Editing Cut Halo Wars units

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{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{Status|RealWorld}}
{{GameFiles}}
{{GameFiles}}
[[File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|300px|thumb|A number of cut Covenant units including the Gargoyle, Hydra and Brute Tank.]]
[[File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|300px|right|thumb|A number of cut Covenant units including the Gargoyle, Hydra and Brute Tank.]]
{{Series/Cut/HW}}
{{Series/Cut/HW}}
During the [[Development of Halo Wars|development]] of ''[[Halo Wars]]'', a number of units were concepted, prototyped and cut from the game.
During the [[Development of Halo Wars|development]] of ''[[Halo Wars]]'', a number of units were concepted, prototyped and cut from the game.


==UNSC==
==UNSC==
===Albatross===
{{Main|D96-TCE Albatross}}
The [[D96-TCE Albatross]] logistical [[dropship]] was modelled and implemented in ''Halo Wars'' as the original ship set to deliver supplies to the [[firebase]]. For reasons unknown, it was replaced by the [[D82-EST Darter]] in the final game.
<gallery>
File:Unsc vehicledepot screen.jpg|A screenshot of the [[UNSC Vehicle Depot]], showcasing an Albatross on the [[UNSC Supply Pad|Supply Pad]] to the right, just out-of-frame.
</gallery>
===Cougar===
===Cougar===
{{Main|M35 Cougar}}
{{Quote|The Cougar is a heavily armored anti-infantry support unit used on the battlefield, specifically rough terrain. Equipped with dual M68 gauss cannons and an automated gun with computer targeting. Capable of long range travel and speeds of up to 90MPH.|Concept art description}}
{{Quote|The Cougar is a heavily armored anti-infantry support unit used on the battlefield, specifically rough terrain. Equipped with dual M68 gauss cannons and an automated gun with computer targeting. Capable of long range travel and speeds of up to 90MPH.|Concept art description}}
The Cougar was designed as a UNSC AFV, equipped with two [[M68 Gauss cannon]]s. Although anti-heavy armor fire would blow the Cougar away quite easily, this vehicle was highly effective in holding off enemy armored vehicles until slower armored units could arrive at the battlefield. The Cougar had gained infamy in several urban tactical situations prior to the deployments in the war against the [[Covenant]].{{Ref/Site|Id=HWFeatures|URL=http://halowars.com/Features.aspx|Site=Official Halo Wars Community Site|Page=Features|LocalArchive=Archive:Halowars.com/Features|D=14|M=7|Y=2007}}
The Cougar was designed as a UNSC AFV, equipped with two [[M68 Gauss cannon]]s. Although anti-heavy armor fire would blow the Cougar away quite easily, this vehicle was highly effective in holding off enemy armored vehicles until slower armored units could arrive at the battlefield. The Cougar had gained infamy in several urban tactical situations prior to the deployments in the war against the [[Covenant]].{{Ref/Site|Id=HWFeatures|URL=http://halowars.com/Features.aspx|Site=Official Halo Wars Community Site|Page=Features|LocalArchive=Archive:Halowars.com/Features|D=14|M=7|Y=2007}}


It appeared as a somewhat standard armored fighting vehicle with two wheels up front and two pairs in the rear. It bore a small mounted turret armed with two [[M68 Gauss cannon]]s, as well as a machine gun or grenade launcher on other concept art.{{Ref/Reuse|CAThreadP2}} There was a windscreen on its forward body, with two side windows to provide a fairly high amount of visibility for the driver, which would have proved useful. It would have been able to reach a top speed of 90&nbsp;mph.{{Ref/Reuse|CAThreadP2}}
It appeared as a somewhat standard armored fighting vehicle with two wheels up front and two pairs in the rear. It bore a small mounted turret armed with two [[M68 Gauss cannon]]s, as well as a machine gun or grenade launcher on other concept art.{{Ref/Reuse|CAThreadP2}} There was a windscreen on its forward body, with two side windows to provide a fairly high amount of visibility for the driver, which would have proved useful. It would have been able to reach a top speed of 90mph.{{Ref/Reuse|CAThreadP2}}
 
The Cougar was ultimately cut from the game in favor of other vehicle ideas.{{Ref/Site|Id=HW021408|URL=http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/02/14/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-02.14.08.aspx|Site=Official Halo Wars Community Site|Page=Halo Wars Monthly Update 02/14/08|D=09|M=5|Y=2008}} Its shape may have proved the inspiration of the [[SP42 Cobra]], as its role in ''Halo Wars'' was originally an anti-vehicle unit. The Cougar bears a striking resemblance to the World War II armored car, the [[Wikipedia:M8 Greyhound|M8 Greyhound]].
 
The vehicle was later fully-canonized as the [[M35 Cougar]] in the ''[[Halo Encyclopedia (2022 edition)]]'', with the vehicle's lore and armament closely matching the lore flavor text given in the original concept art.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P142|Enc22|Page=142}} The Cougar was one of several potential ideas suggested by [[MEGA Construx]] in a [[2022]] fan vote for which set should be created next. Concept art for the Cougar was provided alongside the [[Reaver]], [[Warden Eternal]] and [[Flood]] invasion at [[Traxus Tower]]. The Cougar ultimately lost the vote.{{Ref/Twitter|megabloksnews|1499765227818266630|Mega Construx News|Quote=Cats are out of the bag! Mega Construx Halo Fan Vote 2 lineup has been revealed! This time, we can either choose UNSC Cougar, Banished Reaver, Warden Challenge, and Traxus Tower Flood! What do you guys think? What are you voting for??|D=17|M=04|Y=2022}}


The Cougar was ultimately cut from the game in favor of other vehicle ideas.{{Ref/Site|Id=HW021408|URL=http://www.halowars.com/news/articles/archive/2008/02/14/Halo-Wars-Monthly-Update-02.14.08.aspx|Site=Official Halo Wars Community Site|Page=Halo Wars Monthly Update 02/14/08|D=09|M=5|Y=2008}} Its shape may have proved the inspiration of the [[SP42 Cobra]], as its role in ''Halo Wars'' was originally an anti-vehicle unit. The Cougar bears a striking resemblance to the World War II armored car, the [[Wikipedia:M8 Greyhound|M8 Greyhound]]. Another version of the Cougar is cut content in ''[[Halo Infinite]]'', having a very similar appearance to its ''Halo Wars'' concept.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=YTAlpha|OgkKdy-Klzw|
Alpha Archive|Halo Infinite - Cougar}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW Cougar Concept 3.jpg|Early concept art of the Cougar.
File:HW Cougar Concept 3.jpg|Early concept art of the Cougar.
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===Falcon===
===Falcon===
{{Main|F-23 Falcata}}
{{Quote|The UNSC Falcon is the primary air attack unit of the UNSC Army. With swift attacks and exceptional maneuverability a small squad of Falcons can be devastating to enemy vessels. Armed with sidewinder missiles and heavy armor piercing guns.|Concept art description}}
{{Quote|The UNSC Falcon is the primary air attack unit of the UNSC Army. With swift attacks and exceptional maneuverability a small squad of Falcons can be devastating to enemy vessels. Armed with sidewinder missiles and heavy armor piercing guns.|Concept art description}}
Not to be confused with a [[Cut Halo 2 vehicles|cut vehicle of the same name]] from ''[[Halo 2]]'' or the [[UH-144 Falcon|tiltrotor helicopter]] that appeared in ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', the Falcon was a UNSC aircraft that got so far as having a 3D model made. The Falcon was a twin seater fighter aircraft planned to be used by the [[UNSC Army]]. Originally intended to be a usable unit, stored in the [[UNSC airpad]], it filled the role of strike fighter, packing enough firepower to destroy enemy vehicles and infantry with "Sidewinder" missiles and heavy armor-piercing guns. Like several other units, it was cut from the final game before it shipped.{{Ref/Site|Id=CAThreadP2|URL=http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?152206-**UPDATE**-page-2-(March-10)-Halo-Wars-Concept-art-dump!-(Huge-DL)/page2|Site=conceptart.org|Page=**UPDATE** page 2 (March 10) Halo Wars Concept art dump! (Huge DL)|ArchiveURL=https://archive.is/Pwbtu|D=12|M=1|Y=2013}}
Not to be confused with a [[Cut Halo 2 vehicles|cut vehicle of the same name]] from ''[[Halo 2]]'' or the [[UH-144 Falcon|tiltrotor helicopter]] that appeared in ''[[Halo: Reach]]'', the Falcon was a UNSC aircraft that got so far as having a 3D model made. The Falcon was a twin seater fighter aircraft planned to be used by the [[UNSC Army]]. Originally intended to be a usable unit, stored in the [[UNSC airpad]], it filled the role of strike fighter, packing enough firepower to destroy enemy vehicles and infantry with "Sidewinder" missiles and heavy armor-piercing guns. Like several other units, it was cut from the final game before it shipped.{{Ref/Site|Id=CAThreadP2|URL=http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?152206-**UPDATE**-page-2-(March-10)-Halo-Wars-Concept-art-dump!-(Huge-DL)/page2|Site=conceptart.org|Page=**UPDATE** page 2 (March 10) Halo Wars Concept art dump! (Huge DL)|ArchiveURL=https://archive.is/Pwbtu|D=12|M=1|Y=2013}}


In terms of design, the Falcon uses forward-swept wings (giving it an appearance similar to the 20th Century [[Wikipedia:Sukhoi Su-47|Sukhoi Su-47]]), which are used to provide stability during steep dives, indicating an emphasis in air-to-ground combat. Another, smaller set of wing flaps are attached to the ventral hull, possibly to improve stability. It also possesses two inward-angled vertical stabilizers at the rear, and missile pods attached to the base of the wing and the ventral hull. At the rear of the craft are twin jet thrusters, capable of tilting to allow [[VTOL]] capability. Retractable landing gear appears to be located at the wing tips.
In terms of design, the Falcon uses forward-swept wings (giving it an appearance similar to the 20th Century [[Wikipedia:Sukhoi Su-47|Sukhoi Su-47]]), which are used to provide stability during steep dives, indicating an emphasis in air-to-ground combat. Another, smaller set of wing flaps are attached to the ventral hull, possibly to improve stability. It also possesses two inward-angled vertical stabilizers at the rear, and missile pods attached to the base of the wing and the ventral hull. At the rear of the craft are twin jet thrusters, capable of tilting to allow [[VTOL]] capability. Retractable landing gear appears to be located at the wing tips.
In [[2023]], the Falcon was canonized as the [[F-23 Falcata]], following a highly detailed model recreation made by [[343 Industries]] 3D Character Artist [[:Category:Images by Fletcher Kinnear|Fletcher Kinnear]] under the alias Skaboodlydoodle. The model made by Kinnear was one of many done by him as part of a series of personal projects to bring several ''Halo Wars'' vehicles into the [[first-person shooter]] ''Halo'' games via [[modding]], with other such recreations including the [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]], [[HRUNTING Mark III (S) Cyclops]], [[M121 Jackrabbit]], and {{Pattern|Shua'ee|Locust}}.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.artstation.com/fletcherkinnear|Site=ArtStation|Page=Fletcher Kinnear|D=20|M=12|Y=2023}} Thanks to the work of the concurrent [[Digsite]] project, Kinnear was able to use the original Ensemble-developed Falcon model for reference when making his higher-detail recreation, making it a drivable vehicle mod for ''[[Halo: Reach]]''. This process was documented in several videos on his YouTube channel, [https://www.youtube.com/@skaboodlydoodle/videos here].
Due to the Falcon being a name taken by ''Reach''{{'}}s utility helicopter, the aircraft was instead designated the Falcata, after the pre-Roman Iberian blade of the [[Wikipedia:Falcata|same name]]. This naming convention follows the UNSC's tradition of naming fighter aircraft after blades, with the name literally meaning "falcon-shaped," referencing the original ''Halo Wars'' Falcon designation.{{Ref/Reuse|CFFestivities}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW Falcon Concept.jpg|Concept art of a squadron of Falcons in flight.
File:HW Falcon Concept.jpg|Concept art of a squadron of Falcons in flight.
File:HW Airpad Early Model.jpg|An early model for the [[UNSC Airpad]], with several Falcons docked on the runway. Later builds would see these Falcons replaced with [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s, before the design was changed completely.
File:HW Airpad Early Model.jpg|An early model for the [[UNSC Airpad]], with several Falcons docked on the runway. Later builds would see these Falcons replaced with [[AV-22 Sparrowhawk]]s, before the design was changed completely.
File:HW Falcon Model.jpg|The finalised game model for the Falcon.
File:HW Falcon Model.jpg|The finalised game model for the Falcon.
File:HR Falcata Screenshot 1.jpg|The Falcata modded into ''Halo: Reach''.
</gallery>
</gallery>


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The '''Fox Cannon''' was a [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] vehicle cut from ''[[Halo Wars]]''. It was to be a self-propelled artillery vehicle, capable of firing five shells per minute, and with great accuracy due to satellite targeting over a distance greater than 50 kilometers. The Fox was equipped with a 175mm cannon that shot the M179 projectile. Given its role, it was likely replaced by the [[SP42 Cobra]].
The '''Fox Cannon''' was a [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] vehicle cut from ''[[Halo Wars]]''. It was to be a self-propelled artillery vehicle, capable of firing five shells per minute, and with great accuracy due to satellite targeting over a distance greater than 50 kilometers. The Fox was equipped with a 175mm cannon that shot the M179 projectile. Given its role, it was likely replaced by the [[SP42 Cobra]].
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW_FoxCannon_Concept_1.jpg|thumb|Fox Cannon concept art.
File:HW_FoxCannon_Concept_1.jpg|thumb|right|Fox Cannon concept art.
File:HW FoxCannon Concept 2.jpg|Fox cannon concept art.
File:HW FoxCannon Concept 2.jpg|Fox cannon concept art.
File:HW FoxCannon Render 1.jpg|Render of the Fox Cannon from the development of ''Halo Wars''.
File:HW FoxCannon Render 1.jpg|Render of the Fox Cannon from the development of ''Halo Wars''.
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Early on in the development of ''Halo Wars'', the [[M274 Mongoose]] was intended to be included. The vehicle got as far as having a model created and implemented in game, though by the time of the [[Halo Wars Alpha|"Sway" alpha]], all that remained in the files was a handful of text strings referencing <code>test_pj_mongoose</code>.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=YTAlpha|My3Fqj63gYI|The Vengeful 'Vadam|Full Analysis of the Halo Wars Alpha "Sway" Build}}
Early on in the development of ''Halo Wars'', the [[M274 Mongoose]] was intended to be included. The vehicle got as far as having a model created and implemented in game, though by the time of the [[Halo Wars Alpha|"Sway" alpha]], all that remained in the files was a handful of text strings referencing <code>test_pj_mongoose</code>.{{Ref/YouTube|Id=YTAlpha|My3Fqj63gYI|The Vengeful 'Vadam|Full Analysis of the Halo Wars Alpha "Sway" Build}}


To create this Mongoose model, Ensemble 3D artist [[:Category:Images by Jennell Jaquays|Jennell Jaquays]] had to rely on observing screenshots of the Mongoose as seen in ''[[Halo 3]]'', as [[Bungie]] were unwilling to share the original model file with Ensemble.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.facebook.com/Jennell.Jaquays.Artist/posts/halo-wars-was-the-last-project-that-i-did-with-ensemble-studios-we-completed-the/1544019829199457/|Site=Facebook|Page=Jennell Jaquays' Halo Wars pre-release overview|Quote=My low poly take on the Mongoose from Halo 3. I was working from screen captures from the XBOX 360 game. Bungie was not giving us game assets from the FPS games to help, so we did everything by observation.|LocalArchive=Archive:Facebook - Jennell Jaquays' Halo Wars pre-release overview|D=01|M=5|Y=2021}}
To create this Mongoose model, Ensemble 3D artist Jenell Jaquays had to rely on observing screenshots of the Mongoose as seen in ''[[Halo 3]]'', as [[Bungie]] were unwilling to share the original model file with Ensemble.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.facebook.com/Jennell.Jaquays.Artist/posts/halo-wars-was-the-last-project-that-i-did-with-ensemble-studios-we-completed-the/1544019829199457/|Site=Facebook|Page=Jennell Jaquays' Halo Wars pre-release overview|Quote=My low poly take on the Mongoose from Halo 3. I was working from screen captures from the XBOX 360 game. Bungie was not giving us game assets from the FPS games to help, so we did everything by observation.|LocalArchive=Archive:Facebook - Jennell Jaquays' Halo Wars pre-release overview|D=01|M=5|Y=2021}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW - Prerelease - Mongoose.png|The Mongoose unit in an early build.
File:HW - Prerelease - Mongoose.png|The Mongoose unit in an early build.
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===Prototype infantry===
===Prototype infantry===
This prototype infantry unit was created by artist [[:Category:Images by Gene Kohler|Gene Kohler]]. Little is known of it or its purpose in-game.
This prototype infantry unit was created by artist Gene Kohler. Little is known of it or its purpose in-game.
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW - Render - Prototype Unit.png
File:HW - Render - Prototype Unit.png
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===Brute Tank===
===Brute Tank===
The "Brute Tank" is a vehicle cut from the game, notable for its high similarity to the existing [[Zurdo-pattern Wraith|Wraith]]. However, the Brute Tank instead comes equipped with a [[M512 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon|turret]] like those found on the [[M808B Scorpion|Scorpion]] tank. Text strings in the "Sway" alpha build reference <code>brutetank_power_hack_obstruction</code>, possibly meaning the tank was to have some form of hacking ability.{{Ref/Reuse|YTAlpha}} Presumably, this vehicle was intended to be used by the [[Jiralhanae]] and their [[Avitus|Chieftain]].
The "Brute Tank" is a vehicle cut from the game, notable for its high similarity to the existing [[Type-26 Wraith|Wraith]]. However, the Brute Tank instead comes equipped with a [[M512 smooth-bore high-velocity cannon|turret]] like those found on the [[M808B Scorpion|Scorpion]] tank. Text strings in the "Sway" alpha build reference <code>brutetank_power_hack_obstruction</code>, possibly meaning the tank was to have some form of hacking ability.{{Ref/Reuse|YTAlpha}} Presumably, this vehicle was intended to be used by the [[Jiralhanae]] and their [[Thrallslayer|Chieftain]].


Although the Brute Tank icon found in the final release of ''Halo Wars'' depicts a Wraith with a Scorpion turret, some models seen in earlier builds have a more distinctive appearance of a Wraith with a more Covenant-style turret; these vehicles bear some resemblance to certain ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' concept art, shown below. Another piece of concept art uploaded to ArtStation by Nathan Stefan shows a vehicle very similar to the Brute Tank, though the image itself is named <code>gorgon-005</code> - this vehicle bears little resemblance to the [[#Gorgon|Gorgon]], so the art's status is unclear.  
Although the Brute Tank icon found in the final release of ''Halo Wars'' depicts a Wraith with a Scorpion turret, some models seen in earlier builds have a more distinctive appearance of a Wraith with a more Covenant-style turret; these vehicles bear some resemblance to certain ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' concept art, shown below. Another piece of concept art uploaded to ArtStation by Nathan Stefan shows a vehicle very similar to the Brute Tank, though the image itself is named <code>gorgon-005</code> - this vehicle bears little resemblance to the [[#Gorgon|Gorgon]], so the art's status is unclear.  
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File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|A pair of Brute Tanks (lower-left) alongside other Covenant vehicles.
File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|A pair of Brute Tanks (lower-left) alongside other Covenant vehicles.
File:HW BruteTank Shield Icon.png|The Brute Tank shield icon.
File:HW BruteTank Shield Icon.png|The Brute Tank shield icon.
File:HW Screenshots 004.jpg|Brute Tanks can be seen in the E3 2007 build promotional images.
File:1205822805 Screenshots 1280 004.jpg|Brute Tanks can be seen in the E3 2007 build promotional images.
File:HW BruteTank Icon.png|The Brute Tank, bearing a Scorpion turret.
File:HW BruteTank Icon.png|The Brute Tank, bearing a Scorpion turret.
File:HCE Wraith Concept 2.jpg|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' concept art by [[Shi Kai Wang]], bearing heavy resemblance to the Brute Tank.
File:HCE Wraith Concept 2.jpg|''Halo: Combat Evolved'' concept art by [[Shi Kai Wang]], bearing heavy resemblance to the Brute Tank.
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===Chimera===
===Chimera===
The Chimera was a Covenant unit cut from ''Halo Wars''. It was a four-legged walker bearing slight resemblance to the {{Pattern|Protos|Scarab}}, though with a more hunched appearance.
The Chimera was a Covenant unit cut from ''Halo Wars''. It was a four-legged walker bearing slight resemblance to the [[Type-47A Scarab]], though with a more hunched appearance.
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW-Chimera_Concept.png
File:HW-Chimera_Concept.png
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Found in some screenshots and an animation reel uploaded by animator Charles Tinney, the Elite Ranger was evidently to be a flying infantry unit. Their design is that of the [[Sangheili Ranger|Elite Rangers]] found in ''Halo 2''.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://vimeo.com/24789949|Site=Vimeo|Page=Halo Wars Show Reel|D=02|M=5|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Reuse|YTAlpha}}
Found in some screenshots and an animation reel uploaded by animator Charles Tinney, the Elite Ranger was evidently to be a flying infantry unit. Their design is that of the [[Sangheili Ranger|Elite Rangers]] found in ''Halo 2''.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://vimeo.com/24789949|Site=Vimeo|Page=Halo Wars Show Reel|D=02|M=5|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Reuse|YTAlpha}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW Screenshots 004.jpg|Several Rangers can be found in the mid-back of this promotional screenshot.
File:1205822805_Screenshots_1280_004.jpg|Several Rangers can be found in the mid-back of this promotional screenshot.
File:HW_EliteRanger_Unit.png|The Ranger unit, as seen in Tinney's animation reel.
File:HW_EliteRanger_Unit.png|The Ranger unit, as seen in Tinney's animation reel.
</gallery>
</gallery>
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File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicleRenders.jpg|A Gargoyle (top-right) alongside several other early renders of Covenant vehicles.
File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicleRenders.jpg|A Gargoyle (top-right) alongside several other early renders of Covenant vehicles.
File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|A trio of Gargoyles (lower-right) alongside other Covenant vehicles.
File:HW-EarlyCovenantVehicles.jpg|A trio of Gargoyles (lower-right) alongside other Covenant vehicles.
File:HW Gargoyle UI Icon.png|The Gargoyle's UI icon.
</gallery>
</gallery>


===Gorgon===
===Gorgon===
{{Quote|When we originally spec'd out the Covenant, we gave them a ground-based, antiair unit called the Gorgon (above left) -- a bulbous, biped walker that used heavy Needlers to rip apart thin-skinned aircraft. Once it was in the game, though, we realized that we'd created a recognition problem: was the Gorgon a vehicle or infantry unit? We intended for it to be a vehicle, but the legs were causing problems, since we also said that "anything with two legs that walks is a dude." The final nail in the Gorgon coffin? The Covenant already had too many ground vehicles; we needed more air units.|Dave Pottinger on the Gorgon.{{Ref/Reuse|1UP}}}}
{{Quote|When we originally spec'd out the Covenant, we gave them a ground-based, antiair unit called the Gorgon (above left) -- a bulbous, biped walker that used heavy Needlers to rip apart thin-skinned aircraft. Once it was in the game, though, we realized that we'd created a recognition problem: was the Gorgon a vehicle or infantry unit? We intended for it to be a vehicle, but the legs were causing problems, since we also said that "anything with two legs that walks is a dude." The final nail in the Gorgon coffin? The Covenant already had too many ground vehicles; we needed more air units.|Dave Pottinger on the Gorgon.{{Ref/Reuse|1UP}}}}
The Gorgon was a vehicle created for the Covenant and intended for use in the anti-air role. The vehicle was envisioned as a walker equipped with a [[needle cannon]], used to attack air targets. The vehicle's mech-based nature conflicted with Ensemble's philosophy that anything with legs was considered infantry, and the overwhelming abundance of Covenant ground vehicles - combined with the relative lack of aircraft - ultimately led to the Gorgon being scrapped and replaced with the {{Pattern|Bkowe'nei|Vampire}}.{{Ref/Site|Id=1UP|URL=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=0&cId=3172311&p=|Site=1UP|Page=10 Things You Didn't Know About Halo Wars|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} A very similar vehicle; the [[Reaver]], was later implemented in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.
The Gorgon was a vehicle created for the Covenant and intended for use in the anti-air role. The vehicle was envisioned as a walker equipped with a [[heavy needle cannon]], used to attack air targets. The vehicle's mech-based nature conflicted with Ensemble's philosophy that anything with legs was considered infantry, and the overwhelming abundance of Covenant ground vehicles - combined with the relative lack of aircraft - ultimately led to the Gorgon being scrapped and replaced with the [[Type-29 Vampire]].{{Ref/Site|Id=1UP|URL=http://www.1up.com/do/previewPage?pager.offset=0&cId=3172311&p=|Site=1UP|Page=10 Things You Didn't Know About Halo Wars|D=13|M=4|Y=2016}} A very similar vehicle; the [[Reaver]], was later implemented in ''[[Halo Wars 2]]''.


Interestingly, a later Artstation upload by Nathan Stefan titled <code>gorgon-005.jpg</code> depicts a vehicle more similar in nature to the [[Zurdo-pattern Wraith|Wraith]] or similarly-cut [[#Brute Tank|Brute Tank]].{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.artstation.com/artwork/2JvrY|Site=ArtStation|Page=Halo Wars Concept art I did for Microsoft at Ensemble Studios|D=01|M=5|Y=2021}}
Interestingly, a later Artstation upload by Nathan Stefan titled <code>gorgon-005.jpg</code> depicts a vehicle more similar in nature to the [[Type-26 Wraith|Wraith]] or similarly-cut [[#Brute Tank|Brute Tank]].{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.artstation.com/artwork/2JvrY|Site=ArtStation|Page=Halo Wars Concept art I did for Microsoft at Ensemble Studios|D=01|M=5|Y=2021}}
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW Gorgon Render.jpg|The cut Gorgon mech.
File:HW Gorgon Render.jpg|The cut Gorgon mech.
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</gallery>
</gallery>


===Scarab (''Protos''-pattern)===
===Scarab (Protos variant)===
{{Quote|The Scarab has an anti-everything gun, and I'm losing.|Graeme Devine's remark upon encountering the Scarab in the E3 demo.}}
{{Quote|The Scarab has an anti-everything gun, and I'm losing.|Graeme Devine's remark upon encountering the Scarab in the E3 demo.}}
Seen in the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] 2007 build and on the box art for ''Halo Wars'', among other promotional screenshots, is the {{Pattern|Protos|Scarab}}—the Scarab variant notably found in the ''[[Halo 2]]'' campaign levels ''[[Outskirts]]'', ''[[Metropolis]]'', and ''[[The Great Journey]]''. However, the final game's Scarab would be a take on the {{Pattern|Deutoros|Scarab}} design featured in ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', and ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.
Seen in the [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3]] 2007 build and on the box art for ''Halo Wars'', among other promotional screenshots, is the [[Type-47A Scarab|Type-47A "Protos" Scarab]] - the Scarab variant notably found in the ''[[Halo 2]]'' campaign levels ''[[Outskirts]]'', ''[[Metropolis]]'' and ''[[The Great Journey]]''. In the final ''Halo Wars'' game, the [[Type-47B Scarab]] design notably used in ''[[Halo 3]]'', ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' and ''[[Halo: Reach]]'' is used.


In the E3 2007 demo, the Scarab appears near the end in a short vignette, climbing out of a Forerunner underground shaft. The Scarab proceeds to rampage across the battlefield, destroying several tanks and other units, and must ultimately be destroyed via [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC orbital bombardment]].
In the E3 2007 demo, the Scarab appears near the end in a short viginette, climbing out of a Forerunner underground shaft. The Scarab proceeds to rampage across the battlefield, destroying several tanks and other units, and must ultimately be destroyed via [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC orbital bombardment]].
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:HW Concept ScarabBattle.jpg|Concept art depicting this ''Protos'' variant.
File:HW Scarab Concept.jpg|Concept art depicting this Type-47A variant.
File:HW Screenshots Screens 1.jpg|Multiple Scarabs in an early build of the game.
File:Hornet war.jpg|A Type-47A Scarab fighting Hornets.
File:Hornet war.jpg|A ''Protos''-pattern Scarab fighting Hornets.
File:1205822805 Screenshots 1280 004.jpg|A Type-47A Scarab seen right, firing on the UNSC force.
File:HW Screenshots 004.jpg|A ''Protos''-pattern Scarab seen right, firing on the UNSC force.
File:HWscreen.jpeg|A Type-47A Scarab can be seen on the bottom-left of this image.
File:HW Screenshots 005.jpg|A ''Protos''-pattern Scarab can be seen on the bottom-left of this image.
File:HW Screenshots E07 3.jpg|Another screenshot of the Scarab.
File:HW Screenshots E07 3.jpg|Another screenshot of the Scarab.
File:HW E307 Scarab.png|The Scarab as it appears in the [[Halo Wars E3 2007 Demo|''Halo Wars'' E3 demo]].
File:HW E307 Scarab.png|The Scarab as it appears in the [[Halo Wars E3 2007 Demo|''Halo Wars'' E3 demo]].
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====Thorn beast====
====Thorn beast====
The [[thorn beast]]s are another cut creature seen fully modelled, textured and animated; they are present in the ''Halo Wars'' [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3 2008]] build and can be seen walking around the map around thirteen minutes into the demo. They do not appear to attack UNSC forces.{{Ref/Site|Id=E32008|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.gamespot.com/videos/halo-wars-e3-2008-stage-show-demo/2300-6194807/|Site=Gamespot|Page=Halo Wars E3 2008 Stage Show Demo}} Thorn beasts remain canon in the ''Halo'' setting; with the [[Avitus|Chieftain]] character said to particularly enjoy eating them; they were later featured in the novel ''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'' as a delicacy enjoyed by the crew of ''[[Rapid Conversion]]''.
The [[thorn beast]]s are another cut creature seen fully modelled, textured and animated; they are present in the ''Halo Wars'' [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3 2008]] build and can be seen walking around the map around thirteen minutes into the demo. They do not appear to attack UNSC forces.{{Ref/Site|Id=E32008|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.gamespot.com/videos/halo-wars-e3-2008-stage-show-demo/2300-6194807/|Site=Gamespot|Page=Halo Wars E3 2008 Stage Show Demo}} Thorn beasts remain canon in the ''Halo'' setting; with the [[Thrallslayer|Chieftain]] character said to particularly enjoy eating them; they were later featured in the novel ''[[Halo: Contact Harvest]]'' as a delicacy enjoyed by the crew of ''[[Rapid Conversion]]''.


Interestingly, ''Halo Wars'' is not the first time the thorn beasts were developed to appear in a ''Halo'' game; they were originally designed by [[Paul Russel]] during the [[Development of Halo: Combat Evolved|development]] of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', where they were modelled with an identical design and similarly cut.
Interestingly, ''Halo Wars'' is not the first time the thorn beasts were developed to appear in a ''Halo'' game; they were originally designed by [[Paul Russel]] during the [[Development of Halo: Combat Evolved|development]] of ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', where they were modelled with an identical design and similarly cut.
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==Sources==
==Sources==
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{{Ref/Sources}}
{{Deleted Material}}
{{Deleted Material}}
[[Category:Halo Wars deleted material]]
[[Category:Deleted material]]
[[Category:Halo Wars]]

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