Book Preview

Fiction

Just a few weeks ago in our final Canon Fodder issue we announced that a new novella by Kenneth Peters, former Senior Franchise Writer at Halo Studios, is in the works titled Halo: Burn the Road Home.



We are tremendously excited to reveal the cover art for the book, created and illustrated internally by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1888" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo: Burn the Road home cover art by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood" class="wp-image-176804" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-300x221.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1024x755.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-768x566.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1536x1133.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-2048x1511.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_CoverFull-1568x1157.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



2560. Over seven years after Covenant forces invaded the planet Criterion, its human survivors are still struggling to rebuild amid mounting resentment toward the Unified Earth Government. When separatists ambush a reconstruction convoy and steal critical equipment, Colonial Administration Authority Marshal Imani Havel uncovers a conspiracy far more dangerous than local rebellion.



With contact from Earth mysteriously silent and Criterion’s defenses stretched thin, Havel’s pursuit leads through abandoned industrial ruins and a vast graveyard of human and Covenant warships orbiting the planet. But as shadowy off-world operatives emerge from the darkness, she realizes the stolen resources are only the beginning—and that an unimaginable threat has already been set in motion.



Outmanned, outgunned, and with no Spartans coming to the rescue, Havel and a battered UNSC assault force must expose the enemy’s true plan before Criterion’s violent past comes crashing down upon its fragile future….



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



Burn the Road Home is due to release later in 2027.



<a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122">PRE-ORDER HALO: BURN THE ROAD HOME</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Burn-the-Road-Home/Kenneth-Peters/Halo/9781668288122"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="858" height="1273" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text.jpg" alt="Halo: Burn the Road home cover art with mechanicals by Jack Fletcher and Sam Wood" class="wp-image-176790" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text.jpg 858w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-202x300.jpg 202w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-690x1024.jpg 690w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/BTRH_Cover_Text-768x1139.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 858px) 100vw, 858px" /></a></figure>

Alex Wakeford

Halo: Burn the Road Home | Cover Reveal

Community

Esports

Halo Fest

Since we announced Halo Fest back at HaloWC 2025 last year we’ve been providing near monthly updates on what to expect about the experience. Well, it’s been a year and we thought it’d be best to provide a recap on what we’ve announced to bring it all to one location. 



Without further ado, let’s get right into it.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">BLOGS </h2>



First, if you want to read all of the announcement posts in their original form, see below: 



<ul>
<li>Announcement blog: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-announced" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-announced</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Contests: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>GDQ + Artists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-february" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-february</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Esports: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-march" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-march</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Special Guests + Venue: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-may" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-may</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Artists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Open Competition: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-july" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-july</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Forge Contest Finalists: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-forge-finalists" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-forge-finalists</a>  </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">CONCERT </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157266" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Benaroya-Hall-Halo-Fest.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Kicking off Halo Fest is of course the 25th anniversary concert at Benaroya Hall on December 11. We’ve been developing an entire setlist that takes players through 25 years of this incredible music.  



The show will begin at 7:00PM PT and will run until 9:30PM PT with a 20-minute intermission in the middle.  



VIP ticketholders will have access to an exclusive lounge and as a collectible keepsake each VIP ticketholder will also receive a page of sheet music from the Halo Fest concert score. Be sure to trade with others to find the part of the show that resonates with you the most! 



Finally, a logistical pro tip: for those attending the Concert and the Convention, you’ll be able to pick up your Convention credentials a day early at the Concert. This way you can skip some of the lines and go right into the Convention on Saturday. 



We’ve seen some conversations of folks thinking to “dress up” for the concert – we think this is awesome! However, for those that want to show up in more casual attire then by all means, go for it. You should dress how you want, and Benaroya has no formal dress code.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">CONTESTS </h2>



As a reminder, Cosplay and Maker’s Contest registration is now OPEN for all: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://t.co/rFZyTzsza0" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://aka.ms/HF-CosplayForm</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li><a href="https://t.co/gBJwZOUez7" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://aka.ms/HF-MakersForm</a> </li>
</ul>



And for the Short Film contestants, don’t forget that the submission window closes on November 2. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size">CONVENTION </h2>



<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-Chief-Statue-1024x576.png" alt="Master Chief statue at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-141782" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/06/HaloWC25-Chief-Statue.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Back in May we announced that venue will now be the Arch Building inside the Seattle Convention Center where we will have over double the square footage compared to HaloWC last year and over double the amount of attendees now as well. Let’s jump into recapping the key details and releasing some new ones starting with the scheudule.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">SCHEDULE  </h2>



Saturday, December 12: 



<ul>
<li>VIP Doors: 9:30 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>General Admission Doors: 10:00 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Event Closed 8:00 PM </li>
</ul>



Sunday, December 13: 



<ul>
<li>VIP Doors: 9:30 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>GA Doors: 10:00 AM </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Event Closed 7:30 PM </li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">HALO GAMES DONE QUICK </h2>



The amazing team at GDQ (Games Done Quick) will be in attendance for Halo Fest in what we’re envisioning is the “Super Bowl” of Halo speedrunning. This event will have its stage within Halo Fest for fans to watch one run or all of the runs. We’re working with GDQ as well to provide travel support for the speedrunners to ensure we get as many of the talented runners in the community over the event as possible to take part in the speedrunning festivities.  



We’ll be releasing the full schedule later but here’s a sneak peek for what you can expect: 



<ul>
<li>Halo CE LASO by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Chronos">Chronos </a></li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo 2 Any% by <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/mistermonopoli">MrMonopoli</a>  </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo: Reach Legendary Co-op by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/qup01">Qup</a>, <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Caboose">caboose</a>, <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/RogerKills">RogerKills</a>, and <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/koma">Koma </a></li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Halo Infinite All Missions Legendary by <a href="https://haloruns.com/profiles/Caitlin">Caitlin_HR</a> </li>
</ul>



We’ve got two full days of runs plan so there’s much more to be shared later.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">SPECIAL GUESTS </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png" alt="Halo Fest - Voice Actors of Master Chief and Cortana. (Steve Downes and Jen Taylor)" class="wp-image-166914" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9.png 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/05/S-J-16X9-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



In May we also announced four special guests that will be joining us at Halo Fest to be part of panels and interviews but more importantly to spend time meeting as many of you as possible. 



<ul>
<li>Steve Downes – the voice of the Master Chief </li>



<li>Jen Taylor – the voice of Cortana </li>



<li>Tim Dadabo – the voice of 343 Guilty Spark </li>



<li>Jeff Steitzer – the voice of the Multiplayer announcer </li>
</ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-170000" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/06/JEFF-TIM-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



We will have plenty of posters and cards with art exclusively made for Halo Fest that you can use to get signatures but feel free to bring your own things you’d like signed as well!  



We’re also going to be hosting several authors from Halo’s beloved novels to participate in panels for your entertainment, but you’ll also get the chance to meet and chat with them as well. Be on the look out for details next week on what this looks like including the revamped Community Stage which will feature some key changes from iterations in the past that we’ll reveal starting next week.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">ESPORTS </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-90692" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/01/HCS-Hall-Of-Champions.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Halo Fest will also host the HCS Invitational tournament featuring the best 8 teams in the scene fighting for $150,000 in prize pool.  



Invites have already been rolling out and yesterday we confirmed that all 8 invitees have accepted and now are confirmed. Early next week, we’ll be releasing a blog sharing who those invitees are among teams and top players. Roster lock will take place on October 26. 



At Halo Fest, there will be an HCS Stage and a smaller featured stage. Every match in group play and bracket stage will be broadcasted so fans in the venue and at home can enjoy the action.  



Format: 



<ul>
<li>Saturday: 2 GSL double elimination groups of 4. Top 2 from each group move to Championship Bracket, bottom 2 are eliminated. </li>
</ul>



<ul>
<li>Sunday: Championship bracket continues with final 4 teams. </li>
</ul>



All of the action will be broadcasted from the HCS YouTube as well as twitch.tv/hcs and twitch.tv/hcs_red 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">OPEN COMPETITION </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="936" height="528" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1.png" alt="" class="wp-image-176840" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1.png 936w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/10/image-1-768x433.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 936px) 100vw, 936px" /></figure>



$50,000 in prizing is up for grabs for all attendees across generations of Halo titles. Don’t forget to bring your controller! We’ll share the full schedule in the coming weeks so you and your squad can plan ahead. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">ARTISTS </h2>



Artistry is a huge part of Halo and how fans connect to the franchise. At HaloWCs in the past we only dabbled with celebrating Halo’s art but for Halo Fest it will be a significant part of what fans can enjoy and learn more about.  



To start, we’ve commissioned two dozen artists and a small group of prior artists who have worked on Halo professionally to create all new art just for Halo Fest and in celebration of the franchise turning 25. You can see the full list here: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-june</a> 



Next week we will be revealing the art that we’ve commissioned which you will then later see around Halo Fest in various forms from signs, to banners, to postcards, and many more touch points. 



We’re also excited to confirm an artist alley where, for the first time, artists from the community will create all new art to showcase and sell at Halo Fest. We’ll share more about who the artists are and give a sneak peek at what they’ve been cooking up for all of you but we are absolutely delighted for the 4 artists to join us at Halo Fest, and we hope that you support them there! 



Finally, we will feature an art gallery for fans to enjoy even more art from the franchise.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">MOBILE APP </h2>



Here’s a bit of news that we haven’t shared in the past – we’re making a Halo Fest mobile app! The app is a companion to help you navigate and make the most out of the event. Not only will it feature the full floor plan but it also feature the full event schedule which you can customize your own personal schedule from.  



The app will also be where you register ahead of time for things like meet and greets with the special guests. Rather than waiting in line for half a day, you can just register for a timeslot and show up for the block of time when it’s your turn. Please note that there are not enough hours in the day to get every person to meet every special guests so prioritize your time wisely and make sure you register ahead of what you’re looking to do. 



The app will feature a challenge system where doing various things around the event will help you win some epic prizes.  



The app will be available in late November on for Android and iOS and we’ll have a full app preview just before it comes out so you can learn more about it. 



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">MORE STAGES! </h2>



In addition to HCS and GDQ we will also have a Main Stage and a Community Stage. The broadcast schedule and programming will come later but want to take a moment to share a brief synopsis so you know what to expect. 



Main Stage: The Main Stage is your main portal into everything happening at the event. You’ll hear from all the special guests, you’ll get a view into all of the experiences, and with dedicated panels for two days of pure entertainment.  



Community Stage: The Community Stage is back but with a twist – all of the content on the Community Stage will be hosted by – you guessed it – the community. We will be hiring select folks from the community to host two days of panels, fireside chats, presentations, and more. We’ll share more about the content schedule in November.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">CONCLUSION </h2>



We want to thank everyone for their continued support of Halo and Halo Fest. We’re no longer just relying on the monthly blogs to communicate – each week we’re going to be releasing more and more information about event at a quicker pace. Halo is special to all of us – we want to celebrate this amazing franchise and it’s even more amazing community. 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Tashi

Halo Fest Update

Halo25Together

Halo Studios

Your Halo Story Chapter 13

Canon Fodder

Issue 171

Canon Fodder: Heart and Soell

ShadEO9's Gallery

Your Halo Story Chapter 12

For the past several months, the Forge community has been hard at work bringing fresh ideas to familiar inspirations, creating original maps that pay tribute to Halo’s legacy.



In partnership with <a href="https://forgehub.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ForgeHub,</a> the $10,000 Halo Fest Forge Contest challenged creators to design original 4v4 arena maps inspired by the iconic multiplayer maps and campaign environments that have defined Halo for the last 25 years. Rather than creating direct remakes, Forgers were tasked with capturing the spirit of classic Halo spaces while introducing fresh ideas, modern gameplay, and unique experiences.



The response from the community was incredible.



A total of 62 maps were submitted, each bringing its own interpretation of Halo’s legacy and showcasing the creativity, talent, and passion of the Forge community.



After multiple rounds of review and judging, we’ve narrowed the field to the 10 finalists.



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">MEET THE FINALISTS</h1>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-1024x576.jpg" alt="Abundance" class="wp-image-174690" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Abundance-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Cold Nightshade, LNeedMoreBleach, spartan blood 1, AddiCt3d 2CHa0s



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/079c9710-b86c-4a3f-be77-fd6979cf1a6c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Abundance</a>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BITS AND PIECES</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-174704" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Bits-and-Pieces-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: JoValiant, Igrizhar, Small Napkins



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c451e00d-b801-4516-a878-05d4585e7278" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bits And Pieces</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-1024x576.jpg" alt="Cascade" class="wp-image-174718" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Cascade-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: SE7ENGINE, Zaffiro Creep, JDzirkus



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/06afa94a-b9f4-452d-9c6d-393096eb7760" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cascade</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-1024x576.jpg" alt="Conveyance" class="wp-image-174732" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Conveyance-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Mr Greencastle, Uneeq



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f9d89845-52a7-47e3-b35c-cdd51534421c" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Conveyance</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-1024x576.jpg" alt="Eulogy" class="wp-image-174746" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Eulogy-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Shreddermcgenty



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/0409acab-5742-4437-9030-7059e45f7368" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Eulogy</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-1024x576.jpg" alt="Heirarch" class="wp-image-174760" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Hierarch-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: xDTx Kaos



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a29543f6-04c1-4a2c-aa70-8f85a3696d65" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Hierarch</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-1024x576.jpg" alt="Sanctum" class="wp-image-174774" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sanctum-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: SaLoT, Tyrant Hacker, JoValiant



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/e99cd4b2-5c40-4af8-94fa-7bae8a2fe52a" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sanctum</a>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SHADE’S PROMISE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-1024x576.jpg" alt="Shade's Promise" class="wp-image-174788" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Shades-Promise-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Zaddy Hammer



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/c28e821d-6bbe-44c2-9404-9ae4ecae7863" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Shade’s Promise</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-1024x576.jpg" alt="Sluff" class="wp-image-174802" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sluff-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Igrizhar, JoValiant



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b779652d-f897-43d6-bb96-a17fd847bcc6" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sluff</a>



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



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-1024x576.jpg" alt="Sojourn" class="wp-image-174816" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/09/Sojourn-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forgers: Squally DaBeanz



Bookmark on Halo Waypoint: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/177c57fc-54b7-4abe-bf62-ce2956c3a541" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sojourn</a>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">PLAY THE FINALISTS IN HALO INFINITE</h1>



The celebration doesn’t stop here.



To help celebrate 25 years of Halo, all ten finalist maps will be featured in a special Halo Infinite matchmaking playlist.



This playlist, coming later this year, brings together all ten finalist maps across a variety of game modes, giving players the opportunity to experience the creativity and craftsmanship of the Forge community firsthand.



Whether you’re looking for classic gameplay, fresh experiences, or simply want to support the talented Forgers who made these maps possible, this playlist will be the place to be. Featuring maps inspired by Halo’s incredible legacy while introducing original ideas and modern gameplay, the playlist serves as both a celebration of community creativity and a tribute to 25 years of Halo.



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">WINNERS REVEALED AT HALO FEST</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-157224" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/12/Cosplay-Spartan-Pointing.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



While we’re excited to announce the finalist lineup today, the competition isn’t over just yet.



The final placements and cash prizes for the Top 10 maps, first place through tenth place, will be revealed live at Halo Fest. Contest winners will be announced during the event as we celebrate the incredible talent, creativity, and passion demonstrated by the finalists. Of course, these maps will be playable at Halo Fest for fans in attendance, as well.



To every creator who submitted a map: thank you for helping us celebrate 25 years of Halo. Your creativity and dedication helped make this contest a success, and we’re grateful for the passion you continue to bring to Halo’s Forge community.



We’d also like to extend a special thank you to the team at ForgeHub for partnering with us on this contest and for their continued support of the Halo Forge community. Their passion for mapmaking and commitment to supporting creators helped make this contest possible.



We can’t wait to see these maps in the hands of players and celebrate the winners at Halo Fest.



Good luck to all our finalists and thank you again to everyone who participated in the Halo Fest Forge Contest!

Halo Fest $10K Forge Contest – Meet The Finalists

Your Halo Story: Chapter 11

Community Spotlight

Mutinous Core

Spotlight: September 9, 2026

Waypoint Chronicles

Halo is celebrating 25 years together with the community, and the latest highlight in our silver anniversary is a special three-part Waypoint Chronicle.



Still Midnight shines a light on a group of unlikely friends meeting up for their usual card game at their usual haunt aboard the UNSC Infinity. Recollections of their adventure on Requiem is just the beginning.



Penned by Halo Studios and augmented through collaboration with JumperScape Media, this audio-first experience showcases incredible voice and musical talent from across the Halo Community.



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PART 01</h2>



December 2559. A faction of rogue artificial intelligences known as the Created, led by the Archon Cortana, have enforced an imperial peace upon the peoples of the galaxy. Whole worlds are now subject to martial law under threat of annihilation.



Aboard the UNSC Infinity is humanity’s best hope to turn the tide as preparations have been made for an all-out assault on Cortana’s throne—Zeta Halo.



With the UNSC flagship just hours away from exiting slipspace, the crew savors their final moments of peace….



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Still Midnight - Part 1 | Audiobook | Halo 25th Anniversary" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AnVWEynWx8g?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PART 02</h2>



In a desperate bid to neutralize the renegade AI Cortana, the UNSC Infinity has arrived at Zeta Halo—the center of her power—to bring an end to the Created threat. 



However, upon dropping out of slipspace, Infinity is ambushed by another foe altogether…. 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Still Midnight - Part 2 | Audiobook | Halo 25th Anniversary" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/YQBsnZcGp5I?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Part 03 coming soon!



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



You can learn more about JumperScape Media and the partnership with Halo Studios in our latest <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/community-corner-jumperscape-media">Community Corner</a>. You can also <a href="https://linktr.ee/jumperscape">check out their wide range of content here</a> and join in the fun.



Don’t forget to bookmark the <a href="https://www.aka.ms/Halo25Together">Silver Anniversary Community Hub</a> for all the latest updates from our 25th anniversary celebration.

snickerdoodle

A Halo: Waypoint Chronicle

Halo: Still Midnight

Anniversary Angle: Legends and Lore