. The main focus of today’s blog is to set the foundation for how we think about the ecosystem as a whole, and details our mission, our overall goals, and more. The core of his blog and specific sections like Our Mission and Goals were ripped straight from our Power Point presentations that we share internally as well as with external partners. If you’re interested in our philosophical approach to esports as a fan, player, and even potential partnered team, sponsor, tournament operator or otherwise, then this blog is likely up your alley. We know there are some folks who are just interested in seeing the roadmap and format – we totally understand but fair warning, this blog might not be for you. That information will come down the road as we get closer to launch, and you can get the latest on that (and some more items) in last month’s Community Update.</p>



<p>Let’s get right into it!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OUR MISSION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="279" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-1024x279.png" alt="Crowd looking at the main stage of the 2018 Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-5466" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-1024x279.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-300x82.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300-768x209.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p1_1.29.2021_1100x300.png 1100w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Our mission is to provide epic entertainment to Halo fans through the thrill of competition.</p>



<p><strong>We believe in:</strong></p>



<ul><li>Cultivating and uniting communities</li><li>Providing sustained content for fans around the world to watch</li><li>Creating a platform for players, teams, and partners in the ecosystem to thrive on.</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PROGRAM GOALS</h2>



<p>These are the goals and how we will determine the success of the program and ecosystem. Success in these areas means we can expand and grow over time, failure in these areas means we may need to rethink our approach.</p>



<ul><li>Extend engagement outside of our games with players, and potential players. (Viewership and social media impressions/reach)</li><li>Build a platform that players, teams, sponsors, tournament operators, and content creators can sustain successful businesses around. (Participating and investing in Halo needs to provide returns based on their goals)</li><li>Build a vision and aspiration for our fans, players, and gamers to create a movement. (We want to create as many 1 + 1 = 3 scenarios as possible. If we all band together, we can truly create something special)</li><li>Create exciting and epic moments in gaming culture. (When are the times we are creating a moment and capturing the attention of the greater online gaming community?)</li><li>Player retention, loyalty, engagement, and more in-game. (The development team will own these goals more than the esports team, but still important for us to track and contribute to.)</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">WHAT’S A PLATFORM?</h2>



<p>You might have heard about certain things in tech being called “platforms”, like Xbox for example. Try to imagine all of the different people and groups who see the Xbox as a valuable platform to invest their time and money into. If you’re a player, you want to get enjoyment out of your Xbox with the games you play and apps that you invest your time and dollars into. As a developer, you invest a lot of resources to bring your games to the Xbox platform either as multiplatform or exclusive.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="597" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1024x597.png" alt="Shapes showing how connected players, developers, and Xbox are to the HCS ecosystem." class="wp-image-5479" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1024x597.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-300x175.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-768x448.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1536x896.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155-1568x915.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p2_1.29.2021_1980x1155.png 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Now, try to imagine all the things that Xbox does to provide value back to these groups. For players, the Xbox team created the most powerful console ever in the Series X and also put a ton of work into backwards compatibility – both of which are great for players. For developers, the Xbox platform is easy to develop for, and offers a ton of power to give developers the freedom to make great games. Having the games be great is also very valuable to players as well, and thus Xbox is providing “indirect” value to players that way. By putting out great games on a platform that has a lot of players, the developer has an opportunity to see a return on their investment. This is just a tiny snapshot of the overall picture, but hopefully you can start to see the dynamics of how platforms work and how interconnected all of the different groups are. And not only are they interconnected, they depend on each other for their success in the ecosystem, this is a critical component.</p>



<p>This is the type of platform we have been working to create for Halo Infinite esports, but obviously with our own set of groups and means to provide value to those groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">THE KEY GROUPS</h2>



<p>For the launch of Halo Infinite esports, who are the key groups or audiences that invest their time and money into Halo that we need to provide value back to?</p>



<ul><li><strong>Players (Pro, Amateur, and general competitive players): </strong>This one is obvious. The players are central to the entire ecosystem and without a healthy player base for the entire game, the ecosystem is not sustainable. This is mission critical.</li><li><strong>Fans (Viewers, Event Spectators, fans who engage in-game): </strong>Fans and viewers are also critical – we want as many people watching Halo Infinite tournaments and content as possible, and it’s important for us to take strides to increase viewership.</li><li><strong>Teams</strong> (Tier 1 and Tier 2 esports teams)</li><li><strong>Tournament Operators</strong> (Live event operators, online tournament platforms, and HCS Grassroots partners)</li><li><strong>Sponsors</strong> (Endemic to gaming/esports, as well as non-endemic)</li><li><strong>Other</strong> (Viewing platforms, Content Creators, Talent)</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="600" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1024x600.png" alt="Key pillars of the HCS Halo Infinite program." class="wp-image-5492" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1024x600.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-300x176.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-768x450.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1536x900.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160-1568x919.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/DesigningTheHaloEcosystemJanuary_HCS_In_Article_p3_1.29.2021_1980x1160.png 1980w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Once we identified these groups we started to think about and talk to them about what their goals are, what they were trying to accomplish, and how Halo can help them achieve their goals. From there, we were able to see how one group could provide value to back to us to meet our goals directly, or indirectly by providing value to another group. The priority is finding ways for one group to provide value directly to another group first. As an example, it’s more important that teams use funding to support their roster and fans, than it is for funding to go directly to us or other partners in the ecosystem.</p>



<p>This is just a high-level overview, and we’ll do a deeper dive on each of the key groups in the upcoming blogs so you can get a more granular view of the relationship and our approach with each of the groups.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OUR ROLE</h2>



<p>While we truly believe that we need to all rely on each other in order to have a successful Halo esports ecosystem, we understand that we play a larger role and have a larger impact than any of the other groups. So, what do we at 343 Industries consider our role in the ecosystem to be?</p>



<ul><li><strong>Developers</strong>: First and foremost, we are of course the makers of the game which is at the center of this all. It’s our responsibility to create a great Halo game that fans and players love. The esports team specifically does not develop the game, but we consult on various aspects including features and gameplay, and we provide insights from the competitive community.</li><li><strong>Architects</strong>: From an esports perspective, we see ourselves as the architects of the ecosystem. It’s our responsibility to identify the puzzle pieces and work to make them fit together. How do teams fit in? How to tournament operators fit in? That’s on us, and that thinking is really the foundation of the esports ecosystem. Ultimately however, we don’t own the decisions of the each of the groups, we try to provide the best opportunities possible for them. And finally, as architects we also believe it’s our duty to take in feedback, and be the catalysts for growth and improvement in the ecosystem.</li><li><strong>Sanctioning body</strong>: We are also the central sanctioning body for the ecosystem. While there are many tournament organizers big and small, we determine who runs official HCS tournaments and dictate the rules and regulations for those tournaments including but not limited to format, game settings, and Code of Conduct. We don’t want this to seem as a sort of dictator-like function however, we are collaborators in the space and work closely with our tournament operator partners to determine the best way forward. And of course, we are closely partnered with Esports Engine who are our main partners in the ecosystem and really act as an extension of the 343 Esports team.</li><li><strong>Broadcasters</strong>: Additionally, we are the main broadcasters for Halo esports. That means for official HCS events, it’s our responsibility to decide the broadcast scope and execute on it alongside our operator partners of course. It’s important to us that we’re not the only ones broadcasting in the ecosystem however, as we generally believe that the more broadcasters covering matches in the Halo Infinite ecosystem the better. Finally, we also determine broadcast talent for official HCS shows, and overall creative direction and tone for those shows.</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">OPEN ECOSYSTEM</h2>



<p>By now you’ve probably realized that Halo Infinite esports is an open ecosystem. This means that while we don’t officially partner with everyone in the ecosystem, we do not control who enters and leaves the ecosystem. To provide an example, if a brand new team organization decided that they wanted to pick up a pro Halo roster and earn their way to the championship, then that’s totally ok. If you’re a long-time competitive Halo fan you might be thinking, “well yea, that’s just how it’s always worked right?” and the answer is yes. This is consistent with the legacy of Halo esports and not only touches on organizations like teams and tournament operators, but also players. Halo esports was built on open tournament structures where any group of players could work their way up to the top and would have opportunities to play against the best in the world. This will still be true for Halo Infinite esports. Esports as an industry has continued to evolve and grow however, and while there are some leagues that more closely resemble closed ecosystems like you see in traditional sports, Halo Infinite’s journey will begin as an open ecosystem. We are however, as noted above and will be detailed in future blogs, partnering more closely with groups in the ecosystem than Halo ever has in the past.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/hcs/body/trophy-354edc4bb0204a13876bd72cdd9b0f79.png" alt=""/></figure>



<p>Ultimately this decision was based on where the ecosystem is at today and what we’re trying to accomplish. If some numbers of years down the road we decide the best way to improve and grow the sport and ecosystem is to change our approach, then we will adjust our strategy. For now, Halo Esports will be an open ecosystem, and we’re very thankful for the groups that want to participate in it.</p>



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



<p>Well, that will do it for the first entry in this blog series. We made a promise to be more transparent about our plans and intentions and we hope you enjoyed and appreciated this look behind the curtains.</p>



<p>As this is the first in the series, we’d appreciate hearing your thoughts overall. Did you enjoy it? Do you have any more questions about our goals, ecosystem design, and platform aspirations? Hit us up on twitter and we’ll work to incorporate answers in future blogs.</p>



<p>Thanks – see you online!</p>



<p>-Tashi</p>


Designing the Halo Esports Ecosystem-January

INSIDE INFINITE – JANUARY 2021

Halo: The Master Chief Collection


<p>Hey Friends,</p>



<p><a href="https://twitter.com/343Postums" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Postums</a> here to welcome you to the blog, and to shout from the rooftops that Season 5 is upon us! This blog will be breaking down everything you need to know about what is coming with this latest season for <em>Halo: The Master Chief Collection, </em>which you can get <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/halo-the-master-chief-collection-pc#purchaseoptions">right now</a> on <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-game-pass/pc-games">Xbox Game Pass for PC</a>, the <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/halo-the-master-chief-collection/9ntm9hxnlszx?activetab=pivot:overviewtab">Microsoft Store</a>, and <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/976730/Halo_The_Master_Chief_Collection/">Steam</a>.</p>



<p><strong>Today, we’ll be going over the following:</strong></p>



<ul><li>Season 5 Summary, and Seasonal Sitrep videos</li><li>A breakdown of what’s to come in this latest season</li><li>A closer look at timed Nameplates and challenge-exclusive rewards</li><li>And of course, a rundown on today’s game update</li></ul>



<p>The light is green Spartans. Let’s dive on in!</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MCC’S SEASON 5 – ANVIL</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="305" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p1_1.27.2021_1120x334-1024x305.jpg" alt="A jetpacking spartan with a needle rifle wearing the G R D helmet." class="wp-image-6064" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p1_1.27.2021_1120x334-1024x305.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p1_1.27.2021_1120x334-300x89.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p1_1.27.2021_1120x334-768x229.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p1_1.27.2021_1120x334.jpg 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Season 5 of <em>MCC</em>, titled “Anvil”, is finally here! With it comes a slew of new content, a game update, and a new option for disabling new armors, should you so choose. Thank you everyone for voicing your feedback and letting us know you wanted such a feature – we took this to heart and were able to push and get this into the game update today. Thank you to players who continue to constructively let us know what you want us to focus our attention on. </p>



<p>But now, to introduce you to what’s on the horizon, check out our Season 5 launch trailer: </p>



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo: The Master Chief Collection - Season 5" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Mm6fdTnju6g?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<p>From new armor customization for both <em>Halo 3</em> and <em>Halo: Reach</em>, there are a lot of new ways players can suit up and get ready to finish the fight.</p>



<p>My personal two favorite pieces from this season are the long lost AKIS helmet that comes in the GRD variant, and having the fabled Mister Chief making an appearance as a MARINER variant! There are over 80 pieces players can customize their Spartans with, and we look forward to seeing them in matches here shortly. Additionally, Anvil has a wide assortment of all-new challenges and content players can experience starting today!</p>



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



<p>Today’s game update is more akin to a “hotfix” patch that is very lightweight and includes a short list of bug fixes, and as previously stated – a new option for turning on and off the visibility of new armors and weapon skins for <em>Halo 3</em>, for those that want to preserve the legacy experience. (If you opt to turn off cosmetics, any players in your game who are wearing new armor will appear as default Mark VI.)</p>



<p><strong>For a full list of Patch Notes and Known Issues, please check out the links below for the full details:</strong></p>



<ul><li>Patch Notes</li><li>Known Issues</li></ul>



<p>As always, if you do end up running into any sort of issue while playing the game, please make sure to head on over to the Halo Support site and submit a ticket. This helps us see what the top issues are and what we need to prioritize for future game updates, so please let us know! (Of course, one ticket per-issue, please. It helps us better sort and track each individual item.)</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TIMED CONTENT DURING SEASON 5</h2>



<p>Season 5 brings with it a slew of new content, with an exclusive set available only for specific times, and a few others as a part of specific challenges. These will give you some new opportunities to spice up your Spartans and online personas in <em>MCC</em>. Read on below to get a look at what you can expect – and, for some info on how to add them to your armory.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">TIMED NAMEPLATES</h3>



<p>Below are the two unique timed Nameplates that you will need to just log-in to earn. Be sure to hop in during the months of February and March in 2021 to snag these two and show your support to your fellow Spartans for Black History Month and Women’s History Month:</p>



<p><strong>Black History Month: </strong>February is Black History Month, log in during the month of February 2021 to secure the Nameplate just below.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="720" height="104" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p2_1.27.2021_720x104.jpg" alt="Nameplate that is black with a spartan helmet and a red and green line." class="wp-image-6935" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p2_1.27.2021_720x104.jpg 720w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p2_1.27.2021_720x104-300x43.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></figure>



<p><strong>Women’s History Month: </strong>In the month of March 2021, you can log in at any time to snag the all-new Women’s History Month Nameplate below.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="720" height="104" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p3_1.27.2021_720x104.jpg" alt="Nameplate with Spartan Kat-B320 for women's history month." class="wp-image-6948" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p3_1.27.2021_720x104.jpg 720w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/08/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p3_1.27.2021_720x104-300x43.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 720px) 100vw, 720px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">TIMED SEASONAL CHALLENGES</h3>



<p>This season includes 12 unique seasonal challenges and four of them include customization items as rewards. Check out their details below:</p>



<p><strong>Because You Begged</strong> – Perform an Assassination against an Elite to survive a fall that would’ve been fatal in the <em>Halo: Reach</em> campaign.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120-1024x1024.jpg" alt="Blue Spartan holding a shotgun wearing the Mister Chief helmet." class="wp-image-6077" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120-768x768.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p4_1.27.2021_1120x1120.jpg 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Reward: <strong>Mister Chief Mariner Helmet</strong> and 77,000 XP</p>



<p><strong>Release the Geese!</strong> – Complete the <em>Halo 3</em> mission “Halo” on Legendary with all players in Mongeese at the end of the mission.</p>



<p>Reward: <strong>Hazard Pay Mongoose</strong> skin and 77,000 XP.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p5_1.27.2021_1120x630-1024x576.jpg" alt="Teal Spartan on Standoff riding a mongoose with the Hazard Pay yellow skin." class="wp-image-6090" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p5_1.27.2021_1120x630-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p5_1.27.2021_1120x630-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p5_1.27.2021_1120x630-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p5_1.27.2021_1120x630.jpg 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Challenge: <strong>Combo Maker</strong> – Complete the “Guilty Shot” and “Who, What, Win” challenges. “Guilty Shot” requires you to get 343 headshot medals with the Battle Rifle in matchmade games which earn you 3 Season Points and 50,000 XP. “Who, What, Win” requires you to win 25 ranked matchmade games and earns you 3 Season Points and 50,000 XP. When completing these two, it will fulfill the requirements for the Seasonal Challenge “Combo Maker” with the rewards below.</p>



<p>Reward: <strong>Lucky Shot BR skin</strong> and 77,000 XP.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p6_1.27.2021_1120x630-1024x576.jpg" alt="Grey Spartan holding the Battle rifle with the Lucky Shot green Battle Rifle skin." class="wp-image-6103" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p6_1.27.2021_1120x630-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p6_1.27.2021_1120x630-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p6_1.27.2021_1120x630-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2021/07/GRDIsHereMCCSeason5NowLive_MCC_In_Article_p6_1.27.2021_1120x630.jpg 1120w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Challenge: <strong>Strong in the Week</strong> – Complete 30 weekly challenges.</p>



<p>Reward: <strong>Quickdraw Nameplate</strong>, 4 Season Points, 200,000 XP.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/BlogPost/MCCUpdates/MCC-S5/mrchief-29c22322a4574cdbad46843cdc554639.png" alt="Mister Chief Quickdraw nameplate"/></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ANVIL SEASON BATTLE PASS CONTENTS</h2>



<p>To help us dive into the nitty-gritty, we thought we’d shake things up a bit and drop a brief Season 5 Seasonal Sitrep. I tried to channel my inner Frankie with the shaved head and all, and this was my first video of this nature ever, so hopefully y’all enjoy!</p>



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<iframe loading="lazy" title="Seasonal Sitrep: MCC Season 5, Anvil" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/GghSlbvTagg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<p><strong>With Season 5, “Anvil”, we are bringing online over 100 total items for player customization across a 100 tier (and, entirely free) Season Pass where you use Season Points to unlock each tier. This season will include the following types of content:</strong></p>



<ul><li><strong>All New Armors for <em>Halo 3</em> & H<em>alo:</em></strong><em> Reach</em>, including the long–lost GRD.</li><li>New Weapon Skins for <em>Halo 3</em> for your Battle Rifle, Assault Rifle, Magnum, and more.</li><li>And a slew of new Nameplates to customize your online persona.</li></ul>



<p>To acquire and unlock the 100 tiers for Anvil, you will need to obtain Season Points just like in previous seasons. For newcomers, Season Points can be earned by ranking up your Global Rank for the first 100 Tiers in <em>MCC</em> or by completing daily, weekly, and some of the seasonal challenges.</p>



<p>It’s worth noting, you do not have to unlock these immediately. Season Points are retained indefinitely and can be used on any and all previous seasons interchangeably.</p>



<p>It’s also worth noting that there is some lore behind the new armors coming to <em>MCC</em>! My good friend Jeff Easterling (or as many know him, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne" target="_blank">GrimBrotherOne</a>) has a couple of Canon Fodder blogs, Pen Umbra and Armor Online which share all of the fun and unique stories behind each piece. Be sure to check them out if you are interested in learning more about some of Season 5’s unlocks!</p>



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



<p>Season 5 kicks off today and will run for roughly 2 months, so make sure to get online and tackle those timed unlocks and earn your free rewards! And for those that haven’t joined in on the fun yet, you can get <em>MCC</em> <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/games/halo-the-master-chief-collection-pc#purchaseoptions">right now</a> on <a href="https://www.xbox.com/en-US/xbox-game-pass/pc-games">Xbox Game Pass for PC</a>, the <a href="https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/halo-the-master-chief-collection/9ntm9hxnlszx?activetab=pivot:overviewtab">Microsoft Store</a>, and <a href="https://store.steampowered.com/app/976730/Halo_The_Master_Chief_Collection/">Steam</a>.</p>



<p>I know there are quite a few that I’m eyeing to unlock. I’m looking to create a flock of mongeeses decked out in Hazard Pay and of course, working on getting some more splatter medals. I look forward to seeing y’all sporting this season’s new content and will be sure to check out the cool content this community creates from these new additions!</p>



<p>We appreciate you taking the time to come read up on the latest and greatest going on in <em>Halo: The Master Chief Collection</em>. As always Spartans, we will see you online!</p>



<p>Cheers,<br><a href="https://twitter.com/343Postums" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Postums</a></p>


Postums

GRD IS HERE: MCC SEASON 5 NOW LIVE


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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/season5icon-250-d6c972592935495d97d7661cf054f965.png" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-airassault-032956b5857746ed86579f8b2111e69c.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-aviator-7cdf36e547b049759bbd440cb9bab52d.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-demo-bed196b2e54b451899eef35c6727c0e0.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-pioneer-16a4de9934ca4504975314f82d606773.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://content.halocdn.com/media/Default/community/CANON_FODDER_Franchise/cf-mcc-hivemind-99aa2e3edfad4508bafe0ec56f777cc7.jpg" alt=""/></figure>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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


Armor Online