Esports


<p>Welcome back!</p>



<p>In this blog series we’re talking about all things HaloWC 2025, and we’ve got some exciting announcement to make today . Don’t forget that the Halo World Championship is coming to you on October 24-26 live from the Seattle Convention Center – we’ve got just under 5 months to go!</p>



<p>First, some housekeeping. If you missed last month’s blog you can find it here:</p>





<p>In April we covered some of the fundamentals of the event and today we’re talking tickets, some of the first Community Stage details, and answering some questions you all sent me last month. Let’s get stuck in! (That one was for the British Halo fans)</p>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>TICKETS, TICKETS, TICKETS!</strong></h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-1024x576.png" alt="Crowd cheering in front of the Halo World Championship main stage." class="wp-image-107276" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/05/HaloWC-Qual-Update-FEATURED-1.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>We’re excited to announce that tickets will be on sale starting <strong>Monday</strong>, <strong>June 2 at 10:00 AM/PT.</strong></p>



<p>As usual we’ll have 2 ticketing tiers:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>$75: 3-Day GA</strong> (not that GA, this one stands for General Admission)</li>



<li><strong>$250: VIP</strong></li>
</ul>



<p>General Admission will get you access to all 3 days, from when the doors open on Friday to when the confetti is falling down on all of us on Sunday night. You get to watch all the HCS you want, you get to hang out at the Community Stage with fellow Halo lovers like yourself, check out all the partner booths, compete in the side events at no extra charge, all of it.</p>



<p>Like years prior this will be $75, and the fees are in the ticket price so we’re not charging you extra for that. New for this year however is the <strong>EARLY BIRD SPECIAL. </strong>For the entire month of June, GA tickets will be 20% off with an additional 10% off when you use an HCS Partnered Team code! Don’t wait to get your tickets booked!</p>



<p>VIP is for the super fans looking for a little extra. And I know there are a ton of you that fit into that category but this year we’re once again limiting the quantity to 200 people. As mentioned in last month’s blog, we want to make sure we’re delivering a great experience for those 200 people and that’s been the sweet spot for us in terms of quantity. The price is also remaining the same at $250.</p>



<p>Here’s what you get in VIP:</p>



<ul>
<li>Access to the event before General Admission ticketholders</li>



<li>Venue Tour with opportunity to take a photo with the HaloWC Trophy on the newly revamped mainstage</li>



<li>Goodie bag chock full of awesome Halo stuff</li>



<li>Exclusive VIP seating with a bar just for VIP ticketholders</li>



<li>Access to Side Tournament registration before GA</li>



<li>Access to the event merch before GA</li>



<li>10% off merch and apparel at the Xbox Gear Store</li>



<li>Wait in shorter VIP lines for Free Play and other activities.</li>



<li>Chance to win exclusive VIP giveaways</li>



<li>Chance to win a tour of Halo Studios</li>
</ul>



<p>Finally, all attendees will receive the HaloWC 2025 Event Poster and Halo Waypoint Drops token at the registration desk that instantly unlocks all in-game items provided as Twitch Drops over the event weekend.</p>



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





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<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1024x576.png" alt="Fans competing on the Halo Community Stage" class="wp-image-136238" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



<p>Today, we’re also talking more about the Community Stage which is the place for non-esports entertainment at the event. Over the years the Community Stage has really carved out its own vibe and energy, and we love that! From the cosplay contest, to the dev panels, to the play dates and more, Community Stage has become a very special part of the event and we thank you for being part of it.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>HALO 5: GUARDIANS – 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY PANEL</strong></h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-1024x576.jpg" alt="Cortana's Guardian preparing to unleash an attenuation pulse over Earth at the end of Halo 5: Guardians" class="wp-image-54858" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/01/H5-Earth-Guardian.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>In October, Halo 5 is turning 10 years old. Can you believe it?! To celebrate this momentous occasion, we’re bringing back some of the folks that worked on the game to share stories you’ve never heard before and relive memories from the development.</p>



<p>You’ll hear from:</p>



<ul>
<li><strong>Josh Holmes:</strong> Josh was the studio head of internal development during Halo 5’s development at 343 Industries and oversaw the entire game from start to finish.</li>



<li><strong>Tim Longo:</strong> Tim was the Creative Director for Halo 5 overseeing all creative elements of the game including design, narrative, missions, and everything in between.</li>



<li><strong>Nicholas “Sparth” Bouvier:</strong> Sparth was the Art Director on Halo 5 and lead the team in bringing this vision to our screens in the beautiful way that it did.</li>
</ul>



<p>I’ll be hosting this panel myself so be sure to let me know what you’d like to hear us talk about. Do you have any specific questions for any of the guests? Are there things you’ve always wanted to know about Halo 5? Now’s your chance, tweet at me!</p>





<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Canon Fodder: LIVE!</strong></h2>



<p>Fear not, lore loving loyalists! HaloWC will once again be welcoming you this year to join us at the Community Stage, where you can expect Franchise Writer Alex Wakeford and Senior Franchise Story Lead Jeff Easterling to host one hell of a panel with Canon Fodder: LIVE. As always, this annual event is slated to feature community guests, detailed discussions, and lore-laden levity amidst a fiction-focused foray into the latest Halo adventures. Over the coming months we’ll reveal more and more panels and experiences coming to the Community Stage – we’ve got some good stuff cookin’!</p>



<p>Side note: Jeff helped me with all those alliterations!</p>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>YOUR QUESTIONS</strong></h1>



<p>There is much talk, and I have listened – through rock, and metal, and Twitter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="http://x.com/arturbloodshot">@ArturBloodshot</a>: How about a LAN speedrun Forge Contest? 👀</h2>



<p>Artur! We’ve actually wanted to do this for the last couple of years but we felt like there we weren’t in a position to do it right. The right format, the right time allotted, the right meaning behind it all. Let’s talk about it, maybe there’s a way we can make this work this year. Even if it’s something super small.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="http://x.com/creedxdesign">@CreedxDesign</a>: Will there be potential of something similar to an Artist Alley for community artists to sell prints, stickers, etc.?</h2>



<p>This is another thing we’ve been talking about and want to experiment with. Any thoughts on how we should approach this? How should we select which artists to get to sell their work? There are so many amazing artists, but to start we’re probably only allow a small group. Keep the conversation going, we want to explore this!</p>



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



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



<p>Alright, that’s it for this month. Monday June 2 at 10:00 AM/PT, don’t miss it  – Be sure to follow <a href="https://x.com/halo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@Halo</a> and <a href="https://x.com/hcs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">@HCS</a> on socials for all the latest. I’m going to go out on a limb here and say this will be the best Halo World Championship that we have ever hosted. I don’t normally say stuff like this because there’s some risk – but I’m saying it this time. Do not miss out on this event!</p>



<p>As always, let me know what you want to know about for next month!</p>



<p>Thanks,</p>



<p>Tashi</p>



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



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


Tashi

Road to HaloWC 2025: May

Click here to view the Open Bracket results from the HCS Dallas Open at DreamHack 2025

HCS Dallas 2025 - Halo Infinite FFA

Official HCS

Dallas belongs to OpTic Gaming – Congrats to your DreamHack Champions!

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Community Spotlight

Mutinous Core

Spotlight: May 21, 2025

Fiction

Games

Halo Studios

Halo: Battle for the Academy – Part 1

Forge Features

Community Cartography 035

Forge Features: May 8, 2025

Last Stand Operation Launch


<p>Firefight continues to evolve in Halo Infinite. You’ve already had a taste of this version when the mode first released and now, it’s time to battle at the Academy. Say your ardent prayers as you prepare to fight. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked.png" alt="Spartans and Marines running and gunning while the Academy is under attack by Banished forces." class="wp-image-136724" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/BOTA_Watermarked-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



<p>The Banished were invited in by Iratus and it’s up to you to repel the forces from the steps of the Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science. In your typical fireteam size of four you’ll be squadding up to stand your ground.</p>



<p>Our first taste of this linear Firefight mode came with Ardent Prayer back at launch.</p>



<p>“What does linear Firefight mean?” </p>



<p>Thank you for asking, I’d love to tell you. Rather than simply defend hills or race ahead to each hill, you’ll find this mode progresses and gets a bit more difficult at each turn. </p>



<p>a campaign, this experience moves forward sequentially – you’ll need to finish one battle before you can move forward and start another. In short, Firefight: Battle of the Academy is raising the stakes and is asking you to defend the bases from the onslaught. The goal? Keep the Banished from getting their hands on humanity’s best kept secrets<a>.</a></p>



<p>Don’t forget to read the upcoming Waypoint Chronicles for more color and insight into the battle. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-huge-font-size">LAY OF THE LAND</h2>



<p>You’ll be going Out With a Bang as you enact the Cole Protocol in this playlist. Okay, not really but those are the two maps you’ll be playing on as you engage in the Battle of the Academy.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading has-large-font-size">Out With A Bang</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020.jpg" alt="The Firefight: Battle of the Academy map "Out With A Bang" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-136668" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/bang_pk_020-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Bookmarks: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6dc27650-715a-4b0f-a2f9-2bae7afa23a0">Map</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b84e61e7-0e54-457c-9e01-d0f741a5cedf">Mode</a></p>



<p>If you’re gonna go out, is there any better way than going out with a bang? I thought not. Under cover of darkness, you’ll be tasked with making your way to the evac zone but it’s no easy task. Battle through chokeholds, fight alongside the Marines you find along the way, work your way through the facility, and even brush up on your parkour a bit. Scavenge for ammo/weapons and keep moving!</p>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009.jpg" alt="The Firefight: Battle of the Academy map "Cole Protocol" made in Halo Infinite Forge." class="wp-image-136682" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/cole_pk_009-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>Bookmarks: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/571afb7f-63c3-40a4-9c21-06ef921eb415">Map</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b84e61e7-0e54-457c-9e01-d0f741a5cedf">Mode</a><br>Credits: Cousin Tim, Timmyforges</p>



<p>Established by Admiral Preston J. Cole (only the most interesting man in Halo if you ask me), the Cole Protocol is a directive set to prevent the Covenant (or other enemies) from discovering Earth or other colonies.</p>



<p>Now, it is up to you to defend the data and knowledge. Armed with your weapons, wit, and the Marines battling alongside you, repel the Banished forces and hold your ground. Good luck.</p>



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness.png" alt="The Juggernaut holding the Mutilator in Mutilator Madness." class="wp-image-136710" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/05/MutilatorMadness-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<p>The fabled Mutilator arrives in Halo Infinite. Previously the stuff of legends, the brutal cross between a shotgun and Gravity Hammer takes no prisoners and has no mercy. The Mutilator boasts a double barrel that fires one shell at a time in primary fire mode or fires both at once in the alt-fire mode. And the melee packs a punch! You know <s>what</s> who else packs a punch?</p>



<p>Juggernaut.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/tenrai-iv-playlist">As we learned before</a>, the Juggernaut has some good perks:</p>



<ul>
<li>Buffed shields</li>



<li>Increased damage resistance</li>



<li>Speed Boost</li>



<li>Quantum Translocator</li>



<li>Gravity Hammer</li>
</ul>



<p>In Mutilator Madness, the same applies except as the Juggernaut you won’t wield the Gravity Hammer. Instead, you’ll be equipped with the Mutilator and Grappleshot. If you kill the Juggernaut, get ready! It’s your turn to be a menace.</p>



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



<p>Well, what are you waiting for? The battle’s begun, get in there, Spartans! </p>


snickerdoodle

Summer 2025 Playlists

HCS Points Leaderboards

Click here for full HCS points player leaderboards

NA Champions

NA Results

EU Champions

EU Results

MX Champions

MX Results

ANZ Champions

ANZ Results


<p>The road to Dallas is complete!</p>



<p>GGs to everyone who competed and congratulations to all teams who stamped their tickets to the <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dh-dallas-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>HCS Dallas Open at DreamHack</strong></a>!</p>



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



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



<p>Regional Leaderboards following<strong> </strong>the HCS Open Series: Road to Dallas.</p>







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



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



<p>The rag-tag team Incognito claims the #5 seed – Congratulations to your NA Qualifier Champions!</p>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Champions</strong><br>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/envy" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Incognito (Envy)</strong></a><br>– Descendant<br>– Precision<br>– Piggy<br>– Yakzn</td><td><strong>Week #1: Champions</strong><br>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Spacestation</strong></a><br>– Eco<br>– Lucid<br>– SnakeBite<br>– StelluR</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Results</strong><br><strong><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-na-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></strong><br><br>Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>LVTHalo</strong></a><br>– <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z8mVj-c2Grs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>NA Qualifier / Day 1</strong></a><br>– <strong><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_KjdRkCl4D8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NA Qualifier / Day 2</a></strong></td><td><strong>Week #1: Results</strong><br><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-na-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Full Bracket</strong></a><br><br>Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/lvthalo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>LVTHalo</strong></a><br>– <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VHwckOCOGz8" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>NA Open #1 / Day 1</strong></a><br>– <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPkqoFFAtME" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>NA Open #1 / Day 2</strong></a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



<p>The #7 seed is locked in for <a href="http://x.com/nmss_gg" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Nemesis</strong></a>!</p>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Champions</strong><br>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Nemesis</strong></a><br>– Glory<br>– SLG<br>– Snipedrone<br>– WuTum</td><td><strong>Week #1: Champions</strong><br>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/spacestation" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Nemesis</strong></a><br>– Glory<br>– SLG<br>– Snipedrone<br>– WuTum</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Results</strong><br><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-eu-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Full Bracket</strong></a><br><br>Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>EuroHaloLeague</strong></a><br>– <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2450026694" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>EU Qualifier</strong></a></td><td><strong>Week #1: Results</strong><br><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-eu-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Full Bracket</strong></a><br><br>Tournament VOD by <a href="http://twitter.com/eurohaloleague" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>EuroHaloLeague</strong></a><br>– <a href="https://www.twitch.tv/videos/2395141548?t=00h14m01s" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>EU Open #1</strong></a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



<p><a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>ETHR Gaming</strong></a> earns travel coverage to compete in the HCS Dallas Open Bracket!</p>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Champions<br></strong>Team: <strong><a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETHR Gaming</a></strong><br>– Acid<br>– Drift<br>– Leuor<br>– Tapping Buttons</td><td><strong>Week #1: Champions</strong><br>Team: <strong><a href="http://x.com/ethrgaming" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">ETHR Gaming</a></strong><br>– Acid<br>– Drift<br>– Leuor<br>– Tapping Buttons</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Results</strong><br><strong><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-mx-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></strong></td><td><strong>Week #1: Results</strong><br><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-mx-os1" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Full Bracket</strong></a></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



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



<p>Australia’s finest, <strong><a href="http://x.com/mindfreak">Mindfreak</a>, </strong>are ready to take on the HCS Dallas Open Bracket!</p>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Champions<br></strong>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Mindfreak</strong></a><br>– Plasma<br>– Scoobmeistr<br>– Swayz<br>– Wryce</td><td><strong>Week #1: Champions</strong><br>Team: <a href="http://twitter.com/mindfreak" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener"><strong>Mindfreak</strong></a><br>– Plasma<br>– Scoobmeistr<br>– Swayz<br>– Wryce</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>





<figure class="wp-block-table"><table><tbody><tr><td><strong>Qualifier: Results</strong><br><strong><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-anz-qual" data-type="link" data-id="aka.ms/os1-eu" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></strong></td><td><strong>Week #1: Results</strong><br><strong><a href="http://aka.ms/dal25-anz-os1" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Full Bracket</a></strong></td></tr></tbody></table></figure>


HCS Open Series: Road to Dallas (2025)

Summer Update 2025 | Halo Infinite


<p>HCS Year 4 has kicked off and we’re already deep in planning for the HaloWC 2025 which will be hosted right here in Seattle, WA on October 24-26.</p>



<p>As we lead into the big event, we wanted to do things a little differently. Each month we’ll be releasing a new edition in our Road to Halo World Championship blog series. We want to deliver the absolute best experience possible for those joining us live in-person at the event as well as for those watching from home, and the goal of this blog series is to keep you informed on our progress towards delivering that.</p>



<p>In this month’s blog we’re going to cover some of the fundamentals that we’ll be updating and also confirm that a few long-standing traditions will continue to be part of this year’s HaloWC.</p>



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





<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1024x576.png" alt="Photo collage of moments from the Halo World Championship 2024" class="wp-image-121182" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2024/10/HaloWC24-Waypoint-Photo-Grid.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>TICKETS & FLOOR PLAN</strong></h1>



<p>We’re fortunate to say that the HaloWC has sold out every year, and in 2025, we’re aiming even higher. That’s why <strong>we’ve increased the number of General Admission tickets by roughly 30%</strong>, giving more fans the chance to join in on the action. That means more Halo friends to connect with, more energy and passion in the crowd, and more opportunities for new faces to witness the best of the best compete for their share of $1,000,000 – all while enjoying the epic festivities you’ve come to expect from the HaloWC.</p>



<p>In order to accommodate this many fans, we’ve had to make a number of changes to the floor plan, which we mostly haven’t needed to change since the first HaloWC for Halo Infinite back in 2022. Now, the <strong>Entrance Hall</strong> and what’s inside of it will be different, where the <strong>various stages</strong> are will be different (along with more seating at these various stages), we’re making upgrades to the <strong>Playable Area</strong> (which we’ll detail in the coming months), and we’ll also be refreshing the look of the <strong>Mainstage</strong> which we’re excited for fans to see!</p>



<p>Not only will these changes allow us to accommodate more fans, but we also think they will help give the HaloWC a fresh look and feel for those who have joined us in the past!</p>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>VIP EXPERIENCE</strong></h1>



<p>One thing that hasn’t changed is the amount of VIP tickets allotted. We did talk about this since we were going to increase the amount of GA tickets available, but we felt it was best to keep it at the same quantity to ensure we kept the same quality.</p>



<p>Our guiding philosophy is to focus on delivering a VIP-worthy experience in the venue; and what we’ve learned is that when the quantity goes up too much that experience can get compromised in some areas (like VIP seating, for example).</p>



<p>Overall, we’re excited to continue to build on the VIP experience year-over-year and provide VIP ticketholders with an even better experience than before!</p>



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage.png" alt="Fans competing on the Halo Community Stage" class="wp-image-136238" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/community-stage-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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



<p>Over the years the Community Stage has played a critical role in giving a home for non-esports Halo fans and helping fulfil our vision of having HaloWC be a “Halo Fest” of sorts.</p>



<p>We’re excited to share that the <strong>Community Stage will once again return</strong> with many familiar panels, as well as some new ones. As usual, the Community Stage will be live on Friday and Saturday of the event for a full <strong>8-hours of programming each day</strong>. We’ll be sharing the specific panels and details later but you can expect more developer panels, more cosplay, and more fun games that you’ll get to participate in.</p>



<p>No matter why you love Halo, we want the HaloWC to feel like it has something for everyone, and the Community Stage will continue to be a space where you can connect, share, and celebrate what you love!</p>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>HALO COSPLAY</strong></h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1024x576.png" alt="Halo Cosplay Contestants posing at the Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-136252" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/cosplayers.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<p>Speaking of cosplay – We’re also excited to confirm that the <strong>Cosplay Contest is returning with yet another $5,000 prize pool</strong>!</p>



<p>We were absolutely in awe of the amazing craftsmanship and creativity that went into all of the beautiful builds last year, and we cannot wait to see what you’ve all be cooking up this year. Whether you decide to participate in the contest or not, we welcome all cosplayers to join us at the event for a good time. And as usual, we will have dedicated repair and changing rooms for cosplayers to use on site.</p>



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



<p>Related, but totally new to this year’s HaloWC, is a <strong>Halo Maker’s Contest</strong>.</p>



<p>In the community we see not only a lot of fans building armors to wear, but also weapons and other gadgets from the Halo universe and lore whether they’re human, Covenant, Forerunner or something else. We wanted to officially recognize this craft at the event and look forward to welcoming all participants. With a <strong>prize pool of $2,500</strong>, we’re hoping to see the finest handcrafted or printed items that the Halo community is able to offer.</p>



<p><strong>NOTE: All Entries must be fabricated by the maker. The use of Laser cutters, 3d printers, C&C machines are all allowed but the design must be created and owned by the maker!</strong></p>



<p>We just wanted to get the word out today so the community out there can start thinking about what they’d like to build. We’ll have the full rules of these competitions in the coming months!</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1024x576.png" alt="Fan-created Pod Infector from the 2024 Halo World Championship" class="wp-image-136224" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/04/halo-makers.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



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<h1 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>ONSITE COMPETITION</strong></h1>



<p>Esports fans and competitors will also have their own fair share of prize money to earn as you can still expect:</p>



<ul>
<li>$1,000,000 – Halo Infinite 4v4 (Main tournament, need to qualify to compete)</li>



<li>$25,000 – Halo Infinite Free-For-All Championship. (Open to all attendees)</li>



<li>$5,000 – Halo Infinite, Halo 5, and Halo MCC Side Events. (Open to all attendees)</li>
</ul>



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



<p>The road to the HaloWC begins now, and we can’t wait to see you all there. What do you want to see in next month’s blog? Be sure to let me know on X!</p>



<p>Thanks,</p>



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


Road to the HaloWC 2025: April