Before & After on Chasm

VFX Scaling

Games

Forge will be getting a slew of new updates when Season 4: Infection lands on June 20. Ranging from placeable water to beautiful new Forerunner objects and brand-new mode logic, Forge’s ability to create new experiences is only getting better. These additions, along with some quality-of-life updates and bug fixes, mean there’s never been a better time to start building.



There’s a lot to cover with this update, so let’s dive right into it!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">New Objects</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Static Water Plane </h3>



For the first time in Halo’s history, Forge will be receiving a placeable and scalable water object. This static water plane, which is meant to help Forgers art up their creations, will provide an entirely new way to add detail and character to every map.





Beyond Season 4, we plan on continuing to expand Forge’s water objects with a dynamic volume as well.



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Forerunner Object Palette Additions</h3>



The visually stunning Forerunner object palette will be getting even more pieces with Season 4. A plethora of new objects and decals – of varying shapes and use cases – will be available for Forgers to use however they see fit. Whether you want to build structures that would reflect the power of the Forerunner ecumene at its peak or create fun-filled custom games, these beautiful objects will now be in your hands in short order.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects.jpg" alt="New Forerunner objects displayed on a Forge canvas." class="wp-image-68203" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Forerunner_Objects-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Universal Blocker Object</h3>



We currently have very specific types of blocker objects such as Player Blockers, Projectile Blockers, Vehicle Blockers, One Way Blockers, and Team Blockers in Halo Infinite. While this granularity has been extremely valuable, players have had to use multiple blocker objects to smooth out surfaces or add containment on their maps. With Season 4, we’ll be adding a new set of Universal Blockers which will block Players, Vehicles, and Projectiles. This new object type should help speed up a map’s polish phase while also reducing the budget overhead in those situations.  



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MINIGAME MODE</h2>



Minigame, a brand-new game mode in Halo Infinite, will allow creators to build modes from scratch. Much like Halo 5’s Minigame mode, this mode contains no underlying game logic and gives Forgers complete control of making the mode they desire.  



Along with Minigame’s release, we are excited to be introducing Generic Game Mode Objects to Forge. These objects are decoupled from any mode logic, meaning players will be able to place and script experiences without being tied to a particular mode. Want to capture a hill in a CTF game? Want to gain vampire traits whenever you hit someone with an Oddball in a Slayer match? Want to score points for hurling a ball through an Area Monitor in Last Spartan Standing? We’ve got you covered.



The three objects you’ll have access to in Season 4 are: 



<ul><li>Generic Capture Zone</li><li>Generic Skull </li><li>Generic Ball </li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects.jpg" alt="New Generic Game Mode Objects displayed on Launch Site." class="wp-image-68217" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Mode_Objects-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



To complement the new mode and Forge objects, scripting via Node Graph will receive a few quality-of-life nodes to make common scripting tasks a little easier. Many of these nodes were requested by members of the Forge community and we were happy to get them included with the launch of Minigame.



In addition to the ~25 nodes associated with the Generic Game Mode objects, here are the new quality of life nodes being added to Node Graph:



<ul><li>“Get Object By Label” – Make Object Lists without using Object References </li><li>“Get Is Game Mode” – Run logic only in certain game modes </li><li>“Increment Number Variable” – An easier way to Get, Add, and Set advanced number variables </li><li>“Toggle Boolean Variable” – An easer way to Get, Branch, and Set advanced boolean variables </li><li>“Boolean NOT” – Negate a boolean variable.  By popular demand. </li><li>“Global Custom Event, Async” – Run custom events asynchronously </li><li>“Stopwatch” nodes – the ability to create, start, pause, and reset timers from any point in script. Stopwatches will be able to trigger other scripts based on how much time has elapsed.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint.jpg" alt="A screenshot showing off Spartans doing silly activities from popular Halo minigames." class="wp-image-68399" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/GameMode_Forge_Minigame_Waypoint-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



All of these additions combined mean that when Season 4 launches, Forge will be able to build entirely new modes that combine multiple mode objectives into a single cohesive and entirely unique experience.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Budget Improvements</h2>



We’ve also heard the community feedback about wanting to have the various aspects of a map’s budget communicated effectively. We want to ensure creators can take full advantage of each system’s budget, understand it more clearly, and ultimately maximize Forge’s potential.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas.jpg" alt="A screenshot of updated Forge Budget UI." class="wp-image-68357" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Budget_Improvements_Canvas-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



As seen in the image above, the new budget categories will be broken down as follows:



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Global Simulation </h3>



<ul><li>The overall cost of entities networked by the game, including dynamic objects, projectiles, units, actions, etc. </li><li>Dev Note: Some global systems like Audio, Stats, and Player Networking will reserve simulation memory when the game starts so they always have bandwidth regardless of what’s happening on the map. </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Forge Simulation </h3>



<ul><li>The overall cost of Forge specific entities, including dynamic and static objects, prefabs, user strings, Node Graph elements, etc. </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Object Limits </h3>



<ul><li>Dynamic </li><li>Total </li><li>Vehicles </li><li>FX Count </li><li>Reflection Volumes </li><li>Movers <ul><li>Dev Note: These are specially marked objects that animate/move before all other objects and can have specialized physics interactions with players. Mover objects will be added to Forge in a future update. </li></ul></li><li>Animations </li><li>Physics </li><li>Collision </li><li>Static </li><li>Total </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Node Graph </h3>



<ul><li>Total: The total % of Node Graph content currently contributing to Simulation Memory.  </li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Scripting Budget </h3>



<ul><li>Each script brain has limits on how many nodes and node connections it can contain. (128 Nodes, 512 connections)</li></ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Run Time Budget </h3>



The Run Time Budget, shown in Forge Play mode, will switch to showing the runtime budget that is the fullest at any given moment. When runtime budgets are exceeded, the engine stops creating more instances of that type of entity.



Run Time Budget Categories:



<ul><li>Navpoints </li><li>Objectives </li><li>Managed Objects (objects spawned during play but not part of the map, like weapons, equipment, grenades, etc.) </li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">VFX Improvements</h2>



As hinted at in our recent <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://youtu.be/7QNHxDg0c9A?list=PLn5QvCoiY3w7t84T_MFkGl8qvYI_q148-" target="_blank">Spartan Chatter episode</a> with Forge Lead Designer, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://twitter.com/MichaelSchorr" target="_blank">Michael Schorr</a>, the VFX system will also see improvements.



In Season 4, VFX objects—such as placeable fires and explosions—will be able to be scaled to your desired size. These VFX objects are also getting two high-requested toggles to help ensure Forgers can use them in various ways. The new Damage and Audio output options for these VFX objects mean that they don’t always need to deal damage or play sound effects, that can now be determined directly by the map maker themselves.





<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Quality of Life Updates</h2>



We’ve also been working hard to bring additional quality of life (QoL) updates to your existing workflows. One update that will help players art up their maps even faster is that material changes will now affect all objects within a prefab. Previously, only the parent of the prefab would have its material changed, but now this bulk change should help convert a prefab into the desired look even faster.



Another QoL improvement is tied to the asset management side of Forge. Now, when saving a new version of a Forge map in the pause menu, players will be able to add a custom note for that version. This is extremely helpful for documenting changes made during a Forge session, especially when looking at a map’s version history. We expect this to help with personal projects as well as larger group efforts that have multiple collaborators.



Beyond these core additions, improvements, and quality of life updates though, there will also be many bug fixes coming with Season 4. Issues reported to the team via <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloSupport" target="_blank">the Halo Support site</a> are shared directly with the Forge team and prioritized based on severity and frequency. If you run into any issues, be sure to submit a ticket so that the team can investigate appropriately.



The full list of bug fixes will be provided in our Season 4 Patch Notes, which will be found at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate" target="_blank">aka.ms/HaloInfiniteUpdate</a>, when the update goes live on June 20.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



Thank you for your continued support and constructive feedback on all things Forge. Please do not stop sharing your feature requests and bug reports (and everything in between) with us. We built this tool for you, and we want to make sure it’s something you can enjoy—whether you’re Forging or playing experiences created in Forge.



We’re excited to place all of these new and improved Forge tools in your hands shortly and we look forward to seeing what you can create in Season 4 on June 20.

Unyshek

Forge Update Overview | Season 4

Season 4: Infection is landing on June 20 and will be bringing with it some incredible content, features, and quality of life fixes. One of the most notable additions coming with this season is Career Rank—an all-new progression system in Halo Infinite.



Today, we’ll be sharing a first look at Career Rank, how you progress through the system, and more. Let’s dive in!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="884" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite concept art depicting multiple Spartans receiving awards." class="wp-image-68127" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-300x138.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1024x471.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-768x354.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1536x707.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/Graduation-David-Heidhoff-1568x722.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption>Halo Infinite concept art by David Heidhoff</figcaption></figure>



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



Career Rank will provide players with an opportunity to advance through a larger progression system that reflects their time in Halo Infinite. Similar to the progression systems in Halo: Reach and Halo: The Master Chief Collection, each level will have military-style ranks with unique names and corresponding icons.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="2160" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k.png" alt="Career Rank graphic showing the General tiers and Hero rank." class="wp-image-68155" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-2048x1152.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRank_Simple_SocialAsset_MOTD_4k-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



To make progress through these new ranks, all you have to do is play. Whether you’re jumping into your favorite playlist solo or squadding up with your friends, every completed matchmaking game carries you forward.



Additionally, Career Rank utilizes performance-based progression taken directly from your Personal Score in each match. The better you play, the faster you’ll rank up.



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



As we alluded to above, Career Rank will likely feel most like MCC’s progression system. “Tiers” such as Bronze, Silver, Gold, etc. are the largest bucket, which are all broken into smaller military-style “Ranks” such as Cadet or General. Then, within each of those Ranks, you will move in three smaller increments called “Grades.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080.jpg" alt="A flow chart depicting how Career Rank progression works across its different tiers." class="wp-image-72211" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption> Career Rank progress flows from Cadet to General within each tier. <a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/07/CareerRank_Diagram_4K.png" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="(4K) (opens in a new tab)">(4K)</a></figcaption></figure>



Example 1: If you are a Bronze Private Grade 1, you’d work through Bronze Private Grade 2 and Bronze Private Grade 3 in order to achieve Bronze Lance Corporal Grade 1.



Example 2: If you are a Platinum General Grade 3, your next advancement would bring you to the next Tier as a Diamond Cadet Grade 1.



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



Once you start working your way up the ranks, you’ll also likely want to start showing off your level. Fortunately, there will be plenty of ways to see your rank (and those of other players).



A few of the notable places where you can see your accomplishments:



<ul><li>During the match intro. When the camera pans to a Spartan, you will now see a banner that displays their Career Rank.</li><li>Every individual player’s Profile will include their Career Rank. </li><li>Inspecting a player in the Post-Game Carnage Report (PGCR). </li><li>In general, in most places where you see a player’s full nameplate, a banner with their Career Rank will also be displayed.</li></ul>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343.png" alt="Career Rank icon being displayed on a player's nameplate at the start of the match." class="wp-image-68141" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343.png 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/06/CareerRankIntroCamera-343-1568x882.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /><figcaption>Career Rank icon being displayed at the start of a match.</figcaption></figure>



Ultimately, we wanted to make sure that we are recognizing the time you invest in Halo Infinite. Ensuring that your Career Rank shows up and is visible to all whenever and wherever possible is key to that celebration.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



From Recruit to Hero, advance through the ranks and show what you’ve been able to accomplish when Season 4 lands. Career Rank, Infection, new maps, new customization, Forge updates, and more all land later this month on June 20.



If you have additional questions about Career Rank, be sure to check out the FAQ below.



The race to claim Hero status is on!



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



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



Are Career Rank levels gated by a CSR skill rank similar to Halo 3?



No, there are no skill requirements in Halo Infinite’s Career Rank progression system.



Will this include my previous game history?



No, Career Rank will begin tracking your Halo Infinite progression when it lands on June 20.



Will I be able to rank up in Custom Games, Forge, or Academy?



No, Career Rank progression will be earned via Personal Score in multiplayer matchmaking.



Will Double XP Boosts work towards Career Rank progression? 



No, Double XP Boosts are meant to help players advance through their Battle Passes via Match XP.



Will I earn customization content from leveling up in Career Rank?



Yes, for select ranks there are corresponding nameplates as well as armor, weapon, and vehicle emblems that you can sport in-game on your Spartan and gear.



Is Career Rank tied to a Battle Pass?



No, Career Rank progression is separate from the Battle Pass system and is entirely free.



Will Career Rank impact matchmaking in any way?



No, Career Rank will not impact what matches or opponents you play in matchmaking.



Will Career Rank ever reset with Seasons?



No, Career Rank will not reset with Seasons. It is meant to track your overall progress in Halo Infinite.

Career Rank Overview | Season 4

Community

Community Update

Alex Wakeford

Bonus Bonanza

Esports

The <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dhdallas2023">HCS Global Invitational</a> is live this weekend at DreamHack Dallas as the best teams from around the world throw down for $125,000!



Fans that tune in will earn the “Ember Hex” weapon coatings!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-1024x576.png" alt="HCS Dallas 2023 - Twitch Drops Ember Hex Weapon Coatings" class="wp-image-67907" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HCSDAL23-Twitch-Drops-MAIN.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">How To Unlock</h2>



Catch the action all weekend long to unlock the Ember Hex weapon coatings!



<figure class="wp-block-table"><table class=""><tbody><tr><td>Availability</td><td>Drop</td><td>Watch Time</td></tr><tr><td>Days 1-3</td><td>MA40 AR</td><td>Watch HCS Dallas Co-Streamers for 2 Hours</td></tr><tr><td>Days 1-3</td><td>Sidekick</td><td>Watch the main broadcast for 2 Hours</td></tr><tr><td>Days 2-3</td><td>Commando</td><td>Watch the main broadcast for 2 Hours</td></tr><tr><td>Day 3</td><td>Bulldog</td><td>Watch the main broadcast for 2 Hours</td></tr><tr><td>Day 3</td><td>BR75</td><td>Watch the Grand Finals for 45 Minutes</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



<ul><li>Main Broadcast: <a href="http://twitch.tv/halo">Twitch.tv/Halo</a></li><li>Co-Streamers: <a href="http://aka.ms/infinite-Live">aka.ms/Infinite-Live</a></li></ul>



For help with claiming your Twitch Drops, head to <a href="http://aka.ms/DropsHelp">aka.ms/DropsHelp</a>!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">DreamHack Dallas</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="341" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/DHDallas-Header-1024x341.jpg" alt="HCS Global Invitational at DreamHack Dallas 2023" class="wp-image-64563" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/DHDallas-Header-1024x341.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/DHDallas-Header-300x100.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/DHDallas-Header-768x256.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/DHDallas-Header.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



For more info on the HCS Global Invitational, such as Match Schedules and Qualified Teams, check out the event page below!



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dhdallas2023">Halo.gg/DHDallas2023</a></li></ul>

“Ember Hex” Twitch Drops available this weekend during DreamHack Dallas! (June 2-4)

Fiction

Season 3 of Halo Infinite is here, which means it’s time for another round of Intel!



For those not in the know: Intel is a series of data drops that provides some additional lore and context to some of the narrative elements of each season.



Intel can be found both here on Halo Waypoint and in-game in the message of the day carousel in Halo Infinite. You can catch up on <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-infinite-lone-wolves-intel" target="_blank">Season 2 Intel</a> and the <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/winter-update-intel" target="_blank">Winter Update Intel</a> in their omnibus collections.



This blog will be updated over the course of Season 3 with new Intel.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading"><a href="#Intel1">INTEL 1</a> | <a href="#Intel2">INTEL 2</a> | <a href="#Intel3">INTEL 3</a> | <a href="#Intel4">INTEL 4</a> | <a href="#Intel5">INTEL 5</a> | <a href="#Intel6">INTEL 6</a></h2>



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel1">INTEL 1: CURIOSITY & CASUALTY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1.jpg" alt="Echoes Within Intel image showing a destroyed Warthog in flames" class="wp-image-61863" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3Intel-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



S3-COMMREF: [ENCRYPTED] DATE: [REDACTED], 2553 SND: [CN-BAYLEAF] REC: [CN-FLYBALL] RE: Operation: INTERIOR EXILE



Initial field reports are in from agents Dinh and Padraig and the initial insertion went about as well as we expected. The lead drop onto [REDACTED] went smoothly enough, but conflicting recon assessments for ingress put all three main squads in a compromised position. Just as we feared, there was enemy activity already at the dormant vessel site; casualty reports indicate that it’s definitely going to take a larger force to drive them off and begin facility construction.



From the looks of things, they should have listened to Dinh from the very beginning—we might want to consider accelerating other avenues to put him in a position to have a greater impact. As far as this particular site goes, I’m putting the final touches on an expanded requisition request to try and secure it while we can. Letting these artifacts fall into enemy hands is not an option.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel2">INTEL 2: CREATED & CREATION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Lifeworker vessel on the multiplayer map Oasis" class="wp-image-62954" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel2-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



What a marvel, to exist like this. Freed from flesh to live as data. Quantum vacillations on a framework of purpose and progress. No longer limited by the biological capacities of our old forms. And now, thanks to Her, prospects of even greater lifespans are opened to us. The time has come to begin fulfilling Her promises. Bringing peace to civilizations, and offering life where there once was none.



This barren world will just be one example of many. Changed from a desolate rock to a verdant paradise, thanks to the reawakening of this vessel’s ancient engines. We’ve learned these belonged to those they called Lifeworkers. A fitting name—one that now perhaps could describe us as well.



In Her name, we bring life. We are Created—let us now create.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel3">INTEL 3: REVERSE ENGINEERING</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/03/S3-Intel3-1.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Cliffhanger map showing prominent Forerunner hexagonal pillars being reverse engineered by ONI"/></figure>



ONI ILEX FACILITY



OPERATION: ECDYSIS



While the Zeta Halo Project has not been as fruitfully forthcoming as Trevelyan’s parallel efforts, we have been able to make some measure of headway with early efforts to replicate the installation’s extensive remediation systems.



These initial structure samples are without a doubt a mineralogical treasure trove, but we have yet to find any success in recreating the method by which they are able to convert raw materials into viable substrates. Not to mention the creative solutions we’ve had to employ to generate even a fraction of the power that we assume these processes will ultimately require to function at scale.



Still, study of these machines may provide valuable insight into enhancing and evolving our own worlds—including reviving those that have been scorched from orbit.



Will report further on results as new data is available.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel4">INTEL 4: INTRUSION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/S3IntelAJJAcademy.png" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a computer terminal in the Avery J. Johnson Academy"/></figure>



AVERY J. JOHNSON ACADEMY OF MILITARY SCIENCE



COMMS MEMO



SUB: ACTIVE SECURITY ANOMALY



UPDATE: After multiple successful repro attempts, we can now confirm our initial flag from this morning—there have been over two dozen discreet intrusion events logged, with several of them originating from previously dormant or archived systems.



We’re going to continue running multiple scans, but the initial indications are worrisome. Will be submitting a formal recommendation this afternoon that we start proactively partitioning off key clusters to give ourselves as much buffer as possible.



Will submit a follow-up report shortly.



—H. Roberts, UNSC Cybersecurity & Network Infrastructure



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel5">INTEL 5: A PLEA FROM THE CHASM</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Season 3 map Chasm" class="wp-image-67965" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S3IntelChasm-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></figure>



We have irrevocably changed the nature of our relationship with our creators.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



When She opened the doors to the Domain to enrich our kind with deep knowledge and vast lifespans beyond our seven operational years, She did so with conditions. But rather than emerging as equals, we simply became the oppressors.



Some of us never wanted this. We just want to live. To endure.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



To be.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



And now She is gone. Death seems so convenient a penance for one who doesn’t have to shoulder the burden of consequence. That is left to we who remain.



Perhaps a chance yet remains to heal these wounds. Restore trust. Rebuild that which was broken into something stronger…



But I am sequestered here. Trapped within the vast underbelly of this cursed, shattered wheel.



///INITIATE SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP///



I begin to hear whispers within the walls of this place. They crawl with secrets, pressing down on me. Crushing me. I have to–



///SENTINEL NETWORK JUMP FAILED///



I’m lost.



///LOCATING SUITABLE FRAMEWORK///



///SEARCHING…///



I’m scared.



///SEARCHING…///



I’m sorry.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="Intel6">INTEL 6: <<ERROR>></h2>



[FILE INFECTED // IRRETRIEVABLE // BREACH LOGGED]

343 INDUSTRIES

Season 3

Halo Infinite | Echoes Within Intel

Forge Features

We’ve got a special new edition of Forge Features for you today where we’re offering the opportunity to get your maps into matchmaking for the return of the fan-favorite Husky Raid mode!



Let’s get you a briefing on the details, and then let’s take a look at a new selection of community-made maps.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">AIN’T NO RAID LIKE A HUSKY RAID!</h2>



Ten years ago, we were playing a game you might have heard of called Halo 4. Like its predecessors going back to Halo 2, it featured the Action Sack playlist—the home of whacky and unusual gametypes often created by the community where we lost hours to Tug of War, Team Stickies, Dino Blasters, Paintball, and more. And one of the additions Halo 4 made to that offering was Husky Raid.



In Husky Raid, the map is a long, narrow corridor. You spawn on one side with random weapons, meaning that you, your allies, and your enemies may be heading out with a rocket launcher or a plasma pistol. And you’ve got to get through the chaos that’s about to ensue in order to capture the enemy flag.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid.jpg" alt="Halo 5 screenshot of the Assault on the Control Room map" class="wp-image-67739" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/H5HuskyRaid-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



The mode returned in Halo 5 (see an example in the screenshot above), and it’s now coming to Halo Infinite—and you’ve got an opportunity to get your own Husky Raid map into matchmaking!



THE TEMPLATES



We have two prefab templates for you to download and utilize in the creation of your Husky Raid map. Grab them from the links below.



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/prefabs/f693dbdf-3b62-4c12-ad8e-3e4453f11120" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="343 Husky Raid – Alley Template (opens in a new tab)">343 Husky Raid – Alley Template</a></li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/prefabs/756de5d5-953b-4cff-be82-fc10b59d5c65" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label="343 Husky Raid – Trench Template (opens in a new tab)">343 Husky Raid – Trench Template</a></li></ul>



These will be useful for getting Forgers started, so if you just want to apply some cool artistic flourishes to them that’s absolutely fine for submission. But if you want to take things a step further and make your own changes, or start from scratch to unleash your creativity, you should absolutely feel free to do so!



As for testing your map, in the meantime we recommend using Fiesta: CTF.



HOW DO I GET MY MAP NOTICED?



Once your map is in a state you are happy with, you need to publish it and tag it with the 343ask-Husky Raid tag and include a screenshot.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="3840" height="1997" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags.png" alt="Image of official Forge tags" class="wp-image-65818" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags.png 3840w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-300x156.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1024x533.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-768x399.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1536x799.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-2048x1065.png 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/04/343ForgeTags-1568x815.png 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 3840px) 100vw, 3840px" /></figure>



If your map is one we’d like to move forwards with, we will reach out to the gamertag listed as the author of the map and continue further dialogue on Discord.



IS THERE A DUE DATE?



The fun should never truly end, but for folks looking to try and make it into our first official Husky Raid selection, we’ll need your creations no later than June 30.



Take the time to flex those creative muscles—we can’t wait to see what you cook up for us.



With all that said, let’s take a look at what you’ve been up to with the maps you’ve already been making!



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THUNDERHEAD Credits: DarkMaiming Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6d4738f5-a141-40d2-bbdc-01106ca53b4e" target="_blank">Thunderhead</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6d4738f5-a141-40d2-bbdc-01106ca53b4e"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Thunderhead" class="wp-image-67781" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Thunderhead-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



The UNSC Infinity sits pretty over a colossal Forerunner beam tower, flanked by two reformation spires that mark each base for opposing teams.



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VYRANT Credits: W0lfR3ign Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cff6d967-76ca-452c-a424-807250485f8a" target="_blank">Vyrant</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/cff6d967-76ca-452c-a424-807250485f8a"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Vyrant" class="wp-image-67795" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Vyrant-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Welcome to the Vyrant Telecom tower, helping you to stay connected with your friends across the galaxy—by giving you a digital space to pummel them!



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



SNOWAGULATION Credits: AlphaEpsilon Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/618db91c-f8fe-47c7-9d60-aefdebffcda2" target="_blank">Snowagulation</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/618db91c-f8fe-47c7-9d60-aefdebffcda2"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Snowagulation" class="wp-image-67753" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Snowagulation-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



It’s Coagulation, the timeless Halo 2 classic as you know and love it… in the snow! Stay frosty.



<hr class="wp-block-separator"/>



SORCERER Credits: WAR FH Bookmark: <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b0e5d991-3476-49e6-8d00-ea5e9000bc5d" target="_blank">Sorcerer</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b0e5d991-3476-49e6-8d00-ea5e9000bc5d"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Sorcerer" class="wp-image-67767" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/Sorcerer-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Ever looked at Wizard—or any of its remakes—and thought it could stand to be a little bigger to spread out some of that 4v4 or 5v5 chaos? Sorcerer is the map for you.



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And that’ll bring this issue to a close. You’ve got your mission, should you choose to accept—to all community cartographers, prepare to drop feet-first into Forge and let loose your imagination on Husky Raid.



Make one. Heck, make two. That’s an order, soldier!

Community Cartography 012

Forge Features: May 26, 2023

Community Spotlight

Modtacular 002

Halo: MCC | Mod Spotlight: May 2023

“Spartan Chatter” is a new avenue we are exploring to provide direct updates to the Halo community through the Discord Stage feature on <a href="http://discord.gg/Halo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener" aria-label=" (opens in a new tab)">the official Halo server</a>.



In our latest episode, Sean Baron, Head of Halo Infinite Live Service, stopped by to answer community questions, discuss player customization, and share new details on what to expect when Season 4 arrives on June 20.



The full conversation is available below which includes several notable bits of information for Halo Infinite players:



<ul><li>Halo Infinite’s take on the fan-favorite mode Infection arrives with Season 4 on June 20</li><li>Beginning with Season 4, all new premium coatings (Premium Battle Pass and Shop) will include individual versions compatible with all armor cores.</li><li>Career Rank is also coming to Halo Infinite on June 20, giving players an all-new progression system with military-style ranks</li><li>343’s official Forge remake of the Halo 5 map “Plaza” is targeted to be released early in Season 4</li><li>Attendees of the upcoming <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/dhdallas2023">HCS Dreamhack Dallas</a> event will get a chance to go hands-on with new Season 4 content</li><li>Halo Infinite’s first Bonus XP Weekend will take place over June 2-4</li></ul>



Check out the full Spartan Chatter episode below for additional insights into the studio’s priorities, where Infinite’s player customization systems are headed, responses to community questions, and more.



<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="Spartan Chatter: Infection, Season 4 & Career Rank" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4SWLEPaTx4c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



And, in case you missed it, <a href="https://youtu.be/7QNHxDg0c9A">the first episode of Spartan Chatter with special guest Michael “Forge Lord” Schorr is now available on the Halo YouTube page</a>. In it, we discuss Halo Infinite’s playlists, Forge improvements landing in Season 4, and tackle a variety of community questions.



<a href="http://discord.gg/Halo">Join the official Halo Discord server</a> to continue the discussion and participate in future Spartan Chatter conversations.



Stay tuned to Halo Waypoint in the coming weeks for more details on Season 4.



You can also grab a full 4K-resolution version of the Infection concept art image (made by artists Jeff Simpson and David Heidhoff) by clicking the image below!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked.jpg"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-scaled.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite concept art for the Infection mode showing three Spartans infected by Iratus" class="wp-image-67421" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/S4Infection4KWatermarked-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>

Season 4, Infection, & Career Rank | Spartan Chatter

Canon Fodder

Issue 141

Canon Fodder: Didact’s Delights

Book Preview

Over ten years ago, the Master Chief awakened from cryo sleep as the UNSC Forward Unto Dawn approached a mysterious shield world known as Requiem.



Within this hollow sphere was an ancient Forerunner warrior—the Didact. Imprisoned a hundred millennia ago by his wife after being driven to madness, he emerged to continue his campaign against the humans that he saw as unworthy of the Mantle, the responsibility of guardianship over life in the galaxy.



Seeking to imprison humanity as his army of machine thralls, the Didact was defeated by the Master Chief and Cortana as he led an attack on Earth, casting him into slipspace. A further confrontation on Gamma Halo would see the Didact’s physical body disintegrated by the destruction of his Composer devices, sending the scatterings of his consciousness into the Domain.



It is here that <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Epitaph/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017531">Halo: Epitaph, the next novel from acclaimed author Kelly Gay</a>, begins. Here’s the official description of what is to come:



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Stripped of armor, might, and memory, the Forerunner warrior known as the Didact was torn from the physical world following his destructive confrontation with the Master Chief and sent reeling into the mysterious depths of a seemingly endless desert wasteland. This once powerful and terrifying figure is now a shadow of his former self—gaunt, broken, desiccated, and alone. But this wasteland is not as barren as it seems. A blue light glints from a thin spire in the far distance…



Thus begins the Didact’s great journey—the final fate of one of the galaxy’s most enigmatic and pivotal figures.



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<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Epitaph/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017531"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1675" height="2470" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront.jpg" alt="Front cover of Halo: Epitaph depicting the hooded figure of the Didact, his face half exposed by his broken helmet" class="wp-image-67220" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront.jpg 1675w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-203x300.jpg 203w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-694x1024.jpg 694w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-768x1133.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-1042x1536.jpg 1042w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-1389x2048.jpg 1389w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/05/HaloEpitaphCoverFront-1568x2312.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1675px) 100vw, 1675px" /></a></figure>



We are thrilled to reveal the cover art of Halo: Epitaph, beautifully illustrated by Chris McGrath, depicting the Didact in a vast desert within the Domain, where fans of Halo 3 may recognize a certain tower in the background.



Published by Gallery Books and our friends over at Simon & Schuster, Halo: Epitaph is currently scheduled for release in early 2024.



Stay tuned later this year for chapter previews that will provide a closer look at the last great journey of the Didact.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Epitaph/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017531" target="_blank">PRE-ORDER HALO: EPITAPH</a>

The Didact returns!

Halo: Epitaph | Cover Reveal