Canon Fodder

Fiction

Games

Halo Infinite

Welcome back to this year’s penultimate issue of Canon Fodder—what a year it’s been, and we’re not quite done yet on the fiction front!



New multiplayer map lore for Season 5’s latest additions, new Waypoint Chronicles and Intel, a new Armory Infinitum entry, and even more await within…



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">MAPTACULORE: RECKONING</h2>



Season 5 brought with it two new maps which both hint at some fascinating backstory elements from the broader Halo universe. Let’s get you acquainted with ‘em!



FORBIDDEN



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the multiplayer map Forbidden" class="wp-image-86997" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Forbidden-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



While ancient stone ruins have been observed on multiple Halo installations, Zeta Halo invites additional curiosity as it continues to bear features from its original configuration as Gyre 11. Lifeworker stations take many forms and house even more secrets, hidden both by and from Forerunners and the various inhabitants who once lived within these old spaces.



Since the initiation of the Zeta Halo project in 2555, several groups of human researchers and follow-up rescue teams have been listed as missing after reporting their discovery of these facilities, or unknowingly wandering into them, which are speculated to be concealed by advanced baffler and dazzler technologies. None have been recorded as having returned.



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PRISM



“A lone colo is prey. A drove of colos is an unstoppable force.”



“Until a pack of teroks push them over a cliff. Then they are dinner. The Banished are the teroks, Arbiter, and you will know when we are hungry. That, I promise.”



Halo: Outcasts, Chapter 24



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Ghost of Barolon in the skies of Suban on the multiplayer map Prism" class="wp-image-87011" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Prism-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Not known to make idle threats, Atriox began moving a contingent of Banished forces towards Suban, the blood-moon of Sanghelios, following his confrontation with the Arbiter on Netherop. Seeking to claim ownership of the Subanese crystal mines used for needle-based weaponry, the Jiralhanae alchemist corps aboard the dreadnought Ghost of Barolon seek to find inventive new applications for this strange, little-understood technology.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">SATURN DEVOURING HIS SON</h2>



Our latest Waypoint Chronicle, Saturn Devouring His Son, went live on Halloween and brought a spooky new short story about the Flood.



Halo: Saturn Devouring His Son is available <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-saturn-devouring-his-son" target="_blank">here on Halo Waypoint</a>, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/SaturnPDF" target="_blank">as a free PDF</a>, and <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://aka.ms/SaturnAudio" target="_blank">in audiobook format on YouTube</a>.



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The question has been asked: what exactly is the big deal about a Spartan becoming infected?



It’s certainly true that the Flood in all its varied forms—from the lowliest spore to the most terrifying of abominations—is deadly to anyone. But to infect a Spartan brings a whole other kind of danger.



Spartans are, as we well know, the master of any weapon, pilot of any vehicle, and fear no enemy. Their lethality comes in no small part from their understanding of how to effectively utilize any piece of technology on the battlefield, whether it’s a UNSC rifle or an alien vehicle. That is a significant element which differentiates Spartans from any other grunt, and that knowledge getting absorbed by the Flood, especially in the early stages of an outbreak (as told in this story), spells doom for all.



Add to that their protective and power-amplifying Mjolnir armor, as well as their knowledge of classified information, and the sheer morale-breaking spectacle of witnessing a champion of humanity transformed into a weapon to be used against them… what sweet misery this scenario brings on every level.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BATTLE FOR THE BLOOD-MOON</h2>



Speaking of Waypoint Chronicles, we are just days away from the release of our next one! Halo: Battle for the Blood-Moon releases on November 27, and it will be available in all the standard Waypoint Chronicle formats.



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2560. The Banished have come to Suban, the blood-moon of Sanghelios, seeking to claim the unique natural resource within its vast mines: the beautiful but volatile Subanese crystals.



The Swords of Sanghelios and their Spartan allies face an overwhelming force on the ground, while a Sangheili shipmistress in the skies above seeks to find a weakness in the enemy’s armor that might turn the tide against these invaders.



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Tying in with this upcoming Waypoint Chronicle, our latest Intel drop has provided some details about the Banished dreadnought Ghost of Barolon. Scannermaster Dibdib’s report features some run-on speculative commentary alongside her analysis that it seems her shipmistress deemed to be an unnecessary addition.



<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/reckoning-intel#S5Intel2" target="_blank">INTEL 2: GHOST OF BAROLON</a>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">ARMORY INFINITUM</h2>



One of the newest weapons introduced in Halo Infinite was the Sicatt Workshop Volt Piercer, or “shock rifle,” which has become a favorite for landing some incredibly satisfying headshots, along with its more powerful variant: the Purging Shock Rifle. 



It just so happens that—as revealed in our latest Intel drop—the Banished dreadnought hanging in the skies of Suban, as you can see on the map Prism, is the Ghost of Barolon. What a fortuitous coincidence, given what we learned in the Halo Encyclopedia last year…



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The shock rifle is the latest in a long line of experimental voltaic application devices that represent some of the only remaining vestiges of the Jiralhanae’s rich technological age, just before the dark days of the Great Immolation. Technicians from the Sicatt Workshop on board the Banished dreadnought Ghost of Barolon were able to break ground on the latest volt piercer, achieving a robust production run of the long-range Banished electrolaser that could also be charged and maintained at local armory outposts. This brutal precision-energy weapon is an extremely powerful asset, neutralizing approaching enemies even at great distances. 



Halo Encyclopedia (2022), p. 477



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Banished hologram of the Shock Rifle" class="wp-image-86983" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CFShockRifle-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



And so, given the current circumstances, it seemed only natural that this latest Armory Infinitum entry should provide some further insight into what the bright minds aboard the Ghost of Barolon have been working on.



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SICATT WORSHOP // ALCHEMY CORPS GHOST OF BAROLON >>PERSONAL LOG // VULCUS



As the Banished looks to extend its reach beyond the shadowed corners of the galaxy we have remained hidden in, Atriox has expressed his desire to bring new kinds of weaponry to bear—the kind that was spoken of in the old stories across the three moons. It was for this purpose that Sicatt Workshop was born, and thus far rudimentary efforts to harness directed-energy electrolasers recovered from old vaults on Doisac have delivered… satisfactory results.



But I see this as just a template. A foundation.



The manufacturers deliver me a weapon that fires three bursts—I say, why not five? Voltaic application devices are still experimental in nature, let us see how much power they can truly offer as we explore the truth of their limits. The Gray Guards are already eager to test this new firepower on the field as Escharum seeks to convene the Legionmasters for a new operation. I want these weapons to match precision and power to take down the shields of a human strike fighter.



In time, perhaps we can even mount such a weapon onto our ships… overload enemy systems to aid in ramming and boarding maneuvers…



Let it never be said that a Jiralhanae lacks the ambition to explore what can be achieved through our minds as well as our might.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">COMMUNITY LORE CORNER</h2>



Let’s round up some of the latest Halo lore-centric endeavors from folks in the community.



Starting us off is <a href="https://youtu.be/NtaNFY2EsC0?si=j1VBmn9R7Eo48yAb">MegMage</a>, who recently completed her first ever playthrough of Halo: Combat Evolved—welcome to the madness, Meg!



Meg has put together a reaction video to the tragic and esoteric story of 343 Guilty Spark as told in those marvelous Combat Evolved Anniversary Terminals. It’s always a joy to see series newcomers become invested in the rich history of this universe.



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Next up, the iconic <a href="https://youtu.be/Gb6Ni3dMwLw?si=oJS5abLlf9lPRdu4">HiddenXperia</a> has put together his own awesome recap and retelling of Saturn Devouring His Son, which you should definitely check out!



<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="THE FIRST SPARTAN EVER INFECTED BY THE FLOOD & The Horrors of Site 22… (NEW)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Gb6Ni3dMwLw?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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And speaking of Saturn, <a href="https://youtu.be/iZ38fcfPaSE?si=DiNFJ8V8lnO0M29-">Halo Infinite Store Customization</a> has created a fantastic short machinima video from the perspective of the cameras across Site 22, showcasing the Flood outbreak.



<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="The Flood is released when miners delved too greedily - Saturn Devouring his Son" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iZ38fcfPaSE?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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To keep the running theme here, <a href="https://youtu.be/qdDbHh1Yi7A?si=HVYtDGzBC3DfoOnw">Installation00</a> has also created a fantastic new video about the CORRUPTER cryptonym featured in Saturn concerning a Spartan being infected by the Flood.



<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="Corrupter Protocol | Lore and Theory" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qdDbHh1Yi7A?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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That’ll close us out for this month’s issue, leaving just one week before our next Waypoint Chronicle drops—our penultimate one for the year (yes, going by what we teased at <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://youtu.be/6NLZw-BL8hg?feature=shared&t=26149s" target="_blank">Canon Fodder LIVE</a>, there is indeed one more still to come in 2023!)



Until then, off with you! There’s a twenty-tier Combined Arms Operation Pass in Halo Infinite that demands completion and a new Halo 3-themed playlist to jump into, the perfect way to pass the time until Battle for the Blood-Moon arrives.



See you on Suban.

Esports

Issue 147

Canon Fodder: Fly Me to the Blood-Moon

Sylvanus

The Pit

Cliffside

Domicile

Banished Narrows

High Ground

Isolation

Critical Dewpoint

Preferred snacks, a bottle of Game Fuel (aka Citrus Cherry Mountain Dew™️), and a controller in hand, I’m ready to play Halo like it’s 2007.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-youtube wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Halo 3 Refueled Playlist Map Flythrough | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/l9fJJI2nk3c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Halo 3 Refueled has landed and it’s full of your old favorites… or at least the maps which might have left the biggest impact from the Halo 3 era. Now, it is 2023 so things have evolved a bit. These maps may visually resemble these old favorites but it’s important to note that they have been refreshed and adapted for Halo Infinite’s sandbox so they may play slightly differently.



Oh, and did we mention there’s one more bonus map created specifically for this celebration?



Let’s do the dew and jump in!



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<h3 class="wp-block-heading">MAPS</h3>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/2578ceda-876c-4bfa-83f1-15a8809bc6bf">SYLVANUS (aka Guardian)</a> Credits: Epik Xero, NightAvenger01, InfiniteForges, I Crush All, Virus11010 Modes: Slayer | Land Grab | Oddball | King of the Hill (KOTH)





Ask anyone what their favorite Halo 3 map is and odds are good that “Guardian” is up there, so it’s no surprise that we’ve got a great reimagining of it here for you to explore. Another map with some great Slayer action, famous for Oddball, and just a great all-arounder that feels like coming home.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/ac771b36-b6ba-4d0f-ad2e-3200a6597db2">THE PIT (aka The Pit)</a> Credits: UneeQ, Mr Greencastle, Azwilko1997, Artifice7285 Modes: Capture the Flag (CTF) | Slayer | KOTH





The Pit is another usual answer to the “Name your favorite Halo 3 map!” question. This map excels at CTF thanks to its symmetrical nature and equal chance for teams to exert control. Grab your crew and let the muscle memory flow straight to your thumbs.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/4fd49663-5bde-4065-8759-96bd2f7a37c4">CLIFFSIDE (aka Blackout)</a> Credits: AngelitoCO, tHe PR gAmEr117 Modes: Slayer | KOTH | Oddball





<s>Lockout</s> Blackout returns as Cliffside! First seen in Halo 2, then Halo 3, and now Halo Infinite, this fan-favorite will have you reminiscing over LANs of days past. Play some Slayer, Oddball, or KOTH and revel in the familiarity.



(WARNING: Please report any ghost sightings. They should not be there!)



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a137d555-0e78-447a-9c68-e29fbabb287e">DOMICILE (aka Construct)</a> Credits: Lunnzies Modes: Slayer | Oddball | Land Grab | KOTH





One of the more vertical maps in Halo, Construct returns as Domicile! Pretty fitting considering people often grab a part of the map to hang out in. From straight-up Slayer to KOTH, this map has a wide variety of experiences to offer.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/02d79c17-79e5-4140-9583-118db700ee11">BANISHED NARROWS (aka Narrows)</a> Credits: AngelitoCO, tHe PR gAmEr117 Modes: CTF | Slayer | Strongholds | Oddball





Keep your head on a swivel and watch for flying Spartans! Narrows returns with a new coat of paint. How you get from end-to-end is up to you, but each option has a risk—take the lift and be exposed in mid-air, dare crossing top-middle, or try your luck below? Narrows is an excellent CTF map but also plays well with other modes.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/b9168aff-1646-4005-9acf-8a632aaccd95">HIGH GROUND (aka High Ground)</a> Credits: UneeQ, Mr Greencastle, Azwilko1997, Artifice7285 Modes: 1 Flag CTF | Slayer | KOTH





If one-sided objective modes like 1 Flag CTF are your jam, then High Ground is the map for you. Storm up the beach, breach the gates, grab the flag, and make a dash back for the score. KOTH and Slayer are also favorites on this map.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/a4fd132c-26a6-4f51-83d9-54471ff60a98">ISOLATION (aka Isolation)</a> Credits: D0ctorSmurf, LudoHT, Okom1, nkdape, Virus11010, Mr IncrediJON, Mr Greencastle Modes: Slayer | CTF | Strongholds | Land Grab | Oddball





You either love it or hate it, but Isolation returns. Famous for its location on the Installation 00 Flood containment facility, Isolation is ripe for Mongoose shenanigans, crazy CTF runs, and sneaky Slayer plays. 



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/d5dbd44e-1de8-4c14-a097-351bd66148fe">CRITICAL DEWPOINT</a> Credits: ArturBloodshot Modes: Slayer | CTF | KOTH | Oddball





<a href="https://www.artstation.com/artwork/B193g8">If you’ve played Athlon in MCC</a>, then Critical Dewpoint will be familiar to you. This re-imagining of the map is perfect for some high-octane gameplay so get your squad and practice those callouts. PS – Don’t forget to stop for supplies during your match, you might be in for a treat!



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Grab your controller, grab your Dew, squad up, and party like it’s <s>1999</s> 2007!

snickerdoodle

Halo 3 Refueled | Halo Infinite

HALO 3 REFUELED MAPS

Combined Arms Press Kit

Combined Arms, Halo Infinite’s first Operation, arrives tomorrow!



From November 14 to December 19, Operation: COMBINED ARMS will be active, bringing a free 20-tier Operation Pass with new customization rewards. The iconic Mjolnir Mark V armor from Halo: CE and a playlist of beloved classic maps from Halo 3 have also come to Halo Infinite.



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<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="Operation: Combined Arms Trailer | Season 5: Reckoning | Halo Infinite" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bCrWlAfWFSM?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">COMBINED ARMS OPERATION PASS</h2>



The Combined Arms Operation Pass features 20 tiers of free customization rewards, along with new armor and vehicle coatings, emblems, and visors.



For those who need a quick refresher: Operations are the new evolution of Events in Halo Infinite, and Combined Arms is the first of more Operations to come. For a full breakdown, <a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/battle-pass-operations-season-5" target="_blank">check out our Operations blog</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-1024x1024.jpg" alt="A visual representation of the Combined Arms Operation Pass. " class="wp-image-86742" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-300x300.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-150x150.jpg 150w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-768x768.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-1536x1536.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB-1568x1568.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/HALO_INFINITE_EVENT_S5_COMBINED_ARMS_REWARDS_1920x1920_RGB.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Player feedback around Events was that their short two-week window felt too limiting, and that once they’re gone there’s no way to obtain those rewards again. Enter Operations, which will run for approximately four-to-six weeks with a free 20-tier Operation Pass that is progressed with Match XP. An Operation can be purchased at any point via Halo Infinite’s in-game Switcher or Shop.



The Operations Pass comes with additional premium upgrade options:



<ul><li>500 credits instantly unlocks an exclusive bonus customization item, makes the Operation Pass durable (it will not expire), and—when equipped—offers bonus XP and an extra Challenge slot during the Operation’s live window.</li><li>2,000 credits instantly unlocks all 20 tiers of the Operation Pass at purchase and includes the exclusive bonus customization item.</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/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the Combined Arms switcher showing the 500 credit Premium Operation Pass and the 2000 credit Premium Operation Pass" class="wp-image-86347" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/CombinedArmsSwitcher-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Purchase either of the Combined Arms Operation Pass options above and you will additionally acquire the Grey Hunter armor coating.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HALO 3 REFUELED</h2>





2007 has arrived in 2023, as seven Halo 3 maps recreated in Forge in partnership with the community are coming to a new matchmaking playlist in Halo Infinite alongside the Combined Arms Operation tomorrow.



Claim the High Ground and revisit the vertical heights of Construct, the lush jungles of Guardian, a Banished-themed take on Narrows, and other beloved classics recreated in Halo Infinite’s Forge mode. Alongside these is also Critical Dewpoint, a map created by ArturBloodshot, based around our nostalgia-fueled partnership with Mountain Dew.



For more details, be sure to check out our Halo 3 Refueled blog when it lands tomorrow.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">NEW WAYPOINT CHRONICLE INBOUND</h2>



Also accompanying the release of Combined Arms is a new Waypoint Chronicle which will release later this month!



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2560. The Banished have come to Suban, the blood-moon of Sanghelios, seeking to claim the unique natural resource within its vast mines: the beautiful but volatile Subanese crystals. 



The Swords of Sanghelios and their Spartan allies face an overwhelming force on the ground, while a Sangheili shipmistress in the skies above seeks to find a weakness in the enemy’s armor that might turn the tide against these invaders.



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Stay tuned for the release of this short story (which will be available here on Halo Waypoint, as a free PDF, and in audiobook format on YouTube) on November 27.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">“LOOK, A MARK V!”</h2>



Bred for combat, built for war, you are the master of any weapon, pilot of any vehicle, and fear no enemy.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">Bred for combat, built for war, you are the master of any weapon, pilot of any vehicle, and fear no enemy 🫡 The Combat Evolved Mark V bundle is now available in the Shop. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloReckoning?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloReckoning</a> <a href="https://t.co/W7w6jHdvOr">pic.twitter.com/W7w6jHdvOr</a>— Halo (@Halo) <a href="https://twitter.com/Halo/status/1722313153910878324?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 8, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



In celebration of Halo’s upcoming birthday, the CE Mark V armor kit became available for purchase in the Shop on November 7. The Combat Evolved Mark V bundle contains:



<ul><li>Combat Evolved Mark V armor kit</li><li>Cinder Ring multi-use armor coating</li><li>Viridescent Ring multi-use armor coating</li><li>Aurum Evolved visor</li></ul>



Unseal the hushed casket and awaken the flawless cowboy within. Prevail through nerves of steel and a quick trigger finger.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of the CE Mark V armor kit" class="wp-image-83322" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/CEMarkV3-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



And be sure to complete all of your Challenges this week to unlock the latest Ultimate Reward: AAP/Ordnance Pack Oscar for your Mark V [B] armor.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite image of Ultimate Reward: AAP Ordnance Pack Oscar" class="wp-image-85883" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/ULT_AAPOrdnancePackOscar-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



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That concludes this overview of Halo Infinite’s debut Operation, which runs for the next five weeks (after which, the Winter Contingency III Operation will begin).



Go forth and start working your way through that free Operation Pass to claim your customization rewards, check out the new Halo 3 Refueled playlist, secure the CE Mark V armor kit to indulge in some classic nostalgia that has never looked so snazzy, and stay tuned for the upcoming Waypoint Chronicle!



See you on Suban.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PRESS KIT</h2>



<a href="http://aka.ms/CAPressKit">Download the official Combined Arms Press Kit here!</a>

Alex Wakeford

Combined Arms Operation Launch

Community

Forge Features

More maps, more experiences, and more jaw-dropping creations leveraging the Forge AI Toolkit have been delivered since Season 5 launched. Being able to create your own mini-Firefight experience, recreate campaign missions, or lose hours of the day by way of various minigames means the options are endless, and we’ve got plenty to show off today!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b99ac94-a0d7-48cf-b1de-474e29215f4c">GRUNT WARS CONVERSION</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ee3ddc3c-0e55-4bd5-a6a5-834e4020b314">Grunt Wars</a> Credits: Hitmonchanel, Shrad Marden



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/8b99ac94-a0d7-48cf-b1de-474e29215f4c"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars.jpg" alt="Grunts in the hill of Grunt Wars" class="wp-image-85784" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/GruntWars-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



I saw this in the Custom Game Browser and had absolutely zero clue what to expect, but “Grunt Wars” sounded amazing. So, I jumped in immediately and I was not disappointed. Waves upon waves of Grunts just pouring out from the Behemoth towers, all trying to capture a hill, yielded pure chaos.



10/10 experience.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3f788be8-f692-408d-a91e-33b684335162">TIMBERLAND EVOLVED</a> Credits: Micheal B 2K8, D0ctorSmurf, Okom1, Virus11010, Darth Draius, MikRips, Mr IncrediJON



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/3f788be8-f692-408d-a91e-33b684335162"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02.jpg" alt="Big Team Battle map Timberland recreated in Halo Infinite's Forge" class="wp-image-85728" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TimberlandEvolved02-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Picture it. <s>Halo: Combat Evolved</s> <s>Halo: Reach</s> Halo Infinite, 2023. You can take a long stroll through the forest and get the strongest sense of déjà vu. That’s right. Timberland is back as Timberland Evolved, and it’s just as you remember it!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99cf9838-9669-4e6b-8588-4cb437109727">STORM FIREFIGHT</a> Modes: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/2a3f2858-6713-4d9c-8dac-fc831bfae9d8">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/9aaccaf7-df6f-4bcc-b611-500b6b64ff84">Normal</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/3d3d4314-f6c1-4efe-a435-b8895a5f4709">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b141e55e-8e0f-433e-9644-4e0c5802e536">Legendary</a> Credits: RiskiestSole35, DaBratva



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/99cf9838-9669-4e6b-8588-4cb437109727"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm.jpg" alt="Recreation of the Halo 3 mission "The Storm" in Halo Infinite's Forge" class="wp-image-85742" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TheStorm-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



If you’ve played Halo 3’s campaign, this will look exceedingly familiar. Storm the beach and take on waves of enemies in Storm Firefight, a recreation of—wait for it—the campaign mission The Storm. There’s even a Scarab for you to contend with! Adjust the difficulty as you see fit, and good luck.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/536787d5-78f0-4647-bf57-c09122ef8ced">TOWER DEFENSE ULTIMATE – ALPINE</a> Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/294498da-25a9-4890-b786-0a99ed7edce6">Tower Defense Ultimate</a> Credits: hiBeekle



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/536787d5-78f0-4647-bf57-c09122ef8ced"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate.jpg" alt="A Tower Defense map created in Halo Infinite Forge" class="wp-image-85756" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/TowerDefenseUltimate-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



This is the tower defense mode you remember—limited lives, numerous enemy waves, and a set path they will attack along. Your job: Defend the towers and hold the line. Don’t let me be the one to sell you on this, check out Beekle’s video for even more info.



<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="Bloons Tower Defense in Halo??? | Tower Defense Ultimate" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aKkCGLeM_-c?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FORGE & FANCY-FREE</h2>



Some other little bytes to sate your appetite…



Maybe you find yourself longing to catch ‘em all, Halo style. In that case, <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1718754557293920275">@DanTheBloke</a>’s Battle Arena is just for you.



<figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">The Pokemon Battle Arena is finally ready 🎉 Pick your team within a 1000 point limit, arm them and send them into the arena! 💥 First to 5 rounds wins 👊 Find the map and mode here: <a href="https://t.co/qqJDoLUJAR">https://t.co/qqJDoLUJAR</a> (or search pokemon-arena in the browser)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloInfinite?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloInfinite</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloReckoning?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloReckoning</a> <a href="https://t.co/sYTSKRhyE5">pic.twitter.com/sYTSKRhyE5</a>— Dan The Bloke (@DanTheBloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1718754557293920275?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 29, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/db26fa3e-d94b-4135-97a5-7d1e11953abb"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon.jpg" alt="Recreation of a game allowing you to catch all the Halo enemies in one go." class="wp-image-85770" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/11/Halomon-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/db26fa3e-d94b-4135-97a5-7d1e11953abb">Map Download</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/ece61d37-935b-49d2-991f-1ae0f5ac22eb">Mode Download</a>



Or maybe you’re looking to play some soccer with vehicles… also Halo style. <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1721634058130633146">You can do that too</a>!



<figure class="wp-block-embed-twitter wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="550" data-dnt="true">Haloified Rocket League is ready for action! ⚽️🚗💨 Razorback starts, 5 goals to win! Boosting – Mark while looking forwards/ down Jumping – Mark while looking up Wallriding – Ride walls by driving up them Grab it here: <a href="https://t.co/7Gh1dgaEBZ">https://t.co/7Gh1dgaEBZ</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HaloInfinite?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HaloInfinite</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/RocketLeague?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#RocketLeague</a> <a href="https://t.co/qggzpioDYx">pic.twitter.com/qggzpioDYx</a>— Dan The Bloke (@DanTheBloke) <a href="https://twitter.com/DanTheBloke/status/1721634058130633146?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2023</a></blockquote><script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</div></figure>



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/en/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/1cd62a8b-5a6a-409c-81d8-4b1701b6ed45">Map Download</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/en/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/d0894af3-1b65-4962-a0a8-711d852405fe">Mode Download</a>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TUTORIAL TRAINING</h2>



 If you’ve been struggling to create round-based modes that end and properly award the victory screen to the team that wins, let Fourkings13 help you out.



<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="Script a Working Round Lose Trigger and How to Force All Players to One Team - Halo Infinite Forge" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4MPvtLFSjv0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



 Ducain23 is back with another AI toolkit tutorial. This time, he’s showing how to script wave intermissions and endless waves. His tutorial series is a great resource if you’re trying to dip your toes into the world of Forging AI.  



<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="Wave Intermission (Delay) and Endless Waves | Beginner Halo Infinite AI Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-0ZQf_Lipvg?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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That will bring this week’s feature to a close. We continue to be surprised and delighted at what you manage to create, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.



In the meantime, see you in the CGB!

Community Cartography 021

Forge Features: November 10, 2023

Forge has evolved.



With the arrival of Season 5 of Halo
Infinite, players have now got their hands on the Forge AI Toolkit which
has well and truly changed the game, as you can now add AI units to the maps
you create.



Already, we have seen PvPvE experiences
populate the Custom Game Browser, along with recreations of classic campaign
missions and even brand-new ones. As we hit our twentieth issue of Forge
Features, that seems like a nice round number to start showcasing some of these
incredible new experiences that you can jump in and play right now.



For a more comprehensive breakdown of the additions made to Forge in Season 5, <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">check out our Forge Overview blog</a>.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">FIREFIGHT CUSTOM GAME MODE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of (from left-to-right) a Brute, Hunter, and Jackal on a dark map" class="wp-image-84630" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-FF-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



When setting up a custom game for
Firefight, you’ll want to make sure that you’ve got the right mode set up to
have the optimal experience. Sometimes you can use one that’s more “general,”
but sometimes there will be maps that use their own specific mode variant(s).
Some even come with difficulty levels.



For a good general Firefight mode where
the player simply needs to survive ten rounds, be sure to bookmark the
following:



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/0c02c58e-dea7-4e73-82c5-4a244602209b">FIREFIGHT
– WoodComet673577</a>



For others which are more map-specific,
you will find these included below.



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



<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/feab8eb6-c485-42ba-84dd-d754fdcd63cb">INCLEMENCY</a> Credits: MadmanEpic Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/4b2708ac-e929-479e-9667-8516a8a396bc">Inclemency Campaign</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/feab8eb6-c485-42ba-84dd-d754fdcd63cb"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Inclemency Forge map" class="wp-image-84546" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-0-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



An early example of what a “custom
campaign mission”-type experience using Forge AI looks like, where you’ll be
fighting Banished in the snow.



There’s a vehicular section as you
navigate through several Banished checkpoints; there are some narrow bridges
and walkways; you’ll storm a Banished facility and fight a hammer-wielding Chieftain
in close-quarters, before heading to the extraction point and fighting off
several waves of tough enemies.



Either jump in solo or grab a couple of
friends and try it out!



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f36bfa5c-6654-4a4d-b9c2-7fc88c7ff587">FIREFIGHT HALO REVAMPED</a> Credits: JAYZEN0009, ghostlyswat12



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/f36bfa5c-6654-4a4d-b9c2-7fc88c7ff587"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Firefight Halo Revamped Forge map" class="wp-image-84560" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Battlecruisers and corvettes are inbound
with enemy troops! Survive five rounds against an onslaught of enemies and hold
the line to claim victory.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/59476aa0-1a37-4f20-bb94-fe3d3870e52d">H2 OUTSKIRTS FIREFIGHT</a> Credits: Ju Jitsu X, Squishiop9, tttwyson Mode: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/2a3f2858-6713-4d9c-8dac-fc831bfae9d8">Easy</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/9aaccaf7-df6f-4bcc-b611-500b6b64ff84">Normal</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/3d3d4314-f6c1-4efe-a435-b8895a5f4709">Heroic</a> | <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/modes/b141e55e-8e0f-433e-9644-4e0c5802e536">Legendary</a>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/59476aa0-1a37-4f20-bb94-fe3d3870e52d"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of Jackals, Skirmishers, and Elites in the Halo 2 Outskirts courtyard created in Forge" class="wp-image-84588" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-3-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



“We’ve got Jackals in the courtyard!”



It’s the holdout section from Halo 2’s
Outskirts mission, featuring some adjustments to the overall layout. You can
bookmark different modes which scale the AI difficulty, so maybe you’re looking
for an easy time ploughing through enemy waves, or perhaps you’ve gathered a
group of friends and you’re looking for a challenge to test your mettle on
Legendary.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/85a81bf5-4b11-402d-b952-b08f4ba9274c">INFINITE FIREFIGHT REFUGE</a> Credits: Cousin Tim, InfiniteForges, Michael B 2K8, NightAvenger01, I Crush All, CertifiedChamp, ItzSkittz3964



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/85a81bf5-4b11-402d-b952-b08f4ba9274c"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Phantom on the Infinite Firefight Refuge Forge map" class="wp-image-84574" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-2-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Just when you thought you couldn’t be
more in awe of the maps this crew puts together, they deliver this…



Abandoned and overgrown, Halo 2’s
Headlong has become a battleground for the Banished.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6ad1375f-b425-4b73-ae26-ef5a9efd6fd0">INSTALLATION 07 FIREFIGHT</a> Credits: TJtheForger



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/6ad1375f-b425-4b73-ae26-ef5a9efd6fd0"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the Installation 07 Firefight map created in Forge" class="wp-image-84602" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-4-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



One of the encounters that Firefight
naturally ended up evolving out of were the holdout sections in Halo: CE’s
second mission, where the Master Chief must seek out and protect Marine
survivors from several waves of Covenant dropships while exploring the
Forerunner structures and beam towers that almost serve as “lighthouses” for
these encounters.



It is only natural, then, that this experience
has been recreated with Forge AI in Halo Infinite.



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<a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/07ab2435-ba9f-42f3-8374-f6bfc1cab5e3">PVPVE BLOODGULCH</a> Credits: ghostlyswat12, DaringMacil, AlphaEpsilon



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite/ugc/maps/07ab2435-ba9f-42f3-8374-f6bfc1cab5e3"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of the PvPvE Bloodgulch map created in Forge" class="wp-image-84616" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/FF20-5-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></a></figure>



Many years ago, I remember one of the
first videos of Halo modding that I ever saw was of a big AI battle on
Blood Gulch where Hunters were sat on Scorpion tanks and all manner of
explosive green chaos ensued.



That was well over fifteen years ago, and
now you can actually create this experience for yourself in Halo Infinite.



This PvPvE experience offers 12v12 for players
and 16v16 AI—with some being aligned to your team, and others on the enemy’s.
It is, perhaps, one of the purest possible expressions of Halo
imaginable.



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<h2 class="wp-block-heading">TUTORIAL
TRAINING</h2>



Interested in making maps that utilize the Forge AI Toolkit for yourself? Well, there’s a variety of video guides you can watch to get a greater understanding of the systems and options that are at your disposal.



<a href="https://www.youtube.com/live/6NLZw-BL8hg?si=z1kpOaYZ8ozvUPBK&t=4720">FORGE
FUNDAMENTALS: SEASON 5 & AI TOOLKIT</a>



First up, we did our own showcase of the Forge AI Toolkit during a Community Stage panel at the 2023 Halo World Championship.



<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="HaloWC 2023 Community Stage – Day 1 (Forge, Steve Downes, Jen Taylor, Keith David, Lore, Digsite +)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6NLZw-BL8hg?start=4720&feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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Join 343 staff John Junyszek (Sr.
Community Manager), Michael Schorr (Forge Lord), and Connor Kennelly (Forge
Technical Designer) as they dive into the details of what’s new to Forge in
Season 5 and how you can use it.



<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K29fMJodXP0">HOW TO SPAWN AI IN FORGE |
BEGINNER TUTORIAL</a>



Ducain23 has been putting together a series of tutorials on the Forge AI Toolkit, and this is a great place to start—how to spawn AI on your map and make them move around.



<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="How To Spawn AI In Forge | Beginner Halo Infinite AI Tutorial" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/K29fMJodXP0?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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This video will give you a good
understanding of things like nav mesh and move zones (how AI movement on the
map works), the various methods of spawning (like whether they arrive by drop
pod, Phantom dropship, or fade in), and how to put these things to the test.



<a href="https://youtu.be/mDdTG9z1ic4?si=j7Kkm5T0jAo5ar98">HALO INFINITE FORGE PVE
CAMPAIGN SCRIPTING GUIDE</a>



For something a little more advanced and
long-form, check out MadmanEpic’s video on how he put together the scripting
for his Inclemency campaign-style mission experience.



<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="A Rambling Halo Infinite Forge PvE Campaign Scripting Guide (Inclemency)" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mDdTG9z1ic4?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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As MadmanEpic puts it himself, the
Inclemency map isn’t copy protected and he encourages players to jump into
Forge to fiddle around with the map and see how he put it all together.



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That rounds us out for this issue of
Forge Features, which has now become even more exciting with the new kinds of
maps and experiences that players are able to create using these new tools.



It’s not even been two weeks since Season 5 launched and we’re already seeing some incredible creations from the community—we can’t even begin to imagine just how much farther there is to push the envelope, which just means that we’re every bit as excited as you are.



Now, if you’ll excuse me, the next wave’s
droppin’ in and it’s about to get hot!

Community Cartography 020

Forge Features: October 27, 2023

Season 5: Reckoning Launch

Customization Overview | Season 5

<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="Bandit EVO STARTS! - HCS Season 5 | Ranked Update" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/J1zWGCLXXco?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen></iframe>
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For nearly two years we’ve watched the greatest Halo players on Earth wield their Battle Rifles to duke it out at over a dozen global events for millions of dollars in the HCS, as well as each of you inside the various ranked playlists inside the game. This has been some of the most amazing Halo we’ve watched—thank you.



And now, nearly two years later, Season 5 for Halo Infinite launches on October 17 and with it brings big changes to ranked—and we couldn’t be more excited for you to play and compete.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">BANDIT EVO</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83122" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Bandit_EVO_02-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



When the M392 Bandit was introduced in Season 3, we knew it had the potential to capture the hearts of the competitive community. Sure enough, it did. And we heard loud and clear from you that competitive Halo needed a single-shot fire starting gun, something that made you giddy when you got a Perfect kill, something that made you jump out of your chair when you turned around and outgunned someone who had the drop on you, something that rewarded your individual skill more.



That something is
the Bandit Evo.



The M392 Bandit that shipped with Season 3 was designed to be an on-map pickup weapon in the “Assault Rifle” class, and we felt it fit that role just right. However, if we wanted to adapt the Bandit to be the starting gun, it needed a complete overhaul as it was going to fill the utility role.



Competitive Halo requires a utility starting weapon, it is the cornerstone of the entire experience. You need to be able to fight off your spawn even when your opponent has all the power on the map. This meant it needed range so we gave the new Bandit Evo a 1.6x sight so now you can knock that sniper out of scope. It also needed to be reliable in its firing mechanics so we’ve drastically reduced the bloom and recoil. It also needed to fit in a similar time-to-kill to that of the BR so that players always have a chance to come back in a fight and so we’ve decreased the rate of fire a bit. At the same time, it’s important that weapons are balanced against the Bandit Evo, so of course it has descope.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan aiming the Bandit Evo" class="wp-image-83206" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HI_S5_BanditEVO_Watermarked_1920x1080-6527116fd9dc8-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Here’s the full list of changes from the M392 Bandit to the new Bandit Evo:



<ul><li>Rate of fire: 3.0 -> 2.9. (rounds per second)</li><li>Rounds total initial: 45 -> 60</li><li>Rounds total maximum: 60 -> 75</li><li>Eliminated progressive recoil</li><li>Reduced bloom/error angles</li><li> Zoom magnification 1.4x Iron Sight -> 1.6x Holopoint Sight</li><li>Added descope</li><li>Reticle rework</li></ul>



Additionally, the red reticle range has been increased for both Bandit Evo and M932 Bandit.



When you combine all of these elements together, you get the new starting weapon for Ranked Playlists as well as the Halo Championship Series in Year 3.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83136" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_BP_13-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Now, some of you might be thinking, “Well, I liked the original Bandit, what does this mean for that gun?” Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The original M392 Bandit with the normal tuning will still be available in the game and across the various social playlists it’s featured in.



Additionally, all of your Bandit customization will work for the M392 Bandit and the Bandit Evo—you just need to customize it once and the game will automatically apply the changes to both Bandits for you when you load into with a Bandit Evo and pick up an M392 Bandit.



With a new
starting weapon in ranked, this is a great opportunity to jump back in and
prove yourself in time for the Year 3 of HCS kicking off in 2024.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01.jpg" alt="Halo Infinite screenshot of a Spartan holding an Extraction Device" class="wp-image-83150" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Extraction_01-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Halo 4’s mode, Extraction, returns to the franchise for the first time in Halo Infinite. Extraction is a tried-and-true, battle-tested game mode that went through the rigors of many tournaments from 2012-2014 and we’re excited to bring it forward to Halo Infinite.



How does it work? In Extraction, teams must enter a zone and plant the Extraction device. Once planted, the device will take 60 seconds to extract and the planting team must defend it while their opponents need to convert the device to Extract for themselves and reset the 60 second timer. Once a team successfully extracts the device, they will score 1 point and the zone will then move to a new pre-determined location. The team that scores 4 points, wins.



Extraction will be played on the following maps in the Ranked Arena playlist when Season 5 launches:



<ol><li>Live Fire</li><li>Recharge</li><li>Streets</li></ol>



Extraction will be
a totally new dynamic to the ranked and HCS rotation and we can’t wait to see
all of the strategies start to form when it releases on October 17.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new maps coming to Season 5 in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-83017" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_04_1-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Introducing Forbidden, a brand-new Halo Infinite 4v4 map built for ranked play. Forbidden is not a remake, but rather a totally new design that harkens back to classic Halo with not only its map layout but also its artistic approach. Forbidden is a symmetrical map and will be featured in the Ranked Arena playlist with Capture the Flag (3 Captures to Win).



In terms of power weapons and power ups on the map, each team receives access to a S7 Sniper which is well suited for the map with its longer sightlines but distinct cover and routes to traverse through the map. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1024x576.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new maps coming to Season 5 in Halo Infinite." class="wp-image-83031" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_PK_Map_Forbidden_05_1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Forbidden will indeed be going into the HCS rotation for Year 3, and we’ll announce the final rotation in January before the competitions kick off. There will be some map and mode combinations rotated out in order to make room for Extraction and Forbidden.



Forbidden will be making its way into the Ranked Playlist in the coming weeks after Season 5. We are still fine-tuning weapon layout, equipment, and spawning and want to ensure it’s a great experience that the competitive audience enjoys instead of releasing it in ranked before it’s ready.



Please note that the list of map and mode combinations in Ranked Arena for Season 5 will not be indicative of the final list for when the HCS Year 3 season begins. We will be keeping a close eye on the performance of all the map and mode combinations in the playlist and then making the final decisions in January 2024.



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HCS Year 3</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1024x576.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-83828" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/HCS_Year_3.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



As announced at the Halo World Championship, we’re excited to confirm that a Year 3 of HCS will be taking place starting in 2024 which leads up to yet another $1 million HaloWC. Until then, we’ll be hosting some open tournaments on FACEIT to give players something to compete for fun in – and they begin later this fall. Follow <a href="https://twitter.com/HCS/">@HCS on Twitter</a> to see the latest.



Thank you once again to everyone who’s supported Ranked Halo Infinite and HCS, and thank you for making this yet another incredible year for competitive Halo.



Season 5 drops on October 17—we’ll see you online!

Official HCS

Ranked Update | Season 5

AI Spawners

AI Nodegraph Scripting

Unyshek

Forge Overview | Season 5

Forbidden & Prism Fan Kit 

Coming with Season 5 of Halo Infinite are two new maps: Forbidden and Prism.



Forbidden takes place within a vast complex of ancient stone ruins on Zeta Halo, and Prism delves into the crystalline caves of Suban—the so-called blood-moon of Sanghelios—as a battle in the sky rages between the Arbiter’s Swords of Sanghelios and Atriox’s Banished forces.



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Both maps will be arriving with Season 5 on October 17, so let’s get you acquainted with them by chatting with multiplayer designer Cliff Schuldt.



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Season 5 brings two awesome new maps into Halo Infinite’s rotation. How would you summarize Forbidden and Prism?



Forbidden is a map that is visually defined by the ancient stone ruins that strongly evoke the aesthetic of Delta Halo, similar to Forest in Season 4. It’s a symmetrical arena map with snipers on either side, long sightlines, and Power Equipment in the middle—so it’s a map that we think will play really well with competitive, but it’s also a space that you’re just going to want to wander around and explore in a custom game.



Prism is an asymmetrical arena map set on Suban, one of the moons of Sanghelios. It’s where the blamite crystals are mined to be used as ammunition for needle-based weaponry, so it boasts an incredibly unique aesthetic that we’ve not really seen in Halo before.



Last season, we had Forest and Scarr, and we’re leaning even more deeply into some of those unique alien aesthetic elements in Season 5 with these two maps. What can you tell us about the aesthetic design of Forbidden and Prism?



We’re always keen to find subtle ways to communicate to the player where they are on the map, and Forbidden does that in a really cool way. On one side, the map is dried up and dead, while the other side is lush and green, featuring ancient aqueducts that are channeling water around this massive stone complex.



Prism is a mix of a lot of exciting visual elements. It’s set on Suban, so there’s that aspect of Sangheili design; but it’s also a cave system filled with these blamite crystals, so there’s a certain alien-ness to it as a natural formation as well. And there’s a Banished presence here, so their rough industrial equipment adds another visual layer to the map.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Forbidden is one of the new arena maps coming to Halo Infinite in Season 5." class="wp-image-82947" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Forbidden_Watermarked_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



What are some of the unique features that Forbidden and Prism have as Arena maps?



On Prism, one of the power weapons is actually the special Pinpoint Needler variant from Halo Infinite’s campaign, which boasts an increased magazine and much stronger tracking abilities. Because of the theme we were going for with this map, having the Needler front-and-center here—an iconic Halo weapon going back to 2001—just felt right for this map to give it a unique edge.



Oh, and there are some unharvested blamite crystal clusters that players can shoot, making them explode which sends crystal shards flying off. That’s a cool environmental hazard which adds another fun and unique layer to the map.



For Forbidden, ample routes around the space make Capture the Flag matches even more tense—whether you’re attacking, defending, chasing the flag carrier, or trying to navigate your way back to capture the flag. There are a lot of options for the player to utilize in any of these situations which can feel incredibly rewarding. Long sightlines will put your sniping skills to the test, and there are some skill jumps that players can utilize to really level up their play. It’s a map we wanted to be easy for players to grok, but it has additional layers of depth that you can master.



One of the coolest things about Halo maps from the very beginning is that they tell a story, and I think we really lean into that in Prism. What can you tell us about some of those elements?



When we begin designing a map, we don’t like to design a blockout without knowing what kind of aesthetic we’re going for because those details lend so much unique flavor to these maps.



For Prism, we’re leaning into visualizing an area of the lore that you may have read about but certainly haven’t seen before. The mines on Suban are where blamite crystals (used for weapons like the Needler) come from and the Banished have come to claim it for themselves. This tells a story that you’ll see not just in the playable space but also in the battle that is taking place in the skybox where Banished ships are duking it out with the Arbiter’s Swords of Sanghelios.



Similarly with Forbidden, the design of those Delta Halo-inspired stone ruins is so unique—that ancient and elegant chonkiness is an aesthetic that evokes such a sense of mystery and allows us to lean into subtle storytelling elements that make these places feel alive.



Which modes are some of your favorites to play on these maps?



Prism feels great for zone control modes like King of the Hill and Extraction, but also—as mentioned earlier—plays really well with fast-paced One Flag CTF matches.



We had a great time testing CTF, Strongholds, and Oddball on Forbidden as well. The map lends itself to some incredible set-up scenarios and really unique moments!



Both of these maps also have their own unique Infection variants, with new areas to explore while certain paths are cut off.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg" alt="Prism is one of the new maps coming to Halo Infinite in Season 5." class="wp-image-82933" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080.jpg 1920w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2023/10/S5_AST_Map_Prism_Watermarked_1920x1080-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" /></figure>



Do you have any fun stories from playtests on these maps?



We had so many good times with these maps, it’s hard to narrow it down to any one moment or thing that happened.



Having unique Infection map variants means it’s always fun when players are looking around to find the best hiding spots, thinking they’ve found the perfect place, and then the “Oh no…” moment when they’re the last survivor and everyone starts charging their position.



We’ve also been blowing each other up with blamite on Prism, and had some really, really close matches of Multi Flag on Forbidden. There have been some jaw-dropping “all or nothing” plays to prevent flag captures that have given me a new appreciation for the sniper rifle and those who are skilled at wielding it!



And aside from the gameplay, it’s been wonderful to just wander around these maps and admire the incredible job that the team did at making them feel like living spaces in the Halo universe. That’s what I used to do when I was young, wondering about what stories could happen in these locations, and hopefully players will get a sense of that on Prism and Forbidden as well.



Are there any hints towards Easter eggs or secrets for players to keep their eyes open for?



A hidden secret lies within stone ruins… maybe it’s a sandwich lol.



Thank you for joining us once again to help us explore the making of these new maps! Do you have any parting words to share?



As ever, please send us your clips of the awesome moments you have playing Season 5. Show us the secrets you find. Everybody poured their love into these maps and we hope you have as much of a good time playing on them as we did making them!





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For more on Season 5 of Halo Infinite, check out our other blogs:



<ul><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/battle-pass-operations-season-5">OPERATIONS & BATTLE PASS OVERVIEW</a> – Everything you need to know about how Halo Infinite’s Events are evolving into Operations and the Season 5 Battle Pass.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-gear-rewards-season-5">HALO GEAR REWARDS</a> – Learn more about the Halo Gear Rewards program for Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/extraction-overview-season-5">MODE OVERVIEW</a> – Learn more about the return and revamp of Halo 4‘s Extraction mode.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/forge-overview-season-5">FORGE OVERVIEW</a> – Find out about the AI toolkit for PvE, along with new objects, palettes, options, and more coming to Forge </li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/ranked-update-season-5-2">RANKED OVERVIEW</a> – All you need to know about Ranked, sandbox, and balancing updates and changes in Season 5.</li><li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/customization-overview-season-5">CUSTOMIZATION OVERVIEW </a>– A complete breakdown of new customization content coming in Season 5, the Battle Pass, Shop changes, and more.</li></ul>

Maps Overview | Season 5