Community

Halo Fest

Welcome back to another edition of the Halo Fest Update Series – today we’ve got some big announcements that we’re excited to share with you.



Before we do that, if you’re new to the series and want to catch up, you can hit the links below: 



<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-january">January Blog</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-december">December Blog</a></li>
</ul>



Alright, as usual, let’s start with a ticketing update.



<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="Artists and Games Done Quick | Halo Fest 2026 Update" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/oksQJyBV9UI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING UPDATE</h1>



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



Halo Fest tickets continue to sell at a fast pace, and today I can confirm that the Halo Fest convention is now over 75% sold out. Folks – I think pretty soon in one of these updates I’m going to be talking about how it’s sold out and when that happens you’ll want to be one of the people who says, “Good thing I bought my ticket early!” instead of one of the people who says, “I wish I didn’t wait so long!”.



So, if you’re on the fence about going, time is running out! For those who have secured your spot already, enjoy the ride!





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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">GAMES DONE QUICK</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-1024x576.jpg" alt="Fans celebrating at Games Done Quick" class="wp-image-163470" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/GDQ.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Speedrunning is a critical part of the Halo franchise. For decades, Halo speedrunners have dazzled us and broken our brains competing against each other to complete Halo campaigns with the fastest times. Sword canceling vast distances, breaking through the geometry and skipping huge swaths of levels (there are designers shaking their fists somewhere) all in the name of great fun, entertainment, and some healthy competition.



Well today we’re excited to announce that we’ve partnered with the amazing team at Games Done Quick to host an official Halo Games Done Quick live at Halo Fest later this year. It was important to us that we provided an authentic and community-centered experience, and we couldn’t think of anyone better to collaborate with than the fine folks (and Halo fans!) at Games Done Quick.



Whether you’re onsite or at home, you’ll be able to watch two full days of speedruns and challenge runs across various games from the Halo franchise featuring the world’s best Halo speedrunners. And of course, the GDQ team will be taking donations on behalf of a great charity we will share later.



For details, keep it locked to <a href="https://x.com/GamesDoneQuick">Games Done Quick</a>‘s social media for game selections, runners, and schedule. We can’t wait to watch the community completely break and dismantle these games for all of our entertainment pleasure!



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">ARTIST COMMISSION</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-1024x576.jpg" alt="Halo Fan Art by Outlet Chief" class="wp-image-163512" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Outlet-Chief.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



(Fan Art by <a href="https://x.com/OutletChief729">Outlet Chief</a>)



As you have hopefully noticed about Halo Fest, a key theme is community involvement. We started talking about this with the various contests last month, speedrunning, and now we’re excited to confirm that we’re commissioning artists in the Halo community to create art that will be shown and shared at Halo Fest!



The spirit of the idea is that as you’re walking through the halls at Halo Fest, you’re not only seeing iconic official art from the Halo franchise but also incredible community-made art to serve as a reminder that this franchise is nothing without you all – the community.



Here are just a few of the artists we’ve confirmed to be working with:



<ul>
<li><a href="https://x.com/John_Grosjean">John Grosjean</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/Soul_ant19">Soul</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/2204Design">2204</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/mrgruntington">MrGruntington</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/OutletChief729">Outlet Chief</a></li>



<li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/nsclark98">NSClark</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/Rythayze">Rythaze</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/noui_nono">Nouichi</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/VincentGat">Vin Gattuso</a></li>



<li><a href="https://x.com/hartwell_design">Hartwell Design</a></li>
</ul>



In addition to community artists, we’re also commissioning artists who have created official Halo art over the years whether they were independent, at Bungie, or at 343 Industries.



We can’t wait to see what amazing creations these artists bring to life and are excited to share them with the world!



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



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



We’ve still got some time to go before Halo Fest is here but the team is starting to cook! Is there anything you’re interested in learning more about? Hit me up on <a href="https://x.com/Tashi343i">Twitter</a>! 



We’ll see you next month. 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Tashi

Halo Fest – GDQ & Community Artists (February Update)

Community Spotlight

Mutinous Core

Spotlight: February 20, 2026

Zondaro at E3

Halo25Together

Halo Studios

Your Halo Story: Chapter 2

Games

Halo: The Master Chief Collection

Welcome to the MCC Mod Minute, a focused look at a creative mod for Halo: The Master Chief Collection, with details on how to try it out yourself through the Steam Workshop.



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



Start your engines! Warthog Rally is a retro-style racer that puts you behind the wheel of a variety of custom-made Warthogs, motorcycles, and a few other truly sweet whips on a timed slalom through eight circuits of motoring mayhem.



Select your course, nab a beverage, and load up with your preferred allies for a master course in acceleration. As if cornering weren’t hard enough, you can also adjust the number of enemies on the course for an extra challenge, with options ranging from “No Enemies” to “Total Chaos.”



<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="Halo CE - Warthog Rally Release Trailer" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_-14Ed8uF8Y?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



As you complete time trials and collect trophies, you’ll unlock new vehicles to test your skills on the open road. Certain vehicle choices also permit you to shoot out the window, so don’t forget to gear up before rolling out (the Griever grenade launcher is great for clearing roadways).



To unlock a secret vehicle, you’ll need to find and shoot the three Golden Moa statues hidden around the map. (Hint: all three can be seen with a trusty sniper rifle from the starting area!)



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">PLAY NOW</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="637" height="358" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/WarthogRally_001.jpg" alt="Warthog Rally mod by altis94. A Spartan stunt driver and a marine ally escape a Thornbeast on a Mongoose." class="wp-image-161792" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/WarthogRally_001.jpg 637w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/WarthogRally_001-300x169.jpg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 637px) 100vw, 637px" /></figure>



<a href="https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3614917205">Subscribe on Steam Workshop.</a>



Created by: altis94



Requires: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary



Setup: Once you have installed Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary through Steam, boot up the game with the “MCC Anti-Cheat Disabled (Mods and Limited Services)” launch option selected.* Creator altis94 advises that you’ll need to install the Multiplayer component of Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary for the mod to launch properly.



With all that done, you’re off to the races! Play Warthog Rally from the list of “Halo: CE Anniversary“ options in the “Campaigns” menu, and stay tuned for more MCC Mod Minutes!



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



*If you don’t see this option at launch, you may need to change your “Selected Launch Option” setting. To update this setting, right-click on the entry for Halo: The Master Chief Collection in your Steam Library and navigate to the “Properties” menu, where you will find “Launch Options” settings on the menu’s “General” tab.



We recommend adjusting your “Selected Launch Option” setting to “Ask when starting game.” This will allow you to alternate between the retail build of Halo: The Master Chief Collection (for matchmaking) and the community-mod sandbox every time you play!

Mod Minute: Warthog Rally

As part of Halo’s <a href="https://www.aka.ms/Halo25Launch">25th anniversary celebration</a>, we’re inviting Halo fans from around the world to share favorite memories and vote on community polls in our <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/1464409121209188466">official Halo Discord server</a>. Follow @Halo on social media to join the fun!



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



As we look back on twenty-five years with our passionate community, we’re selecting a resonant theme from Halo’s timeless chorus to explore each month in community polls, Discord discussions, and video quizzes featuring Halo trivia.



Since January’s theme was “UNSC Heroes,” we asked you to vote on your favorite defenders of humanity and tell us what sets them apart—and you delivered!



<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="UNSC Heroes | Halo Quiz | Halo 25th Anniversary" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/qzDmqJEAQPA?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Put your lore knowledge to the test in this month’s video quiz, and don’t forget to join the official Halo Discord server and vote on new monthly community polls all year long!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">HEROIC EXALTATION</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/Nafe_nasutetsu/status/2018301481792008218"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1363" height="2048" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161733" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes.jpg 1363w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes-200x300.jpg 200w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes-682x1024.jpg 682w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes-768x1154.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/nafe_nasutetsu_heroes-1022x1536.jpg 1022w" sizes="(max-width: 1363px) 100vw, 1363px" /></a></figure>



Art by Nafe_nasutestu (<a href="https://x.com/Nafe_nasutetsu/status/2018301481792008218">Source</a>)



In our first Silver Anniversary Discord poll, fans voted on their favorite UNSC heroes from across the Halo franchise. Master Chief John-117, that devilish Demon, came out on top, followed closely on his heroic heels by the stalwart Sergeant (Major) Avery Johnson.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/Luxno_Art/status/2001364599023743209"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2560" height="1440" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161719" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-scaled.jpg 2560w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-2048x1152.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/luxnoart_heroes-1568x882.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2560px) 100vw, 2560px" /></a></figure>



Art by Luxno_Art (<a href="https://x.com/Luxno_Art/status/2001364599023743209">Source</a>)



Securing 27% and 21% of the vote respectively, these decorated soldiers enjoyed roughly equal acclaim among our resident panel of Halo experts (who will no doubt be delighted to see the duo team up again in <a href="https://www.aka.ms/HCEPDP">Halo: Campaign Evolved</a> later this year).



No surprises there! When you weigh out their many contributions in the fight against the Covenant—not to mention their shared knack for lucky escapes—these time-tested warfighters certainly deserve the honor.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/Silent1Meow/status/1989377795999285626"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1200" height="633" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Silent1Meow_heroes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161747" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Silent1Meow_heroes.jpg 1200w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Silent1Meow_heroes-300x158.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Silent1Meow_heroes-1024x540.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Silent1Meow_heroes-768x405.jpg 768w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" /></a></figure>



Art by SilentMeow (<a href="https://x.com/Silent1Meow/status/1989377795999285626">Source</a>)



Among other top contenders, a close competition arose between Cortana (13%) and Captain Keyes (9%), with lots of love for UNSC greats such as Fernando Esparza, Chips Dubbo, and Foehammer rounding out the count.



Check out some of our favorite additional shout-outs below, and don’t forget to vote on next month’s poll in the <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/1464409121209188466">#25th-anniversary-celebration channel</a> on Discord!



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">VOX POPULI</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/Crabbosk/status/2016527811989926023"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2318" height="1305" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161705" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes.jpg 2318w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-1536x865.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-2048x1153.jpg 2048w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/Crabbosk_heroes-1568x883.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2318px) 100vw, 2318px" /></a></figure>



Art by Crabbosk (<a href="https://x.com/Crabbosk/status/2016527811989926023">Source</a>)



With so many UNSC heroes to choose from, one puny poll cannot sufficiently enumerate their sacrifices, distinctions, and courageous acts.



Fans in our Discord server offered an effusion of support for their most celebrated heroes, along with shout-outs for additional heroes beyond those covered in the top eight choices.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/AyumaAkua/status/2014513042906632366"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="2000" height="2560" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-scaled.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161691" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-scaled.jpg 2000w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-234x300.jpg 234w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-800x1024.jpg 800w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-768x983.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-1200x1536.jpg 1200w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-1600x2048.jpg 1600w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/AyumaAkua_heroes-1568x2007.jpg 1568w" sizes="(max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px" /></a></figure>



Art by AyumaAkua (<a href="https://x.com/AyumaAkua/status/2014513042906632366">Source</a>)



Commendations were awarded to the intrepid Captain Lasky of the UNSC Infinity, Noble Team (especially our favorite lone wolf, SPARTAN-B312, a.k.a. “Noble Six”), Red Team (Jerome-092, “chairman” of Flood diplomacy, in particular), the ODSTs of Alpha Nine (with fond farewells to our dearly departed Rookie), and even to less widely-known, but no less infectious personalities such as PFC Wallace Jenkins.



Read a selection of great shout-outs from fellow fans below!



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://x.com/TheRealQuenny/status/2017518626459234321"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="640" height="680" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/TheRealQuenny_heroes.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-161761" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/TheRealQuenny_heroes.jpg 640w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/02/TheRealQuenny_heroes-282x300.jpg 282w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640px" /></a></figure>



Art by TheRealQuenny (<a href="https://x.com/TheRealQuenny/status/2017518626459234321">Source</a>)



<ul>
<li>darealmasterfreak: If someone doesn’t like Johnson, they are NOT invited to my birthday party.</li>



<li>osky: My “Other” vote is for Noble Six. If he doesn’t get Cortana to the Pillar of Autumn, there is no “Cortana and Master Chief” story. He’s a huge part of the universe!</li>



<li>Ricky 117: Master Chief is definitely top. Besides him, I feel Miranda Keyes played a huge role at the end of the war, and was ready to sacrifice herself and Johnson to save the galaxy.</li>



<li>Master Chef#5952: Sergeant Stacker! He may not be as legendary as Johnson, but he certainly deserves a spot in the poll.</li>



<li>otto.2967: It is the man, the myth, the legend, Chips “The Flood Hunter” Dubbo all the way. The only reason he wasn’t offered a position as a Spartan-IV was because the UNSC knew he’d be too powerful. (Editor’s note: big if true.)</li>



<li>ChaosSpartan275: Jerome-092, because he is the true successor to the Master Chief!</li>



<li>KingObsid1an: 10,000% Lasky in the Hall of Heroes. My man is an icon.</li>



<li>Kamron: A second choice that’s very close to my boy Johnson is Red Team, the coolest Spartans, but in all honesty the entire Spirit of Fire crew is the definition of the Indomitable Human Spirit.</li>



<li>KazooMan: I think everyone has mentioned some awesome characters, but I’m gonna raise you all with one of my favorite heroes in the entire series, Lucas Browning. What that man went through, just to buy the boat crew some time? All the pain and suffering he put up with just for the events of Edge of Dawn to happen? I won’t say much more because I don’t want to spoil our most recent book, but it touched me. I can’t not throw his name in the mix!</li>



<li>Woodsgump: Jenkins is my favorite Halo hero. He saved everyone from the Flood spreading because of his sheer will to keep going.</li>



<li>Kidskull51: Rion Forge, daughter of John Forge from Halo Wars. She’s just as badass if not more than her father.</li>



<li>CIA391: Vice Admiral Danforth Whitcomb and Corporal Locklear. Both gave their lives to stop the Covenant from reaching Earth in late 2552, giving Spartans and other Alpha Halo survivors time to warn us of the upcoming threat!</li>



<li>EternalCanadian: My vote’s for the Spartan-III’s of Alpha and Beta Companies—Spartans who weren’t pulled out by Deep Winter, yet saved the human race a number of times—as well your common UNSC/CMA service members, and even the civilians. True heroism isn’t given by augmentations or advanced weaponry, and being assigned to some special squad doesn’t make you a hero. The real heroes, to use a Porco Rosso quote, are dead, or scarred by battles, yet not really acknowledged for their contributions, however small they might’ve been.</li>



<li>S20boominator: Jerome-092 killing the Flood with a metal chair is a hero moment.</li>



<li>BOSVanguard: Jerome-092 because he singlehandedly killed squads of Brutes and Elites while Isabel was taking control of the Banished flagship. Another reason is because he, Douglas-042, and Alice-130 were flunked out from the SPARTAN-II program. UNSC and ONI revived them, and Jerome would go on to lead Red Team through the early days of the Covenant War through battles of Arcadia, Trove, and the Second Ark Conflict.</li>



<li>Demetrius: For me, it’s SPARTAN-Β312 of Noble Team, a.k.a. Noble Six. I don’t think I need to explain why; he stayed behind to secure the Pillar of Autumn, and he and his team sacrificed themselves in order to deliver Cortana in one piece. It’s sad they didn’t make it to see the final victory.</li>



<li>Drizztbc: Captain Cutter, an aging captain for an equally outdated ship. Yet can still give the Covenant a good fight!</li>
</ul>



That’s a wrap for this month’s “variations on a theme!” Stay tuned next month for a new community poll, a new video quiz, and more discussions with fellow Halo fans around the theme of “Alien Heroes & Villains.”



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



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



All year long, we’ll be inviting Halo fans to share their favorite Halo memories, celebrate Halo’s iconic legacy, and vote on community polls to help us tell the whole Halo story.



Whether you’re a battle-hardened Spartan or a Halo rookie, we hope you’ll join the fun by sharing your Halo story through our <a href="http://aka.ms/Halo25TogetherMemories">official submission form</a>, on social media using hashtag #Halo25Together, in our <a href="https://discord.com/channels/471722331820130324/1464409121209188466">official Discord server</a>, or on <a href="https://reddit.com/r/halo">r/Halo</a> with the #Halo25Together tag.

Anniversary Angle: UNSC Heroes

Forge Features

Halo Infinite

Community Cartography 039

Forge Features: February 3, 2026

Canon Fodder

Fiction

Alex Wakeford

Issue 167

Canon Fodder: Parasite’s Cake

Halo: Edge of Dawn, the latest novel from the acclaimed and beloved author Kelly Gay, dropped out of slipspace on December 16, 2025, serving as both continuation and coda for Halo Infinite’s campaign as the Master Chief’s fight against the Banished continues on Zeta Halo.



The AI formerly known as “the Weapon” chose her name, embracing both her own unique identity and her lineage as a “sister” to Cortana with the name Joyeuse. A pretty explosive funeral for War Chief Escharum was held at the House of Reckoning; the young corpsman Lucas Browning was rescued from the sadistic and vengeful Jega ‘Rdomnai’s captivity, the secrets held within his mind—placed there by the Harbinger—led us to delve into deeper mysteries within Zeta Halo, and… well, that’s just the tip of the iceberg!



We were joined by Jeff Easterling (Senior Franchise Story Lead) and Alex Wakeford (Franchise Writer) for our latest Spartan Chatter episode to discuss Edge of Dawn, which you can watch in full on YouTube.



<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="Spartan Chatter: Edge of Dawn" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QWaV6GtDBaI?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



Edge of Dawn is available in trade paperback, ebook, and unabridged audiobook formats. Should you pick up the audiobook, you will be treated to Jen Taylor, Steve Downes, and Nicolas Roye reprising their characters as well as a reading by Debra Wilson. 



If you’d like to catch the story for yourself (and we highly recommend this one!), <a href="https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Halo-Edge-of-Dawn/Kelly-Gay/Halo/9781668017555">you can purchase a copy for yourself</a>.

snickerdoodle

Halo: Edge of Dawn | Spartan Chatter

Chapter 01 Your Halo Story

Happy New Year! It’s finally 2026 and that means that <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/halofest">Halo Fest</a> is happening THIS YEAR!



We’ve still got a long way to go, but the studio has been cooking and each month we’re using this blog series to keep you, the Halo community, in the loop on what’s going down at Halo Fest. 



Last month we talked all about ticketing which you can find here: <a href="https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/halo-fest-december" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Halo Fest December update</a>



And this month we’re going to start with ticketing as well – let’s get started!



<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="Community Contests and Tickets | Halo Fest 2026 Update" width="640" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ngeU16kP2Nc?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">TICKETING</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-160778" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Cosplay-Chief-Family.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



We have been absolutely blown away by the response to Halo Fest at this point – here are some fun facts:



<ul>
<li>VIP sold out within the first few seconds.</li>



<li>Across concert and convention, more tickets were sold in 5 minutes for Halo Fest than all of HaloWC 2025 (which was the biggest HCS event ever).</li>



<li>In roughly 24 hours, the Halo Fest concert sold out and total tickets sold across concert and convention double what was available for HaloWC 2025.</li>
</ul>



I guess you’re all excited about Halo Fest huh? We are too!



So, where do we stand today? As of right now, the Halo Fest Convention is nearly 70% sold out, and we’re expecting that we will be fully sold out within the next few months. While the concert is sold out, there are still tickets available for the convention, so please don’t wait to secure your tickets if you’re looking to attend. We’ll see you there!





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



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">CONTESTS</h1>



For Halo Fest 2026, it’s important to us that the community is directly involved in being part of the event – and one of those ways we will accomplish this is by hosting contests. Over the past few years at HaloWC we’ve held cosplay contests and for Halo Fest we will be expanding all of the contests for the big event.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1024x576.jpg" alt="A group photograph of cosplayer contestants from the Halo World Championship Community Cosplay Contest." class="wp-image-153924" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2025/10/HWC25-2_1020.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Each year at HaloWC we host a $5,000 cosplay contest and we’re excited to confirm that for Halo Fest we have DOUBLED the prize pool to $10,000. Cosplay is an important part of the Halo community and we want to see all of the greatest pieces on display. Each year we are blown away by the level of creativity and craftsmanship, and we expect that level to rise even further for Halo Fest.



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



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-1024x576.png" alt="Assortment of fan created helmets at the Maker's Contest booth at the Halo World Championship." class="wp-image-160848" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Makers-Contest.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



At HaloWC 2025 we debuted a new contest for those who just can’t stop being creative – the Maker’s Contest. Rather than full armor sets, the Maker’s contest is for those specializing in gadgets, weapons, helmets, and other similar items from the Halo universe. We offered a $2,500 prize pool at HaloWC and all spots were filled with your incredible crafts. This was a test run for us and for Halo Fest the Maker’s Contest is returning and once again the prize pool has DOUBLED to $5,000. We can’t wait to see what you all make for Halo Fest!



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">FORGE CONTEST</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1024x576.jpg" alt="Header image for the Halo Infinite Forge series showing a Monitor" class="wp-image-45890" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-300x169.jpg 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-768x432.jpg 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge-1568x882.jpg 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2022/09/HaloInfiniteForge.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



In partnership with <a href="https://www.forgehub.com/">ForgeHub</a>, we’re excited to announce that we will be hosting a Halo Fest Forge Contest for those who love to build maps and experiences in Halo Infinite for others to play. This contest will begin later this Spring with the intent of having the final judging and playable experiences available on the show floor at Halo Fest for fans in attendance to go hands on with. This will also feature a $10,000 prize pool! Be on the lookout for more details from ForgeHub in the coming months.



<h1 class="wp-block-heading">SHORT FILM CONTEST</h1>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="576" src="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-1024x576.png" alt="" class="wp-image-160834" srcset="https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-1024x576.png 1024w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-300x169.png 300w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-768x432.png 768w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-1536x864.png 1536w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST-1568x882.png 1568w, https://wpassets.halowaypoint.com/wp-content/2026/01/Film-Contest-ODST.png 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>



Over the years Halo fans have been inspired to pick up their cameras (both digital and physical) to tell stories from the Halo universe – ones to make us say, “wow,” ones to make us laugh, and ones to hit us right in the feels. For Halo Fest 2026, we wanted to officially support this craft and will be hosting a $10,000 contest split across the following categories:



<ul>
<li>Live Action: Predominately live action with human actors filmed with physical cameras, can include FX, 3D models, etc.</li>



<li>3D Animated: Predominantly 3D animated, can include stop motion.</li>



<li>2D Animated: Predominantly 2D animated, flat, “hand drawn”, anime/cartoon, can include stop motion etc.</li>



<li>Machinima: Filmed by capturing in-game acting - FX and other animations can be added on top.</li>



<li>Montage: Gameplay highlights montage with music playing over.</li>
</ul>



The purpose of today’s contest announcements was to ensure the community had an ample heads-up and could start planning to enter the contests. The specific rules for the contests will be arriving in the coming months.



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



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



What do you want us to cover in next month’s blog? Shoot me a tweet over at <a href="https://x.com/Tashi343i" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">https://x.com/Tashi343i</a>  



Once again, thank you to everyone planning on coming to Halo Fest – we cannot wait to host you and the entire community for an amazing celebration of all things Halo. 



Thanks, 



Tashi

Halo Fest – Contests (January Update)