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Unggoy: Difference between revisions

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{{Era|Forerunner|Covenant|Human|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Era|Forerunner|Covenant|Human|UNSC|HCW|Post}}
{{Cleanup}}
{{References}}
{{Species Infobox
{{Species Infobox
|name=Unggoy<br/>(''Monachus frigus'')
|name=Unggoy <br> (''Monachus frigus'')
|othernames=
|othernames=
*Grunt
*Grunt
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*Gas-sucker
*Gas-sucker
*Crybaby
*Crybaby
|image=[[File:StormUnggoy.png|300px]]
|image=[[File:HReach - Unggoy.png|140px|left]][[File:StormUnggoy.png|140px|right]]
|homeworld=[[Balaho]]
|homeworld=[[Balaho]]
|height={{Convert|168|cm|ftin}} (aprox. average)<ref name="ENC142">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 142''</ref>
|height={{Convert|4.5|ft|cm}}–{{Convert|5.5|ft|cm}}<ref name="waypointarticle">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/species/unggoy '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Unggoy'']</ref>
|weight={{Convert|118|kg|lb}} (aprox. average)<ref name="ENC142"/>
|weight=248 lbs (112 kg)–260 lbs (120 kg)<ref name="waypointarticle"/>
|distinctions=Short, stocky, round head, exoskeleton with wrinkly skin, high-pitched voice, stubby limbs.
|distinctions=Short, stocky, round head, exoskeleton with wrinkly skin, high-pitched voice, stubby limbs.
|lifespan=
|lifespan=
|techlevel=Native Tier 6/Adopted Tier 2<ref name="Bestiarum">'''[[Halo 3]]''', ''[[Bestiarum]]''</ref>
|notable-group=
|notable-group=
;[[The Covenant]]
*[[Covenant]]
*[[Covenant separatists]]
*[[Covenant remnants]]
;[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]]
**[[Swords of Sanghelios]]
;[[Covenant remnant]]
**[[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction]]
**[[Merg Vol's Covenant faction]]
**[[Vata 'Gajat's mercenary group]]
*[[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction]]
|notable-person=
|notable-person=
*[[Dadab]]
*[[Dadab]]
*[[Kwassass]]
*[[Yayap]]
*[[Yayap]]
*[[Flipyap]]
*[[Yapflip]]
----
*[[Cowardly Unggoy|Cowardly Grunt]]
*[[Final Grunt]]
*[[Grunt with toys|Playing Grunt]]
*[[Thirsty Grunt]]
}}
}}
{{Quote|When in doubt, flee.|Unggoy philosophy<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''': ''page 144''</ref>}}
{{Quote|When in doubt, flee.|Unggoy philosophy<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 144''</ref>}}


The '''Unggoy'''<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', page 191 - ''"Unggoy: the Elite name for the Grunt race."''</ref> (Latin, ''Monachus frigus'', meaning "cold monk") are a species of squat bipedal vertebrates, (commonly misidentified as arthropods),<ref name="THB 5.9.12">[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/05/09/The-Halo-Bulletin-5912.aspx ''The Halo Bulletin - 5.9.12'']</ref> in the unified races of the [[Covenant]]. They are the lowest-ranking species in the hierarchy, and are frequently mistreated by almost every higher-ranking race ([[Sangheili]], [[Jiralhanae]], [[Kig-Yar]]). Unggoy are primarily used as laborers or, in combat situations, cannon fodder. They are one of the later races to be introduced into the Covenant, and were either the second or third Covenant species to be encountered by [[human]]s. They are referred to as '''Grunts''' by humans, mainly because they are considered weak compared to their superiors and also because they perform the majority of the labor required by the Covenant.
The '''Unggoy'''<ref>'''[[Halo: Ghosts of Onyx]]''', page 191 - ''"Unggoy: the Elite name for the Grunt race."''</ref> ([[Latin]], ''Monachus frigus'', meaning "cold monk") are a [[sentience|sentient]] species of squat bipedal vertebrates (commonly misidentified as arthropods)<ref name="THB 5.9.12">[http://halo.bungie.org/halobulletins/49 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin - 5.9.12'']</ref> from the planet [[Balaho]]. The Unggoy were one of the unified races of the [[Covenant]]. They were the lowest-ranking species in the hierarchy, and were frequently mistreated by almost every higher-ranking race including the [[Sangheili]], [[Jiralhanae]], and [[Kig-Yar]].
 
Unggoy were primarily used by the Covenant as laborers or—in combat situations—cannon fodder. They were one of the later races to be introduced into the Covenant, and were one of the first Covenant species to be encountered by [[human]]ity. They are referred to as '''Grunts''' by humans, mainly because they are considered weak compared to their superiors and also because they perform the majority of the labor required by the Covenant.<ref name="ENC143">'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 143''; ''pages 150-151'' (2011 edition)</ref>


==History==
==History==
===The Ark and reseeding===
===The Ark and reseeding===
[[File:Ancient Grunts.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ancient Unggoy being reseeded on [[Balaho]] by [[Forerunner]] machinery.]]
Unggoy are believed to have evolved from smaller amphibious primates.<ref name="waypointarticle"/> Prior to the activation of the [[Halo Array]], the Unggoy had managed to achieve a [[Technological Achievement Tiers#Tier 4: Space Age|Tier 4]] society on their homeworld, [[Balaho]]. However, the planet and the Unggoy civilization was devastated by the collapse of its biosphere due to massive global over-industrialization.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>


Prior to the activation of the [[Halo Array]], the Unggoy had managed to achieve a [[Technological Achievement Tiers|Tier 4]] society on their homeworld, [[Balaho]]. However, the planet and the Unggoy civilization was devastated by the collapse of its biosphere due to massive global overindustrialization.<ref name="Bestiarum">'''[[Bestiarum]]'''</ref>
The Unggoy were one of many species indexed by the [[Librarian]] for [[Conservation Measure|preservation]] on [[Installation 00]] from the firing of the Halo Array. They were subsequently returned to their homeworld Balaho, where they began re-building their culture.<ref name="origins">'''[[Halo Legends]]''', ''[[Origins]]''</ref>


The Unggoy were one of many species indexed by [[the Librarian]] for [[Library Project|preservation]] on [[Installation 00]] from the firing of the Halo Array. They were subsequently returned to their homeworld Balaho, where they began re-building their culture.
===Induction into the Covenant===
[[File:H2A Terminals - Unggoy join Covenant.jpg|thumb|250px|left|Unggoy join the Covenant]]
In [[2142]], the Unggoy and their defenseless homeworld were discovered by the [[Covenant]]. Most species of the Covenant became incorporated due to faith or mutual beneficence, however the Unggoy were forced into lowly positions within the Covenant through force and aggressive conversion.<ref name="waypointarticle"/><ref>'''[[Halo 2 Anniversary]]''', ''[[Terminal/Halo 2 Anniversary|Terminal 10]]''</ref> The Unggoy were quickly conquered with little resistance and were the seventh species to be inducted into the empire. The species was quick to become one of the most devoted followers of the [[Covenant religion]] and the Great Journey.<ref>'''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''', ''page 187''</ref> By the time of their discovery by the Covenant, the Unggoy homeworld was still recovering from its ecological collapse over a hundred millennia earlier, and the Unggoy's [[Technological Achievement Tiers#Tier 6: Industrial Age|Tier 6]] civilization had yet to return to its former state.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>
[[File:H2A Terminals - Unggoy Rebellion.jpg|thumb|250px|Unggoy rebel on ''High Charity'']]


===Induction into the Covenant===
Being the lowest-ranked species of the Covenant, they are bitter rivals with the [[Kig-Yar]], who are also low-ranked. The higher-ranking races of the Covenant have often ignored this rivalry. The growing Unggoy population on ''[[High Charity]]'' forced Kig-Yar to relocate their homes to accommodate the Unggoy. The move put stress on Kig-Yar females, which led to an increase in infant mortality, while Unggoy that were forced to share habitats with the Kig-Yar occasionally trampled their nests, inadvertently. The breaking point came when [[Prophet of Truth|a junior staffer]] in the [[Ministry of Concert]] discovered evidence of the Kig-Yar planning to poison recreational narcotics the Unggoy enjoyed, which would have left them sterile. However, the [[Minister of Concert]] and the [[High Council]] refused to investigate the matter, as they were willing to accept several thousand sterile Unggoy rather than risk upsetting the Kig-Yar. The rising tensions with the Kig-Yar and the general disinterest from the other Covenant races led to the [[Unggoy Rebellion]] in [[2462]]. While the rebellion was ultimately put down thanks to [[Unidentified Arbiter (Unggoy Rebellion)|an Arbiter]] partially [[glassing]] Balaho, the Unggoy proved that they were not the cowards they had been long deemed, and could indeed be vicious fighters when provoked. After the uprising's conclusion, as was their tradition, the Sangheili forgave the surviving Unggoy and allowed them to enter the [[Covenant military]] as armed infantry units, rather than the unarmed cannon fodder as which they had previously served.<ref name="ch150">'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''pages 150-151''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''pages 142, 153''</ref> The Unggoy rebelled several more times in Covenant history, including the [[Sixteenth Unggoy Disobedience]], which was quickly ended by the [[Ministry of Preservation]]'s [[Ripa 'Moramee]].<ref>'''[[Halo: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 10''</ref>
Grunts were the sixth client race to be integrated into the Covenant, not including [[San 'Shyuum]] and Sangheili, about 411 years before the end of the [[Human-Covenant War]], roughly coming to their indoctrination in [[2142]] on the [[Military Calendar|military calendar]]. By the time of their discovery by the Covenant, the Unggoy homeworld was still recovering from its ecological collapse over a hundred millennia earlier, and the Unggoy civilization had yet to return to its former state.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>


While they are essentially a slave race, the Unggoy have managed to largely retain their cultural identities, and have [[Unggoy Rebellion|rebelled in the past]] [[Sixteenth Unggoy Disobedience|more than once]]. Being the lowest-ranked species of the Covenant, they are bitter rivals with the [[Kig-yar]], who are also low-ranked. The higher-ranking races of the Covenant have often ignored this rivalry. The breaking point came when [[Prophet of Truth|a junior staffer]] in the [[Ministry of Concert]]<ref>'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''page 150''</ref> discovered evidence of the Kig-yar planning to poison recreational narcotics the Unggoy enjoyed, which would have left them sterile, but the [[High Council]] refused to investigate the matter. The rising tensions with the Kig-yar and the general disinterest from the other Covenant races led to an [[Unggoy Rebellion]] in [[2462]]. While the rebellion was ultimately put down thanks to an [[Arbiter]] and the near-[[glassing]] of the [[Balaho|Unggoy homeworld]], the Unggoy proved that they were not the cowards they had been long deemed, and could indeed be vicious fighters when provoked. After the uprising's conclusion, as was their tradition, the Sangheili forgave the surviving Unggoy and allowed them to enter the [[Covenant military]] as armed infantry units, rather than the unarmed cannon fodder as which they had previously served.<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''pages 142, 153''</ref>
Despite the low place they have in the Covenant hierarchy, the true irony is that the Unggoy's entry into the Covenant has ensured their species' survival. Membership in the Covenant granted the Unggoy freedom from risk of extinction during Balaho's two winters, as they now have access to sufficient supplies of food. Infant mortality has decreased to below fifty percent, and [[Wikipedia:Senicide|geronticide]] is no longer a necessity for survival. The average life expectancy for non-combatant Unggoy has doubled.<ref>'''Halo Encyclopedia''', ''page 143''</ref> Their incorporation into the Covenant likely also alleviated the threat of the [[Blue Death]], which Unggoy typically fear.<ref name="goo237">'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 237''</ref>


Despite the low place they have in the Covenant Hierarchy, the true irony is that the Unggoy's entry into the Covenant has ensured their species' survival. Membership in the Covenant granted the Unggoy freedom from risk of extinction during Balaho's two winters, as they now have access to sufficient supplies of food. Infant mortality has decreased to below fifty percent, and [[wikipedia:Senicide|geronticide]] is no longer a necessity for survival. The average life expectancy for non-combatant Unggoy has doubled.<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 143''</ref> Their incorporation into the Covenant likely also alleviated the threat of the [[Blue Death]], which Unggoy typically fear.<ref name="goo237">'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 237''</ref>
===Human-Covenant War===
The Unggoy were one of the first races in the Covenant to encounter [[human]]ity.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 95''</ref> During the [[First Battle of Harvest]], [[Jiralhanae]] forces had Unggoy secure [[Harvest]]'s orbital [[Tiara]] station. Most of the Unggoy present on the planet were killed in the battle; some were even killed by Jiralhanae and [[Yanme'e]].<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 374''</ref> In [[2535]], the [[Prophet of Truth|High Prophet of Truth]] allowed Kig-Yar [[Reth]] to amass an army of thousands of Unggoy on the [[moon]] of [[Metisette]] to use to invade the human [[Earth|homeworld]].<ref>'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''page 214''</ref> Reth's plans were foiled by the [[Insurrectionists]] of [[the Rubble]], {{UNSCShip|Midsummer Night}}, and a team of [[Sangheili Zealot]]s that believed the Unggoy and Kig-Yar to be heretics, unaware of Truth's orders. Most of the Unggoy on the moon were killed during the [[Battle of Metisette]].<ref>'''Halo: The Cole Protocol''', ''page 328''</ref>


===The Great Schism===
The Unggoy obeyed other Covenant races out of fear more than religious faith.<ref>'''[[Halo 3]]''', campaign level ''[[Sierra 117]]'' - ''Arbiter'': "The Grunts' new-found courage is but fear."</ref> During the [[Great Schism]], as the Unggoy did not ally with a particular side, and stayed with whoever commanded them, most likely out of subservient fear to their current masters. However, many of those serving under the Jiralhanae still held support for the Sangheili and revered [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]], pointing out to their comrades that they once served under him. The [[Minister of Discovery]] believed that the Unggoy would follow the strongest side in the civil war.<ref>'''[[Halo: Evolutions]]''', "[[Wages of Sin]]", ''page 509''</ref>
The Unggoy obey other Covenant races out of fear more than religious faith.<ref>'''[[Halo 3]]''', '''[[Sierra 117]]''' - ''Arbiter'': "The Grunts' newfound courage is but fear."</ref> They have next to no political power in the Covenant; the highest political rank available to an Unggoy is [[Deacon]]. Within the Unggoy community there is a strong resentment of other species, especially the Kig-yar. The low rank of the Unggoy, as well as the aforementioned war, also led to a lack of political loyalty during the [[Great Schism]], as the Unggoy did not ally with a particular side, and stayed with whoever commanded them, most likely out of subservient fear to their current masters. However, many of those serving under the Jiralhanae still held support for the Sangheili and revered the [[Thel 'Vadam|Arbiter]], pointing out to their comrades that they once served under him.


===Post-war===
===Post-war===
After the Human-Covenant War, at least some of the Unggoy continued working for the Sangheili as farmers on Sanghelios, while others continued to work in the military under either their Sangheili or Jiralhanae commanders.<ref> '''Halo: Glasslands''' ''page 90''</ref> An unknown number of Unggoy eventually joined the [[Covenant remnant]], a splinter group that upheld the Covenant's religious beliefs after the war. [[Office of Naval Intelligence|ONI]] surveys record no off-planet transport from Balaho since "Solipsis"<!--Presumably this was an ONI operation. However, the report does not specify what Solipsis was.--> and seem to indicate that Buwan has been abandoned, though both remain under observation. Moderate Unggoy populations have been observed in Sangheili systems at various intervals.<ref>[[Codename: SURGEON's post-war analysis]]</ref>
After the Human-Covenant War, at least some of the Unggoy continued working for the Sangheili as farmers on [[Sanghelios]], while others continued to work in the military under either their Sangheili or Jiralhanae commanders.<ref>'''Halo: Glasslands''' ''page 90''</ref> Many Unggoy returned to Balaho after the war.<ref name="waypointarticle"/> A number of Unggoy joined—or were drafted into—the various [[Covenant remnants|splinter groups]] that upheld the Covenant's religious beliefs after the war, most notably [[Jul 'Mdama]]'s [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|reformed Covenant faction]]. [[Office of Naval Intelligence|ONI]] surveys record no off-planet transport from Balaho since "Solipsis"<!--Presumably this was an ONI operation. However, the report does not specify what Solipsis was.--> and seem to indicate that facilities on Balaho's primary [[Natural satellite|satellite]] [[Buwan]] has been abandoned, though both remain under observation. Moderate Unggoy populations have been observed in Sangheili systems at various intervals.<ref>'''[[Eleventh Hour reports]]''', ''#3''</ref> The Office of Naval Intelligence speculates that several independent vessels and colonial facilities are under the control of Unggoy factions, yet no significant populations of unaffiliated Unggoy are known to exist among the [[human colonies]].<ref>[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postsm2969315_Catalog-Interaction.aspx#post2969315 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Catalog Interaction - Page 14'']</ref>


==Description==
==Description==
Unggoy are, in general, poor soldiers in terms of skill and combat ability. They are poor shots when not focused, are physically weak, and are tactically inept as a rule. If their commanders are eliminated during combat, they frequently panic and scatter in random directions. However, what Unggoy may lack in individual skill, they make up for with tenacity and sheer numbers. The [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]] used the high breeding rate of the Unggoy to their advantage in the [[Human-Covenant War]], where squads of Unggoy frequently overpowered [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] personnel through force of numbers. A group of renegade Kig-Yar on the moon [[Metisette]] also took advantage of the Unggoy's prodigious reproductive rate, breeding an army with which they hoped to invade Earth.
Unggoy are, in general, poor soldiers in terms of skill and combat ability. They are poor shots when not focused, are physically weak, and are tactically inept as a rule. If their commanders are eliminated during combat, they frequently panic and scatter in random directions. However, what Unggoy may lack in individual skill, they make up for with tenacity and sheer numbers. The [[Covenant]] used the high breeding rate of the Unggoy to their advantage in the [[Human-Covenant War]], where squads of Unggoy frequently overpowered [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] personnel through force of numbers.<ref>'''Halo: The Fall of Reach''', ''page 20'' (2010 edition)</ref>


Unggoy are the only Covenant species to breathe [[methane]] rather than [[oxygen]]. Their combat armor/harness has an integrated methane re-breather system, as Unggoy are unable to survive for long periods of time without methane due to asphyxiation. Due to this, if the player manages to [[melee]] their [[methane tank]] off, they rapidly suffocate and die.
Unggoy are the only Covenant species to breathe [[methane]] rather than [[oxygen]]. Their combat armor/harness has an integrated methane re-breather system, as Unggoy are unable to survive for long periods of time without methane due to asphyxiation.<ref name="ENC143"/> Unggoy could be afflicted by [[Wikipedia:Barnacle|barnacles]]; the removal of barnacles leads to deep, oozing pores in their chitinous skin.<ref name="ch307">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 307''</ref>


===Psychology and behavior===
===Psychology and behavior===
While not overly intelligent or creative on the battlefield, Unggoy are one of the most gregarious and sociable of the Covenant races and possess a very strong pack mentality, often associating with each other in groups. This numerical superiority and pack mentality allows for their sense of cultural identity to remain, despite a number of hardships, including their extreme subservience to the other races of the Covenant, as well as [[the dark time]] following [[reintroduction]] after the activation of the [[Halo Array]].<ref name="Bestiarum"/>
[[File:H2A Terminals - Unggoy.jpg|thumb|250px|A group of Unggoy]]
While not overly intelligent or creative on the battlefield, Unggoy are one of the most gregarious and sociable of the Covenant races and possess a very strong pack mentality, often associating with each other in groups. This numerical superiority and pack mentality allows for their sense of cultural identity to remain, despite a number of hardships, including their extreme subservience to the other races of the Covenant, as well as [[the dark time]] following [[reintroduction]] after the activation of the [[Halo Array]].<ref name="Bestiarum"/> Although other species generally regard the Unggoy as a dim-witted race, many have proven to be very intelligent, resourceful, and knowledgeable.<ref name="waypointarticle"/>


Although they are quite capable of handling weaponry and operating vehicles and machinery such as [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghosts]] and [[Shade|Shades]], Unggoy are generally rather simple-minded. There are exceptions to this rule, however: the Unggoy [[Deacon]] [[Dadab]], for example, was noted as being quite intelligent for an Unggoy, as demonstrated by his ability to learn and communicate in [[Huragok]] sign language. An inherent psychological advantage possessed by the Unggoy are their unburdened neural pathways, which allows Unggoy to absorb knowledge more freely compared to the other Covenant species. As such, they are often tasked with monitoring space for traces of human communication. In addition, many Unggoy have developed a clear understanding of two or even three [[human]] languages. This advantage serves as a river of confidence in times of great stress for them.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>
Although they are quite capable of handling weaponry and operating vehicles and machinery such as [[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle|Ghosts]] and [[Shade|Shades]], Unggoy are generally rather simple-minded. There are exceptions to this rule, however: the Unggoy [[Deacon]] [[Dadab]], for example, was noted as being quite intelligent for an Unggoy, as demonstrated by his ability to learn and communicate in [[Huragok]] sign language. An inherent psychological advantage possessed by the Unggoy are their unburdened neural pathways, which allows Unggoy to absorb knowledge more freely compared to the other Covenant species. As such, they are often tasked with monitoring space for traces of human communication. In addition, many Unggoy have developed a clear understanding of two or even three [[human]] languages. This advantage serves as a river of confidence in times of great stress for them.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>
Unggoy generally follow a few short, simple guidelines given to them by the Sangheili; for example, ''"When in doubt, shoot"'' or ''"Stay out of the way, live another day."'' Despite being held in low regard by the Covenant, many Unggoy appear to be strong followers of the Great Journey. Their Deacons will often hold sermons onboard ships to boost the morale and teach the Unggoy onboard about the Covenant. For instance, a Deacon named [[Dadab]] gave sermons and taught the Unggoy on board a Jiralhanae cruiser about the Covenant and its religions. The [[Jiralhanae]] allowed Dadab these teachings because they believed that it would help the Unggoy become more competent and helpful.
Unggoy often gamble with each other and often play games; one in particular, [[hunting rock]], involves two Unggoy competing to kill the most [[scrub grub]]s.
Unggoy were also known to take recreational narcotics called [[Infusion]]s by adding them to their portable methane tanks.<ref name="CH">'''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''', ''pages 150-151''</ref><ref>'''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''', ''pages 186 and 187''</ref>


===Anatomy and physiology===
===Anatomy and physiology===
[[File:GruntBlood.jpg|thumb|250px|left|An Unggoy's luminous blue blood.]]
[[File:GruntBlood.jpg|thumb|170px|left|An Unggoy's luminous blue blood]]
[[File:1215436858 Images.jpeg|thumb|The face of an Unggoy Minor.]]
The taxonomic classification of the Unggoy has been a source of some confusion for the [[United Nations Space Command]]. Because they possess exoskeletons, they have been identified as being analogous to Earth arthropods; despite this, the Unggoy are actually a vertebrate species. The UNSC misclassified the species as arthropodal due to their physiological similarities to terrestrial arthropods; among other differences, the Unggoy circulatory system is apparently closed as opposed to the open systems characteristic of many arthropods.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> More accurately, the species should be considered xeno-arthropodal vertebrates which possess substantial—albeit hypothetical—genetic influences from primate-like amphibians that once dwelt in Balaho's [[Wikipedia:Aphotic zone|aphotic zones]]. This taxonomically incorrect nomenclature persists as late as [[2557]] as an ''ad hoc'' identifier, though the pressures of the Human-Covenant War and reconstruction have made such concerns trivial at best.<ref name="waypointarticle"/><ref name="THB 5.9.12"/>
The taxonomic classification of the Unggoy has been a source of some confusion for the UNSC. Because they possess exoskeletons, they have been identified as being analogous to Earth arthropods; despite this, the Unggoy are actually a vertebrate species. The [[United Nations Space Command]] misclassified the species as arthropodal due to its overall resemblance and similar evolutionary structure to terrestrial arthropods; among other differences, their circulatory system is much more vertebrate than arthropod in nature.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> More accurately, the species should be considered xeno-arthropodal vertebrates which possess substantial, (albeit hypothetical), genetic influences from primate-like amphibians that once dwelled in Balaho's [[Wikipedia:Aphotic zone|aphotic zones]]. This taxonomically incorrect nomenclature persists as late as [[2557]] as an ''ad hoc'' identifier, though the pressures of the Human-Covenant War and reconstruction have made such concerns trivial at best.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/>


Unggoy share a number of features with different animal species on [[Earth]]. Like primates, they walk both bipedally and with the aid of their oversized forearms. However, their bodies are armored with a hard exoskeleton as with crabs and insects. Their mouths have a set of small, pointed teeth, much like reptiles. Unggoy are on average about four to five feet tall and are relatively weak compared to other Covenant species. Although they can easily walk upright on two legs, they may often use their arms to move in a quadrupedal fashion. While carrying armaments, they are forced to walk upright so that they may support their weapons with their hands, but while trying to flee, or while patrolling without a weapon drawn, they use their over sized arms as forelegs to add speed or stability to their gait. Their eyesight<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> and hearing are average, and seem to have a very well developed sense of smell, sometimes sniffing the air to detect traces of foes or hidden enemies.<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Arbiter]]''</ref> This is facilitated through the olfactory membranes installed in their masks.
[[File:H2A Terminals - Sad Grunt.jpg|thumb|250px|The face of an Unggoy]]
Unggoy share a number of features with different animal species on [[Earth]]. Like primates, they walk both bipedally and with the aid of their oversized forearms. However, their bodies are armored with a hard exoskeleton as with crabs and insects. Their mouths have a set of small, pointed teeth, much like reptiles.<ref name="waypointarticle"/> Unggoy are on average about four to five feet tall and are relatively weak compared to other [[sentient|sapient]] species. The Unggoy have flat, three-toed feet, with another toe on the back of their feet. Although they can easily walk upright on two legs, they may often use their arms to move in a quadrupedal fashion. While carrying armaments, they are forced to walk upright so that they may support their weapons with their hands, but while trying to flee, or while patrolling without a weapon drawn, they use their over sized arms as forelegs to add speed or stability to their gait. Their eyesight<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> and hearing are average, and seem to have a very well-developed sense of smell, sometimes sniffing the air to detect traces of foes or hidden enemies.<ref>'''[[Halo 2]]''', campaign level ''[[The Arbiter]]''</ref> This is facilitated through the olfactory membranes installed in their masks. Unggoy have over-sized forearms, while their upper arms and thighs are relatively small. This has allowed them to be quite excellent climbers over rocky terrain, although they are rather clumsy when walking upright. Their large arms help the Unggoy in hand-to-hand combat and scaling heights, but make movement around tight corridors or manipulate small, delicate objects difficult. To protect themselves from the voracious predators of Balaho, the Unggoy have a rigid exoskeleton that is lined with sharp barbs that covers large portions of their backs, arms, and legs.<ref name="waypointarticle"/> They also have an astonishingly fast finger reflex speed, as they can fire a [[Type-25 plasma pistol|plasma pistol]] at almost the same rate a Sangheili can with a [[Type-25 plasma rifle|plasma rifle]].


Unggoy also have thick, bio-luminescent,<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', page 59: ''Phosphorescent blood pooled beneath their prone forms.''</ref> light-blue blood,<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 27''</ref> possibly a result of methane-based proteins in the blood to facilitate methane-based respiration. Like Earth's Horseshoe Crabs, it is possible that their blood is blue due to high copper content.
Unggoy also have thick, bioluminescent,<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', page 59: ''Phosphorescent blood pooled beneath their prone forms.''</ref> light-blue [[blood]],<ref>'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page 27''</ref> possibly a result of methane-based proteins in the blood to facilitate methane-based respiration.<ref name="ENC143"/> Like Earth's [[Wikipedia:Horseshoe crab|horseshoe crabs]], it is possible that their blood is blue due to high copper content.


Unggoy have over-sized forearms, while their upper arms and thighs are seemingly small. This has allowed them to be quite excellent climbers. Spiny protrusions on their elbows help them scale rocky surfaces and may also be used to add force to their melee attacks. They also have an astonishingly fast finger reflex speed, as they can fire a [[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol|plasma pistol]] at almost the same rate a Sangheili can with a [[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle|plasma rifle]].
Although they require an atmosphere to breathe, Unggoy are capable of surviving in the vacuum of space without sealed, full-body gear. However, they must employ sealed face masks in order to breathe, as well as presumably to protect their facial tissues.<ref>''Halo: Reach'', "[[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]]"</ref>


[[File:Grunt Air Mask.jpg|thumb|right|200px|The standard methane rebreather apparatus.]]
====Subtypes====
Some Unggoy, commonly seen among bands of [[Covenant remnants|Covenant remnant]] forces in the mid 2550s, have exoskeletons that cover only patches on their bodies, leaving most of their skin exposed; the paucity of chitin means that the elbow and knee spikes of these individuals are less pronounced.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> Unlike other Unggoy, which have a chitinous protrusion that covers the groin and posterior, these Unggoy are unarmored in this area, exposing their primate-like buttocks.<ref>[http://mcfarlane.com/toys/media.aspx?product_id=4573&type=photo&file=halo4s1_stormgrunt_photo_03_dp.jpg '''McFarlane Toys''': ''Halo 4 Storm Grunt'']</ref> Their necks are also several times longer than normal (Unggoy typically have almost non-existent necks) and their heads are set farther forward; folds of loose skin hang down from their necks and chins, likely due to the relative lack of chitin.  Their eyes are reddish orange and feature black, cross-shaped pupils, unlike the solid red or yellow eyes of their kin. Their mouths are set farther inward and house larger, more pointed teeth. These specimens have much stouter legs and have longer and thinner fingernails than the rest of the species, and they possess claws meant for climbing and digging<ref>'''[[Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide]]''', ''page 39''</ref> on their feet instead of the more common hoof-like digits. What sets these Unggoy apart—morphologically speaking—is that they are sourced from specific breeding zones. This indicates either prolonged genetic drift in [[Wikipedia:Refugium (population biology)|refugia populations]] or induced selection.<ref>[https://forums.halowaypoint.com/yaf_postst248247p37_Catalog-Interaction.aspx '''Halo Waypoint Forums''': ''Catalog Interaction'' (post 248247)]</ref> In any case, such morphological variation can be likened to the differences among Earth's dog breeds.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/>


The Unggoy have flat, three-toed feet, with another toe on the back of their feet. While they are small, stocky, and lacking in agility, they are quite sturdy; most may be weak, as they seem to be unable to carry a weapon heavier than a plasma pistol, although certain Unggoy of higher ranks appear to be surprisingly strong, able to carry an undeployed [[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon|plasma cannon]] or fire a fuel rod gun with one hand without toppling from the recoil. However, physical strength may not actually go along with rank; the types of weapons available to them may be a part of a "trust" issue with the other Covenant. As rank-and-file Unggoy are clumsy and tactically inept, more powerful weapons are likely only issued to those who are more disciplined and experienced.
===Reproduction===
Unggoy [[Reproduction|breed]] prodigiously, with large egg clutches and short childhood periods.<ref name="Bestiarum"/> This combined with the large number of young per clutch and rapid sensory-motor integration development was one of the primary reasons why the Covenant cleverly used the breeding habits of the Unggoy to their advantage in battle, deploying the Unggoy as cannon fodder—this would play a key-role in their war against humanity. Overpopulation is a serious problem and in non-war times, strict laws are placed on Unggoy breeding.<ref name="ch150"/>


Although they require an atmosphere to breathe, Unggoy are capable of surviving in the vacuum of space without sealed, full-body gear. Unggoy carapaces apparently can withstand the chilling cold and airless environment of EVA conditions, but they must employ sealed face masks in order to breathe, as well as presumably to protect their facial tissues. This tolerance of vacuum is apparently not shared by the less-armored Unggoy subtype encountered in the post-war years, as they require full-body gear to survive in a vacuum.
Unggoy do value their ties to their offspring, but are usually separated from their families at an early age by the requirements of military service to the Covenant.<ref name="ENC143"/> They resent this greatly, but because of their low social status in the Covenant, they are unable to muster any response.


====Subtypes====
==Culture==
[[File:Ancient Grunts.jpg|thumb|left|200px|Ancient Unggoy being reseeded on [[Balaho]] by [[Forerunner]] machinery]]
The Unggoy culture has been largely wiped out as a result of constant indoctrination by the Covenant, they do retain a degree of their cultural identity as a result of their inherent tenacity. Of what is known, the Unggoy generally live in small, tribal societies which are typically defined as being matriarchal.<ref name="Bestiarum"/> On Balaho, Unggoy had to constantly produce food to ensure that they had enough stocked during the planet's winter seasons. On a near-daily basis, the corpses of those that succumbed to Balaho's plagues had to be burned to further prevent infections. Both of these problems were solved when the Unggoy were discovered by the Covenant.<ref name="ENC143"/>


Some Unggoy, commonly seen among bands of Covenant remnant forces in the mid 2550s, have exoskeletons that cover only patches on their bodies, leaving most of their skin exposed; the paucity of chitin means that the elbow and knee spikes of these individuals are less pronounced.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/> Unlike other Unggoy, which have a chitinous protrusion that covers the groin and posterior, these Unggoy are unarmored in this area, exposing their primate-like buttocks.<ref>[http://mcfarlane.com/toys/media.aspx?product_id=4573&type=photo&file=halo4s1_stormgrunt_photo_03_dp.jpg '''McFarlane Toys''' - ''Halo 4 Storm Grunt'']</ref> Their necks are also several times longer than normal, (Unggoy typically have almost nonexistent necks), and their heads are set farther forward; folds of loose skin hang down from their necks and chins, likely due to the relative lack of chitin.  Their eyes are reddish orange and feature black, cross-shaped pupils, unlike the solid red or yellow eyes of their kin. Their mouths are set farther inward and house larger, more pointed teeth. These specimens have much stouter legs and have longer and thinner fingernails than the rest of the species, and they possess claws on their feet instead of the more common hoof-like digits. It is unclear what sets these Unggoy apart, (morphologically speaking), from the rest of their kind, though it has been theorized that they belong to a different species, that they are the result of natural mutation, or that they came about due to selective breeding and genetic experimentation; in any case, such morphological variation can be likened to the differences among dog breeds.<ref name="THB 5.9.12"/>
Many Unggoy are interested in [[human]] culture. During their service with the Covenant, Unggoy enjoyed trading human communication files, such as [[Wikipedia:Soap opera|soap operas]] and [[Wikipedia:Sitcom|sitcoms]], through their own [[black market]].<ref name="ENC143"/> Unggoy often gamble with each other and often play games; one in particular, [[hunting rock]], involves two Unggoy competing to kill the most [[scrub grub]]s.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''pages 89-90''</ref> Unggoy were also known to take recreational narcotics called [[infusion]]s by adding them to their portable methane tanks.<ref name="ch150"/><ref>'''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''', ''pages 186-187''</ref>


===Reproduction===
===Role within the Covenant===
Unggoy breed prodigiously, with large egg clutches and short childhood periods.<ref name="Bestiarum"/> This combined with the large number of young per clutch and rapid sensory-motor integration development was one of the primary reasons why the Covenant cleverly used the breeding habits of the Unggoy to their advantage in battle, deploying the Unggoy as cannon fodder (this would play a key-role in their war against humanity). Overpopulation is a serious problem and in non-war times, strict laws are placed on Unggoy breeding.
{{Quote|But they are among the Covenant's most devoted seekers after the Great Journey, sacrificing themselves in great numbers on the battlefield, so prolific that more always seem ready to throw themselves under the altar of war.|From the [[Zo Resken|Prophet of Clarity]]'s ''[[Notes on the History of the Covenant]]'', referring to the Unggoy<ref>'''Halo: Broken Circle''', ''page 187''</ref>}}
Believed to be rather unintelligent by the [[San'Shyuum]], Unggoy were generally forced to serve in laboring positions or deployed into battle as cannon fodder. During engagements, they were often deployed as the first wave of attack in ground campaigns or Unggoy were deployed in high numbers to undertake various types of operations.<ref name="waypointarticle"/> Most Unggoy that served aboard Covenant [[warship]]s were tasked with monitoring human communications, leading to most members of the species having a better grasp on [[English]] than other species.<ref name="ENC143"/> The [[lower districts]] of ''[[High Charity]]'' housed a massive Unggoy population;<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 261''</ref> the Unggoy-inhabited portion of the districts was methane-rich so the Unggoy did not require [[methane tank]]s to breathe.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 149''</ref>


Unggoy do value their ties to their offspring, but are usually separated from their families at an early age by the requirements of military service to the Covenant. They resent this greatly, but because of their low social status in the Covenant, they are unable to muster any response.
The Unggoy's lowly position within the Covenant was based on racial bias rather than the species' inherent abilities.<ref name="Bestiarum"/> The Unggoy were not represented on the Covenant [[High Council]] but were instead vetted by the [[Ministry of Concert]], albeit poorly.<ref name="ch150">'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 150''</ref> The Unggoy were mistreated by nearly every client species of the Covenant, except the [[Huragok]]. They were often treated as second-class citizens within Covenant society.<ref name="ENC143"/> The Unggoy had a particularly tense relationship with the [[Kig-Yar]], a race only ranked slightly higher in the Covenant hierarchy. Despite both species holding similar standings, the Kig-Yar were granted more independence and often favored over the Unggoy by other individuals in the Covenant. Unggoy were expected to revere [[Sangheili]] as the near-divine protectors of the San'Shyuum, however many Unggoy despised the Sangheili for mistreating their race.<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''pages 35-36'' (2010 edition)</ref> While they were essentially a slave race, the Unggoy have managed to largely retain their cultural identities, and have [[Unggoy Rebellion|rebelled in the past]] [[Sixteenth Unggoy Disobedience|more than once]]. Before the Unggoy Rebellion of [[2462]], Unggoy were not given the right to use weapons in battle. When the rebellion proved to the Sangheili that Unggoy could be determined and competent fighters, they were given better training and weaponry, and integrated into formerly Sangheili-only units.


==Culture==
Unggoy generally followed a few short, simple guidelines given to them by the Sangheili; for example, "''When in doubt, shoot''" or "''Stay out of the way, live another day''".<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 162'' (2010 edition)</ref> Despite being held in low regard by the Covenant, many Unggoy were strong followers of the [[Covenant religion]] and the Great Journey. Their [[Deacon]]s would often hold sermons onboard ships to boost the morale and teach the Unggoy onboard about the Covenant. For instance, a Deacon named [[Dadab]] gave sermons and taught the Unggoy on board a [[Jiralhanae]] [[Rapid Conversion|cruiser]] about the Covenant and its religions. The Jiralhanae allowed Dadab these teachings because they believed that it would help the Unggoy become more competent and helpful.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 226''</ref>
The Unggoy culture has been largely wiped out as a result of constant indoctrination by the Covenant, they do retain a degree of their cultural identity as a result of their inherent tenacity. Of what is known, the Unggoy generally live in small, tribal societies which are typically defined as being matriarchal.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>


===Naming===
===Naming===
Unggoy often have names which reflect a language of very simple phonics. Common names, such as ''[[Yayap]]'' and ''[[Dadab]]'', begins with a reduplicated consonant and consist of two syllables. Other names typically consist of a single syllable with clusters of consonants, such as "[[Flim]]". Some exceptions have occurred of which a name has more consonants than is usual while following the first method of naming, as in [[Kwassass]]. Often, their names are palindromes, such as [[Zawaz]].
Unggoy often have names which reflect a language of very simple phonics. Common names, such as ''[[Yayap]]'' and ''[[Dadab]]'', begins with a reduplicated consonant and consist of two syllables. Other names typically consist of a single syllable with clusters of consonants, such as "[[Flim]]". Some exceptions have occurred of which a name has more consonants than is usual while following the first method of naming, as in [[Kwassass]]. Often, their names are palindromes, such as [[Zawaz]].


Unggoy names encountered so far consist of these phonemes:
Unggoy do not have family names, nor did the Sangheili allow it during their service in the Covenant.<ref name="ENC143"/> Instead, they formally identify themselves by the names and birthplaces of famous patriarchs within their family. This patriarch could be the Unggoy's uncle, grandfather, or even a mythical [[Wikipedia:Pater familias|paterfamilias]] that was revered by their ancestors. An example of this identification method would be "''Yayap, son of [[Pum]]. Of Balaho's blasted scablands.''"<ref name="ch307"/>
* The vowels short A and short I.
* The consonants D, F, K, L, M, S, W, P, Y and Z.
Unggoy do not have family names, possibly because the Sangheili did not allow it. Instead, they identify themselves by famous ancestors, [[Balaho|their homeworld]], and where on that planet they lived.


==Homeworld==
==Homeworld==
[[File:BestiarumGrunt.jpg|200px|right|thumb|An Unggoy, as depicted in the Bestiarum.]]
{{Main|Balaho}}
{{Main|Balaho}}
The Unggoy homeworld of Balaho is a temperate, swampy planet with a methane atmosphere and naturally occurring pillars of fire. The cold season of their planet makes them highly covet any source of warmth and light they can find, mainly due to the "Blue Death".<ref name="goo237"/> The planet is still in process of recovery from a global ecological collapse before the activation of the Halo Array due to overindustrialization caused by the Unggoy at the time.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>
[[File:H2A Terminals - Balaho.jpg|250px|right|thumb|Balaho, the Unggoy homeworld]]
The Unggoy homeworld of [[Balaho]] is a temperate, swampy planet with a [[methane]] atmosphere and naturally occurring pillars of fire. The planet is orbited by two [[natural satellite]]s: [[Buwan]] and [[Padpad]]. A cold planet, temperatures on Balaho range from -33°C to 5°C (-27°F to 41°F).<ref name="Bestiarum"/> The cold season of their planet makes them highly covet any source of warmth and light they can find, mainly due to the "[[Blue Death|blue death]]".<ref name="goo237"/> The planet is still in process of recovery from a global ecological collapse before the activation of the Halo Array due to over-industrialization caused by the Unggoy at the time.<ref name="Bestiarum"/>


Since their natural environment has a methane atmosphere, they would need to carry methane tanks and breathing apparatus with them whenever they travel into areas without high levels of methane in the air. Since all the other races of the Covenant, and their human enemies, breathe oxygen, the Unggoy find themselves wearing breathing masks more often than not.<ref name="Flood">'''[[Halo: The Flood]]'''</ref> They have been revealed to be inhabiting large [[Atmosphere pit|environment domes]] that have airlocks and methane filters for them to breathe, while not in armor<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 60''</ref> or restocking their methane reserves at [[battlefield methane tank]]s. They seem to have high-pitched and squeaky voices, possibly due to the different resonating properties of methane gas. The high-pitched voices are commonly regarded as humorous by most other races, since they tend to sound like frightened children trying to sound intimidating.
Since their natural environment has a methane atmosphere, Unggoy require [[methane tank]]s and breathing apparatus with them whenever they travel into areas without high levels of methane in the air. Since all the other races of the [[Covenant]] and [[human]]ity, breathe [[oxygen]], the Unggoy find themselves wearing breathing masks more often than not.<ref name="Flood">'''[[Halo: The Flood]]''', ''page ???''</ref> They have been revealed to be inhabiting large [[Atmosphere pit|environment domes]] that have airlocks and methane filters for them to breathe, while not in armor<ref>'''Halo: The Flood''', ''page 60''</ref> or restocking their methane reserves at [[methane recharge station|battlefield recharge station]]s.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 303''</ref> They seem to have high-pitched and squeaky voices, possibly due to the different resonating properties of methane gas. The high-pitched voices are commonly regarded as humorous by most other races, since they tend to sound like frightened children trying to sound intimidating.


==Rank==
==Military structure==
===Rank structure===
===Ranks===
The Unggoy have five classes which are easily identified by the color of their armor and/or the type of armor.
The Unggoy have five classes which are easily identified by the color of their armor and/or the type of armor.
{| cellpadding="5" border="1" style="clear: both;"
{| cellpadding="5" border="1" style="clear: both;"
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|'''[[Special Operations Unggoy]]'''
|'''[[Special Operations Unggoy]]'''
|[[File:HReach_-_SpecOps_Unggoy.png|80px]]
|[[File:HReach_-_SpecOps_Unggoy.png|80px]]
|These Unggoy are experienced and specially-chosen, usually commanded by the [[Special Operations Sangheili|special operations Sangheili]], and are given distinctive jet-black armor. They are part of the [[Covenant Special Operations]] division of the [[Special Warfare Group]]. Just like the special operations Sangheili, they are able to use [[active camouflage]]. They are extremely skilled in warfare compared to their lower-ranked counterparts, and won't panic too often in combat situations, if they do at all. They usually can be seen wielding fuel rod guns, and throw plasma grenades with great accuracy. Many of them chose to side with [[Thel 'Vadam]] and the other Covenant separatists during the Great Schism. However, many remained within the Jiralhanae-led units loyal to the Prophets, wearing white armor similar to the Unggoy Ultra. Some loyalist Unggoy were seen during the [[Battle of Installation 00]].
|These Unggoy are experienced and specially-chosen, usually commanded by the [[Special Operations Sangheili|special operations Sangheili]], and are given distinctive jet-black armor. They are part of the [[Covenant Special Operations]] division of the [[Special Warfare Group]]. Just like the special operations Sangheili, they are able to use [[active camouflage]]. They are extremely skilled in warfare compared to their lower-ranked counterparts, and won't panic too often in combat situations, if they do at all. They usually can be seen wielding fuel rod guns, and throw plasma grenades with great accuracy. Many of them chose to side with [[Thel 'Vadam]] and [[Swords of Sanghelios|his followers]] during the Great Schism. However, many remained within the Jiralhanae-led units loyal to the Prophets, wearing white armor similar to the Unggoy Ultra. Some loyalist Unggoy were seen during the [[Battle of Installation 00]].
|-
|-
|'''[[Unggoy Heavy]]'''
|'''[[Unggoy Heavy]]'''
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|'''[[Unggoy Major]]'''
|'''[[Unggoy Major]]'''
|[[File:HReach-GruntMajor.png|100px]]
|[[File:HReach-GruntMajor.png|100px]]
|Similar to a UNSC as a [[Lance Corporal]], they are more experienced than Unggoy Minors, and wear crimson colored armor. They command several Unggoy Minors and are slightly more skilled in combat and courageous, though this difference is not always substantial. In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', two [[Sniper Rifle]] shots in the chest is required for one to die on [[Legendary]] (they have roughly the same health as the player in the game).
|Similar to a UNSC [[Lance Corporal]], they are more experienced than Unggoy Minors, and wear crimson colored armor. They command several Unggoy Minors and are slightly more skilled in combat and courageous, though this difference is not always substantial. In ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', two [[Sniper Rifle]] shots in the chest is required for one to die on [[Legendary]] (they have roughly the same health as the player in the game).


|-
|-
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|}
|}


=== Other ranks ===
=== Other titles and roles ===
'''Deacon'''<br />
[[Deacon]]ship is the only position open to the Unggoy in the [[Ministry of Tranquility]]. Unlike many other roles available to the Unggoy, this rank does not often involve combat or hard manual labor, though they have been known to carry around plasma pistols and [[Type-33 Needler|Needler]]s.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 50''</ref>
{{Main|Deacon}}
The only position open to the Grunts in the [[Ministry of Tranquility]]. This rank doesn't often involve combat or hard manual labor, though they have been known to carry around plasma pistols and [[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher|needler]]s, the former possibly meaning it is the lowest position on the Covenant hierarchy. But as seen in ''Halo: Contact Harvest,'' the Deacon ordered around other Unggoy whenever it came to matter of religion. In ''[[Halo Wars]]'', Deacons are available as the final upgrade for an Unggoy. They further bolster and strengthen the abilities of the Unggoy squads. Interestingly, they wear elongated helmets reminiscent of their Sangheili counterparts.


'''Merchants'''<br />
Some Unggoy are also known to serve as merchants and are well-respected in the Covenant hierarchy. During the [[Ascension]] ceremony of the Covenant's last triumvirate of [[Hierarchs]], a [[Yanme'e]] [[Yanme'e Queen|queen]], Kig-Yar Shipmasters, and Unggoy traders were present. It was also said that their harnesses were adorned with large jewels.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 381''</ref>
Though it is never formally named as a rank and only mentioned once, it was revealed in ''Contact Harvest'', that merchants are Unggoy well-respected in the Hierarchy. When [[Prophet of Truth|Truth]] was sworn into office a [[Yanme'e|Drone]] queen, Kig-yar ship masters, and Unggoy Merchants were said to be there. It was also said that their combat harnesses were adorned with large jewels.<ref>'''Halo: Contact Harvest''', ''page 381''</ref>


'''Suicide Grunts'''<br />
While Unggoy infantry occasionally choose to employ [[suicide attack]]s out of desperation, the Covenant are also known to purposefully assign select fanatical Unggoy squads to use such attacks as their primary offensive tactic against the enemy.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 350''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level ''[[Exodus]]''</ref>
The Covenant assign select fanatical Unggoy squads to use [[suicide attack]]s as their primary offensive tactic against the enemy.<ref>'''Halo: Ghosts of Onyx''', ''page 350''</ref><ref>'''Halo: Reach''', campaign level ''[[Exodus]]''</ref> The suicide Grunts appear as a separate rank in ''Halo Wars''. They serve as [[Ripa 'Moramee|the Arbiter]]'s unique units, coming in squads of four. They resemble standard Grunts except for a large, transparent, cylinder-shaped methane tank replacing the standard, triangular tank. These Grunts seem to be one of the lowest ranks, considering the fact that they wield plasma pistols and commit suicide kamikaze-style. Their Y-ability consists of lighting their methane tanks and charging the enemy in a similar fashion to some Grunt Minors. Once the Grunts come in contact with the chosen enemy, they violently explode.


'''Heretic Grunts'''<br />
The [[Heretic Unggoy]] followed their [[Sangheili]] organizers in [[Sesa 'Refumee's heretic faction|a rebellion]] against the Covenant's Prophets. They started as members of an artifact retrieval group led by the Sangheili [[Sesa 'Refumee]].<ref>'''Halo 2''', campaign level ''[[The Oracle]]''</ref>
{{Main|Heretic Grunts}}
These Grunts have different methane tubes than their non-Heretic counterparts. They use two rounded tubes, instead of the triangular shape. Another feature of the Heretic Grunt armor is a small mouth-breather that exposes a Grunt's teeth. Unlike the armor of the [[Heretic Elites]], there is only one uniform color for a Grunt's armor, which is a shining, golden-brown. Because of this, there is no hierarchy or ranking system, and Heretic Grunts are inferior only to Heretic Elites. Heretic Grunts are also superior to their Covenant counterparts by their equipment and usage thereof. They almost always use needlers, or occasionally fuel rod guns, but never the plasma pistols that are often wielded by their counterparts. They set up turrets like the  Heavy Unggoy. They are better treated than their Covenant counterparts, and are not used as cannon fodder. It's also worth noting that Heretic Grunts are much harder to kill than normal Unggoy. Typical Unggoy can be killed with 2 or 3 shots on normal via Carbine, but Heretic Grunts can absorb up to five shots before dying.


==Gameplay==
==Gameplay==
{{Main|Unggoy/Gameplay}}
{{Main|Unggoy/Gameplay}}
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes}}
Overall, the Unggoy in gameplay are very weak in combat; often fleeing when their leader has been killed. However, in larger numbers, they can be more of a threat, especially in higher difficulties. If their leader is killed, Unggoy may sometimes activate two plasma grenades and rush to the player in an attempt to suicide-bomb them.
Overall, the Unggoy in gameplay are very weak in combat; often fleeing when their leader has been killed. However, in larger numbers, they can be more of a threat, especially in higher difficulties. If their leader is killed, Unggoy may sometimes activate two plasma grenades and rush to the player in an attempt to suicide-bomb them.


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==Trivia==
==Trivia==
{{Linkbox|gameplay=yes|quote=yes}}
{{Linkbox|quote=yes|gallery=yes}}
*In [[wikipedia:Tagalog|Tagalog]], ''Unggoy ''means "monkey".
*In [[wikipedia:Tagalog|Tagalog]], ''Unggoy ''means "monkey".
*In real life, "''Grunt''" is a slang military term for infantrymen.<ref>[[wikipedia:Grunt|''Grunt'' on '''Wikipedia''']]</ref>
*In real life, "''Grunt''" is a slang military term for infantrymen.<ref>[[Wikipedia:Grunt|''Grunt'' on '''Wikipedia''']]</ref>
*Unggoy enjoy trading human communication files, such as soap operas and comedies, through the black market.<ref>'''[[Halo Encyclopedia]]''', ''page 143''</ref>
*The Unggoy were ranked #5 in Game Informer's "''The Top 10 Most Pathetic Enemies''" list.<ref>[http://www.gameinformer.com/blogs/members/b/8_bit_ike_blog1/archive/2010/03/03/top-five-video-game-punching-bags.aspx '''GameInformer''': ''Top five video game punching bags.'']</ref>
*The Unggoy were ranked #5 in Game Informer's "''The Top 10 Most Pathetic Enemies''" list.<ref>[http://www.gameinformer.com/blogs/members/b/8_bit_ike_blog1/archive/2010/03/03/top-five-video-game-punching-bags.aspx '''GameInformer''': ''Top five video game punching bags.'']</ref>
*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', Unggoy voices were changed. Instead of their original high-pitched and squeaky voices, they sound more deep and mechanical, possibly because of their breathing apparatus. However, they are still being voiced by [[Joseph Staten]].<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?cid=25654 Bungie.net : Bungie Weekly Update 4.16.10]</ref>
*In ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', Unggoy voices were changed. Instead of their original high-pitched and squeaky voices, they sound more deep and mechanical, possibly because of their breathing apparatus. However, they are still being voiced by [[Joseph Staten]].<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?cid=25654 Bungie.net : Bungie Weekly Update 4.16.10]</ref>
Line 207: Line 197:
File:Unggoy concept.jpg|Early concept art for ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
File:Unggoy concept.jpg|Early concept art for ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''
File:Grunt Concept.jpg|Early concept art of an Unggoy [[Flood combat form]].
File:Grunt Concept.jpg|Early concept art of an Unggoy [[Flood combat form]].
File:Succor.JPG|A cylindrical-Backed Unggoy as seen in [[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]].
File:1215436858 Images.jpeg|The face of an Unggoy Minor.
File:Succor.JPG|A cylindrical-backed Unggoy as seen in ''[[The Last Voyage of the Infinite Succor]]''.
File:Grunt Comparisons.jpg|A comparison among Unggoy in the ''Halo'' Trilogy and ''Halo: Reach''.
File:Grunt Comparisons.jpg|A comparison among Unggoy in the ''Halo'' Trilogy and ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HCE - GruntArmorVariant.png|Armor variants for the Unggoy in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
File:HCE - GruntArmorVariant.png|Armor variants for the Unggoy in ''Halo: Combat Evolved''.
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File:Halo2-GruntMinor.png|An Unggoy Minor as depicted in ''Halo 2''.
File:Halo2-GruntMinor.png|An Unggoy Minor as depicted in ''Halo 2''.
File:1 grunt.jpg|An Unggoy as depicted in ''Halo 3''.
File:1 grunt.jpg|An Unggoy as depicted in ''Halo 3''.
File:grunt-turret.jpg|An Unggoy Minor firing a plasma turret on board a [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarab]].
File:grunt-turret.jpg|An Unggoy Minor firing a plasma turret on board a [[Type-47 Scarab|Scarab]].
File:Halo-3-20061220042119414.jpg|A [[Brute Captain]] leads a pack of Unggoy in the Earth Bunker [[Crow's Nest]].
File:Halo-3-20061220042119414.jpg|A [[Brute Captain]] leads a pack of Unggoy in the Earth bunker [[Crow's Nest]].
File:Halo Reach - Unggoy.png|Another variant of the Unggoy harness.
File:Halo Reach - Unggoy.png|Another variant of the Unggoy harness.
File:HReach - SpecOps Unggoy.png|SpecOps Unggoy in ''Halo: Reach''.
File:HReach - SpecOps Unggoy.png|SpecOps Unggoy in ''Halo: Reach''.
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==List of appearances==
==List of appearances==
{{col-begin}}
{{Col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
{{Col-2}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''  
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''  
**''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
***[[Terminal/Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary|Terminals]]
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: The Flood]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
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*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo: Uprising]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3]]''
**''[[Bestiarum]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
*''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]''
*''[[Halo: Cole Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo: The Cole Protocol]]''
*''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
*''[[Halo Wars: Genesis]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo Wars]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
*''[[Halo Legends]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Homecoming]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Origins]]''
**''[[Prototype]]''
**''[[The Babysitter]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
**''[[The Package]]''
**''[[The Package]]''
**''[[The Duel]]''
{{Col-2}}
**''[[The Babysitter]]''
{{col-2}}
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
*''[[Halo: Evolutions - Essential Tales of the Halo Universe]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
**''[[Dirt]]''
**''[[Headhunters]]''
**''[[Headhunters]]''
**''[[Stomping on the Heels of a Fuss]]'' {{mo}}
**''[[Stomping on the Heels of a Fuss]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]''
**''[[Midnight in the Heart of Midlothian]]''
**''[[The Return]]''
**''[[The Return]]''
*''[[Halo: Blood Line]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
*''[[Halo: Fall of Reach]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Covenant|Covenant]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
**''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Invasion|Invasion]]''
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]'' {{mo}}
*''[[Halo: Glasslands]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal/Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo: The Thursday War]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
*''[[Halo 4]]''
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*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Assault]]''
*''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
*''[[Halo: Initiation]]''
{{col-end}}
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo: Mortal Dictata]]''
*''[[Halo: Broken Circle]]''
*''[[Halo 2 Anniversary]]''
**''[[Terminal/Halo 2 Anniversary|Terminals]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]''
*''[[Halo: Spartan Strike]]''
{{Col-end}}


==Sources==
==Sources==
<references/>
{{Reflist|2}}


==Related pages==
{{Covenant}}
*[[Unggoy/Gameplay|Unggoy in gameplay]]
*[[Unggoy/Quotes|Unggoy quotes]]


{{Covenant}}
[[Category:Unggoy| ]]
[[Category:Covenant Species]]
[[Category:Sapient species]]
[[Category:Living Organisms]]
[[Category:Covenant species]]
[[Category:Host Species]]
[[Category:Host species]]

Revision as of 21:37, April 12, 2015

Template:Species Infobox

"When in doubt, flee."
— Unggoy philosophy[1]

The Unggoy[2] (Latin, Monachus frigus, meaning "cold monk") are a sentient species of squat bipedal vertebrates (commonly misidentified as arthropods)[3] from the planet Balaho. The Unggoy were one of the unified races of the Covenant. They were the lowest-ranking species in the hierarchy, and were frequently mistreated by almost every higher-ranking race including the Sangheili, Jiralhanae, and Kig-Yar.

Unggoy were primarily used by the Covenant as laborers or—in combat situations—cannon fodder. They were one of the later races to be introduced into the Covenant, and were one of the first Covenant species to be encountered by humanity. They are referred to as Grunts by humans, mainly because they are considered weak compared to their superiors and also because they perform the majority of the labor required by the Covenant.[4]

History

The Ark and reseeding

Unggoy are believed to have evolved from smaller amphibious primates.[5] Prior to the activation of the Halo Array, the Unggoy had managed to achieve a Tier 4 society on their homeworld, Balaho. However, the planet and the Unggoy civilization was devastated by the collapse of its biosphere due to massive global over-industrialization.[6]

The Unggoy were one of many species indexed by the Librarian for preservation on Installation 00 from the firing of the Halo Array. They were subsequently returned to their homeworld Balaho, where they began re-building their culture.[7]

Induction into the Covenant

Unggoy join the Covenant

In 2142, the Unggoy and their defenseless homeworld were discovered by the Covenant. Most species of the Covenant became incorporated due to faith or mutual beneficence, however the Unggoy were forced into lowly positions within the Covenant through force and aggressive conversion.[5][8] The Unggoy were quickly conquered with little resistance and were the seventh species to be inducted into the empire. The species was quick to become one of the most devoted followers of the Covenant religion and the Great Journey.[9] By the time of their discovery by the Covenant, the Unggoy homeworld was still recovering from its ecological collapse over a hundred millennia earlier, and the Unggoy's Tier 6 civilization had yet to return to its former state.[6]

Unggoy rebel on High Charity

Being the lowest-ranked species of the Covenant, they are bitter rivals with the Kig-Yar, who are also low-ranked. The higher-ranking races of the Covenant have often ignored this rivalry. The growing Unggoy population on High Charity forced Kig-Yar to relocate their homes to accommodate the Unggoy. The move put stress on Kig-Yar females, which led to an increase in infant mortality, while Unggoy that were forced to share habitats with the Kig-Yar occasionally trampled their nests, inadvertently. The breaking point came when a junior staffer in the Ministry of Concert discovered evidence of the Kig-Yar planning to poison recreational narcotics the Unggoy enjoyed, which would have left them sterile. However, the Minister of Concert and the High Council refused to investigate the matter, as they were willing to accept several thousand sterile Unggoy rather than risk upsetting the Kig-Yar. The rising tensions with the Kig-Yar and the general disinterest from the other Covenant races led to the Unggoy Rebellion in 2462. While the rebellion was ultimately put down thanks to an Arbiter partially glassing Balaho, the Unggoy proved that they were not the cowards they had been long deemed, and could indeed be vicious fighters when provoked. After the uprising's conclusion, as was their tradition, the Sangheili forgave the surviving Unggoy and allowed them to enter the Covenant military as armed infantry units, rather than the unarmed cannon fodder as which they had previously served.[10][11] The Unggoy rebelled several more times in Covenant history, including the Sixteenth Unggoy Disobedience, which was quickly ended by the Ministry of Preservation's Ripa 'Moramee.[12]

Despite the low place they have in the Covenant hierarchy, the true irony is that the Unggoy's entry into the Covenant has ensured their species' survival. Membership in the Covenant granted the Unggoy freedom from risk of extinction during Balaho's two winters, as they now have access to sufficient supplies of food. Infant mortality has decreased to below fifty percent, and geronticide is no longer a necessity for survival. The average life expectancy for non-combatant Unggoy has doubled.[13] Their incorporation into the Covenant likely also alleviated the threat of the Blue Death, which Unggoy typically fear.[14]

Human-Covenant War

The Unggoy were one of the first races in the Covenant to encounter humanity.[15] During the First Battle of Harvest, Jiralhanae forces had Unggoy secure Harvest's orbital Tiara station. Most of the Unggoy present on the planet were killed in the battle; some were even killed by Jiralhanae and Yanme'e.[16] In 2535, the High Prophet of Truth allowed Kig-Yar Reth to amass an army of thousands of Unggoy on the moon of Metisette to use to invade the human homeworld.[17] Reth's plans were foiled by the Insurrectionists of the Rubble, UNSC Midsummer Night, and a team of Sangheili Zealots that believed the Unggoy and Kig-Yar to be heretics, unaware of Truth's orders. Most of the Unggoy on the moon were killed during the Battle of Metisette.[18]

The Unggoy obeyed other Covenant races out of fear more than religious faith.[19] During the Great Schism, as the Unggoy did not ally with a particular side, and stayed with whoever commanded them, most likely out of subservient fear to their current masters. However, many of those serving under the Jiralhanae still held support for the Sangheili and revered Arbiter Thel 'Vadam, pointing out to their comrades that they once served under him. The Minister of Discovery believed that the Unggoy would follow the strongest side in the civil war.[20]

Post-war

After the Human-Covenant War, at least some of the Unggoy continued working for the Sangheili as farmers on Sanghelios, while others continued to work in the military under either their Sangheili or Jiralhanae commanders.[21] Many Unggoy returned to Balaho after the war.[5] A number of Unggoy joined—or were drafted into—the various splinter groups that upheld the Covenant's religious beliefs after the war, most notably Jul 'Mdama's reformed Covenant faction. ONI surveys record no off-planet transport from Balaho since "Solipsis" and seem to indicate that facilities on Balaho's primary satellite Buwan has been abandoned, though both remain under observation. Moderate Unggoy populations have been observed in Sangheili systems at various intervals.[22] The Office of Naval Intelligence speculates that several independent vessels and colonial facilities are under the control of Unggoy factions, yet no significant populations of unaffiliated Unggoy are known to exist among the human colonies.[23]

Description

Unggoy are, in general, poor soldiers in terms of skill and combat ability. They are poor shots when not focused, are physically weak, and are tactically inept as a rule. If their commanders are eliminated during combat, they frequently panic and scatter in random directions. However, what Unggoy may lack in individual skill, they make up for with tenacity and sheer numbers. The Covenant used the high breeding rate of the Unggoy to their advantage in the Human-Covenant War, where squads of Unggoy frequently overpowered UNSC personnel through force of numbers.[24]

Unggoy are the only Covenant species to breathe methane rather than oxygen. Their combat armor/harness has an integrated methane re-breather system, as Unggoy are unable to survive for long periods of time without methane due to asphyxiation.[4] Unggoy could be afflicted by barnacles; the removal of barnacles leads to deep, oozing pores in their chitinous skin.[25]

Psychology and behavior

A group of Unggoy

While not overly intelligent or creative on the battlefield, Unggoy are one of the most gregarious and sociable of the Covenant races and possess a very strong pack mentality, often associating with each other in groups. This numerical superiority and pack mentality allows for their sense of cultural identity to remain, despite a number of hardships, including their extreme subservience to the other races of the Covenant, as well as the dark time following reintroduction after the activation of the Halo Array.[6] Although other species generally regard the Unggoy as a dim-witted race, many have proven to be very intelligent, resourceful, and knowledgeable.[5]

Although they are quite capable of handling weaponry and operating vehicles and machinery such as Ghosts and Shades, Unggoy are generally rather simple-minded. There are exceptions to this rule, however: the Unggoy Deacon Dadab, for example, was noted as being quite intelligent for an Unggoy, as demonstrated by his ability to learn and communicate in Huragok sign language. An inherent psychological advantage possessed by the Unggoy are their unburdened neural pathways, which allows Unggoy to absorb knowledge more freely compared to the other Covenant species. As such, they are often tasked with monitoring space for traces of human communication. In addition, many Unggoy have developed a clear understanding of two or even three human languages. This advantage serves as a river of confidence in times of great stress for them.[6]

Anatomy and physiology

An Unggoy's luminous blue blood

The taxonomic classification of the Unggoy has been a source of some confusion for the United Nations Space Command. Because they possess exoskeletons, they have been identified as being analogous to Earth arthropods; despite this, the Unggoy are actually a vertebrate species. The UNSC misclassified the species as arthropodal due to their physiological similarities to terrestrial arthropods; among other differences, the Unggoy circulatory system is apparently closed as opposed to the open systems characteristic of many arthropods.[3] More accurately, the species should be considered xeno-arthropodal vertebrates which possess substantial—albeit hypothetical—genetic influences from primate-like amphibians that once dwelt in Balaho's aphotic zones. This taxonomically incorrect nomenclature persists as late as 2557 as an ad hoc identifier, though the pressures of the Human-Covenant War and reconstruction have made such concerns trivial at best.[5][3]

The face of an Unggoy

Unggoy share a number of features with different animal species on Earth. Like primates, they walk both bipedally and with the aid of their oversized forearms. However, their bodies are armored with a hard exoskeleton as with crabs and insects. Their mouths have a set of small, pointed teeth, much like reptiles.[5] Unggoy are on average about four to five feet tall and are relatively weak compared to other sapient species. The Unggoy have flat, three-toed feet, with another toe on the back of their feet. Although they can easily walk upright on two legs, they may often use their arms to move in a quadrupedal fashion. While carrying armaments, they are forced to walk upright so that they may support their weapons with their hands, but while trying to flee, or while patrolling without a weapon drawn, they use their over sized arms as forelegs to add speed or stability to their gait. Their eyesight[3] and hearing are average, and seem to have a very well-developed sense of smell, sometimes sniffing the air to detect traces of foes or hidden enemies.[26] This is facilitated through the olfactory membranes installed in their masks. Unggoy have over-sized forearms, while their upper arms and thighs are relatively small. This has allowed them to be quite excellent climbers over rocky terrain, although they are rather clumsy when walking upright. Their large arms help the Unggoy in hand-to-hand combat and scaling heights, but make movement around tight corridors or manipulate small, delicate objects difficult. To protect themselves from the voracious predators of Balaho, the Unggoy have a rigid exoskeleton that is lined with sharp barbs that covers large portions of their backs, arms, and legs.[5] They also have an astonishingly fast finger reflex speed, as they can fire a plasma pistol at almost the same rate a Sangheili can with a plasma rifle.

Unggoy also have thick, bioluminescent,[27] light-blue blood,[28] possibly a result of methane-based proteins in the blood to facilitate methane-based respiration.[4] Like Earth's horseshoe crabs, it is possible that their blood is blue due to high copper content.

Although they require an atmosphere to breathe, Unggoy are capable of surviving in the vacuum of space without sealed, full-body gear. However, they must employ sealed face masks in order to breathe, as well as presumably to protect their facial tissues.[29]

Subtypes

Some Unggoy, commonly seen among bands of Covenant remnant forces in the mid 2550s, have exoskeletons that cover only patches on their bodies, leaving most of their skin exposed; the paucity of chitin means that the elbow and knee spikes of these individuals are less pronounced.[3] Unlike other Unggoy, which have a chitinous protrusion that covers the groin and posterior, these Unggoy are unarmored in this area, exposing their primate-like buttocks.[30] Their necks are also several times longer than normal (Unggoy typically have almost non-existent necks) and their heads are set farther forward; folds of loose skin hang down from their necks and chins, likely due to the relative lack of chitin. Their eyes are reddish orange and feature black, cross-shaped pupils, unlike the solid red or yellow eyes of their kin. Their mouths are set farther inward and house larger, more pointed teeth. These specimens have much stouter legs and have longer and thinner fingernails than the rest of the species, and they possess claws meant for climbing and digging[31] on their feet instead of the more common hoof-like digits. What sets these Unggoy apart—morphologically speaking—is that they are sourced from specific breeding zones. This indicates either prolonged genetic drift in refugia populations or induced selection.[32] In any case, such morphological variation can be likened to the differences among Earth's dog breeds.[3]

Reproduction

Unggoy breed prodigiously, with large egg clutches and short childhood periods.[6] This combined with the large number of young per clutch and rapid sensory-motor integration development was one of the primary reasons why the Covenant cleverly used the breeding habits of the Unggoy to their advantage in battle, deploying the Unggoy as cannon fodder—this would play a key-role in their war against humanity. Overpopulation is a serious problem and in non-war times, strict laws are placed on Unggoy breeding.[10]

Unggoy do value their ties to their offspring, but are usually separated from their families at an early age by the requirements of military service to the Covenant.[4] They resent this greatly, but because of their low social status in the Covenant, they are unable to muster any response.

Culture

Ancient Unggoy being reseeded on Balaho by Forerunner machinery

The Unggoy culture has been largely wiped out as a result of constant indoctrination by the Covenant, they do retain a degree of their cultural identity as a result of their inherent tenacity. Of what is known, the Unggoy generally live in small, tribal societies which are typically defined as being matriarchal.[6] On Balaho, Unggoy had to constantly produce food to ensure that they had enough stocked during the planet's winter seasons. On a near-daily basis, the corpses of those that succumbed to Balaho's plagues had to be burned to further prevent infections. Both of these problems were solved when the Unggoy were discovered by the Covenant.[4]

Many Unggoy are interested in human culture. During their service with the Covenant, Unggoy enjoyed trading human communication files, such as soap operas and sitcoms, through their own black market.[4] Unggoy often gamble with each other and often play games; one in particular, hunting rock, involves two Unggoy competing to kill the most scrub grubs.[33] Unggoy were also known to take recreational narcotics called infusions by adding them to their portable methane tanks.[10][34]

Role within the Covenant

"But they are among the Covenant's most devoted seekers after the Great Journey, sacrificing themselves in great numbers on the battlefield, so prolific that more always seem ready to throw themselves under the altar of war."
— From the Prophet of Clarity's Notes on the History of the Covenant, referring to the Unggoy[35]

Believed to be rather unintelligent by the San'Shyuum, Unggoy were generally forced to serve in laboring positions or deployed into battle as cannon fodder. During engagements, they were often deployed as the first wave of attack in ground campaigns or Unggoy were deployed in high numbers to undertake various types of operations.[5] Most Unggoy that served aboard Covenant warships were tasked with monitoring human communications, leading to most members of the species having a better grasp on English than other species.[4] The lower districts of High Charity housed a massive Unggoy population;[36] the Unggoy-inhabited portion of the districts was methane-rich so the Unggoy did not require methane tanks to breathe.[37]

The Unggoy's lowly position within the Covenant was based on racial bias rather than the species' inherent abilities.[6] The Unggoy were not represented on the Covenant High Council but were instead vetted by the Ministry of Concert, albeit poorly.[10] The Unggoy were mistreated by nearly every client species of the Covenant, except the Huragok. They were often treated as second-class citizens within Covenant society.[4] The Unggoy had a particularly tense relationship with the Kig-Yar, a race only ranked slightly higher in the Covenant hierarchy. Despite both species holding similar standings, the Kig-Yar were granted more independence and often favored over the Unggoy by other individuals in the Covenant. Unggoy were expected to revere Sangheili as the near-divine protectors of the San'Shyuum, however many Unggoy despised the Sangheili for mistreating their race.[38] While they were essentially a slave race, the Unggoy have managed to largely retain their cultural identities, and have rebelled in the past more than once. Before the Unggoy Rebellion of 2462, Unggoy were not given the right to use weapons in battle. When the rebellion proved to the Sangheili that Unggoy could be determined and competent fighters, they were given better training and weaponry, and integrated into formerly Sangheili-only units.

Unggoy generally followed a few short, simple guidelines given to them by the Sangheili; for example, "When in doubt, shoot" or "Stay out of the way, live another day".[39] Despite being held in low regard by the Covenant, many Unggoy were strong followers of the Covenant religion and the Great Journey. Their Deacons would often hold sermons onboard ships to boost the morale and teach the Unggoy onboard about the Covenant. For instance, a Deacon named Dadab gave sermons and taught the Unggoy on board a Jiralhanae cruiser about the Covenant and its religions. The Jiralhanae allowed Dadab these teachings because they believed that it would help the Unggoy become more competent and helpful.[40]

Naming

Unggoy often have names which reflect a language of very simple phonics. Common names, such as Yayap and Dadab, begins with a reduplicated consonant and consist of two syllables. Other names typically consist of a single syllable with clusters of consonants, such as "Flim". Some exceptions have occurred of which a name has more consonants than is usual while following the first method of naming, as in Kwassass. Often, their names are palindromes, such as Zawaz.

Unggoy do not have family names, nor did the Sangheili allow it during their service in the Covenant.[4] Instead, they formally identify themselves by the names and birthplaces of famous patriarchs within their family. This patriarch could be the Unggoy's uncle, grandfather, or even a mythical paterfamilias that was revered by their ancestors. An example of this identification method would be "Yayap, son of Pum. Of Balaho's blasted scablands."[25]

Homeworld

Main article: Balaho
Balaho, the Unggoy homeworld

The Unggoy homeworld of Balaho is a temperate, swampy planet with a methane atmosphere and naturally occurring pillars of fire. The planet is orbited by two natural satellites: Buwan and Padpad. A cold planet, temperatures on Balaho range from -33°C to 5°C (-27°F to 41°F).[6] The cold season of their planet makes them highly covet any source of warmth and light they can find, mainly due to the "blue death".[14] The planet is still in process of recovery from a global ecological collapse before the activation of the Halo Array due to over-industrialization caused by the Unggoy at the time.[6]

Since their natural environment has a methane atmosphere, Unggoy require methane tanks and breathing apparatus with them whenever they travel into areas without high levels of methane in the air. Since all the other races of the Covenant and humanity, breathe oxygen, the Unggoy find themselves wearing breathing masks more often than not.[41] They have been revealed to be inhabiting large environment domes that have airlocks and methane filters for them to breathe, while not in armor[42] or restocking their methane reserves at battlefield recharge stations.[43] They seem to have high-pitched and squeaky voices, possibly due to the different resonating properties of methane gas. The high-pitched voices are commonly regarded as humorous by most other races, since they tend to sound like frightened children trying to sound intimidating.

Military structure

Ranks

The Unggoy have five classes which are easily identified by the color of their armor and/or the type of armor.

Rank Image Description
Unggoy Leaders
Unggoy Imperial UnggoyImperial.png The Unggoy Imperial rank is a Covenant remnant rank that is mostly comprised of Unggoy that served in the Human-Covenant war.
Unggoy Ultra Halo Reach - Unggoy.png These Unggoy serve as field commanders to their comrades, and wear distinctive white-lilac armor (reminiscent of the Sangheili Ultras). While they appear to have some authority over lesser-ranked Unggoy, they have no control whatsoever over the other Covenant races. They are stronger opponents than their subordinates, and are more accurate with firearms, throw plasma grenades often, and wear heavier armor.
Grunt Specialists
Unggoy Ranger UnggoyRanger.png A specialized group of Unggoy fully trained and armored for extra-vehicular activity.
Special Operations Unggoy HReach - SpecOps Unggoy.png These Unggoy are experienced and specially-chosen, usually commanded by the special operations Sangheili, and are given distinctive jet-black armor. They are part of the Covenant Special Operations division of the Special Warfare Group. Just like the special operations Sangheili, they are able to use active camouflage. They are extremely skilled in warfare compared to their lower-ranked counterparts, and won't panic too often in combat situations, if they do at all. They usually can be seen wielding fuel rod guns, and throw plasma grenades with great accuracy. Many of them chose to side with Thel 'Vadam and his followers during the Great Schism. However, many remained within the Jiralhanae-led units loyal to the Prophets, wearing white armor similar to the Unggoy Ultra. Some loyalist Unggoy were seen during the Battle of Installation 00.
Unggoy Heavy H4-UnggoyHeavy.png Being similar to the rank of UNSC Corporal, these specialized Unggoy wear green colored armor and are often deployed for defensive actions [44]. Their primary purposes are to deploy plasma cannons and man them, although they are occasionally seen wielding fuel rod guns. They can be seen wielding a brute spiker on The Ark. Two or three are seen wielding plasma rifles during the attack on Sword Base on Reach.
Grunt Infantry
Unggoy Major HReach-GruntMajor.png Similar to a UNSC Lance Corporal, they are more experienced than Unggoy Minors, and wear crimson colored armor. They command several Unggoy Minors and are slightly more skilled in combat and courageous, though this difference is not always substantial. In Halo: Combat Evolved, two Sniper Rifle shots in the chest is required for one to die on Legendary (they have roughly the same health as the player in the game).
Unggoy Storm Halo4 Grunt.png Storm Grunts are the Covenant remnant's version of the Grunt Minor.
Unggoy Minor HReach - Unggoy.png The Covenant equivalent of a UNSC Private or Private First Class. They wear orange colored armor and are often the least dangerous, most cowardly, and inaccurate marksmen of all the Unggoy. When their commanding officer is killed, they routinely break formation and flee; however, they will regroup and start firing at their target again. As is fitting for Jiralhanae behavior, Unggoy under the command of the Jiralhanae are substantially more aggressive.

Other titles and roles

Deaconship is the only position open to the Unggoy in the Ministry of Tranquility. Unlike many other roles available to the Unggoy, this rank does not often involve combat or hard manual labor, though they have been known to carry around plasma pistols and Needlers.[45]

Some Unggoy are also known to serve as merchants and are well-respected in the Covenant hierarchy. During the Ascension ceremony of the Covenant's last triumvirate of Hierarchs, a Yanme'e queen, Kig-Yar Shipmasters, and Unggoy traders were present. It was also said that their harnesses were adorned with large jewels.[46]

While Unggoy infantry occasionally choose to employ suicide attacks out of desperation, the Covenant are also known to purposefully assign select fanatical Unggoy squads to use such attacks as their primary offensive tactic against the enemy.[47][48]

The Heretic Unggoy followed their Sangheili organizers in a rebellion against the Covenant's Prophets. They started as members of an artifact retrieval group led by the Sangheili Sesa 'Refumee.[49]

Gameplay

Main article: Unggoy/Gameplay

Overall, the Unggoy in gameplay are very weak in combat; often fleeing when their leader has been killed. However, in larger numbers, they can be more of a threat, especially in higher difficulties. If their leader is killed, Unggoy may sometimes activate two plasma grenades and rush to the player in an attempt to suicide-bomb them.

In Halo Wars, the Unggoy serves as the main infantry unit, serving as the Covenant equivalent to the Marine. They start with a plasma pistol and three in each squad, but they can be upgraded to wield needlers.

A melee attack can kill a Grunt instantly, so when you face no more than 5 of them, don't waste your ammo and just punch them. For large groups use the Gravity Hammer, unless the catch skull is on meaning you have to stay outside their range, as even in close-range the Grunts will not hesitate to spam-grenades at the enemy.

Trivia

  • In Tagalog, Unggoy means "monkey".
  • In real life, "Grunt" is a slang military term for infantrymen.[50]
  • The Unggoy were ranked #5 in Game Informer's "The Top 10 Most Pathetic Enemies" list.[51]
  • In Halo: Reach, Unggoy voices were changed. Instead of their original high-pitched and squeaky voices, they sound more deep and mechanical, possibly because of their breathing apparatus. However, they are still being voiced by Joseph Staten.[52]
  • In Halo: Reach, if an Unggoy's methane tank is shot or meleed it may fall off, causing the gas to launch said Unggoy into the air and eventually explode. Many players consider this a great hazard, especially on higher difficulties.
  • The redesigned Unggoy that appear in Halo 4 bear a great deal of resemblance to the wretches from the Gears of War series.

Gallery

List of appearances

Sources

  1. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, page 144
  2. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 191 - "Unggoy: the Elite name for the Grunt race."
  3. ^ a b c d e f Halo Waypoint: The Halo Bulletin - 5.9.12
  4. ^ a b c d e f g h i Halo Encyclopedia, page 143; pages 150-151 (2011 edition)
  5. ^ a b c d e f g h Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named waypointarticle
  6. ^ a b c d e f g h i Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Bestiarum
  7. ^ Halo Legends, Origins
  8. ^ Halo 2 Anniversary, Terminal 10
  9. ^ Halo: Broken Circle, page 187
  10. ^ a b c d Halo: Contact Harvest, pages 150-151 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; name "ch150" defined multiple times with different content
  11. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, pages 142, 153
  12. ^ Halo: The Essential Visual Guide, page 10
  13. ^ Halo Encyclopedia, page 143
  14. ^ a b Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 237
  15. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 95
  16. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 374
  17. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, page 214
  18. ^ Halo: The Cole Protocol, page 328
  19. ^ Halo 3, campaign level Sierra 117 - Arbiter: "The Grunts' new-found courage is but fear."
  20. ^ Halo: Evolutions, "Wages of Sin", page 509
  21. ^ Halo: Glasslands page 90
  22. ^ Eleventh Hour reports, #3
  23. ^ Halo Waypoint: Catalog Interaction - Page 14
  24. ^ Halo: The Fall of Reach, page 20 (2010 edition)
  25. ^ a b Halo: Contact Harvest, page 307
  26. ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Arbiter
  27. ^ Halo: First Strike, page 59: Phosphorescent blood pooled beneath their prone forms.
  28. ^ Halo: The Flood, page 27
  29. ^ Halo: Reach, "Long Night of Solace"
  30. ^ McFarlane Toys: Halo 4 Storm Grunt
  31. ^ Halo 4: The Essential Visual Guide, page 39
  32. ^ Halo Waypoint Forums: Catalog Interaction (post 248247)
  33. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, pages 89-90
  34. ^ Halo: The Thursday War, pages 186-187
  35. ^ Halo: Broken Circle, page 187
  36. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 261
  37. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 149
  38. ^ Halo: The Flood, pages 35-36 (2010 edition)
  39. ^ Halo: The Flood, page 162 (2010 edition)
  40. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 226
  41. ^ Halo: The Flood, page ???
  42. ^ Halo: The Flood, page 60
  43. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 303
  44. ^ Halo 2, level Gravemind
  45. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 50
  46. ^ Halo: Contact Harvest, page 381
  47. ^ Halo: Ghosts of Onyx, page 350
  48. ^ Halo: Reach, campaign level Exodus
  49. ^ Halo 2, campaign level The Oracle
  50. ^ Grunt on Wikipedia
  51. ^ GameInformer: Top five video game punching bags.
  52. ^ Bungie.net : Bungie Weekly Update 4.16.10

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