Forum:Halo 5: Guardians (General)/Archive

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MC Hood

Think this is necessary. So, why wear a hood if you have a energy-shielded titanium armor? Does this indicate the armor is malfunctioning and that Chief will be getting a new one, or is it simply for the reveal? Also, looks like ragged hood will be an armor permutation/skin addon... (joking of course) Finally, that E3 trailer still fails to impress me to get the always-online Xbone. — Hacame 22:43, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

Well, sand is very bad for anything with moving parts, and even worse when it's blowing (like a sand blaster), so it's protection for the suit, which is already damaged. Alex T Snow (talk) 04:04, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

Well, if he has the suit, he's probably still part of the UNSC, since I doubt they'd still let him go running around with it if he's retired. And I doubt that the UNSC would send him anywhere that required the Mjonir without having it at least repaired, if not replaced. If the suit is fully operational, the energy shielding should take care of the sand well enough. I don't know why, but it seemed to me like it was more a kind of camouflage, if not to blend in, at least to conceal the fact that he's a Spartan II. Maybe I'm just dead wrong, though. --Weeping Angel (talk) 09:08, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

I heard the whole thing with Chief in a cloak was part of an inside joke between 343 and Bungie and was done to make the game look like Destiny. Not sure if any official sources have said that though so it may just be a fan theory.--Soul reaper (talk) 09:47, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

When I fist saw that, that was the impression I got - Destiny. But still I don't see no reason for it except to hide himself. But if he really wanted to do that, he could've used active camouflage. I just think they did that to make the trailer (or MC) look more dramatic. The "background" music however is forgettable and awfully "quiet". I guess that's because Neil didn't compose it.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 15:59, 13 June 2013 (EDT)

I also found it strange, but I think it's likely just stylistic. He's mysterious; he's wandering; etc. The desert itself might be a metaphor for space, even if that's a real planet in the story. --Dragonclaws^(talk) 19:07, 13 June 2013 (EDT)

Good point. I just hope they don't copy Destiny with this release.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 12:42, 14 June 2013 (EDT)

I'm racking my brain trying to remember where I saw the reference, but Frankie apparently stated on NeoGaf that the cloak was intended to conceal John's identity. I'll post the link when I find it again. - DJenser (talk) 12:41, 26 June 2013 (EDT)

Found it: http://www.neogaf.com/forum/showpost.php?p=62374146&postcount=493 - DJenser (talk) 12:51, 26 June 2013 (EDT)

New Machine to be revealed as the war sphinx?

when i saw the trailer, i noticed that this thing reminds a bit of a sphinx quoted in the books of greg bear, could it be that in this new halo they will show the true power of the forerunner? Also, its eyes are orange as the didact's army, could this mean that he really survived the epilogue of halo 4?—This unsigned comment was made by 87.9.49.128 (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

1) The prevailing theory is that it's either a War Sphinx or a Seeker, so you're probably right. 2) Orange seems to be the default highlight color for Promethean technology. While the Didact may have survived - I hope he did - we don't know for sure. --Courage never dies. (talk) 19:29, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

If I'm not mistaken, war sphinxes are also Promethean technology. --Xamikaze330 [Transmit|Files] 19:51, 10 June 2013 (EDT)Xamikaze330

They are. Whatever the machine is, it's undoubtedly Promethean. What I meant to say is that the orange "eyes" don't indicate that the Didact is alive, as the OP suggested. --Courage never dies. (talk) 20:14, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

Shite. When I saw the machine-thingy, my mind immediately went to the Forunner Ships from Halo Wars haha. Also, it's just a preview. So it doesnt even matter if he's wearing a robe. Anywho, his visor was cracked. Also am I to assume that was Cortanas Chip? Maginot Sphere (talk) 09:54, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

Would definitely love to see these things in action in the next game.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 15:59, 13 June 2013 (EDT)

Vulture vs. Lich vs. BirdShip! Alex T Snow (talk) 01:34, 16 June 2013 (EDT)

New Location?

I am fairly certain that we're back on the Ark. The sand dunes, for one (though that's very little to go off,) and the "planet" seen in the background are very reminiscent of those seen on the Ark. I don't believe we should list it before it's confirmed, but leave a discussion point open as more information flows in.Ocean Soul (talk) 22:23, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

I was thinking the same until I noticed the absence of the curved arms the original Ark has.— Hacame 22:36, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

...or Reach, post-glassing, bringing the holo chip back to Cortana's birthplace? The ragged mountains look like Reach and the land is certainly infertile. Plus Forerunner machinery was all over Reach. ScaleMaster117 (talk) 22:40, 10 June 2013 (EDT)

Oh god that would be so epic. Imagine if Master Chief found a 'final log' of sorts of Noble Six that revealed he had found some sort of 'weapon' or 'artifact' prior to his last stand. Would explain why he sort of seemed like he was content with dying, maybe he found something that made his life feel complete. Delivering Cortana was cool and all, and was pivotal to the war effort, but we don't exactly know what happened between then, and his post-credits scene at the ruins, and could be something of truly epic proportions. Maybe even a "fabrication compiler" of sorts that uploaded his consciousness into AI format (getting carried away here). Could also tie into the 14 dead Spartans lying around. Just speculation though nothing to get worked up about. --DC Ambrose (talk) 16:18, 27 September 2013 (EDT)

The Ark was the impression I got as well. The implied degree of damage it received varies each time it's mentioned, but I doubt it was actually destroyed, just very damaged, likely not able to make more rings. And it also looks like John is trying to get Cortana back, whether he knows if he can or not, or where she is at that point, we don't know, though. Since he spent half his dialogue in Halo 4 talking about it, he'll be trying to find Halsey for sure, and with what happened with her in Spartan Ops... well, John may be giving another badass "No, Sir" (or a few) to ONI in this one, and I doubt they'll take kindly to that. And whether he's on the run from ONI/UNSC, or they just won't help him, that sets the stage perfectly for Thel to come back and help his old friend out. Just some thoughts I've had so far. Alex T Snow (talk) 04:04, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

The absolute record...--Killamint [Comm|Files] 07:55, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

@ Alex T Snow: Wow. You just blew my mind. 343 would be a fool not to use that plot. --Weeping Angel (talk) 09:12, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

I also agree. Might be Reach. I'd like to see that anyway. Maginot Sphere (talk) 09:55, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

I don't think it's Reach. At 0:46 of the trailer, John looks up and you see the sky with what appears to be a reddish planet/moon. Neither of Reach's two moons are red.--Spartacus ^{Talk • Contribs} 11:12, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

My money's on the Ark as well... That moon is the same color as the Foundry and the geography supports the theory. DJenser (talk) 13:03, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

Maybe both moons were also glassed by the Covenant, hence why they're red. Tuckerscreator^(stalk) 13:37, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

I somehow managed to completely forget about the Absolute Record. :/ The Ark would be a good place for something like that to be, and Halsey is the only person that knows about it, so yeah, that could be where he's headed. I also noticed watching it again that in addition to his visor being cracked, the armour itself is also very worn. And I'm not sure if the "Your journey begins" is a tagline for the game, or for the new console, so I'm not sure if that's something we can read into. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:59, 11 June 2013 (EDT)

That's why I said "absolute record" above. However I don't believe that the ark, reach, or any location we've already been to is the location to be in "Halo 5". I believe it's the Absolute record itself as a new location or a shield world/planet/installation as the set. Who knows. Sometimes things turn out to be different from the trailer in the actual release.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 15:59, 13 June 2013 (EDT)

Maybe it's not even Five... i'm wishing for SO Season 2, cause the first one was painfully disappointing, narrativewise and gameplaywise. k4karnage 20:39, 13 June 2013 (EDT)

The ending S1 may tie into Halo "5" since the main campaign of H4 didn't build up to another story for MC. It pretty muched ended there. Though, Halo "5" may explain what the chief was doing for the past six months before the Infinity returned to Requiem. If that's the case there will be a S2 for SO's but it'll continue to follow crimson's story and not MC's. Confusing really. We do need an explanation for why the UNSC waited 6 months before returning to Requiem. But yeah, Spartan Ops was bad both ways. The writing was terrible and someone described it as the "most mismanaged campaign" by the UNSC.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 12:42, 14 June 2013 (EDT)

If the trailer takes place in an established location, my guess is that it's set on Sanghelios. All the features are there: desert, rocky crags, at least one similarly barren moon, and abandoned Forerunner technology. I've been wanting to see the continuation (or aftermath) of the Sangheili civil war since it began in The Thursday War. There's been speculation that the Arbiter will be reintroduced in the second game of the trilogy, just as he was the first time around. If this really is the Elite homeworld, we might see Thel's return pretty soon. --Courage never dies. (talk) 11:02, 15 June 2013 (EDT)

Definitely looking forward to him coming back. Aside from being awesome, he's virtually the only person left John could consider a friend. Alex T Snow (talk) 01:34, 16 June 2013 (EDT)

They should have brought him back in Halo 4.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 09:52, 16 June 2013 (EDT)

It could be set on Installation 03 or a previously-unseen planet near it. The upper left part of the moon in the sky appears to have a chunk missing, just like the rocky planet that Installation 03 orbits. The planet is even the same color. We don't see a Halo's curve in the sky but that could be obscured by the clouds. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 17:31, 21 June 2013 (EDT)

Someone on youtube came up with a theory that that robot was Mendicant-Bias rising out of the desert on installation 00 where he was buried. Of course that robot's design is far from the Mendicant's description but who knows.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 20:59, 25 June 2013 (EDT)

On Halo Archive and here they created a very attractive theory. It links very well with prior fiction, and I would be disappointed if the sequel to Halo 4 didn't take the Ark up as the main location. The construct we see rising could be Mendicant Bias' guard or protection, if it weren't him himself. I'd love to see a continuation of MB's story, and I was a little disappointed by his lack of mention in 4. :P --TentacleTornado 13:41, 29 June 2013 (EDT)

Yeah, I also wanted Mendicant Bias to be mentioned in Halo 4, especially because of the last Terminal in H3, when he says things like he'll protect the Chief's path to the Portal, and he'd like his masters to see that he has changed, etc. I whish the Librarian had said that Mendicant Bias made sure that the Chief would reach Requiem, etc. because it's part of her plan... Too bad he's not mentioned at all. I also think that John returning to the Ark would be a good story, I hope Silentium's epilogue will be used this way. Imrane-117 (talk) 17:08, 29 June 2013 (EDT)

He wasn't the only one not mentioned. The Arbiter wasn't mentioned either.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 20:32, 29 June 2013 (EDT)

I was hoping that Mendy would be the Chief's new AI buddy, but I have a sinking feeling that it will more likely be Guilty Chakas...DJenser (talk) 13:13, 24 July 2013 (EDT)

Has anyone considered that this my be Kholo? Lets look at the facts. We know Kholo was glassed, which means the sand and molten metal show in the trailer could be a connection. We also know that there were Forunner ruins on Kholo, they were just buried by the glassing. Could this possibly be Kholo? We know that 343 is wanting to connect all of Halo cannon, from the books, the comics, to the games. I don't doubt the fact that it could be possibly at the Ark, but I figured I'd throw this out there for other people to consider. Siphon 117 20:42, 19 August 2013 (EDT)

Maybe but its not really a significant location for anything to happen. Of course they left some mystery as to what the humans were excavating on the planet but that's about it. Would be nice for 343i to finish that story.--Killamint [Comm|Files] 13:08, 12 September 2013 (EDT)

Thoughts on the Reveal

Considering how much time has past, I'm very happy to see 343i reveal their latest project in more detail. I actually have high hopes for the game and I'm reconsidering purchasing the XboxOne (especially since they plan on reducing the price to $399 next month). I'm really digging the new box art.

And I'm really digging the new armor (despite all the bad things I hate about the new GEN2 armor overall). It's very intЁeresting especially seeing the ONI insignia slapped on the armor. And I like the fact that the game has a subtitle. However, why do I get the feeling that the subtitle is kind of another Destiny reference? First we had MC's "cloak". Now the name of the game reflects the characters you play in Destiny (It caught me off guard just like how "Spartan Ops" did in regards to "Spec Ops"). IDK, just seemed kind of suspect. But nonetheless, I'm fine w/ the title. As for the box art, I have two theories in regards to the story, & I'll keep them brief. The top character could be MC wearing new armor w/ a reflection of his past self at the bottom. Or it could be a new character who has something to do with MC and we may be playing as him & as MC similar to how we played two roles in Halo 2. So those are just my thoughts on the new reveal. Opinions? Thoughts on the reveal? Post them here.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 12:51, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

The Sangheili statue in the released concept art is intriguing. If we do get to visit Sanghelios (as the atmosphere, architecture and two moons would suggest), you can only imagine my squeals of excitement. A renunciation of the antagonisation of the former-Covenant species—which has seemingly been a staple of newer media as of late—would be a welcome addition. Seeing an ONI main character will be most interesting, although kinda scary considering their massive power increase in the post-war era. The character above John is a new character, so it's definitely not John himself or any characters we already know—I'm placing my bets on a dual campaign, which would be a nice throwback to Halo 2. Overall, I can't say I'm too excited. I'm still kinda recovering from the awfulness of Kilo-Five and the disappointment of newer Escalation issues. :/ —TentacleTornado 13:17, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

Thanks for the update Tentacle. That eliminates my theory that MC is wearing that armor. Basically its a brand new character. I actually would like to see a brand new protagonist and wouldn't mind following two seperate story plots like in Halo 2, but I hope that it is executed properly. Not to say it wasn't done properly in Halo 2, but I found playing as the MC more appealing than the Arbiter for some reason. Kilo5 was definitely bland but I do like Escalation. The art w/ Escalation was my main issue, otherwise I like the story thus far. My fear with Escalation is when Brian Reed takes over :(. Spartan Ops and Initiation (according to everybody) were let-downs. So hopefully this guy doesn't screw up the remainder of the issues.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 16:57, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

@Killamin7: That armor is epic. I haven't been a huge fan of the Halo 4 Mjolnir, but this is actually quite beautiful. Anyone care to speculate on the general plot of Halo 5? Weeping Angel (talk) 13:31, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

If the concept art is any indication, I have a feeling we'll be visiting multiple settings, though I suppose that's a given for the series. Along with pretty much everyone else I think we'll be returning the the Ark at some point, while this piece suggests Venezia. The statue in the background of the newest image is holding an energy sword or twin-scythe: given the architecture and the environment, my money's on Sanghelios. While the Chief's Halo 4 duds are my favorite MJOLNIR variant ever, I hope he winds up with a new suit in the game proper. Frankly, given the way Escalation is developing he may not get the chance, but that suits me fine as long as the story provides a good justification for him to continue using it. --Our vengeance is at hand. (Talk to me.) 13:58, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

"Dark Samus? It looks like the long-awaited Halo/Metroid crossover is coming to fruition."

— Braidenvl

Haha, I admit that is funny. Even the Promethean Knights were described as being enemies that looked like they belonged in the Metroid series. I still like the armor though, mainly because it looks better than some of the shitty armor contained in Halo 4's collection. Still, H4/H5 Mjolnir is too unlike Halo CE/2/3/Reach Mjolnir so it looks a lil complex or cartoonish majority of the time, rather than simple & straightforward. Anyway, I would definitely like to see fightable Insurrectionist in this game, whether it came down to the NCA or Venezia. And that new image definitely looks like Sanghelios, and visiting that place would be tight.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 16:57, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

Sorry to just jump in, but someone on Archive noticed a striking resemblance between the Sangheili concept art and the map High Ground, specifically if the map is looked at from behind the SAM launcher. If this does end up being the case, it's probably unlikely we'll be visiting it in the campaign. :( —TentacleTornado 14:57, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

We may be visiting it in campaign & multiplayer, just like Halo: Reach. Although people may have a huge disdain for that if we do. Who knows.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 16:57, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

I definitely think this character at the top is an ONI assassin/tracker/hunter that's going after a rogue Master Chief. The cloak makes sense when you're trying to conceal yourself. Why would Chief go rogue? Well, Halo 4 Spartan Ops points to that pretty heavily. After Halsey defected to Jul 'Mdama's side, and Chief didn't know Halsey was still alive this whole time until recently, it seems like a pretty apt assumption to make. Maybe you're playing this ONI hunter as well as Master Chief in a sort of Halo 2-esque campaign?--FluffyEmoPenguin^{(ice quack!)} 20:01, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

@FluffyEmoPenguin: yes. yes. so much yes. That is just what I thought. --Weeping Angel (talk) 23:46, 16 May 2014 (EDT)

I'm placing my money on it being Fred, forced to hunt down his old friend/leader, John, who's gone rogue for a bit to try and find a way to bring Cortana back or rescue Halsey. So while John is fighting his way through Insurrectionists or Covenant, Fred is following his trail, trying to bring him in to answer for his actions. You can justify "new character" as "new to the games" if you have to. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 01:01, 17 May 2014 (EDT)

I just read that the game's creative director is Tim Longo of Republic Commando fame. Not only is Republic Commando one of my absolute favorite Star Wars games, - and I've played a lot of them - it's probably the coolest squad-based FPS I've ever played. I know there are objectively better games in the genre, though in my opinion none of them can hold a candle to the atmosphere and tight pacing of RC. I wonder how many elements from that game will find their way into Halo 5. --Our vengeance is at hand. (Talk to me.) 11:53, 18 May 2014 (EDT)

That's what I was thinking when the news broke. RC-style simple but elegant squad command system with Blue Team? With no vocal feedback most of the time, just acknowledgment lights flashing on your HUD? Yes please. I'm also glad about the switch in art direction. Kenneth Scott was always a poor fit for Halo's visual style and while I consider Sparth's redesign of the Dawn as going too far, I'm more hopeful with him at the helm given his portfolio. Let's hope the cartoonishly ugly Covenant (and Forerunner!) designs were an unfortunate one-off occurrence. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 12:51, 18 May 2014 (EDT)

That ONI tracker idea sounds very likely (whether it is or isn't Fred). With what's been happening with ONI, Halsey, and John, and all of their relationships to each other, this could be very interesting, and also an excellent mirror of Halo 2, not only in the split campaign, but also that the second character is after the first, until they meet up and the latter learns the truth about Chief, and then they team up. It's also looking even more likely that those REAP-X ONI vehicles will show up. Alex T Snow (talk) 20:53, 18 May 2014 (EDT)

I have to say, the font for the number "5" does not click with the "Halo" title. Feels out of place. Also, one needs to question why the UNSC has not fixed John's dented armour after the events of Halo 4. What happened to that ample supply of nanomachines on the Infinity? Also, the concept arts might be concepts for multiplayer play space rather than campaign play space. I'll reserve my comments about other stuff. :P — subtank 13:45, 19 May 2014 (EDT)

I guess 343i got the "4" right but not the "5". But honestly I'm not sure what to think of the font now that you mentioned it. Yeah those nanomachines were nothing more than an excuse to change MC's armor.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 09:01, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

Haha! Should've went with a Roman "V". High-V! — subtank 09:03, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

The nanomachines were an absurd idea from the start. They really come off as something they just threw in as an afterthought since they didn't want to outright retcon the classic Mk. VI out of risk of angering the fans, yet had no desire to devote time to having the Chief change his armor in the game. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 09:10, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

@subtank: a roman V would've look better! @Jugus: Exactly! 343i wasn't thinking from a logical perspective when they made Halo 4, the Kilo5 series, or Initiation. Why not have chief swap into some brand new armor? Why not leave the FuD the way it is and create a more fun/interactive mission from the start? Why not make the Kilo5 books into one book rather than padding the heck out of them? I was dumbfounded by the idea of "spartans w/ no armor". What about protection from weapons, especially plasma weapons?? I just hope we don't encounter anymore outrageous or unexplainable elements in Halo 5.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 09:26, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

Initiation's "Spartans with no armor" idea is perhaps the most outrageous addition to the Halo canon in a while. It would be much easier to just stick a person's brain in a robot body than to augment a human body to the levels we see in Initiation (at least with the UNSC's tech level). It's something that works in a superhero comic but not a sci-fi universe with any pretense of realism. Which is why I'm sorta worried about Brian Reed taking over, as lead writer no less. There were parts of Spartan Ops I liked (and others I didn't), but Initiation was full of this sort of cringeworthy silliness. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 09:49, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

Haha "..stick a person's brain in a robot body.." Kind of reminds me of Robocop. I noticed something in the descriptions for Escalation #8 & 9: "Halo® lead writer Brian Reed (Amazing Spider-Man, Ms. Marvel)". I think that says enough about where his writing style comes from. Even the cover for issue 9 kind of gives off this "superhero/supervillian" vibe. So yeah, for Halo 5 I'll be paying close attention to the plot - see if any thing that goes on in the game makes any sense from a "Halo" perspective. That includes "The next 72 hours."--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 12:14, 20 May 2014 (EDT)

Halo: Escalation connections

Am I the only one who has connected the dots here? Halo: Escalation Issue 6 shows the UNSC Spirit of Fire drifting towards a Two-Star Planet in this image? Several concept art for Halo 5: Guardians shows what looks like Sanghelios, in a Two-Star System. There is also a page in Issue 6 of Halo: Escalation that shows a Flood Infection Form running across the surface of the Cryo-Bay on the UNSC Spirit of Fire, and the Cryo-Tubes are open. In the end credits of Halo Wars, Serina is heard saying "Captain, wake up. Something has happened.". 343 Industries had stated that Halo 5: Guardians will be one of the biggest entries plot-wise and technology-wise of all Halo Entries. Also, in the Halo 5 Trailer, that big-a** machine gets out of the ground, and the surrondings look like the ark. Here is my theory: The UNSC Spirit of Fire crashes on Sanghelios, launching a Flood Infestation, and Master Chief tries to find 05-032 Mendicant Bias in order to stop the flood. One of my supporting details is that in Halo 3, Cortana says that the Ark took "Heavy Damage", but was not destroyed. Maybe even the Covenant is trying to find him, as one of his Fragments became known as an "Oracle" but was destroyed. Maybe they learned about him, and maybe Jul 'Mdama plans to take a chance and try to lead the Flood to Earth and try and destroy Humanity using the Flood for his own amends. PLEASE comment, and thanks for reading. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 16:51, 1 June 2014 (EDT)

That's a bit much to conclude off a single image. If anything, this image concludes what I said earlier about there being a Halo wars 2 or some other game continuing the story of the SoF that may be revealed at E3. I don't see the SoF appearing in Halo 5, at most just a mention. As for Sanghelios, if the SoF was crash landing there, I'm sure the UNSC would've found out by now. Also it's already known that the Ark wasn't destroyed. So overall, I believe the ending of issue 6 may give birth to a new Halo game before Halo 5. That is something I'm counting on and hoping for.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 17:42, 1 June 2014 (EDT)

You guys already pointed out most of the hints and clues so far, though one thing that's extremely interesting is that the cryo pods are open and empty, and I doubt they would go to all this trouble just to bring back Cutter and Anders as flood. Anders could fill the UNSC scientist role vacated by Halsey, especially given their apparent history. Another Halo Wars would make a lot of sense too, not doing so would be kind of like not bringing back Thel in the next main game, especially when he was in Escalation. While I do love how interconnected all of the Halo universe's media is, I hope they don't go too drastic with the changes and revelations in Escalation, they've already killed of Paul DeMarco, put Hood in a wheelchair, infected the Spirit of Fire with flood, and it looks like we're getting the entire setup to Chief's next game, even apparently involving the Didact. Still nothing with the squad from ODST at all yet, though if they just bring them back just to kill (some of them) off, I'd rather they just not; it's pretty much the only Halo story where everyone doesn't die. Alex T Snow (talk) 18:48, 1 June 2014 (EDT)

Flaw - Sanghelios occupies a triple star system, not a binary one. I do think it's setting the Spirit of Fire's cast and characters up for a new story in the future, and I'm personally hoping for a Halo Wars 2. I really doubt, though, that they will feature in Halo 5 with the Master Chief. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 19:12, 1 June 2014 (EDT)

Aw, I thought it was a binary system. Also, thanks for giving me that article on the Post-Battle Investigation on Installation 00. I didn't even know that had happened. Interesting. Maybe it was showing Sanghelios's Two Moons, cause I guess they are a little close to Sanghelios to be Suns. I'm sticking to my theory. I guess we'll see if I'm right in 5 Days, or for me 11 Days, cause that's when Gameinformer comes out. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 08:37, 4 June 2014 (EDT)

Also, how would they make another story about the SoF if the ship is Flood-Infested? And I got that theory from a lot more then just one or two images. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 08:40, 4 June 2014 (EDT)

There are two possibilities along w/ a third. First, the crew may be quarantined or boarded off away from the flood in the ship. Second, they may have abandoned ship. And finally, from what you said, they may be dead. But I highly doubt the last theory. Either way, the return of the flood is a story in itself. Everyone thought the flood was history after the battle of installation 00 but that is not the case. So..you're putting info you may receive out of a gameinformer mag above info you're receive from E3 (by extension 343I) which is 6 days before-hand?--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 12:15, 4 June 2014 (EDT)

I hadn't considered those two theories. Also, Gameinformer not only gets info from E3, but also does interviews with the producers themselves and dwelves into the making of the game. I would rather wait 6 Days and get every ounce of detail then get the info early and not quite have the full story.—This unsigned comment was made by 76.17.73.143 (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

Understood ;).--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 08:52, 7 June 2014 (EDT)

Do these two look suspiciously like Kelly and Fred to anyone else? Specifically their armour from The Package. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:36, 17 June 2014 (EDT)

Good point. There are four Spartans in the Photo. One of which is obviously Master Chief (I guess). The two on the left indeed look like an updated version of Kelly and Fred from the Package. But what about the guy in the Back Row on the Right? Any ideas? Anyways, here's the two images for comparison:

Cheers, 76.17.73.143 16:41, 26 June 2014 (EDT)

Oops, sorry. I would recommend zooming out to about 10 in order to see the full 'The Package' Image. Much bigger than I thought they would. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 16:41, 26 June 2014 (EDT)

I'm guessing the Spartan wearing the Tracker variant is Linda, since that get-out would be pretty useful for a sniper. The one next to the Chief in the EVA would probably be Kelly, since she's been depicted in that recently, and the one in the back left would therefore be Fred in his old Mark VI helmet, probably updated. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 03:17, 27 June 2014 (EDT)

It looks like "Linda"'s MA5 has the Prime skin on it. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:06, 28 June 2014 (EDT)

I'm not sure if "Linda's" armor is Tracker. The "eyes" seem to be more far apart like that of CIO.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 17:21, 28 June 2014 (EDT)

I hadn't thought about the Tracker Variant, hmph. Also, thanks to whoever corrected my images by making them smaller. I was actually coming on to replace the pictures with Links. You have my gratitude! Cheers, 76.17.73.143 14:17, 29 June 2014 (EDT)

Beta trailer

Here is the beta trailer in case someone has not seen it yet. - NightHammer (talk) 17:00, 9 June 2014 (EDT)

Those BR85's have no optics on their top rails, and Locke's has a reflex sight on it in the announcement picture. I'm wondering if we're going to see customizable weapon attachments. Alex T Snow (talk) 04:22, 10 June 2014 (EDT)

I won't mind it but at the same time I just hope it doesn't degrade itself to what we see in COD, mainly in regards to ADS (aim-down-sight). That is something I don't want to see. I don't mind FLIR scopes or night-vision or long distance scopes, or even scopes on automatic weapons. But that ADS is something that is unneeded in any Halo game.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 12:35, 10 June 2014 (EDT)

I agree, I hope the gunplay mechanics aren't drastically changed. My impression from what we've seen with H2A as well some stuff Frank was talking about in an E3 interview make me think they're using less artistic licence than CEA, and for the universe as a whole. It definitely doesn't looks like all the guns have changed for this though, the new model for the Halo 2 M7 has a rail mount just in front of the rear sight (they did a really nice job with the SMG, I really like it), but on the other hand, the MA5 and M6 are still the same as always: seemingly no way of mounting optics on the MA5, and the linked scope is still covering the front sight on the M6, making using the iron sights impossible (unless the scope in an attachment, however). Alex T Snow (talk) 23:21, 11 June 2014 (EDT)

I agree, I would hate for the ADS Mechanic to be introduced into Halo 5: Guardians. It would just kinda screw up the experience. Although it would be cool to have different kinds of sights for maybe different zoom levels or maybe even NV Scopes or maybe even like the target locator scope from Black Ops II, that would be awesome. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 15:09, 14 June 2014 (EDT)

Considering the entire point of the helmet-mounted display is that you don't need to manually align your sights with your eyes, implementing iron sights literally makes no sense. I can understand weapons being able to have iron sights, for warfighters who don't have that uplink, but not Spartans or ODSTs. I wouldn't mind limited gun customisation though, at least aesthetically - the skins from Halo 4 look nice, but I wouldn't mind things like different optics or even that 40mm grenade launcher we;ve heard tell about for the MA5. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 20:19, 14 June 2014 (EDT)

I would think it would indeed be different zoom levels or specialized sights like night vision/IR. Suppressors, flashlights, and yes, grenade launchers would also be possible, but I doubt we'll see actual ADS. It would be kind of like the M7S's scope. I still find it very amusing that Red vs. Blue beat actual Halo canon to having the MA5's underslung launcher. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:33, 17 June 2014 (EDT)

Timeline and John

(Moved from talk page) Given that Thel's surname has the "ee" suffix, and that the entry is apparently for ONI targets, could it be that the very beginning is John accessing it sometime before the fall of Reach? Obviously the rest is really a trailer rather than literally what Chief is looking at, which makes this more possible. Then again, to counter my own suggestion, it's also possible it's all in the present, especially if the suffix is still formally/officially part of his name (in official records sense). If Thel really is in ONI's target list and Chief was to find that while looking for info on his friend (I really like that they officially used that word!) since getting back, that could have something to do with him leaving, what with that part of Escalation coming up, and the only real thing we know about Locke being that he doesn't entirely trust ONI and meets with Thel. This ended up being more Forum-y and less Talk Page-y than I had intended, though it is still relevant to the article info :/ Alex T Snow (talk) 02:01, 6 July 2014 (EDT)

It might be that the Chief is accessing files that he shouldn't. I've felt that 343i is getting ready for a massive shift for a while now, where John actually goes up against ONI, if not the whole UNSC - Halsey's been thoroughly alienated, though I doubt her goals for the preservation of humanity have changed even in the hands of Jul 'Mdama; Cortana, his moral compass, is no longer in play; his newfound confidence in defying bad orders from superior officers, starting in First Strike and culminating in Halo 4; and ONIs actions have been getting less justifiable as being in defence of humanity. It might be that the Chief has set out to save the Arbiter from an ONI assassination, and that it's this act which forces ONI to send Locke to bring him in.

I am also glad they're describing them as actual, genuine friends. I can't think of two less likely friendships - the supreme commander who glassed Reach, and the Spartan who cut through the Covenant like a hot knife through butter. But it's also one that, in this weird and crazy universe, I can see working out - a mutual, if grudging, respect between soldiers and a shared enemy in the Prophets and those Elites who refuse to lay down arms. On the other hand, I'm not sure what they're hinting with the Arbiter - that he's done things that will change our mind about the Arbiter? -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 06:42, 6 July 2014 (EDT)

That's the same lines I've thought I've had, and yeah, not sure what they're hinting at about Arbiter either. To me, it sounded more like a regretful "what have I done?" rather than a "I'm doing evil things that Chief wouldn't be happy about". It can't be something about his past either, I can't imagine anything Thel could have done during the war that would change Chief's opinion of him, I mean, Chief's a Spartan will at that entails. Obviously it could be something completely new, but if it's something existing, could it be his working with ONI? A couple other things about trailer, two of the frames are very interesting, one of an Elite in some unknown armour with a jetpack (a Ranger?) jumping into a snowy place, and the other is a group and (maybe?) Covenant on a Forerunner structure with a Keyship in the background. Also, it looks like the city battle later is the schism on High Charity; near the end you can see the leg of a Keyship on the right side. Alex T Snow (talk) 14:53, 6 July 2014 (EDT)

While I can't really speculate for most of the trailer, I can point out that the jetpack scene could be from before Thel became a Supreme Commander, during the events of Halo: The Cole Protocol, where he and two fellow Sanghelli went down to a moon to capture a specific Jackel, and said moon was covered in acidic snow. At least, that's my theory on that scene. Siphon 117 01:56, 17 July 2014 (EDT)

Confirmed Weapons for Multiplayer Beta

During the recent 2014 Gamescon Xbox One Panel, during the Halo segment, towards the end of it they briefly showed off some of the weapons. What was shown was the AR, BR, DMR, SMG, Sniper, and what I can only assume is some kind of heavy weapon, but it doesn't look like the rocket launcher we all know and love. Looks more like the AT4, which is a one shot anti tank weapon, but only time will tell what it actually is. However, the one I'm more interested in is the SMG, which most likely means Duel wielding is returning in Halo 5: Guardians. Of course, I could be wrong, and it would function much like the Surpressor, but I really want Duel Wielding back. What do you guys think? Siphon 117 19:10, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

I would love for dual wielding to return, but I think 343i said it is too difficult to balance and, as of now, it isn't in Halo 5. So I'm thinking to balance the SMG, it will be some M7 variant. I think it will be like the Suppressor; does little damage at distances, but very deadly in close-quarters combat. - NightHammer (talk) 19:33, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

Very interested in that rocket launcher. I know Halo 1 was originally planned to have a single-tube rocket launcher as well as the M41, but that it got dropped. It wouldn't be the first time a weapon cut from the original game made it into a later one - the flamethrower made it into Halo PC and Halo 3, and the gravity rifle got retooled into the beam rifle. The new assault rifle is giving me a pretty gnarly M41A Pulse Rifle vibe, which is neat. I've also seen some worries that the BR with iron sights represents adoption of a CoD aim style, but I'm hoping it just represents a way to functionally differentiate the BR and DMR in terms of gameplay. Just because a weapon has iron sights doesn't mean Chief has to use them. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 21:38, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

I seriously doubt standard FPS aiming will be added, if anything that trailer emphasized that they're going back on some of the more controversial changes in 4 (like Loadouts). And while I'm not sure how it would work with everyone starting with the same stuff, it looks like we might see weapon customization. The M7 looks like it has a small rail for optics over the front sight as well as a side rail near the front, and the MA5D and BR85 both added a side rail as well; oddly the M395 doesn't have one. The BR's red dot sight is interesting, and it and the DMR's scope are both rail-mounted. What was the MA5D's fire selector in Halo 4 is now something else (I see "IR" as one setting), and there's a new fire selector added to the rear and below, in a much more practical position. The BR85 actually has a flash hider now, and one that would cause the four-way muzzle flash it has too. Most interestingly, the M7 has a charging handle on both sides, and given that we've gone back to proper reload animations after ODST, we'll actually be using it for the first time! That said, it looks like we don't have the side magazine anymore; I would assume it's in the pistol grip, though that said, every M7 looks like it has a pistol grip mag. That rocket launcher looks suspiciously like an AA launcher, we'll see. I'm definitely happy 343 realized that not having the SMG made for a broken human weapon sandbox, and even just showing the AR/BR/SMG/DMR together like they were in the trailer is rather reassuring. There are still five weapon in the Beta that weren't shown in the trailer, though one can be assumed to be the M6, and probably the Shotgun (I wonder if the reload animation will finally be fixed) and Plasma Pistol too. Alex T Snow (talk) 00:36, 13 August 2014 (EDT)

After taking a good long look at the unidentified rocket launcher, I've come to the conclusion that its not a rocket launcher. About mid ways on the weapon, is what looks like a magazine mounted on the top at an angle. It looks more to me that rather than a one shot rocket launcher, as previously thought, but rather a multi shot, micro missile launcher. At least, that would make sense in my mind, anyway, due to the fact that there's a magazine mounted on, it. And I know its not the target sight, as that is below the magazine. Any thoughts? Here's a picture #REDIRECT [[1]] Siphon 117 14:45, 13 August 2014 (EDT)

I think that the "Rocket Launcher" in the photo may actually be some sort of new Machine gun actually. We all know the insurrectionist's weapons are more related to Modern Day Weapons, and we also know that the insurrectionists have a probality of appearing in Halo 5: Guardians, maybe even in a way like they did in Halo: First Strike. That would be kinda've cool. Thoughts? Cheers, 76.17.73.143 13:03, 14 August 2014 (EDT)

You see, I just don't see it being a machine gun. If it were, it would be more like the SAW, but this weapon is obviously a shoulder fired weapon, which most likely means a rocket launcher of some kind. Actually thinking about this, since the Beta is more focused on the competitive arena aspect of the multiplayer, so this new weapon could act like the Plasma Launcher, locking onto fellow Spartans, then firing a up to 4 micro missiles that, if they connect, are a one hit kill, but aren't big enough to kill by splash damage. Kinda like the frag grenade, which at point blank range, can kill you at full health, but only if its touching you. Or I could be totally wrong, but you get the point. Siphon 117 19:05, 14 August 2014 (EDT)

I just had a proper look at the M7 variant, and I think I see a magazine mounted on top, exactly the same as a P90. Does anybody else see it too? It also looks a few inches shorter. I think it might not be an M7 variant, but based on the same frame and ergonomics. Also, could the "Rocket Launcher" actually be a multishot, shoulder-fired railgun? 82.27.24.49 13:58, 18 August 2014 (EDT)

You're right, I think that is the magazine on top; it's even more like a P90 now, a true MP7/P90 hybrid. Even the details of the magazine look very similar to the P90's, including the magazine release at the rear, and the SMG's front rail mount is very similar to the P90 TR's as well. I bet that rail mount is an arch as opposed to being solid, so you could use the iron sights, as the front sight is under it. Redesigning it to have a top-mounted magazine with a charging handle on each side makes the gun completely ambidextrous, and given that the stock is collapsed in this picture, we may actually see dual-wielding. It's nice to see a weapon redesign that's actually something worth changing in-universe. Hmm, it's probably still an M7, even with this much of a change. I mean, not only is Halo 2's M6C somehow still an M6 when functionally it's a completely different design, but apparently it's even the same variant as the M6C SOCOM, which makes even less sense. Alex T Snow (talk) 18:18, 20 August 2014 (EDT)

I guess I just automatically went with an SAW Type weapon. I guess it could be a Multi-Shot Railgun, or even Lock-On Micro Missle-firing weapon. I guess the magazine in top just confused me a lot. Its just so weird. Cheers, 76.17.73.143 20:36, 22 August 2014 (EDT)

I would bet that it's a one-shot missile launcher with a very accurate lock-on, supplementing a non-tracking double-barrelled rocket launcher, separating the two roles again. Halo 3 tried to separate the two niches with its missile launcher as a heavy weapon, but I don't think that was a great success. This seems a better way to go - make it another first-person power weapon, but visually and functionally distinct. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 05:59, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

I'm not liking the reflex sight on the br mainly because it's making me fear for the addition of ADS from other shooters. If Halo steps down that road, the series will once again be headed in the wrong direction. Then that rocket launcher looking weapon just doesn't look futuristic to me let-alone the "new" SMG. Basically, imo these designs seem like a step down from the previous games. Now as far as what the rocket launcher does, I don't know. But a one-shot fire & forget missile or micro-missile launcher would be interesting.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 08:29, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

You need to chill out. A reflex sight doesn't automatically mean ADS. As for the futuristic thing the UNSC infantry weapons never looked futuristic in the first place.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 12:10, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

If it was ADS I would expect to see sights on other weapons such as the AR. It seems to me they've simply changed the BR scope once again. All other weapons remain much the same. What I find interesting is that there's a switch on the AR to switch firing modes. I can't recall seeing it on previous iterations which makes me wonder if it has a practical use in game or if it's merely cosmetic.--Soul reaper (talk) 12:17, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

Probably cosmetic. As great as the MA5D is it would be useless in multiplayer without full auto.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 12:22, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

The M392 has a fire selector with full auto too; it's a nice touch, but an in-universe thing. Alex T Snow (talk) 14:01, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

Which reminds me I still want the Needle Rifle to return as well as the Focus Rifle.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 14:05, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

Chill out? lol. Can't a brother have an opinion without it being shutdown. I know a reflex sight doesn't automatically mean ADS. I'm simply expressing a fear that could pop up just like how custom loadouts did. Its a route I don't want 343i to take and I'm sure they probably won't but it's like what's the point of taking away the previous sight. Maybe it's meant for a particular gametype where optic sights are omitted? Who knows? And yes I know the human weapons of Halo weren't all that futuristic but its like - come on! I just want to see something that stands out, makes me go wow! Its a new game, new system, try something new, design something new. Simple opinion, no harm done.-Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 20:34, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

It's the internet...of course you can't have an opinion! XD In all actuality it's something I've just heard way too many times on the Waypoint forums and they always word it the exact same way. It's something you should not be afraid of. You should be afraid of Spiders. If the UNSC had a bigger spider problem you'd probably get your futuristic weapons.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 21:08, 24 August 2014 (EDT)

I'd hazard a guess and say the BR's red-dot/reflex sight will work the same way as the M7S SMG's red-dot/reflex sight. Also, surely if it's an M7, 343i would just use Halo 2: Anniversary's model? Though I do think the M7's page is the best place for the image to go at the moment. I also just had an interesting idea that the unidentified shoulder-fired weapon might be an alternative single-tube rocket launcher for the same frame thing that the current rocket launcher mounts on? Any ideas? 82.27.24.49 17:56, 25 August 2014 (EDT)

Looking at the new SMG, I think that the magazine is located on the top, and will most likely have 48 rounds in it, based on the size of the magazine compared to the standard M7 and the M7S. The magazine sill most likely be loaded into the weapon the same way the P90 is, with the actual receiver port midway of the weapon, so that the bullets have a decent range to travel down the barrel. On the off chance that Duel wielding returns, then it would make sense to have the magazine on top rather than on the side. If duel wielding doesn't return, then it will most likely work similarly to the Suppressor, being better at close range then the MA5, but weaker at medium range. Those are my thoughts on the new M7's look. However, as far as ADS goes, I doubt that'll happen. Given the back lash against the Loadouts system of Halo 4, I doubt that 343 would go down that route, as it would turn off way to many fans, and would hurt Halo as a whole.Siphon 117 15:46, 26 August 2014 (EDT)

Fred-104 confirmed

Found this on the waypoint forums. What do you guys think of that?Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 20:42, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

The Braille just makes it way more probable. The armor is also very similar, so I have hope. It would be awesome if Fred and the rest of Blue Team was in Guardians, possibly working with Locke or John. I'm really hoping they aren't killed off in Escalation like Team Black was though. - NightHammer (talk) 20:48, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

The way I see it is they've pretty much confirmed Fred makes it off Installation 03 at least. I'm sure Kelly and Linda will too.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 20:50, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

I'm still paranoid that they'll kill off Blue Team to make John's story have more pathos and personal impact. I hope they don't. I really hope they don't. But if Blue Team appeared in Halo 5, in a significant role, I think I would starve myself for a few months to buy an Xbox One and Halo 5. Ideally, they'd fill the "chatter" roles that need to be filled - the significant speaking parts that fill in the story as you play, provide banter, and provide objectives and stakes as you play. Now that Cortana's gone (for now) and the fans didn't react as well as 343i had hoped to Palmer and her Spartans, bringing in Blue Team to fill those parts makes sense. It especially appeals to long-term fans who know that these are people the Master Chief's sense of identity is heavily invested in. Not to mention, I still want to know how John and Fred deal with Fred's promotion. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 21:25, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

I think you can relax a little. I'm sure what you said will probably happen. Then we can have that Regular Show battle in Halo 7 >:D Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 21:31, 12 August 2014 (EDT)

Sanghelios

Multiple Sangheili Statues and 3 suns can be seen in concept art and promotional images. Sangheili warriors are carved on the gate of the concept art image. This image perfectly fits the description of the sandy yard of Vadam Keep, where warriors train.—This unsigned comment was made by The Master Builder (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

Art direction

The aesthetic side of things is showing promise so far to me at least. While I still prefer the Halo of Marcus Lehto, Shi Kai Wang, Isaac Hannaford and both McLees, Sparth is definitely the superior choice for art director over Kenneth Scott and his fixation on the overtly baroque and grotesque. While I still don't like all of the armor designs (why bother calling it "classic" Mark VI if you're going to alter it that much?), they have improved since Halo 4. What we call the "training armor" is definitely my favorite due to its simple, back-to-basics elegance; it looks... definitive. Locke's armor looks pretty good too, apart from the Tron lines which I've already addressed here. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 02:20, 18 November 2014 (EST)

Personally, I like the Halo: Reach art the best. There was something real about it. Halos 4 and 5 look too glossy, too "pretty" to me.—This unsigned comment was made by Weeping Angel (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

I agree it's definitely better, though I still don't like Gen 2's undersuit at all. I expect the Halo 3 / Halo Wars art style will always be my favourite though, and it's also one that's very widespread, since Halo 3 was around when other content really started being made, thus it was all based on it to a degree. Since Megablocks has been working so closely with 343 on the Halo kits, I'm really hoping we'll see the updated Brute style in Guardians, like these three here. Alex T Snow (talk) 15:24, 18 November 2014 (EST)

Combat Evolved is still my favorite in terms of art direction; it's stripped down, definitive and to the point. Reach is a close second and has the best UNSC aesthetic of all the games. Pretty much all of Reach's armor was pretty good looking, it all looked very practical and all the details seemed to serve some purpose; in Halo 4 where most of the armor looks overdesigned and toylike. I believe the latter is because of the often exaggerated shapes (see the contrast between the original and Halo 4/5 Mark VI), the excessive use of rounded edges instead of more metallic-looking chamfer surfaces, and perhaps the game engine/lighting as well which makes everything look like it's made of plastic. The only thing I had a problem with in Reach was Noble Team's cartoonishly multicolored armor. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 00:27, 19 November 2014 (EST)

Funny, Noble Team's armour is probably my favourite armour style in Reach. I can't stand the Troopers though, by far my least favourite Marine* design in the series; the MA37 is pretty damn ugly too. Back on Guardians though, I like the Spartan armour we've seen so far, though Mk VI could indeed be a little closer to the original. Alex T Snow (talk) 03:51, 19 November 2014 (EST)

While I like most of Reach's UNSC stuff like the Marine BDUs (I thought those were the best so far) I'm not a huge fan of the MA37 either, or some of the changes to the Covenant species (what's up with the Brutes for example?). For me Halo 2 had the best Covenant stuff; the graphics tech had become good enough to adequately realize whatever they wanted, and while the graphical fidelity has advanced the designs themselves have mostly gone downhill since then (IMO). Forerunner stuff was at its best in Halo 3, the perfect mix of CE's featureless and 2's more ornate designs. Halo 4 brought with it the excessive Tron lines and that same soulless sterile metal everywhere, which was a step backward IMO but looks like it's here to stay. The only thing that stands out as a somewhat positive change for me in Halo 4 is Chief's MJOLNIR armor. I thought it was the wrong call to replace CE's Mark V design in Halo 2 in the first place and 343's nanomachine'd armor does actually look kind of good, though the way they handled the armor switch was lazy. To me, Combat Evolved Mark VI will always be the definitive MJOLNIR, all bulk, sleek angles and shiny metal. CE Anniversary and Halo 4 butchered the design with the overaccentuation of certain features like the boxy chest piece, similar to what they did with H4's and 5's "classic" Mark VI. Reach's Mark V version comes pretty close to CE's and has its own utilitarian charm. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 13:19, 19 November 2014 (EST)

I agree. Halo CE had really good designs and kept things simple. The Mark V aromr is still my favorite armor. Halo Reach's designs weren't too much nor too little. Halo 4 just went buck wild with everything. Now Halo 5 seems to be getting some things back on track but I'm noticing a slight "gloss-over" with their designs, like they were extra wax buffed.--Killamin7 [Comm|Files] 13:06, 19 November 2014 (EST)

I definitely agree on the Forerunner style; I think one of the best examples of an art style I absolutely love vs the more modern is Valhalla vs Ragnarok. I recall reading somewhere that the pictures of the Guardians armour we have right now are the "factory standard" models if you will, and they'll get scuff marks, scrapes, and other "used" aesthetic features applied to them later. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:48, 19 November 2014 (EST)

Yeah, I feel like Halo 3 had a great art style in most areas. It felt very true to what Halo is supposed to be: distinct styles between the different factions. Definitely the worst-looking Spartan armor textures, though. They looked like shiny plastic toys. Halo 2 and Reach probably had the best armor textures, since they looked really beat up and metallic, though Reach's armor colors were too saturated for my tastes. Halo 4's armor definitely got on my nerves with how exaggerated and non-UNSC-looking most of them were. Very few of Halo 4's armors stayed true to the image of UNSC hardware (especially looking at you, Venator, Pioneer, and Wetwork). I'm also not digging some of the weapon design choices in Halo 5 that we've seen so far. The BR's reflex sight is just so out of place and ugly (not to mention the whole redundancy of looking through the sight). It actually looks kind of Covenant with the curved "horns". The DMR's new sight is also pretty ugly, since it looks like some kind of CRT monitor, and the SMG's reflex sight makes it look kinda like a grenade launcher. I also don't like the look of the Hydra. Again, it doesn't really give me a UNSC vibe. It looks like something straight out of Titanfall. However I will say that the Forerunner art direction in Halo 4 was by far the greatest of any Halo game, hands down, and it's probably my favorite artwork in any video game ever. Hopefully retaining this style for Halo 5.--FluffyEmoPenguin^{(ice quack!)} 13:47, 25 January 2015 (EST)

Halo 5 Beta BTS

Waypoint has released a Behind-the-Scenes look at the upcoming beta. Check it out here!--Spartacus ^{Talk • Contribs} 12:45, 18 November 2014 (EST)

Wasn't it released over a week ago?Erickyboo (talk) 19:00, 19 November 2014 (EST)

It was.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 19:58, 19 November 2014 (EST)

Online game???

Is this game going to be playable online? Because I don't have an Xbox (I use my friends' occasionally), so I'm stuck with playing the online Halo games. XP Pinkamena Diane Pie (talk) 19:44, 19 November 2014 (EST)

I think you're not using the word online right.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 19:58, 19 November 2014 (EST)

Halo hasn't ported one of its AAA games since Halo 2, so personally, I doubt it. Besides, they want to boost sales of their new console through their flagship game series, so releasing it for PC at the same time or near would be counter-productive to that. In the long run, who knows? -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 22:01, 19 November 2014 (EST)

Balistic weaponry thats looks futuristic

Its good to see this many of the ballistic weapons that unsc have might be more advanced then 21st century but they still operate the same way as they do in the 21century this actually feels like a weapon that they would be using in the 26 century from a ballistics point of view and the railgun as well I know but just that we should have guns that operate more like the needler and this is definietly a step in that direction :)—This unsigned comment was made by Spartan Matt (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

Beta

So, the Halo 5 beta is just about over. What did you all think? What were your impressions? Did the Spartan Abilities work well with the game-play? And do you think Halo is moving in the right direction? I have neither the Master Chief collection, nor even an Xbox One, so I am extremely curious as to what you thought of this. --Weeping Angel (talk) 21:23, 18 January 2015 (EST)

It was a lot of fun and had a very well balanced weapon sandbox. The Spartan Abilities did work well with the maps and gunplay. And yes I think this is a good direction for Halo to move.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 22:19, 18 January 2015 (EST)

What do you think 343i got wrong? And what are the areas that could stand to see improvement? --Weeping Angel (talk) 21:22, 21 January 2015 (EST)

Most of the issues I had are going to be gone from the final game, such as the large amount of flinch or slow matchmaking times. Blue Team is a little hard to see on some maps, so that needs some work. Add a little bit more aim assist and decrease bullet and grenade magnetism. The limited aim assist is a big turn off to the casual players I have on my friend list.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 22:46, 21 January 2015 (EST)

Are Pegasus and Orion set on different "remixed" Forge maps?

As in, the base maps themselves are considered different maps? Every map in the Beta featured a "remixed" counterpart, which may be something that every map will have in the full game. If so, I think the Forge maps that Pegasus and Orion are set on could be considered remixed counterparts. I haven't noticed anything in the layout of the actual surroundings that would be different (from the short time I was able to observe these maps), but the times of day are different, with Pegasus in the daytime and Orion at sunset. Now, it could just be that this is still the same map but you can somehow change the time of day for it (possibly with something like the Filter FX objects or just a setting in the pause menu). Also, if they are remixed maps, do you think Pegasus and Orion are the names of the base maps themselves?--FluffyEmoPenguin^{(ice quack!)} 13:25, 25 January 2015 (EST)

New Covenant ships

For anyone who wants to have a good look at the new Covenant ships, this video is really good. Might be good if people can get a few screenshots or renders too. It's also unlikely that we'll be able to do that in Theater, so it's really good to have this vid. Catalog also pointed out a while ago that they do not represent the "real" Fleet of Particular Justice, it's just for the sake of simulation that we get to see "new ships". I suppose they'll be all over the Halo 5 campaign. I hope so, at least. Imrane-117 (talk) 09:37, 4 February 2015 (EST)

MegaBloks Hype

• 

  Possible Forerunner vehicle, Gauss Hog that comes with John and Thel, a Banshee with interesting symbols on it, and a Tank that is said to not be a Scorpion.

• 

  Various things including the Gungoose and Jul 'Mdama on a Ghost.

• 

  The Vulture sporting the post-war UNSC logo and comes with a Locke minifig.

Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 10:42, 16 February 2015 (EST)

Tight. It looks like we'll finally gain access to a Forerunner vehicle in Halo 5. If the tank is not a scorpion than it might be a new vehicle, or it might be based on the Rhino (I'm still hoping to see the UNSC utilizing some energy weapons for once aside from the usual Spartan Laser) or it might just be the scorpion but they're just joshing us. The symbols on the Banshee may be the new symbols used by the swords of Sanghelios. What would be nice is a controllable Vulture. Hopefully Halo 5's campaign contains all the toys we could ever want in a Halo game. But at the same time not be too redundant (i.e. Kestrel and Ghost). By the way where did you find these pictures?--Killamin7i /// 08:47, 17 February 2015 (EST)

This thread over on Halo Archive.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 09:48, 17 February 2015 (EST)

I posted the third picture first then Sith followed suit. There are a lot more over at the Spacebattles Halo thread. I plan on uploading in a bit. Hopefully a Vulture that we get to fly around and blow stuff up in does happen because it would be sweet. SamGall (talk) 11:26, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Plus we got that Vulture foreshadowing back in September about Materials Group restarting production maybe.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 12:07, 17 February 2015 (EST)

After reading through the forum it looks like the Forerunner vehicle is called a "Pegasus" (maybe...maybe not). My theory on the tank being a Rhino is off since Megabloks already has one. Then there's this mysterious Foreunner-ish character in front of the Pegasus. Interesting. And for some reason, Naiya Ray was brought up as being cloned for being the "coolest" Spartan-IV (page 5). Prettiest Spartan-IV yes, but coolest?--Killamin7i /// 12:37, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Yeah, I've been reading it too. She did some cool stuff in Escalation like saving Thorne and assassinating a buff Kig Yar. So do we start adding any new Halopedia pages based on this stuff or do we wait for the stuff to come out or wait for HaloWaypoint to come out with more info?SamGall (talk) 12:43, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Wait. That is the best thing we can do. I'm sure 343i will release information about these toys and/or Halo 5 soon. They better! I'm anxious to see what that "Pegasus" is about.--Killamin7i /// 12:52, 17 February 2015 (EST)

An EVA Spartan and a new Promethean?

As if on cue.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 13:33, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Actually the character looks very Didact-ish. Maybe it's simply his new appearance (composed?). Imrane-117 (talk) 14:54, 17 February 2015 (EST)

I doubt it's the Didact.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 14:59, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Looking at the figure next to the "Forerunner" object, it definitely looks reminiscent of the Didact - silver armour, orange highlights. It might not be the Didact, but I'm guessing it will be. The tank looks like a modified Scorpion. It might represent an updated variant? And I would love for the Vulture to be playable, or at least present, in Halo 5, but my biggest want from Halo Wars is the Locust. Imagine that stomping around multiplayer, plasma cannon blasting away at Spartans hiding behind cover as a Scorpion rolls up to deal with it. It would provide some gameplay variety from the Scorpion or Wraith while filling a similar, but slightly different role. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 18:10, 17 February 2015 (EST)

The Locust would be a great add being like a giant Focus Rifle. I still like my idea for the Cobra acting as a reverse Scorpion, driver gets machine gun and gunner gets cannon. And I still don't think it's the Didact. I don't think his new form would be smaller.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 18:35, 17 February 2015 (EST)

In other news it's been confirmed the ship is Promethean. Called the Promethean Phaeton Gunship and that it will be in H5G. The only odd thing is calling the tank a Scorpion after we just got told it's not a Scorpion. So my money is with Morhek here that it's just a new Scorpion variant.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 18:41, 17 February 2015 (EST)

I like the name, going with Greco-Roman themes to differentiate them from human or Covenant machines. And regarding the Didact - are these minifigs to scale? Elites are quite a bit taller than even a Spartan-II, yet they seem approximately the same size in minifig form. I imagine the to-scale form of the Didact will still be quite a bit bigger. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 20:39, 17 February 2015 (EST)

The Didact minifig that came with the Broadsword set was pretty big. I'm putting this minifig down as a new kind of Promethean, possibly one meant for piloting vehicles.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 21:35, 17 February 2015 (EST)

To add to the confusion not only is the Scorpion not a Scorpion, but the Banshee is not a Banshee. Sauce.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 22:41, 17 February 2015 (EST)

Either the Mega Bloks sales rep was confused about what he was talking about, or that is just confusingly weird. If it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck,and swims like a duck, you don't shrug and say it's called something else unless the definition of "duck" has changed, which is a possibility I can't rule out with 343. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 00:10, 18 February 2015 (EST)

I think the Xbox.com communiqué should be enough to create an article for the Phaeton. Imrane-117 (talk) 05:26, 18 February 2015 (EST)

It's hard to tell if the Phaeton is a Pelican/Phantom dropship equivilant or a Vulture/Lich heavy gunship equivalent. The size is closer to the former, but the design heavily implies the latter. That's also further support for the Vulture showing up, along with the Lich existing now too. The Vulture's definitely my favourite Halo vehicle, so I'm pretty excited about this! Also, the blue Spartan with the Vulture and Locke looks like Fred, holding the new single barrel rocket launcher. And apparently John and Thel are borrowing Agent Washington's Gauss Hog. Alex T Snow (talk) 00:16, 23 March 2015 (EDT)

I wonder if the big ball on the front of the Phaeton is a Da Vinci Sphere, similar to the ones that are parked near the tops of the towers in Sandbox... It would explain the whole "Guardians" thing they're promoting in this new release... Then again that would mean that, if the Phaeton found its way into the game, people would be HATING life whenever it showed up, cuz, you know... Point, click, **BOOM** - dead... DJenser (talk) 10:45, 10 April 2015 (EDT)

Ay lmao

So just to update everyone on this. This is the not-Banshee Banshee. It's easy to tell due to the same unique symbols I first brought up on the MegaBloks set 2 months ago. Can't wait to see the not-Scorpion Scorpion.Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 06:09, 22 April 2015 (EDT)

While you could explain this as a simple art style change, it looks rather "chubby" compared to most other Banshees. If it really is called something else maybe we'll see this version with the Reach wings fill one role, with the classic Banshee filling another (ground attack vs fighter or similar). Having more than one variant of weapons and vehicles in the game would be very cool. Alex T Snow (talk) 14:40, 22 April 2015 (EDT)

New Location confirmed Sanghelios

http://www.itsartmag.com/features/making-of-halo-the-master-chief-collection/ Boomshakala.SamGall (talk) 01:45, 7 April 2015 (EDT)

I can't find where it says that. EDIT: Ah 14 seconds. (Thank you Dr Mutran)Sith-venator Wavingstrider (Commlink) 11:12, 7 April 2015 (EDT)

Who's behind the helmets?

Blue team.

"Red" Team.

We recently got a very interesting image. On one side of the image is blue team wearing they heavily modified gen1 armor. On the other side of the image is Locke's team who were first seen in H2A's intro & epilogue videos but barely, aside from their very bright visors. The question is who's wearing the suits in Locke's team? Could the Spartan wearing the red/maroon armor be a female? Could it be Tanaka? What about the Spartan wearing ODST armor? Is it Buck? How about the one to the far left? Any ideas?--Killamin7i /// 12:38, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

My guesses will be (from left to right) Buck, Tanaka, Locke (obviously), and Romeo. This is going with the presumption that Buck and Romeo are Locke's squadmates. The red armored Spartan looks female in form, especially compared to the others. - NightHammer (talk) 12:43, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

Nah man, it's gonna' be Romeo, Macer/Tanaka, Locke and Buck.Sith-venator Wavingstrider 13:15, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

I really think it's Buck, Romeo and Macer. Tanaka and Macer (in an assumption she becomes a spartan) were both recruited to SPARTAN-IV program very lately as of 2558. They both had only in maximum 2 years of UNSC training before becoming a spartan. In my opinion Locke would be more likely to pick Macer over Tanaka from the two freshly recruited, because he knows her already and has worked with her before in the field. - Spartan Commando

Tanaka achieved the rank of sergeant at least two years into her career with the Army and that was about two years before the events of Guardians. Adding to that she was an accomplished hunter and engineer well before she joined the UNSC. In the wake of Minab's glassing, she was setting traps for the local game and building fusion reactors for their group of survivors. Not to mention she managed to survive for three years on a glassed colony teeming with Covenant occupiers and shady Humans alike. It's not out of the ordinary for new Spartans to be thrown into elite units so soon after training. Helianthus — All right. Shoot!

I'm definitely in the Romeo/Macer/Buck camp. Regardless of identities, it's cool (though not unexpected) that each member has a "partner" member on the other team. This would make sense for gameplay too; regardless of whether you're playing as John or Locke you would have the same NPCs, effectively just reskinned. I could see Locke's female member being Tanaka if Macer ends up being Locke's Cortana, the voice in his head from command. Alex T Snow (talk) 15:00, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

I don't think Macer will be in the group at all. I believe she's a one-off character - introduced in nightfall and that's it. I'm strongly going with Tanaka as being the female in the group (and the only female in the group). Two comics dedicated to her backstory and probably that strong female lead that Frank O Conner described...I'd go with her instead of Macer.--Killamin7i /// 16:44, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

For me it'll have to be Blue Woman Group, someone who really adores the Sangheili and thinks their style is impeccable, that one Locke guy who loves making grand speeches, and Bam Said The Lady. Helianthus — All right. Shoot!

Tanaka is an Army noncom who survived for years on a glassed planet. Macer spent time in juvie before joining a militia on an anti-UNSC colony. Though it's possible that both women are on the team (mirroring Blue Team's 2:2 gender ratio) it's hard for me to look past New Blood's suggestion that both Buck and Romeo will show up in Halo 5. I'd be fine with any arrangement as long as Buck's present and accounted for. --Our answer is at hand. (Talk to me.) 14:57, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

Based on the image, imo it looks like it'll be a 3:1 ratio since the far left and right Spartans look like male forms (bulk & mass). But then again, could be a big girl underneath one of them.--Killamin7i /// 16:44, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

It amuses me how Linda doesn't have a belt or much waist protection in general so those hip curves show. Must be trying to compete with Kat.

But seriously, I am glad Blue Team is finally here. Hopefully their AI won't be horrendous and actually aim. Tuckerscreator^(stalk) 18:33, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

For me, everything points to Buck being the one in the ODST helmet. His request at the end of Halo: New Blood - to join a new team, but not to lead it - was some pretty blatant foreshadowing. I'm not so sure about Romeo, though. His signature weapon is a sniper rifle, yet unlike Linda, none of Locke's team is carrying one. Also, the way Buck and Romeo silently went to their own quarters at the end of the story leads me to think they might be looking for some time away from each other; though maybe I'm looking too much into that.-- Rusty-112 Admin ^comm 20:21, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

Agreed. If Buck's in it, then Romeo probably won't be. As for the rest, my guess is also Holly over Macer, and then I thought it might be a character from the Traviss books - Mike Spenser, perhaps, or Evan Phillips, people who can directly engage with the Sangheili on their own terms, a skill that might be useful in Covenant territory. Ten again, the Spartan in the Elite-made variant seems to be female, so that might rule Phillips and Spenser out. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 21:29, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

Edit: Locke's team has just made me realize something I hadn't - Halo 4, you couldn't tell the stories of characters by their armour. They lost that visual quality.

Every member of Noble team had their own visual quirks. Kat with the robot arm. Jorge with his sheer size. Emile with the faceplate and the kukri. Jun with the sniper getup. And Carter just looked stoic, immediately telling you he was a leader. The patchwork makeup of the armour itself also told you these were an unconventional unit. Even with the current Blue Team, you can visually tell what role each roughly fills - Chief as leader, Linda as the sniper, Kelly with her distinctive EVA helmet as the scout/runner, and Fred as the solid all-rounder. You can do that with Locke's team, too - you can imagine the stories. We all expect the guy in ODST armour to be an ODST (hopefully a specific one). The one in Helioskrill wearer could be an interpreter, a go-between. Even the one in the Recruit armour looks like they have a story to them. Whereas with Majestic, I couldn't tell what the armour choices represented, and the uniform blue further stripped them of individuality.

I like it. I hope they keep it up. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 22:16, 28 April 2015 (EDT)

Anyone else think that Tanaka's model looks too bulky to be female? Also, I guess this means that the red one is almost definitely Macer, and that Buck and Romeo did go their separate ways, assuming the ODST is one of them. 82.27.24.49 11:44, 30 May 2015 (EDT)

It's super-advanced powered armour, worn my a surgically and cybernetically enhanced person. The bulk is probably just the armour itself, rather than a product of the shape of the wearer. People apparently had trouble telling Spartan IIs apart in Mark IV and V armour, so I find it entirely plausible. I thought it might belong to a woman before Tanaka was confirmed, but I wasn't sure. Nice to see 343 not making a big deal out of that. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 17:57, 30 May 2015 (EDT)

Women come in all shapes and sizes. That's true for all of us from couch potatoes to supersoldiers. Spartans of various genders don't have cookie cutter physiques outside of those that we personally create. Holly's armor is a breath of fresh air. With the exception of earlier SPARTAN-II depictions, Spartan women have always been seen wearing bare-bones, contoured armor with little extra functionality compared to their male counterparts. This new Spartan wears a suit that breaks that mold entirely. Helianthus — All right. Shoot!

Indeed appearances can be deceiving. Remember how ODSTs O'Brien, Dutch, and Cortez were shocked to see that SPARTAN Cal-141 was a woman when they took off her helmet. No one would have guessed that the SPARTAN-II that was towering above them could be something that they did not expect. --S.g.ali (talk) 21:46, 31 May 2015 (EDT)

I was thinking of Cal and Alice-130 while reading this, and watching Red vs. Blue has also contributed to female Spartans (or "Spartans") having more or less the same build being normal to me. Interesting that we have a completely even gender split. Alex T Snow (talk) 01:13, 1 June 2015 (EDT)

Game Informer reveal

Hub page

I have to say I was a bit skeptical about Locke's team (when they were revealed for the first time), but now I'm actually quite satisfied. Tanaka was really interesting in Escalation, and I'm obviously happy to see Buck again (euphemism). The gameplay mechanics related to Blue Team (and Osiris) are also something that I had been expecting for quite some time. Concerning the Argent Moon, and more specifically the graphics, is it me or it looks awfully like the Dawn? I'm not going to judge too quickly though, I have the feeling Halo 5's graphics will be really good. It seems we'll also have a really good soundtrack, it's very reminiscent of the original trilogy. As for Cortana, it makes me remember this level's last cutscene. One last detail: the Spartan-II team that was sent to infiltrate Splendid Intention over Beta Gabriel. Still another mention of a Spartan-II unit in parallel to the Fall of Reach. Could it be Black Team? Imrane-117 (talk) 02:54, 10 June 2015 (EDT)

Wouldn't be surprised if it was actually Grey Team. Just because Halsey says they're "behind enemy lines" doesn't mean they have to be, or that if they are it means they're not in Epsilon Eridani, given the Covenant activity going on at the time. It may just be one of those tantalising lore bits that never get a concrete answer, which, frankly, I would prefer - I'm sick of getting answers to every mystery, especially the Forerunner ones, and even the new lore 343i are making needs that element of "we may never know, but wouldn't it be great if..."

I'm excited for the ATS - going through ODST after getting the datalogs, I miss elements of the environment lighting up and guiding me to cool tidbits, and I'm excited to see how that gets implemented. Perhaps Osiris have their own version of Cortana, carried aboard Locke's armour, tasked with that? Not sure how complex the squad command system will be - I know Bungie planned something like it for Reach, but had to cut it because it was cumbersome, leaving a rudimentary Fireteam system in place. I wouldn't mind something like the D-pad commands from Mass Effect - limited to "move here," "attack that" and "get in this." Keep it simpl and uncomplicated, and make the AI good enough that it can handle itself without feeling overpowered. No matter how legendarily good Blue are, this is still a game, not a combat simulator.

And speaking of Cortana, I'm also excited to see the Chief dealing with the fallout of her "death," and the idea that Blue can take up the slack. I don't expect her to be dead for long - if she stays dead until at most Halo 6, I will be very surprised. But it's nice to see the original Spartans get their time to shine.

As for the new Spartans...we knew it was coming, but god DAMN does it feel good to KNOW Buck is ready to drop feet first into Halo 5 along with us. And Tanaka seems like she's a really interesting character, and we'll be getting a look at Olympia's character with Hunters in the Dark. I'm surprised by the diversity in the game - you have a 50/50 gender split which is great, plus Locke and Tanaka, one black and the other mixed-race black/asian.

Overall, damned impressed, and I just wish I could afford an Xbone in the near future! :c -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 06:36, 10 June 2015 (EDT)

It still feels very surreal that Blue Team's actually going to appear in a game and stick around with the Chief all the way through. And on top of that Buck's coming back as well. And the Arbiter. Looks like I'm really going to have to get that Xbone after all. --Jugus (Talk | Contribs) 14:59, 11 June 2015 (EDT)

It sounds like they're rebalancing the Prometheans nicely. The Knights felt far too big and bulky to replace Elites or Brutes, but they feel nicely placed to occupy a more Hunter-like niche as heavy weapons support and shock troops, leaving the new Soldier class to occupy a smaller, nimbler Elite-like role. The humanoid shape also makes me wonder whether that was a conscious decision to smoothe us into facing enemy Spartans with similar combat behaviour. Whatever the case, I appreciate that reshifting. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 21:04, 12 June 2015 (EDT)

The E3ening

I was asleep when the event was held, but having caught up...wow. That's a whole lot of fantastic right there.

• Campaign looks great. Even from the limited time we've seen Locke and Osiris in action, they have a nice working relationship. Buck looks to be Locke's conscience, keeping him on the straight and narrow, and Tanaka gets some time to shine with some analysing. I was worried the reception to Nightfall would show Locke would be a disaster as a character, but first the All Hail ad and now this have gotten me onboard with him all the way. Not to mention that Nathan Fillion's delivery is as perfect as ever. I love that they have the Covenant speaking English again, representing the waning authority of Jul 'Mdama himself, though we didn't get to see the Covenant in action very much - the focus was on Promethean combat, and boy did that excite me. I mentioned above that the new Soldier caste seems to be filling the Elite/Brute niche that the Knights didn't fill all that well, and they do so nicely in what I've seen. And the Warden Eternal already seems like a more intimidating threat than the Didact in his first appearance - I'm SO happy it's not another Forerunner face.
• New weapons - the Phaeton looks like 343i took the lessons from the Pelican in Halo 4, and modified it to be balanced in multiplayer, and I really like the result. It looks visually interesting, fills a different niche to the other aircraft in the game, and doesn't feel too out of place in the Forerunner sandbox. And the plasma caster looks pretty neat, a Covenant equivalent to the Hydra, a mix between the concussion rifle and the plasma launcher. We saw a glimpse of a Forerunner heavy weapon that looks a bit like the UNSC turret, and I look forward to that.
• Wargames looks like it's going to be awesome. I know people have wanted 24 player multiplayer since at least rumours before Halo 3, and the answer was always "it became unbalanced," not to mention throwing in enemy AI and bosses. The Baron Banshee already looks like a cool figure, though I can't help wondering how much of this boss system was influenced by Destiny. Not to say that's a bad thing, just curious. I know people were disappointed Destiny didn't live up to the potential it promised, and it would be pretty ironic if Halo managed to achieve it. Firefight was much missed in Halo 4, and Spartan Ops just wasn't a substitute for it. Hopefully this fills that emptiness in players' hearts!

So, overall, yes, EXTREMELY hyped, and hopeful that I can manage to get an Xbone before christmas to play it! -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 23:27, 15 June 2015 (EDT)

I know right? This is going to be one of the biggest games of the year, I'm sure of it. Just making me more excited for the end of October to get here.Siphon 117 14:36, 16 June 2015 (EDT)

Given what we've learned about the second mission (Blue Team's), seen at E3, as well as The Sprint, it's all coming together to look like the vast majority of what we've seen, including a lot of the random trailer clips, is from the first three missions-ish. It also looks like they really tried hard to put together what they had at E3, and the rest is definitely not as far along as the E3 demo made it look. That along with them having a "main Fred" mo-cap guy leads me to believe we will actually see Blue Team with helmets off, which was something that was bothering me when their appearances are well-established and often seen. Alex T Snow (talk) 20:12, 18 June 2015 (EDT)

Warthogs 5-barrel Machine Gun Turret!

Anyone else notice that the new Warthogs machine gun has FIVE barrels! Personally think the bore looks larger (maybe 20mm), though it may just be an optical illusion because the whole barrel is thicker. And thicker barrels should mean it takes longer to overheat and less time to cool down. First image is for comparison. [2] [3] [4] 212.219.57.77 11:02, 18 June 2015 (EDT)

Oh cool, more like a Minigun now. I had seen the gun was different briefly, but didn't pause to look and thought it just had one barrel now, which would have been rather disappointing. Hopefully this means a higher Minigun-like rate of fire. On a totally different topic (not worth a new one), though still weapon related, I like that the MA5D is now fully ambidextrous-capable; the charging handle and ejection port cover can be swapped to the other side. Alex T Snow (talk) 17:03, 18 June 2015 (EDT)

Heh, maybe it's a response to the overheating issues tribarrels had in Reach and Halo 4? :P

Regardless, I actually really like the look. I hope it comes with a corresponding boost in rate of fire, or actually lowers the rate at which it heats to fire longer. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 20:11, 18 June 2015 (EDT)

Sangheili Storm in Thel's faction

So these guys are part of the Swords of Sanghelios now?? Come on 343! A bit of diversity would be nice. Things like this really irk me. In the Halo 2 Anniversary prologue and epilogue we clearly see Sangheili Majors and Ultras (or something similar) but in the Halo 5: Guardians reveal at E3 Thel's companions are Sangheili Storm? Why do this? I really, really hope that this isn't the case for the final game. Although with only a few short months to go until release it probably will be the case. Damn, I thought Thel's faction kept the old Covenant military ranks while reviving others (Ascetics) while Jul's faction used new ranks like Storm and Warrior. I know that Storm Sangheili were part of Vata 'Gajats mercenary group but this can be explained as they are an offshoot of Jul's faction. We do not need to see these new ranks in Thel's group. This just seems lazy and shallow to me. Does this bother anyone else?

Oh and this isn't a "Hate on Halo 5" rant. The game looks so freakin' awesome, based on what I saw from E3. Cannot wait until October. The campaign looks phenomenal and I am really interested in the multiplayer this time around (not usually being much of a multiplayer guy). The ONLY issue I have is the aforementioned problem. Still gonna be Game of the Year for sure! SLiD1nG Pr0Xy (talk) 19:11, 21 June 2015 (EDT)

It irks me, yes, but not to a dealbreaking degree. I'm still where those helmets from Halo 3 came from or went - was that just retconned into being the old Halo 1/2/Reach helmet, or does it still appear in Thel's ranks? Not that I especially liked the look - its predecessor was immeasurably cooler - but some consistency would be nice. I do agree, it would be far better to have Thel's troops wear the Halo 2 Anniversary look, at the very least to differentiate any SoS allies you may have from the Mdama Covenant you face in the game. Which makes me wonder if we WILL have Sangheili allies in the game. I'd like it to be the case, to show that not all the old Covenant are resurgent zealots like Mdama - 343i clearly wants to expand the scale of their universe, and establishing and emphasising the conflict on Sanghelios is a nice way to do that. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 21:07, 21 June 2015 (EDT)

I am also excited at the prospect of having Sangheili on our side in the game. If incorporated well, 343 will have completely changed my opinion on the company (I wasn't too happy with Halo 4). It simply wouldn't make sense to have the SoS and 'Mdama Covenant looking exactly the same, as they are completely different factions. I agree with your opinion of the Halo 3 Sangheili helmet. It was too overly decorative and snazzy-looking. The Halo 1/2/Reach helmet looked more practical for combat situations. I liked the increasing armor complexity with rank though (except for the General armor shudders). Can't wait to see some Covenant-on-Covenant action in Halo 5. I also hope we get some Unggoy and Mgalekgolo support as well. That would help emphasise that Thel's faction dosent consist solely of Sangheili. Given that we have Remnant and Elder Mgalekgolo opponents with unique colorations, it wouldn't be too hard to make a SoS variant. SLiD1nG Pr0Xy (talk) 21:35, 21 June 2015 (EDT)

I've heard that you'll have Marine reinforcements periodically during Wargames, so it would be great to get some Arbiter-sent Covenant allies, dropping in via Phantom or in drop pods.-- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 05:09, 22 June 2015 (EDT)

Observations thus far (post-E3 2015)

So, I've consumed enough materials from various sites over the past few weeks (as well as Comic Con!). So far, I'm really really really disappointed with the lack of offline/local multiplayer/co-op campaign. Local multiplayer/co-op campaign is one of the three main reasons why I love(d?) Halo video game series, with the other two being replayability and an interesting universe to explore. *insert "PREORDERCANCELED" meme here*

The campaign of Halo 5 is, as it now stands, interesting. You start with four characters and you will undoubtedly end with the same four characters. If 343i wants to kill/separate/remove any of the characters, they would do so via the ending cutscene(s). I have to admit, the Republic Commando-esque squad control would definitely increase replayability. Imagine if the squad controls is not tied to specific characters and can be used on any in-game AI characters. That would be the ultimate Halo FPS experience.

I have mixed feelings about the gameplay of Halo 5. Everything seems to be rushed and fast, just like in Halo 4 in the sense that it smells fishy.^{haddock or cod?} Smart-scope is a neat feature but hopefully it does not impact the gameplay too much post-launch.^{weapon tweaking?!} Save for ground-pound, I am liking the player movement a lot. Now, if only we could walk along the walls or play in zero-gee maps where there is no up or down. — subtank 20:01, 13 July 2015 (EDT)

I'm more excited about this game's campaign than I was for Halo 4's. As if Blue Team wasn't enough, the way they've created a Spartan-IV team that I can believe are worthy of the name has been impressive. I'd also love a zero-gee section. Something like the EVA level in Dead Space 2 would be really impressive, especially with what you can do with the new thruster gear.

I'll admit, split-screen is going to be missed by a lot of people, but I'm assuming they think it's a redundant feature what with Xbox Live removing the need to even GO to a friend's house. And presumably, encouraging people to get their own Xbox to play with their friend is an incentive to buy. Again, I don't like it but I understand it.

I am, however, a little perplexed by a couple of additions. The Wraith appears to have lost a lot of mass in its rear, and the new human tank looks too much like the Scorpion to be worth doing, and not enough like the Scorpion to be just a slight update. Not sure what's going on there. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 02:05, 14 July 2015 (EDT)

Halo 5 has the biggest and baddest battles in Halo thus far, and I don't think Xbone has enough horsepower to display these immense battles on two separate screens on one television. They might be able to add splitscreen for the smaller multiplayer maps, but it being absent in other modes would just make the game look incomplete overall. 343 decided to exchange offline/local play for dedicated servers, which I'm very much okay with. Lag in online co-op campaign was at times a huge problem for me, and I'm extremely happy it's completely gone now. And no more host migrations, thank god. Who doesn't use a internet connection these days?

Gameplay seems rushed? Go compare some CoD AW and Halo 5 Beta gameplay, and then tell me again what's "rushed" in your book. To me, the gameplay looks very very smooth and 10x times better than Halo 4. Sorry for being so intrusive and sorry for fanboying.— HaRi III 07:48, 14 July 2015 (EDT)

I'm gonna' agree with HaRi III here, H5G is pretty fast paced for a Halo game, but it's still nowhere near as fast paced as COD. With what little I've seen of Black Ops III I think it might even be getting a little faster, and Advanced Warfare was already pretty fast. @Morhek: I'm excited for the prospect of a new Scorpion model. Perhaps the M808A or M808C? And I actually like the new Wraith model, but that may just because it finally looks different and we've more or less had the same design since Halo 2, while with the Banshees we've enjoyed multiple different models over the years. Same goes for the Ghost.Sith Venator (Dank Memes) 11:19, 14 July 2015 (EDT)

The lack of splitscreen co-op play was hugely disappointing for me, because I always enjoyed playing with my roommates. I can get over that though. Aside from that, I love the idea of Warzone and the squad mechanics in the campaign.--Spartacus ^{Talk • Contribs} 11:25, 14 July 2015 (EDT)

Leaving out splitscreen was both a resource and business decision. From a systems standpoint, the console simply doesn't have the horsepower at its price-point to render the amount of scenery and AI activity present on a Campaign or Warzone-sized map at 1080p/60fps for more than a single player's perspective. That being said, I guess it thus became unfeasible from a business standpoint to divert resources & manpower away from getting the game ready for release in order to develop a splitscreen option for a single mode of play (that being Arena). Keep in mind that they were basically starting from scratch with H5, whereas the previous games' modes were developed through refinements to existing system architecture which already had splitscreen built into it. This dovetails nicely with Microsoft's desire to sell consoles because it means that, if you want multiplayer, you will now need to go out & buy one. More XBones sold = more money, plain & simple. Scheisty? For sure, but it would be naïve to say that one didn't see Microsoft moving in this direction within its own studios. They are a business, after all, and the bottom line for any business is to make money...DJenser (talk) 13:20, 14 July 2015 (EDT)

What happened to REAP-X? With all of this, I expected a lot more of these ideas to make it into Halo 5. Sure we're a little over a month away, and there might be fabulous things hidden in the game that aren't and won't be in the promotionals, but I'm starting to get a little nervous. How do you think Reap X will affect Halo 5? --Weeping Angel (talk) 21:28, 13 September 2015 (EDT)

Mission: Impossible - Rogue Nation

Who else here has seen it? :3 (Disclaimer that yes, this is relevant) Alex T Snow (talk) 00:59, 4 August 2015 (EDT)

Spill the beans.Sith Venator (Dank Memes) 01:05, 4 August 2015 (EDT)

Benji is seen playing Halo 5, both gameplay on his triple monitors and the game case in his drawer. While at work. :D Alex T Snow (talk) 15:03, 4 August 2015 (EDT)

Oh thought it was something interesting. Alertfiend (talk) 15:13, 4 August 2015 (EDT)

Just saw the film. Now I know exactly what this is about haha.--Spartacus ^{Talk • Contribs} 17:41, 4 August 2015 (EDT)

Hold up... Which one's Benji again? Is that Shaun of the Dead/Scotty? I'm guessing that he got a pirated copy, courtesy of Luther...DJenser (talk) 11:01, 5 August 2015 (EDT)

Yeah, Simon Pegg, who's also in Shaun of the Dead/Hot Fuzz/Star Trek. It also happens shortly after a "six months later" cut, so that explains how he's playing it. I was too distracted by the simple fact that it was Halo 5 to remember details other than he was using a BR and it was a desert-ish location; not sure if campaign or MP. Given that, it could have been Locke during at the desert/stone Sanghelios level we've seen so much of. Alex T Snow (talk) 15:37, 5 August 2015 (EDT)

Found This In The H5:G Opening Cinematic

Loving the new Sangheili capital ship designs. On that topic, has anyone else noticed this? It appears onscreen for all of 2 seconds, from 1:52 to 1:54, but it looks like a shockingly familiar design (akin to those of 7 other sentient species). Maybe we'll finally get some insight on where it came from in H5:G.—This unsigned comment was made by DJenser (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

I don't think it looks much like the Alpha Halo ship. It does, however, look a little like a Watcher with its thrusters folded behind it. Might represent 'Mdama's Covenant adopting some Promethean technology for its own use? Either way, it's a really interesting-looking visual design. -- Qura 'Morhek ^{The Autocrat of Morheka} 03:25, 2 September 2015 (EDT)

You see it again later on in the video when the Spartans are impersonating an avalanche. I doubt it is a 7SS ship. Alertfiend (talk) 03:29, 2 September 2015 (EDT)

I agree it's probably not the same ship, given that the unknown alien vessel predates Sangheili space travel by about 36,000 years. I was just thinking something along the lines of what 'Morhek was suggesting; that perhaps M'Dama's people found the design in a Promethean database and adapted it for their own use. Or, perhaps it's an old and obsolete Sangheili design, and thus they are one of the 7 sentient species to which Catalog referred in his post.DJenser (talk) 12:42, 2 September 2015 (EDT)

Musketeer Commands

Do we know if you can tell a specific Spartan to do a task, or does it just command a random teamate? —This unsigned comment was made by Crisperstorm (talk • contribs). Please sign your posts with ~~~~

I think it orders everyone. Alertfiend - Team Chief 20:00, 1 October 2015 (EDT)

I assume it orders all other members, and the closest Spartan follows the command when it comes to picking up a weapon or driving a vehicle. If you're ordering them to a certain location, they might all do it together, which means you can't bring another Spartan with you to flank the enemies. Slightly sad about that. —SPARTAN331 20:06, 1 October 2015 (EDT)

I feel like an easy fix would be to move grenade swapping to another thing and use up/left/right to order your other 3 allies. I fear I am still gonna be running around equipping everyone myself. I remember back in Halo 2 I had to get in to certain parts of the specter and kick certain elites out to try and organize them cause the good gun guy always tried to sit in the turret.

Or on second thought, the command could apply to all or you specify by commanding one of them then the task.--Crisperstorm (talk) 20:36, 1 October 2015 (EDT)

Hellcat (Ancient Human) Armour

The helmet's description says that S-IIs testing it have nearly zero problems getting used to it, while S-IVs require far more time and adjustment. Interesting connection the the Spartans (meaning IIs) being one of the eventualities planned by the Librarian. Alex T Snow (talk) 14:38, 9 October 2015 (EDT)