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Sentinel beam: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|Forerunner|HCW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{Weapon
{{Center|For other uses of the term '''beam''', see [[Beam|here]].}}
|image = [[File:H3-SentinelBeam.png|300px]]
{{Weapon infobox
|image = [[File:H3-SentinelBeam.png|300px]] [[File:H2A-SentinelBeam-SideProfile.png|300px]] [[File:H5G - Safeguard Sentinel beam.png |300px]] [[File:HINF SentinelBeam Crop.png|300px]]
|manufacturer= [[Forerunner]]
|manufacturer= [[Forerunner]]
|series= Containment/Sterilization Instrument<ref name="vis">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 168''</ref>
|series= Containment/Sterilization Instrument<ref name="vis">'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 168''</ref>
Line 9: Line 10:
|service=*Forerunner Era
|service=*Forerunner Era
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Human-Covenant War]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
|affiliation = Forerunner
|affiliation = Forerunner
|weight=
|weight=
|length= {{Convert|63.7|cm|in}}<ref name="vis"/>
|length= {{Convert|63.7|cm|in}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}
|ammotype = Superheated negative charged ion particles<ref name="vis"/>
|ammotype = Superheated negative charged ion particle beam{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}
*Minor: Yellow-orange beam
|capacity=
*Major: Blue beam
|feed= 100 battery units housing
|feed= 100 battery units housing
|operation=
|operation=
|rate= Automatic
|rate= Automatic
|velocity =  
|velocity =  
|optics=
|range = Infinite
|range = Infinite
}}
}}
 
{{Quote|You can totally dig the [[Aggressor Sentinel|bug-bots]]' own blasters out of their guts and use 'em yourself!|[[Otto-031]]{{Ref/Reuse|bl}}}}
{{Quote|You can totally dig the [[Aggressor Sentinel|bug-bots]]' own blasters out of their guts and use 'em yourself!|[[Black-Three]]<ref name="bl"/>}}
 
The '''Sentinel beam''' is a [[Forerunner]] [[directed energy weapon]] used by [[Aggressor Sentinel]]s. The weapon is particularly effective against small [[The Flood|Flood]] outbreaks, and is efficient at stripping [[Energy shielding|energy shields]]. Although typically integrated into the structure of an Aggressor, it can be used as a hand-held weapon if scavenged from a destroyed machine.<ref name="bl">'''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''', ''[[Halo: Blood Line Issue 3|Issue 3]]''</ref><ref name="h2">'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo 3]]'''</ref>
The '''Sentinel beam''' is a [[Forerunner]] [[directed energy weapon]] used by [[Aggressor Sentinel]]s. The weapon is particularly effective against small [[The Flood|Flood]] outbreaks, and is efficient at stripping [[Energy shielding|energy shields]]. Although typically integrated into the structure of an Aggressor, it can be used as a hand-held weapon if scavenged from a destroyed machine.<ref name="bl">'''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''', ''[[Halo: Blood Line Issue 3|Issue 3]]''</ref><ref name="h2">'''[[Halo 2]]'''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo 3]]'''</ref>


==Design details==
==Design details==
The Sentinel beam was designed to effectively destroy Flood biomatter, and is intended for use against minor Flood outbreaks. Although the weapon is integrated into an Aggressor's structure, a limited internal power supply allows it to function independently if its wielder is destroyed, though it remains unknown how exactly users trigger the beam. However, when it is not hooked up to an Aggressor, its battery life is very short. The weapon projects a yellow-orange or blue beam of superheated particles, which is capable of effectively cutting through and burning organic matter.
The Sentinel Beam was designed to effectively destroy Flood biomatter, and is intended for use against minor Flood outbreaks. Although the weapon is integrated into an Aggressor's structure, a limited internal power supply allows it to function independently if its wielder is destroyed, though it remains unknown how exactly users trigger the beam. However, when it is not hooked up to an Aggressor, its battery life is very short. The weapon projects a yellow-orange or blue beam of superheated anion particles, which is capable of effectively cutting through flesh, bone and metal.<ref name="Encyclopedia">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition)]]''', ''page 339''</ref> The Sentinel Beam was manufactured and developed by [[Ferrarius Assembler Vats]].{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22|Enc22|Page=393}}


Two variants of the Sentinel beam are seen: the standard yellow-orange one in the silver housing, and the more powerful blue beam, which is encased in a gold housing.<ref name="h2"/>
Two variants of the Sentinel Beam are seen: the standard yellow-orange one in the silver housing, and the more powerful blue beam, which is encased in a gold housing.{{Ref/Reuse|h2}}


There is a battery housing on side of the weapon, which has a calibration dial on it and can be adjusted by the user.<ref group="note">In-game, the calibration dial cannot be adjusted.</ref><ref name="vis"/>
There is a battery housing on side of the weapon, which has a calibration dial on it and can be adjusted by the user.{{Ref/Note|In-game, the calibration dial cannot be adjusted.}}{{Ref/Reuse|vis}}


The beams used by the [[Onyx Sentinel|Sentinels]] at [[Onyx]] were a golden color, with temperatures as high as 15,000 Kelvin.<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', ''page 156''</ref> Although this variation of the weapon took significantly longer to charge, it is thought to have been capable of depleting a fully shielded [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V|MJOLNR Mark V Armor]] suit. Furthermore, Onyx Sentinels were capable of cooperating to generate golden beams capable of destroying entire [[Covenant]] [[Covenant cruiser|cruisers]].  
The beams used by the [[Onyx Sentinel|Sentinels]] at [[Onyx]] were a golden color, with temperatures as high as 15,000 Kelvin.<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', ''page 156''</ref> Although this variation of the weapon took significantly longer to charge, it is thought to have been capable of depleting a fully shielded [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V|MJOLNIR Mark V Armor]] suit. Furthermore, Onyx Sentinels were capable of cooperating to generate golden beams capable of destroying entire [[Covenant]] [[Covenant cruiser|cruisers]].  


===Advantages===
===Advantages===
Continuous contact from a Sentinel beam can be devastating even for armored opponents, and its ability to rapidly drain energy shields makes it an effective weapon against the Aggressors themselves. The weapon can temporarily overheat if 20% of the battery is used up in one continuous shot; the weapon vents excess heat in an attempt to counter this.  
Continuous contact from a Sentinel Beam can be devastating even for armored opponents, and its ability to rapidly drain energy shields makes it an effective weapon against the Aggressors themselves. The weapon can temporarily overheat if 20% of the battery is used up in one continuous shot; the weapon vents excess heat in an attempt to counter this.  


It is, obviously enough, extremely effective when used against Flood, and will cut down any form — including the vaunted [[Flood pure form|pure forms]] — if aimed properly.
It is, obviously enough, extremely effective when used against Flood, and will cut down any form — including the vaunted [[Flood pure form|pure forms]] — if aimed properly.


It possesses a decent damage rate, amazing accuracy and range, and sustained attacks with the weapon will inflict large amounts of damage. The weapon's [[melee]] attack is about as strong as that of a [[M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-Vehicle/Assault Weapon|Rocket Launcher]], and is likewise considerably slow. The melee is also capable of disintegrating a [[Flood combat form]], although this process takes many hits and is impractical in most situations.
It possesses a decent damage rate, amazing accuracy and range, and sustained attacks with the weapon will inflict large amounts of damage. The weapon's [[melee]] attack is about as strong as that of a [[M41 SPNKR|Rocket Launcher]], and is likewise considerably slow. The melee is also capable of disintegrating a [[Flood combat form]], although this process takes many hits and is impractical in most situations.


===Disadvantage===
===Disadvantages===
When compared to the standard silver variant, the golden Sentinel beam is more powerful, however it overheats more quickly and its charge depletes faster. This difference is very similar to the relationship between the Covenant [[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle|Plasma Rifle]] and the [[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle/Jiralhanae variant|Brute Plasma Rifle]].
When compared to the standard silver variant, the golden Sentinel Beam is more powerful, however it overheats more quickly and its charge depletes faster. This difference is very similar to the relationship between the Covenant's {{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}} and the {{Pattern|Kewu R'shi'k|plasma rifle}}.


==Changes==
==Variants==
===Changes from Halo: Combat Evolved to Halo 2===
*'''Gold Aggressor Sentinel Beam''': A Sentinel Beam utilized by the [[Aggressor Sentinel Eliminator|Sentinel Eliminators]] from [[Installation 05]]. It fires a stronger blue beam.
*Like the [[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword|Energy Sword]] and the [[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon|Fuel Rod Gun]], the Sentinel beam cannot be used by players in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. In ''Halo 2'', the Sentinel beam can finally be wielded.
*'''Safeguard Sentinel Beam''': The sterilization beams of [[Safeguard Sentinel]]s are highly efficient at containing and cauterizing intrusions into their assigned protectorate. Beam projectors stolen from these Forerunner constructs are still extremely effective, but do suffer from overheating and a limited internal power supply.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/bounty-hunters '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder 12/7/2016: Issue 94 Bounty Hunters'']</ref>
*An Aggressor variant, the [[Sentinel Major]] is introduced along with its blue-colored beam. This beam is more powerful, but it overheats and depletes faster.
*'''[[Arcane Sentinel Beam]]''': White painted Sentinel Beam with a mag that was decreased from 250 to 80 but has greatly increased damage. Used by [[Thav 'Sebarim]] during the [[Battle for Zeta Halo]].
<gallery>
File:H2A gold sent beam.png|Gold Sentinel Beam.
File:H5G - Safeguard Sentinel beam.png|Safeguard Sentinel beam.
File:HINF SentinelBeam Crop.png|Installation 07 Sentinel beam.
File:HINF SentinelBeam Arcane Crop.png|Arcane Sentinel Beam.
</gallery>


===Changes from Halo 2 to Halo 3===
==In-game information==
*The Sentinel beam has a few visual upgrades and several technical fixes.  
{{Article quote|Continuous fire, directed hardlight energy weapon useful for stripping shields.{{Ref/Game|HI|Academy - Weapon Drills - Sentinel Beam description}}}}
*The weapon now has virtually infinite range and fires a much stronger beam that, if held consistently on an enemy, can destroy them within seconds.
=== Changes from ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' to ''Halo 2'' ===
* Like the [[Type-1 energy sword|Energy Sword]] and the [[Unidentified fuel rod gun|Fuel Rod Gun]], the Sentinel Beam cannot be used by players in ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. In ''Halo 2'', the Sentinel Beam can finally be wielded.
* A golden Aggressor variant is introduced along with its blue-colored beam. This harder-burning beam is more powerful, but it overheats and depletes faster.


===Changes from Halo 3 to Halo 4===
=== Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 3'' ===
* The Sentinel Beam has a few visual upgrades and several technical fixes.
* The weapon now has virtually infinite range and fires a much stronger beam that, if held consistently on an enemy, can destroy them within seconds.
 
=== Changes from ''Halo 3'' to ''Halo 4'' ===
*The beam fired is now colored purple.
*The beam fired is now colored purple.
*The Sentinel beam can no longer be acquired, even after killing an Aggressor Sentinel.
*The Sentinel Beam can no longer be acquired, even after killing an Aggressor Sentinel.


==Tactics==
===Changes from ''Halo 2'' to ''Halo 2: Anniversary''===
===Campaign===
* In the remastered multiplayer component of ''Halo 2: Anniversary'', the Sentinel Beam has been made noticeably more powerful than in the original ''Halo 2''.<ref name="H2A teamB">[http://teambeyond.net/warlock-coming-halo-2-anniversary/ '''Team Beyond''': ''Warlock coming to Halo 2: Anniversary'']</ref>
*On the ''Halo 2'''s campaign level ''[[Quarantine Zone (level)|Quarantine Zone]]'', provide two of the player's [[Sangheili]] allies with Sentinel beams, and have them board the riding seats of one's [[Type-46 Infantry Support Vehicle|Spectre]]. Since NPCs can't run out of ammo, they make excellent weaponry. Unfortunately, further in the mission, if one manages to keep both Sangheili and Spectre intact to that point, one must leave the Spectre.
* The lights on the Sentinel Beam now change color and build up along the firing channel's shroud to indicate the level of the weapon's heating.{{Ref/Reuse|H2A teamB}}
*In ''Halo 3'', the Sentinel beam performs greatly against the Flood, as Infection Forms will burst if they are even slightly touched by the beam. Human Flood combat forms will die instantly, though Elite and Brute forms may take longer to kill. Aim for the Infection Form embedded in their chest and one will kill it. Pure forms are tougher due to their evolved forms; [[Flood stalker form|Stalker forms]] and [[Flood ranged form|Ranged Form]]s will die by the time the weapon overheats whereas the [[Flood tank form|Tank Form]]s will require two long blasts to take down from the stomach.
*In ''Halo 3'', the Sentinel beam is very useful for taking down a [[Jiralhanae|Brute]]'s [[Jiralhanae power armor|power armor]] quickly and effectively. It is also great for taking down [[Kig-yar|Jackals]] and their [[Kig-yar point defense gauntlet|shields]], as well as [[Unggoy|Grunts]]' armor, though it may overheat after prolonged firing.


===Multiplayer===
=== Changes from ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' to ''Halo 5: Guardians'' ===
The Sentinel beam is quite rare in [[multiplayer]] games, and if available, it can be a powerful weapon in the hands of the well-trained.
* Weapon can now be [[Smart Scope|Smart-Scoped]].
* Players killed by the Sentinel Beam now disintegrate upon death.
* The insignia on the back of the Sentinel Beam changes colors depending on how close it is to overheating.
* When the Sentinel Beam is smart linked, the Spartan will hold it sideways.


====Halo 2====
=== Changes from ''Halo 5: Guardians'' to ''Halo Infinite'' ===
*This is best used in a small map like ''[[Warlock]]''. Also good for ''[[Headlong]]'' as long as one has other more powerful weapons.
* The Sentinel Beam runs on ammunition instead of a battery.
*If the Sentinel beam is the only weapon you have, conserve ammo and rely on meleeing as much as possible. It has a quick and effective melee. Only fire the weapon when your target is far away, because ammo goes fast. Melee in close quarters, and avoid deadly crossfire. Replace it as often as possible.
* The Sentinel Beam’s appearance is based more heavily on the [[Halo 2: Anniversary]] design.
*A Sentinel beam is useful against unshielded foes, so use a [[grenade]] to take down the opponent's shields followed by a burst from the Sentinel beam can quickly kill an opponent.
* The Sentinel Beam pierces through multiple targets depending on the angle.
 
* The Sentinel Beam emits the same particle effects as the [[Heatwave]] and the [[Cindershot]] on the front of the weapon.
====Halo 3====
* The Sentinel Beam has a harsh vertical recoil as the weapon is fired.
*During a game of [[Infection]], the Sentinel beam is an effective way to rid yourself of chasing Zombie forces, but take care as to where you aim, since the beam is easy to spot and is likely to give your position away if the shot goes astray.
*When loading up vehicles, a Sentinel beam in the passenger seat is an incredibly deadly tool. The most flexible location is in the back seat of a "[[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle|Mongoose]]", although the passenger seat of a "[[M12 Force Application Vehicle|Warthog]]" or "[[Type-52 Infantry Support Vehicle|Prowler]]" is also useful and advantageous to the match. The advantage of vehicle-bound Sentinel beams is that it can 'clothesline' foes (although this technique should not be depended on).
*Steady shots can make the Sentinel beam a great anti-sniper weapon. Fire at the sniper and then sweep the area. You will eventually meet your target, and they will have a difficult time evading the beam. While this technique is unlikely to kill a competent sniper, it is a good way to prevent them from using their scope.
*The Sentinel beam has an extremely large power consumption rate, about 5% per second, so always carry a backup weapon and try to save the Beam for emergencies.


==Trivia==
==Trivia==
*The only way to use the Sentinel beam in the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' engine without extensive use of the Developer Mode is to use ''[[Halo Custom Edition]]''. Such usage is to acquire the Sentinel beam involves using bump possession to attain an Aggressor Sentinel, then switching back to Master Chief and have him destroy said Aggressor, and exchange a weapon for the Beam. The beam is not visible from the first- or third-person view, and if the player presses the fire button a damaging red beam will appear from the center of the screen.
{{linkbox|gallery=yes|gameplay=yes|gallerypage=Images of Sentinel Beam}}
*The only way to use the Sentinel Beam in the ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' engine without extensive use of the Developer mode is to use ''[[Halo Custom Edition]]''. Such usage is to acquire the Sentinel Beam involves using bump possession to attain an Aggressor Sentinel, then switching back to Master Chief and have him destroy said Aggressor, and exchange a weapon for the Beam. The Beam is not visible from the first- or third-person view, and if the player presses the fire button a damaging red beam will appear from the center of the screen.
*Flood Combat Forms are able to wield Sentinel Beams with one hand.
*Flood Combat Forms are able to wield Sentinel Beams with one hand.
*In ''Halo 2'', an [[Enforcer]] will fire an invisible Sentinel beam if all of its other weapon system have been destroyed. If the Enforcer is destroyed, there will not be any Sentinel beam left in its wreckage for the player to use.
*In ''Halo 2'', an [[Enforcer]] will fire an invisible Sentinel Beam if all of its other weapon system have been destroyed. If the Enforcer is destroyed, there will not be any Sentinel Beam left in its wreckage for the player to use.
*In ''Halo 2'', if the player throws a grenade when his/her Sentinel beam is overheating, sometimes the animation for throwing the explosive will not appear, and a grenade will just "fly" out from the player.
*In ''Halo 2'', if the player throws a grenade when their Sentinel Beam is overheating, sometimes the animation for throwing the explosive will not appear, and a grenade will just "fly" out from the player.
*In ''Halo 3'', the beam appears to impact with large force, as it is able to flip an airborne Warthog with minimal effort, a feat that not even explosive weapons can achieve. This is easily witnessed during the Warthog run near the end of the game.
*In ''Halo 3'', the beam appears to impact with large force, as it is able to flip an airborne Warthog with minimal effort, a feat that not even explosive weapons can achieve. This is easily witnessed during the Warthog run near the end of the game.
*In ''Halo 3'', the weapon does not spawn on any unaltered multiplayer maps, and [[gametype]]s cannot be used to force it to spawn; it is only available in [[Forge]]d map variants, the [[Bungie vs World]] playlist and the Maption Sack playlist. This is likely due to the weapon's increased power and range, which make it devastating in Multiplayer matches.
*In ''Halo 3'', the weapon does not spawn on any unaltered multiplayer maps, and [[gametype]]s cannot be used to force it to spawn; it is only available in [[Forge]]d map variants, the [[Bungie vs World]] playlist and the Maption Sack playlist. This is likely due to the weapon's increased power and range, which make it devastating in Multiplayer matches.
*The [[Forerunner automated turret]] in ''Halo 3'' fire beams similar to that of the Sentinel beam.
*The [[Forerunner automated turret]] in ''Halo 3'' fire beams similar to that of the Sentinel Beam.
*The Covenant [[Type-52 Special Applications Rifle|Focus Rifle]] is an attempt at reverse-engineering the Sentinel beam, though it has several functional differences.<ref name="vis">'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 71''</ref>
*The Covenant [[M'tara-pattern focus rifle|Focus Rifle]] is an attempt at reverse-engineering the Sentinel Beam, though it has several functional differences.<ref>'''Halo: The Essential Visual Guide''', ''page 71''</ref>
*Although the Aggressor Sentinel does make an appearance in ''Halo 4'', when destroyed by Covenant remnant forces, if the wreckage of the sentinels is investigated, the player will find no leftover sentinel beams.<ref> '''Halo 4 Prima Official Game Guide''' (Collector's Edition), page 110 </ref>
*Although the Aggressor Sentinel does make an appearance in ''Halo 4'', when destroyed by Covenant remnant forces, if the wreckage of the sentinels is investigated, the player will find no leftover Sentinel Beams. This is because sentinels in ''Halo 4'' disappear instead of producing pieces of wreckage.<ref>'''Halo 4 Prima Official Game Guide''' (Collector's Edition), page 110</ref>
 
*For some reason, in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'', both the basic and gold versions of the Sentinel Beam have the same in-game model after they leave the body of its host sentinel.
==Notes==
<references group="note"/>


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
===Concept art===
<gallery>
File:H2A-SentinelBeam-Concept.jpg|Concept art for the Sentinel beam in ''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''.
File:H2A-SentinelBeam-Render-02.jpg|Unfinished renders of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary''.
File:H5G-sentinelbeam-sketches.jpg|Early concept art for the Safeguard Sentinel beam in ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''.
File:H5G-sentinelbeam-sketches 2.jpg|Concept art nearing the final design.
File:H5G-sentinelbeam-concept-handles.jpg|Concept art of Sentinel beam handles.
File:H5G-sentinelbeam-concept-rough.jpg|Rough concept art of the ''Halo 5: Guardians'' Sentinel beam.
File:H5G sentinel beam concept art final.jpg|Finalized concept art.
File:HINF-Concept-SentinelBeamSketch.png|Concept sketches of the Sentinel beam in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''.
File:HINF-Concept-SentinelBeam.jpg|Finalized concept art of the ''Halo Infinite'' Sentinel beam.
</gallery>
===Screenshots===
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:Halo2 06 06 05.jpg|The Sentinel beam as seen in Halo 2 multiplayer.  
File:H2A Base Beam Hud1.png|First-person of the Sentinel beam in ''[[Halo 2]]''.
File:8311761-Full.jpg|A Sentinel beam on the [[Ark]].
File:H2A Base Beam Hud2.png|First-person of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2'' firing.
File:H3-SentinelBeam-FirstPerson.png|First-person view of the Sentinel Beam in the player's hands in ''Halo 3''.
File:H2-SentinelBeam-Side-Screen.png|An in-game side view of a Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2''.
File:H2-SentinelBeam-Side.png|Extracted view of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2''.
File:H2A Gold Beam Hud1.png|First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2''.
File:H2A Gold Beam Hud2.png|First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2'' firing.
File:H2A Gold Beam.png|An in-game side view of a Gold Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2''.
File:H2 Compare beams.png|Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in ''Halo 2''.
File:8311761-Full.jpg|A Sentinel beam on [[Installation 00]] in ''[[Halo 3]]''.
File:H3-SentinelBeam-FirstPerson.png|First-person view of the Sentinel beam in the player's hands in ''Halo 3''.
File:Halo-3-20070923023602661.jpg|The Sentinel beam's targeting reticule in ''Halo 3''.
File:Halo-3-20070923023602661.jpg|The Sentinel beam's targeting reticule in ''Halo 3''.
File:Sentinel Warthog.jpg|A player firing the weapon from the passenger seat of a Warthog. Note the single-handed wielding.
File:Sentinel Warthog.jpg|A player firing the weapon from the passenger seat of a Warthog. Note the single-handed wielding.
File:Sentinel Firing.jpg|A Sentinel Aggressor firing its Sentinel beam.
File:H3_SentinelFiring.jpg|A Sentinel Aggressor firing its Sentinel beam in ''Halo 3''.
File:HTMCC-H4 AggressorSentinels 2.png|Aggressor Sentinels firing their Sentinel beams in ''[[Halo 4]] [[Spartan Ops]]''.
File:HTMCC-H4 AggressorsVsKnight 2.png|Sentinels firing Sentinel beams at a [[Promethean Knight]] in ''Halo 4 Spartan Ops''.
File:H2ACP-SentinelBeamHUD.png|First-person view of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' campaign.
File:H2A Base Beam Hud4.png|First-person view of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' campaign firing.
File:H2A Base Beam.png|An in-game side view of the Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' campaign.
File:H2A Gold Beam Hud3.png|First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' campaign.
File:H2A Gold Beam Hud4.png|First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' campaign firing.
File:H2A Compare beams.png|Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in ''Halo 2''.
File:Warlord-5.png|The Sentinel beam being used on the ''Halo 2: Anniversary'' multiplayer map [[Warlord]].
File:H2AMP-SentinelBeam.png|A Sangheili firing a Sentinel beam on [[Skyward]].
File:H5G-SafeguardSentinelBeamHUD.png|First-person view of the Safeguard Sentinel beam in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5G-SafeguardSentinelBeamzoom.png|[[Smart scope]] with the Safeguard Sentinel beam.
File:H5G-SafeguardSentinelBeamOverheat.png|The Safeguard Sentinel beam overheating.
File:H5G-SafeguardSentinelBeamFiring.png|A [[CENTURION-class Mjolnir|Centurion]]-clad [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan-IV]] firing the Safeguard Sentinel beam.
File:H5G-SafeguardSentinelBeamOverheat-ThirdPerson.png|A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV with an overheated Safeguard Sentinel beam on [[Torque]].
File:HO-SentinelBeam.jpg|First-person view of the Sentinel beam in ''[[Halo Online]]''.
File:HINF-SentinelBeamFirstPerson.png|First-person view of holding the Sentinel beam in ''Halo Infinite''.
File:HI-sentinelbeam-firing.png|First-person view of the Sentinel beam being fired in ''Halo Infinite''.
File:HINF-SentinelBeam-ThirdPerson.png|A [[FIREFALL-class Mjolnir|Firefall]]-clad Spartan holding the Sentinel beam in ''Halo Infinite''.
File:HINF Sentinel Beam Disintegrating Elite.png|[[John-117]] uses a Sentinel Beam to disintegrate a [[Banished]] [[Sangheili Mercenary]] in ''Halo Infinite''.
File:HINF Command Spire disintegrating grunt.png|The Sentinel beam being used to vaporize [[Unggoy Conscript]]s.
</gallery>
</gallery>


==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo 2]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]''
*''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: Last Light]]''
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]''
*''[[Halo: Divine Wind]]''
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
==Notes==
{{Ref/Notes}}


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Ref/Sources}}


{{Forerunner|weapons|category=no}}
{{Forerunner|weapons|category=no}}
[[Category:Forerunner weapons]]
[[Category:Forerunner weapons]]
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]
[[Category:Directed-energy weapons]]

Latest revision as of 01:50, September 20, 2023

For other uses of the term beam, see here.
Sentinel beam
H3-SentinelBeam.png H2A-SentinelBeam-SideProfile.png A render of the Safeguard Sentinel Beam. A transparent crop of the Halo Infinite Sentinel Beam in-game model. Courtesy of User:BaconShelf.
Production overview

Manufacturer:

Forerunner

Model series:

Containment/Sterilization Instrument[1]

Type:

Particle beam weapon

Specifications

Length:

63.7 centimetres (25.1 in)[1]

Ammunition type:

Superheated negative charged ion particle beam[1]

Feed system:

100 battery units housing

Rate of fire:

Automatic

Effective range:

Infinite

Service history

In service:

 

"You can totally dig the bug-bots' own blasters out of their guts and use 'em yourself!"
— Otto-031[2]

The Sentinel beam is a Forerunner directed energy weapon used by Aggressor Sentinels. The weapon is particularly effective against small Flood outbreaks, and is efficient at stripping energy shields. Although typically integrated into the structure of an Aggressor, it can be used as a hand-held weapon if scavenged from a destroyed machine.[2][3][4]

Design details[edit]

The Sentinel Beam was designed to effectively destroy Flood biomatter, and is intended for use against minor Flood outbreaks. Although the weapon is integrated into an Aggressor's structure, a limited internal power supply allows it to function independently if its wielder is destroyed, though it remains unknown how exactly users trigger the beam. However, when it is not hooked up to an Aggressor, its battery life is very short. The weapon projects a yellow-orange or blue beam of superheated anion particles, which is capable of effectively cutting through flesh, bone and metal.[5] The Sentinel Beam was manufactured and developed by Ferrarius Assembler Vats.[6]

Two variants of the Sentinel Beam are seen: the standard yellow-orange one in the silver housing, and the more powerful blue beam, which is encased in a gold housing.[3]

There is a battery housing on side of the weapon, which has a calibration dial on it and can be adjusted by the user.[Note 1][1]

The beams used by the Sentinels at Onyx were a golden color, with temperatures as high as 15,000 Kelvin.[7] Although this variation of the weapon took significantly longer to charge, it is thought to have been capable of depleting a fully shielded MJOLNIR Mark V Armor suit. Furthermore, Onyx Sentinels were capable of cooperating to generate golden beams capable of destroying entire Covenant cruisers.

Advantages[edit]

Continuous contact from a Sentinel Beam can be devastating even for armored opponents, and its ability to rapidly drain energy shields makes it an effective weapon against the Aggressors themselves. The weapon can temporarily overheat if 20% of the battery is used up in one continuous shot; the weapon vents excess heat in an attempt to counter this.

It is, obviously enough, extremely effective when used against Flood, and will cut down any form — including the vaunted pure forms — if aimed properly.

It possesses a decent damage rate, amazing accuracy and range, and sustained attacks with the weapon will inflict large amounts of damage. The weapon's melee attack is about as strong as that of a Rocket Launcher, and is likewise considerably slow. The melee is also capable of disintegrating a Flood combat form, although this process takes many hits and is impractical in most situations.

Disadvantages[edit]

When compared to the standard silver variant, the golden Sentinel Beam is more powerful, however it overheats more quickly and its charge depletes faster. This difference is very similar to the relationship between the Covenant's Okarda'phaa-pattern plasma rifle and the Kewu R'shi'k-pattern plasma rifle.

Variants[edit]

  • Gold Aggressor Sentinel Beam: A Sentinel Beam utilized by the Sentinel Eliminators from Installation 05. It fires a stronger blue beam.
  • Safeguard Sentinel Beam: The sterilization beams of Safeguard Sentinels are highly efficient at containing and cauterizing intrusions into their assigned protectorate. Beam projectors stolen from these Forerunner constructs are still extremely effective, but do suffer from overheating and a limited internal power supply.[8]
  • Arcane Sentinel Beam: White painted Sentinel Beam with a mag that was decreased from 250 to 80 but has greatly increased damage. Used by Thav 'Sebarim during the Battle for Zeta Halo.
  • Gold Sentinel Beam.

    Gold Sentinel Beam.

  • Safeguard Sentinel beam.

    Safeguard Sentinel beam.

  • Installation 07 Sentinel beam.

    Installation 07 Sentinel beam.

  • Arcane Sentinel Beam.

    Arcane Sentinel Beam.

In-game information[edit]

“ Continuous fire, directed hardlight energy weapon useful for stripping shields.[9] ”

Changes from Halo: Combat Evolved to Halo 2[edit]

  • Like the Energy Sword and the Fuel Rod Gun, the Sentinel Beam cannot be used by players in Halo: Combat Evolved. In Halo 2, the Sentinel Beam can finally be wielded.
  • A golden Aggressor variant is introduced along with its blue-colored beam. This harder-burning beam is more powerful, but it overheats and depletes faster.

Changes from Halo 2 to Halo 3[edit]

  • The Sentinel Beam has a few visual upgrades and several technical fixes.
  • The weapon now has virtually infinite range and fires a much stronger beam that, if held consistently on an enemy, can destroy them within seconds.

Changes from Halo 3 to Halo 4[edit]

  • The beam fired is now colored purple.
  • The Sentinel Beam can no longer be acquired, even after killing an Aggressor Sentinel.

Changes from Halo 2 to Halo 2: Anniversary[edit]

  • In the remastered multiplayer component of Halo 2: Anniversary, the Sentinel Beam has been made noticeably more powerful than in the original Halo 2.[10]
  • The lights on the Sentinel Beam now change color and build up along the firing channel's shroud to indicate the level of the weapon's heating.[10]

Changes from Halo 2: Anniversary to Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

  • Weapon can now be Smart-Scoped.
  • Players killed by the Sentinel Beam now disintegrate upon death.
  • The insignia on the back of the Sentinel Beam changes colors depending on how close it is to overheating.
  • When the Sentinel Beam is smart linked, the Spartan will hold it sideways.

Changes from Halo 5: Guardians to Halo Infinite[edit]

  • The Sentinel Beam runs on ammunition instead of a battery.
  • The Sentinel Beam’s appearance is based more heavily on the Halo 2: Anniversary design.
  • The Sentinel Beam pierces through multiple targets depending on the angle.
  • The Sentinel Beam emits the same particle effects as the Heatwave and the Cindershot on the front of the weapon.
  • The Sentinel Beam has a harsh vertical recoil as the weapon is fired.

Trivia[edit]

Main-Legendary.png See our gameplay information related to Sentinel beam on its gameplay page.
Main-Superintendent.png Browse more images in this article's gallery page.
  • The only way to use the Sentinel Beam in the Halo: Combat Evolved engine without extensive use of the Developer mode is to use Halo Custom Edition. Such usage is to acquire the Sentinel Beam involves using bump possession to attain an Aggressor Sentinel, then switching back to Master Chief and have him destroy said Aggressor, and exchange a weapon for the Beam. The Beam is not visible from the first- or third-person view, and if the player presses the fire button a damaging red beam will appear from the center of the screen.
  • Flood Combat Forms are able to wield Sentinel Beams with one hand.
  • In Halo 2, an Enforcer will fire an invisible Sentinel Beam if all of its other weapon system have been destroyed. If the Enforcer is destroyed, there will not be any Sentinel Beam left in its wreckage for the player to use.
  • In Halo 2, if the player throws a grenade when their Sentinel Beam is overheating, sometimes the animation for throwing the explosive will not appear, and a grenade will just "fly" out from the player.
  • In Halo 3, the beam appears to impact with large force, as it is able to flip an airborne Warthog with minimal effort, a feat that not even explosive weapons can achieve. This is easily witnessed during the Warthog run near the end of the game.
  • In Halo 3, the weapon does not spawn on any unaltered multiplayer maps, and gametypes cannot be used to force it to spawn; it is only available in Forged map variants, the Bungie vs World playlist and the Maption Sack playlist. This is likely due to the weapon's increased power and range, which make it devastating in Multiplayer matches.
  • The Forerunner automated turret in Halo 3 fire beams similar to that of the Sentinel Beam.
  • The Covenant Focus Rifle is an attempt at reverse-engineering the Sentinel Beam, though it has several functional differences.[11]
  • Although the Aggressor Sentinel does make an appearance in Halo 4, when destroyed by Covenant remnant forces, if the wreckage of the sentinels is investigated, the player will find no leftover Sentinel Beams. This is because sentinels in Halo 4 disappear instead of producing pieces of wreckage.[12]
  • For some reason, in Halo 2: Anniversary, both the basic and gold versions of the Sentinel Beam have the same in-game model after they leave the body of its host sentinel.

Gallery[edit]

Concept art[edit]

  • Concept art for the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    Concept art for the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Unfinished renders of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary.

    Unfinished renders of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary.

  • Early concept art for the Safeguard Sentinel beam in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Early concept art for the Safeguard Sentinel beam in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Concept art nearing the final design.

    Concept art nearing the final design.

  • Concept art of Sentinel beam handles.

    Concept art of Sentinel beam handles.

  • Rough concept art of the Halo 5: Guardians Sentinel beam.

    Rough concept art of the Halo 5: Guardians Sentinel beam.

  • Finalized concept art.

    Finalized concept art.

  • Concept sketches of the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

    Concept sketches of the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

  • Finalized concept art of the Halo Infinite Sentinel beam.

    Finalized concept art of the Halo Infinite Sentinel beam.

Screenshots[edit]

  • First-person of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

    First-person of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

  • First-person of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2 firing.

    First-person of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2 firing.

  • An in-game side view of a Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

    An in-game side view of a Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

  • Extracted view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

    Extracted view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

  • First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

    First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

  • First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2 firing.

    First-person of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2 firing.

  • An in-game side view of a Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

    An in-game side view of a Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2.

  • Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in Halo 2.

    Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in Halo 2.

  • A Sentinel beam on Installation 00 in Halo 3.

    A Sentinel beam on Installation 00 in Halo 3.

  • First-person view of the Sentinel beam in the player's hands in Halo 3.

    First-person view of the Sentinel beam in the player's hands in Halo 3.

  • The Sentinel beam's targeting reticule in Halo 3.

    The Sentinel beam's targeting reticule in Halo 3.

  • A player firing the weapon from the passenger seat of a Warthog. Note the single-handed wielding.

    A player firing the weapon from the passenger seat of a Warthog. Note the single-handed wielding.

  • A Sentinel Aggressor firing its Sentinel beam in Halo 3.

    A Sentinel Aggressor firing its Sentinel beam in Halo 3.

  • Aggressor Sentinels firing their Sentinel beams in Halo 4 Spartan Ops.

    Aggressor Sentinels firing their Sentinel beams in Halo 4 Spartan Ops.

  • Sentinels firing Sentinel beams at a Promethean Knight in Halo 4 Spartan Ops.

    Sentinels firing Sentinel beams at a Promethean Knight in Halo 4 Spartan Ops.

  • First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

    First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

  • First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign firing.

    First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign firing.

  • An in-game side view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

    An in-game side view of the Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

  • First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

    First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign.

  • First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign firing.

    First-person view of the Gold Sentinel beam in Halo 2: Anniversary campaign firing.

  • Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in Halo 2.

    Both Sentinel beam designs side by side in Halo 2.

  • The Sentinel beam being used on the Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer map Warlord.

    The Sentinel beam being used on the Halo 2: Anniversary multiplayer map Warlord.

  • A Sangheili firing a Sentinel beam on Skyward.

    A Sangheili firing a Sentinel beam on Skyward.

  • First-person view of the Safeguard Sentinel beam in Halo 5: Guardians.

    First-person view of the Safeguard Sentinel beam in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Smart scope with the Safeguard Sentinel beam.

    Smart scope with the Safeguard Sentinel beam.

  • The Safeguard Sentinel beam overheating.

    The Safeguard Sentinel beam overheating.

  • A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV firing the Safeguard Sentinel beam.

    A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV firing the Safeguard Sentinel beam.

  • A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV with an overheated Safeguard Sentinel beam on Torque.

    A Centurion-clad Spartan-IV with an overheated Safeguard Sentinel beam on Torque.

  • First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo Online.

    First-person view of the Sentinel beam in Halo Online.

  • First-person view of holding the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

    First-person view of holding the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

  • First-person view of the Sentinel beam being fired in Halo Infinite.

    First-person view of the Sentinel beam being fired in Halo Infinite.

  • A Firefall-clad Spartan holding the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

    A Firefall-clad Spartan holding the Sentinel beam in Halo Infinite.

  • John-117 uses a Sentinel Beam to disintegrate a Banished Sangheili Mercenary in Halo Infinite.

    John-117 uses a Sentinel Beam to disintegrate a Banished Sangheili Mercenary in Halo Infinite.

  • The Sentinel beam being used to vaporize Unggoy Conscripts.

    The Sentinel beam being used to vaporize Unggoy Conscripts.

List of appearances[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. ^ In-game, the calibration dial cannot be adjusted.

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b c d Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 168
  2. ^ a b Halo: Blood Line, Issue 3
  3. ^ a b Halo 2
  4. ^ Halo 3
  5. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2009 edition), page 339
  6. ^ Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition), page 393
  7. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 156
  8. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder 12/7/2016: Issue 94 Bounty Hunters
  9. ^ Halo Infinite, Academy - Weapon Drills - Sentinel Beam description
  10. ^ a b Team Beyond: Warlock coming to Halo 2: Anniversary
  11. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 71
  12. ^ Halo 4 Prima Official Game Guide (Collector's Edition), page 110

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