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{{Era|RW}}
{{Title|''Spartan Ops''}}
{{Title|''Spartan Ops''}}
{{Disambig header|the game mode|the military branch|Spartan Operations}}
{{Status|Gameplay}}
{{Notice/Gameplay}}
{{Disambig header|the game mode|other uses|Spartan (disambiguation)}}
[[File:H4-SpartanOps-Episodes.jpg|thumb|300px|An early build of the ''Spartan Ops'' episode selection menu.]]
[[File:H4-SpartanOps-Episodes.jpg|thumb|300px|An early build of the ''Spartan Ops'' episode selection menu.]]
'''''Spartan Ops''''' is an episodic cooperative campaign in ''[[Halo 4]]''. It is included as part of the [[Infinity (mode)|''Infinity'' game mode]] in lieu of [[Firefight]].
'''''Spartan Ops''''' is an episodic cooperative campaign in ''[[Halo 4]]''. It is included as part of the [[Infinity (mode)|''Infinity'' game mode]] in lieu of [[Firefight]].


==Overview==
==Overview==
''Spartan Ops'' allows up to four players to play cooperatively.<ref name="gi">'''Game Informer''' ''(May 2012)'', ''pages 46-47''</ref><ref>[http://kotaku.com/5900905/cortana-is-dying-multiplayer-sounds-very-interesting-and-other-pieces-of-halo-4-news '''Kotaku''' ''Cortana is Dying, Multiplayer Sounds Very Interesting, and Other Pieces of Halo 4 News'']</ref> Though it is designed primarily as a cooperative experience, ''Spartan Ops'' can be played solo as well.<ref name="GI podcast">[http://media1.gameinformer.com/media/audio/theshow/halo4/halo4special.mp3 '''Game Informer:''' ''Special Halo 4 Podcast'']</ref> It follows the [[SPARTAN-IV Program|SPARTAN-IV]] units [[Fireteam Majestic]] and [[Fireteam Crimson]], with the players assuming the role of the latter while the former features in the CGI cinematics.<ref name="SO trailer">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsASUunyWhw ''Halo 4 Spartan Ops trailer'']</ref><ref name="joystiq">[http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/ '''Joystiq''' ''Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games'']</ref> Set six months after the campaign, ''Spartan Ops'' expands on the story of the {{UNSCship|Infinity}} and her crew.<ref name="GI podcast"/> Due to its scope and scale, this new mode has been likened to a second campaign for the game.<ref name="Guardian 632012">[http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2012/jun/04/e3-2012-halo-4-interview '''The Guardian:''' ''E3 2012: Frank O'Connor on Halo 4 – Spartan Ops could run for years'']</ref>  
''Spartan Ops'' allows up to four players to play cooperatively.<ref name="gi">'''Game Informer''' ''(May 2012)'', ''pages 46-47''</ref><ref>[http://kotaku.com/5900905/cortana-is-dying-multiplayer-sounds-very-interesting-and-other-pieces-of-halo-4-news '''Kotaku''' ''Cortana is Dying, Multiplayer Sounds Very Interesting, and Other Pieces of Halo 4 News'']</ref> Though it is designed primarily as a cooperative experience, ''Spartan Ops'' can be played solo as well.<ref name="GI podcast">[http://media1.gameinformer.com/media/audio/theshow/halo4/halo4special.mp3 '''Game Informer:''' ''Special Halo 4 Podcast'']</ref> It follows the [[SPARTAN-IV Program|SPARTAN-IV]] units [[Fireteam Majestic]] and [[Fireteam Crimson]], with the players assuming the role of the latter while the former features in the CGI cinematics.<ref name="SO trailer">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jsASUunyWhw ''Halo 4 Spartan Ops trailer'']</ref><ref name="joystiq">[http://www.joystiq.com/2012/05/16/halo-4s-infinity-multiplayer-to-introduce-spartan-ops-war-ga/ '''Joystiq''' ''Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games'']</ref> Set six months after the campaign, ''Spartan Ops'' expands on the story of the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} and her crew.{{Ref/Reuse|GI podcast}} Due to its scope and scale, this new mode has been likened to a second campaign for the game.<ref name="Guardian 632012">[http://www.guardian.co.uk/technology/gamesblog/2012/jun/04/e3-2012-halo-4-interview '''The Guardian:''' ''E3 2012: Frank O'Connor on Halo 4 – Spartan Ops could run for years'']</ref>  


[[Frank O'Connor]] has stated that the mode will "bridge the gap" between the events of ''Halo 4'' and the future release of its sequel.<ref name="NYDN 4302012"/> [[343 Industries]] will support additional ''Spartan Ops'' missions for months after launch of the game and players will have the opportunity to play from the beginning of the episodic campaign regardless of when they started playing. The first season is included with the game, though 343 Industries have not ruled out charging players for additional ''Spartan Ops'' seasons.<ref name="NYDN 4302012">[http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/system-update-halo-4-preview-glimpse-return-master-chief-article-1.1068510?pgno=1 '''NYDailyNews.com:''' ''SYSTEM UPDATE: Halo 4 preview, with our first glimpse into return of Master Chief'']</ref> As of March 2013, there are no plans for a second season of ''Spartan Ops''. However, Frank O'Connor has stated that ''"the story of Crimson, the ''Infinity'' and those characters and events is far from over"''.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/03/28/The-Halo-Bulletin-32813.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 3.28.13'']</ref> Indeed, the comic series ''[[Halo: Escalation]]'' follows largely the same cast of characters a month after the events of ''Spartan Ops''.
[[Frank O'Connor]] has stated that the mode will "bridge the gap" between the events of ''Halo 4'' and the future release of its sequel.{{Ref/Reuse|NYDN 4302012}} [[343 Industries]] will support additional ''Spartan Ops'' missions for months after launch of the game and players will have the opportunity to play from the beginning of the episodic campaign regardless of when they started playing. The first season is included with the game, though 343 Industries have not ruled out charging players for additional ''Spartan Ops'' seasons.<ref name="NYDN 4302012">[http://www.nydailynews.com/entertainment/system-update-halo-4-preview-glimpse-return-master-chief-article-1.1068510?pgno=1 '''NYDailyNews.com:''' ''SYSTEM UPDATE: Halo 4 preview, with our first glimpse into return of Master Chief'']</ref> There are no plans for a second season of ''Spartan Ops''. However, Frank O'Connor has stated that ''"the story of Crimson, the ''Infinity'' and those characters and events is far from over"''.<ref>[http://blogs.halowaypoint.com/Headlines/post/2013/03/28/The-Halo-Bulletin-32813.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 3.28.13'']</ref> Indeed, the comic series ''[[Halo: Escalation]]'' follows largely the same cast of characters a month after the events of ''Spartan Ops''.


===''Halo: Infinity''===
===''Halo: Infinity''===
Each episode is accompanied by an episode of ''Halo: Infinity'', a computer-animated series that follows the crew of the UNSC ''Infinity''. Produced by the British studio Axis Animation,<ref name="axis">[http://www.axisanimation.com/index.php?id=1061&loc=Work '''Axis Animation''': ''FEATURED WORK - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Ep 1'']</ref> the series' point-of-view alternates primarily between the ship's command crew and Spartan Fireteam Majestic. The events of the series intertwine directly with those of the cooperative missions, which in turn carry the story forward to the next episode. Those without an Xbox LIVE account may view the ''Halo: Infinity'' series on [https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us Halo Waypoint],  [https://www.youtube.com/user/HaloWaypoint Waypoint's YouTube channel] or the [[Halo Channel]].
Each episode is accompanied by an episode of ''Halo: Infinity'', a computer-animated series that follows the crew of the UNSC ''Infinity''. Produced by the Scottish studio Axis Animation,<ref name="axis">[http://www.axisanimation.com/index.php?id=1061&loc=Work '''Axis Animation''': ''FEATURED WORK - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Ep 1'']</ref> the series' point-of-view alternates primarily between the ship's command crew and Spartan Fireteam Majestic. The events of the series intertwine directly with those of the cooperative missions, which in turn carry the story forward to the next episode. Those without an Xbox LIVE account may view the ''Halo: Infinity'' series on [https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us Halo Waypoint],  [https://www.youtube.com/user/HaloWaypoint Waypoint's YouTube channel] or the [[Halo Channel]].


==Summary==
==Summary==
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*[[Jared Miller]] - A Spartan who serves as Fireteam Crimson's mission handler.
*[[Jared Miller]] - A Spartan who serves as Fireteam Crimson's mission handler.
*[[Robert Dalton]] - Another Spartan tasked with directing ordnance, air strikes and extraction whenever needed.
*[[Robert Dalton]] - Another Spartan tasked with directing ordnance, air strikes and extraction whenever needed.
*[[Jul 'Mdama]] - Leader of the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|reconstituted Covenant]], 'Mdama is a cunning figure who seeks to claim Requiem's treasures by awakening the essence of the [[Librarian]].
*[[Jul 'Mdama]] - Leader of his [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|new "Covenant"]], 'Mdama is a cunning figure who seeks to claim Requiem's treasures by awakening the essence of the [[Librarian]].
*[[Gek 'Lhar]] - A brutal Sangheili soldier serving as Jul 'Mdama's top lieutenant.
*[[Gek 'Lhar]] - A brutal Sangheili soldier serving as Jul 'Mdama's top lieutenant.
*[[The Librarian]] - A [[Forerunner]] [[Lifeshaper]], whose imprint and her secrets are wanted by the UNSC and Covenant alike.
*[[The Librarian]] - A [[Forerunner]] [[Lifeshaper]], whose imprint and her secrets are wanted by the UNSC and Covenant remnants alike.


===Plot synopsis===
===Plot synopsis===
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In [[2558|February 2558]], the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} is dispatched to reclaim [[Requiem]] from the occupying [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant]] forces. Once there, ''Infinity'' engages in combat with the Covenant fleet, and deploys ground forces, including Fireteams [[Fireteam Majestic|Majestic]] and [[Fireteam Crimson|Crimson]] as well as detachments of [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]], [[UNSC Navy|Navy]], [[UNSC Air Force|Air Force]] and [[UNSC Army|Army]] forces on Requiem. The Spartan fireteams run through a series of search and destroy, rescue, artifact recovery, extraction and assassination operations.
In [[2558|February 2558]], the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} is dispatched to reclaim [[Requiem]] from the occupying [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant]] forces. Once there, ''Infinity'' engages in combat with the Covenant fleet, and deploys ground forces, including Fireteams [[Fireteam Majestic|Majestic]] and [[Fireteam Crimson|Crimson]] as well as detachments of [[UNSC Marine Corps|Marine]], [[UNSC Navy|Navy]], [[UNSC Air Force|Air Force]] and [[UNSC Army|Army]] forces on Requiem. The Spartan fireteams run through a series of search and destroy, rescue, artifact recovery, extraction and assassination operations.


During a mission on the surface, Fireteam Crimson uncover a [[Forerunner]] [[Requiem translocation artifact|slipspace artifact]] which is subsequently brought aboard ''Infinity''. After the device disrupts the ship's systems and [[Slipspace translocation|teleports]] [[Henry Glassman|Chief Engineer Glassman]] to the surface of the planet, [[Catherine Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]] is brought in to investigate. The artifact scans the ship's systems and begins transmitting data to the surface of Requiem, where said data is intercepted by [[Jul 'Mdama]]. Glassman is taken captive by the [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant]] and is ordered to activate the [[Librarian]]'s shrine, though he is not successful.
During a mission on the surface, Fireteam Crimson uncover a [[Forerunner]] [[Requiem translocation artifact|slipspace artifact]] which is subsequently brought aboard ''Infinity''. After the device disrupts the ship's systems and [[Slipspace translocation|teleports]] [[Henry Glassman|Chief Engineer Glassman]] to the surface of the planet, [[Catherine Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]] is brought in to investigate. The artifact scans the ship's systems and begins transmitting data to the surface of Requiem, where said data is intercepted by [[Jul 'Mdama]]. Glassman is taken captive by his [[Jul 'Mdama's Covenant faction|Covenant]] and is ordered to activate the [[Librarian]]'s shrine, though he is not successful.


Fireteam Crimson secure another Forerunner artifact, dubbed "the [[Didact's Gift]]". This device is revealed to contain the memories of victims of the [[Ur-Didact|Didact's]] [[New Phoenix Incident|attack on New Phoenix]] six months prior, revealing that the composed human minds have been repurposed as [[Promethean Knight]]s. Investigating the first artifact on his own, Spartan [[Gabriel Thorne]] is translocated to [[the Cauldron]] and is left to fend for himself amidst Covenant-controlled territory. Dr. Halsey begins dialog with an unknown party who shares her interest in the Librarian. The intelligence is actually Jul 'Mdama, who is manipulating Halsey into divulging vital secrets about the Forerunners. Halsey is apprehended after her unwitting communication with 'Mdama is discovered. Meanwhile, Spartan Thorne rescues Dr. Glassman and the pair escape custody.
Fireteam Crimson secure another Forerunner artifact, dubbed "the [[Didact's Gift]]". This device is revealed to contain the memories of victims of the [[Ur-Didact|Didact's]] [[New Phoenix Incident|attack on New Phoenix]] six months prior, revealing that the composed human minds have been repurposed as [[Promethean Knight]]s. Investigating the first artifact on his own, Spartan [[Gabriel Thorne]] is translocated to [[the Cauldron]] and is left to fend for himself amidst Covenant-controlled territory. Dr. Halsey begins dialog with an unknown party who shares her interest in the Librarian. The intelligence is actually Jul 'Mdama, who is manipulating Halsey into divulging vital secrets about the Forerunners. Halsey is apprehended after her unwitting communication with 'Mdama is discovered. Meanwhile, Spartan Thorne rescues Dr. Glassman and the pair escape custody.
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==Episode list==
==Episode list==
Each week, players with an [[Xbox LIVE]] Gold membership<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/06/13/The-Halo-Bulletin-61312.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 6.13.12'']</ref> were able to view a new episode of ''Halo: Infinity'',<ref>'''IGN''': ''Halo 4 E3 floor coverage''</ref> which was then followed by five objective-based missions. The missions offered new content, as well as challenges to complete for each week.<ref name="gi"/>
Each week, players with an [[Xbox LIVE]] Gold membership<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/06/13/The-Halo-Bulletin-61312.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 6.13.12'']</ref> were able to view a new episode of ''Halo: Infinity'',<ref>'''IGN''': ''Halo 4 E3 floor coverage''</ref> which was then followed by five objective-based missions. The missions offered new content, as well as challenges to complete for each week.{{Ref/Reuse|gi}}


{{SO Episode List}}
{{SO Episode List}}
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|title-1=Characters|
|title-1=Characters|
*[[Aasif Olsen]] {{1st}}
*[[Aasif Olsen]] {{1st}}
*[[Anthony Madsen]]<ref name="Magic"/> {{1st}}
*[[Anthony Madsen]]{{Ref/Reuse|Magic}} {{1st}}
*[[Antoine Lum]] {{1st}}
*[[Antoine Lum]] {{1st}}
*[[Austen]]
*[[Austen]]
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*[[Henry Glassman]]
*[[Henry Glassman]]
*[[Horatio Fry]]
*[[Horatio Fry]]
*[[Jared Miller]]<ref name="'''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay''">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTPIFWHlZ0c '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay'']</ref> {{1st}}
*[[Jared Miller]]<ref name="YouTube - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bTPIFWHlZ0c '''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay'']</ref> {{1st}}
*[[John-117]] {{mo}}
*[[John-117]] {{mo}}
*[[Jul 'Mdama]] <ref name="terminal">[http://halo.xbox.com/en-US/Universe/detail/halo-4-terminal-jul-mdama/0f378de5-e0e3-4f31-a1e1-2a363af4094d '''"Halo Waypoint -''' ''Halo 4 Terminal - Jul 'Mdama"'']</ref>
*[[Jul 'Mdama]] <ref name="terminal">[http://halo.xbox.com/en-US/Universe/detail/halo-4-terminal-jul-mdama/0f378de5-e0e3-4f31-a1e1-2a363af4094d '''"Halo Waypoint -''' ''Halo 4 Terminal - Jul 'Mdama"'']</ref>
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*[[Parg Vol]] {{1st}}
*[[Parg Vol]] {{1st}}
*[[Paul DeMarco]] {{1st}}<ref name="Magic">[http://www.ign.com/videos/2012/08/15/making-of-halo-4?utm_campaign=ign+main+twitter&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social '''IGN''' ''The Magic Behind Halo 4'']</ref>
*[[Paul DeMarco]] {{1st}}<ref name="Magic">[http://www.ign.com/videos/2012/08/15/making-of-halo-4?utm_campaign=ign+main+twitter&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social '''IGN''' ''The Magic Behind Halo 4'']</ref>
*[[Robert Dalton]]<ref name="'''YouTube''' - ''Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay''"/> {{1st}}
*[[Robert Dalton]]{{Ref/Reuse|YouTube - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay}} {{1st}}
*[[Roland (AI)|Roland]]<ref name="Magic"/> {{1st}}
*[[Roland (AI)|Roland]]{{Ref/Reuse|Magic}} {{1st}}
*[[Ruiz]] {{1st}}
*[[Ruiz]] {{1st}}
*[[Ryan Frank]] {{1st}}
*[[Ryan Frank]] {{1st}}
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*[[Tashi]] {{1st}}
*[[Tashi]] {{1st}}
*[[Tedra Grant]] {{1st}}
*[[Tedra Grant]] {{1st}}
*[[Terry Ledge]] {{1st}}
*[[Terry Hedge]] {{1st}}
*[[TJ Murphy]] {{1st}}
*[[TJ Murphy]] {{1st}}
*[[Thomas Lasky]]
*[[Thomas Lasky]]
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***[[Knight Battlewagon]]  
***[[Knight Battlewagon]]  
**[[Promethean Watcher]]
**[[Promethean Watcher]]
*[[Beam emitter]]
*[[Beacon tower]]
*[[Plasma battery|Covenant plasma battery]]
*[[Plasma battery|Covenant plasma battery]]
*[[Cryo chamber]] {{mo}}
*[[Cryo chamber]] {{mo}}
*[[Data pad]]
*[[Data pad]]
*[[Deployable lookout tower]]
*[[Covenant watchtower]]
*[[Durance]]
*[[Durance]]
**[[Didact's Gift]] {{1st}}
**[[Didact's Gift]] {{1st}}
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*[[Methane tank]]
*[[Methane tank]]
*[[Requiem translocation artifacts]] {{1st}}
*[[Requiem translocation artifacts]] {{1st}}
*[[Sangheili combat harness]]
*[[Combat harness|Sangheili combat harness]]
**[[Sangheili Commander|Commander]] variant
**[[Commander (Covenant)|Commander]] variant
**[[Sangheili Storm|Storm]] variant
**[[Sangheili Storm|Storm]] variant
**[[Sangheili Ranger|Ranger]] variant
**[[Sangheili Ranger|Ranger]] variant
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**[[Sangheili Zealot|Zealot]] variant
**[[Sangheili Zealot|Zealot]] variant
*[[Sentinel Aggressor]]
*[[Sentinel Aggressor]]
*[[Portable jump-jet|Series 12 Single Operator Lift Apparatus]]
*[[Series 12 jetpack|Series 12 Single Operator Lift Apparatus]]
*[[Stationary shield generator]]
*[[Stationary shield generator]]
*[[Type-3 Refraction Dissonance Modifier/Camouflage]]
*[[Type-3 Refraction Dissonance Modifier/Camouflage]]
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*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
*[[Post-Covenant War conflicts]]
**[[New Phoenix Incident]] {{mo}}
**[[New Phoenix Incident]] {{mo}}
**[[Second Battle of Requiem]]
**[[Requiem Campaign]]


|title-4=Locations|
|title-4=Locations|
*[[Absolute Record]] {{First mentioned}}
*[[Absolute Record]] {{Fm}}
*[[Epoloch system]]
*[[Epoloch system]]
**[[Requiem]]
**[[Requiem]]
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*[[United Earth Government]]
*[[United Earth Government]]
**[[United Nations Space Command]]
**[[United Nations Space Command]]
***[[Spartan (branch)|Spartan]]
***[[Spartan Operations|Spartan]]
****[[SPARTAN-IV Program]]
****[[SPARTAN-IV Program]]
*****[[Fireteam Avalanche]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Avalanche]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Castle]]
*****[[Fireteam Castle]]
*****[[Fireteam Crimson]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Crimson]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Domino]] {{First mentioned}}
*****[[Fireteam Domino]] {{Fm}}
*****[[Fireteam Forest]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Forest]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Ivy]] {{First mentioned}}
*****[[Fireteam Ivy]] {{Fm}}
*****[[Fireteam Kodiak]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Kodiak]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Lancer]] {{1st}}
*****[[Fireteam Lancer]] {{1st}}
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*{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}}
*{{Class|CAS|assault carrier}}
**''[[Song of Retribution]]''
**''[[Song of Retribution]]''
*{{Class|RCS|armored cruiser}}
*{{Pattern|Maugen|armored cruiser}}
*[[Covenant drop pod]]
*[[Covenant drop pod]]
**[[Type-51 Individual Breaching Carapace]]
**{{Pattern|Gloto|Breaching Carapace}}
**[[Covenant drop pod#Multiple-occupant pod|Type-53 Squad Breaching Carapace]]
**[[Covenant drop pod#Multiple-occupant pod|Type-53 Squad Breaching Carapace]]
**[[Type-54 Mass Deployment Carapace]]
**{{Pattern|Gloto'kas|Assault Carapace}}
*{{Class|CRS|light cruiser}}
*{{Pattern|Zanar|light cruiser}}
*[[D79-TC Pelican]]
*[[D79-TC Pelican]]
**[[Pelican 653]]
**[[Pelican 653]]
*[[G79H-TC Pelican]]
*[[G79H-TC Pelican]]
*[[Deployment Platform Type-56 Ground Support/Ultra Heavy]]
*[[Kmiro'sish-pattern Lich]]
*[[F-41 Broadsword]]
*[[F-41 Broadsword]]
*''Infinity''-class ship
*''Infinity''-class ship
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*[[M808 Main Battle Tank]]
*[[M808 Main Battle Tank]]
*{{Class|Poseidon|light carrier}}
*{{Class|Poseidon|light carrier}}
*{{Class|RCS|armored cruiser}} {{1st}}
*{{Pattern|Maugen|armored cruiser}} {{1st}}
*{{Class|Strident|heavy frigate}}
*{{Class|Strident|heavy frigate}}
*[[Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage]]
*{{Pattern|Zurdo|Wraith}}
*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]]
*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]]
*[[Type-31 Exoatmospheric Multi-role Fighter]]
*[[Type-31 Seraph]]
*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]]
*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]]
*[[Type-44 Troop Carrier]]
*[[Type-44 Troop Carrier]]
*[[Type-58 Ultra-Heavy Site Excavator/Embedded]] {{1st}}
*[[Za'zayara-pattern Harvester]] {{1st}}
*[[UNSC prowler]]
*[[UNSC prowler]]
**{{Class|Sahara|heavy prowler}} {{1st}}
**{{Class|Sahara|heavy prowler}} {{1st}}
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*[[M11 combat knife]]
*[[M11 combat knife]]
*[[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]]
*[[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]]
*[[M3063 Deployable Turret]]
*[[M3063 deployable turret]]
*[[M363 Remote Projectile Detonator]]
*[[M363 Remote Projectile Detonator]]
*[[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle]]
*[[M395 Designated Marksman Rifle]]
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*[[M410 dual heavy machine gun]] {{1st}}
*[[M410 dual heavy machine gun]] {{1st}}
*[[Plasma drill]] {{1st}}
*[[Plasma drill]] {{1st}}
*[[Type-1 Antipersonnel grenade]]
*{{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}
*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]]
*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]]
*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]]
*[[Gravity hammer (fiction)|gravity hammer]]
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]]
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]]
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]]
*{{Pattern|Okarda'phaa|plasma rifle}}
*[[Type-27 Special Application Sniper Rifle]]
*[[Type-27 Special Application Sniper Rifle]]
*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]]
*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]]
*[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]]
*{{Pattern|Pez'tk|fuel rod gun}}
*[[Type-50 Directed Energy Rifle/Heavy]]
*{{Pattern|Elo'Nakada|concussion rifle}}
*[[Type-51 Carbine]]
*{{Pattern|Mosa|carbine}}
*[[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]]
*{{Pattern|Pek|plasma cannon}}
*[[Type-55 Anti-Infantry Stationary Gun]]
*{{Pattern|Sho'riru|Shade}}
*[[Type-55 Directed Energy Rifle/Advanced]]
*[[Type-55 Directed Energy Rifle/Advanced]]
*[[Unidentified Covenant artillery]] {{1st}}
*[[Unidentified Covenant artillery]] {{1st}}
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==Production notes==
==Production notes==
*Prior to the adoption of the photorealistic CGI used in the final game, ''Spartan Ops'' episodes were to be accompanied by stylized motion comics akin to those featured in the [[Terminal/Halo 4|Terminals]]. A sample was produced by Planet Jump, an animation studio based in London.<ref name="demo">[http://www.planetjump.co.uk/show-reel/halo '''Planet Jump''': ''Halo 4 Promotional Film'']</ref>
*Prior to the adoption of the photorealistic CGI used in the final game, ''Spartan Ops'' episodes were to be accompanied by stylized motion comics akin to those featured in the [[Terminal (Halo 4)|Terminals]]. A sample was produced by Planet Jump, an animation studio based in London.<ref name="demo">[http://www.planetjump.co.uk/show-reel/halo '''Planet Jump''': ''Halo 4 Promotional Film'']</ref>
*Each episode contains a radio that, when shot, plays the first few notes of the ''[[Red vs. Blue]]'' theme song. Doing so replaces some of the dialog in the episode with lines from the show's voice actors.
*Each episode contains a radio that, when shot, plays the first few notes of the ''[[Red vs. Blue]]'' theme song. Doing so replaces some of the dialog in the episode with lines from the show's voice actors.
*In ''Halo: Infinity'', some weapons use models from older builds of the game, as seen in early in-game screenshots. For example, the BR85HB SR is erroneously labeled as the [[BR55 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle|BR55HB SR]] and the M395 Designated Marksman Rifle lacks a front sight. The use of earlier builds to reference in-game assets might also explain why Commander Palmer's hair color varies between the campaign (reddish brown) and the [[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|Epilogue]] and ''Spartan Ops'' (nearly black).
*In ''Halo: Infinity'', some weapons use models from older builds of the game, as seen in early in-game screenshots. For example, the BR85HB SR is erroneously labeled as the [[BR55 Heavy Barrel Service Rifle|BR55HB SR]] and the M395 Designated Marksman Rifle lacks a front sight. The use of earlier builds to reference in-game assets might also explain why Commander Palmer's hair color varies between the campaign (reddish brown) and the [[Epilogue (Halo 4 level)|Epilogue]] and ''Spartan Ops'' (nearly black).
Line 331: Line 332:
==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:H4-SOps-Animation-Ep.1-2-Early.jpg|Early concepts for cutscenes.
File:H4-SOps-Animation-Early.jpg|Concept art for the cut animated series, demonstrating the cinematics' original artistic direction.
File:H4-SOps-Animation-Early.jpg|Concept art for the cut animated series, demonstrating the cinematics' original artistic direction.
File:H4-SpartanOps-EP1-Launch.jpg|An early build of the chapter selection menu for S1E1 ''Departure''.
File:H4-SpartanOps-EP1-Launch.jpg|An early build of the chapter selection menu for S1E1 ''Departure''.
Line 340: Line 342:


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


[[Category:Halo 4]]
[[Category:Halo 4]]
[[Category:Spartan Ops|*]]
[[Category:Spartan Ops| ]]
[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Canon]]
[[Category:Game modes]]

Revision as of 01:05, March 5, 2024

HP-Icon-Gameplay.svg
This article documents its subject as it pertains to the gameplay of the Halo games, rather than the lore.
This article is about the game mode. For other uses, see Spartan (disambiguation).
An early build of the Spartan Ops episode selection menu.

Spartan Ops is an episodic cooperative campaign in Halo 4. It is included as part of the Infinity game mode in lieu of Firefight.

Overview

Spartan Ops allows up to four players to play cooperatively.[1][2] Though it is designed primarily as a cooperative experience, Spartan Ops can be played solo as well.[3] It follows the SPARTAN-IV units Fireteam Majestic and Fireteam Crimson, with the players assuming the role of the latter while the former features in the CGI cinematics.[4][5] Set six months after the campaign, Spartan Ops expands on the story of the UNSC Infinity and her crew.[3] Due to its scope and scale, this new mode has been likened to a second campaign for the game.[6]

Frank O'Connor has stated that the mode will "bridge the gap" between the events of Halo 4 and the future release of its sequel.[7] 343 Industries will support additional Spartan Ops missions for months after launch of the game and players will have the opportunity to play from the beginning of the episodic campaign regardless of when they started playing. The first season is included with the game, though 343 Industries have not ruled out charging players for additional Spartan Ops seasons.[7] There are no plans for a second season of Spartan Ops. However, Frank O'Connor has stated that "the story of Crimson, the Infinity and those characters and events is far from over".[8] Indeed, the comic series Halo: Escalation follows largely the same cast of characters a month after the events of Spartan Ops.

Halo: Infinity

Each episode is accompanied by an episode of Halo: Infinity, a computer-animated series that follows the crew of the UNSC Infinity. Produced by the Scottish studio Axis Animation,[9] the series' point-of-view alternates primarily between the ship's command crew and Spartan Fireteam Majestic. The events of the series intertwine directly with those of the cooperative missions, which in turn carry the story forward to the next episode. Those without an Xbox LIVE account may view the Halo: Infinity series on Halo Waypoint, Waypoint's YouTube channel or the Halo Channel.

Summary

Main characters

Spartan Ops follows an ensemble cast of both new and preexisting characters.

  • Thomas Lasky - Commanding officer of the Infinity, Captain Lasky leads the UNSC expedition on Requiem.
  • Sarah Palmer - Leader of Infinity's Spartan complement, Commander Palmer occasionally steps in as she deems Crimson to be the squad of choice to deploy into the most dangerous ops.
  • Catherine Halsey - ONI's former chief scientist and mother of the SPARTAN-II Program, Dr. Halsey has recently been stripped of her power and declared a war criminal by ONI's leadership. However, her expertise is required to decipher the mysteries of Requiem.
  • Henry Glassman - A civilian scientist serving as the Infinity's chief engineer.
  • Roland - Infinity's eccentric shipboard AI construct, Roland runs the ship while making occasional appearances during operations whenever his expertise is required.
  • Fireteam Majestic - Consisting of Spartans DeMarco, Grant, Hoya, Madsen and Thorne, Majestic is frequently deployed on the most crucial ops alongside Crimson.
  • Jared Miller - A Spartan who serves as Fireteam Crimson's mission handler.
  • Robert Dalton - Another Spartan tasked with directing ordnance, air strikes and extraction whenever needed.
  • Jul 'Mdama - Leader of his new "Covenant", 'Mdama is a cunning figure who seeks to claim Requiem's treasures by awakening the essence of the Librarian.
  • Gek 'Lhar - A brutal Sangheili soldier serving as Jul 'Mdama's top lieutenant.
  • The Librarian - A Forerunner Lifeshaper, whose imprint and her secrets are wanted by the UNSC and Covenant remnants alike.

Plot synopsis

Main article: Requiem Campaign
Fireteam Majestic aboard Infinity.

In February 2558, the UNSC Infinity is dispatched to reclaim Requiem from the occupying Covenant forces. Once there, Infinity engages in combat with the Covenant fleet, and deploys ground forces, including Fireteams Majestic and Crimson as well as detachments of Marine, Navy, Air Force and Army forces on Requiem. The Spartan fireteams run through a series of search and destroy, rescue, artifact recovery, extraction and assassination operations.

During a mission on the surface, Fireteam Crimson uncover a Forerunner slipspace artifact which is subsequently brought aboard Infinity. After the device disrupts the ship's systems and teleports Chief Engineer Glassman to the surface of the planet, Dr. Catherine Halsey is brought in to investigate. The artifact scans the ship's systems and begins transmitting data to the surface of Requiem, where said data is intercepted by Jul 'Mdama. Glassman is taken captive by his Covenant and is ordered to activate the Librarian's shrine, though he is not successful.

Fireteam Crimson secure another Forerunner artifact, dubbed "the Didact's Gift". This device is revealed to contain the memories of victims of the Didact's attack on New Phoenix six months prior, revealing that the composed human minds have been repurposed as Promethean Knights. Investigating the first artifact on his own, Spartan Gabriel Thorne is translocated to the Cauldron and is left to fend for himself amidst Covenant-controlled territory. Dr. Halsey begins dialog with an unknown party who shares her interest in the Librarian. The intelligence is actually Jul 'Mdama, who is manipulating Halsey into divulging vital secrets about the Forerunners. Halsey is apprehended after her unwitting communication with 'Mdama is discovered. Meanwhile, Spartan Thorne rescues Dr. Glassman and the pair escape custody.

After Dr. Halsey briefly escapes imprisonment and resumes her communication with 'Mdama, Infinity is boarded by Covenant and Promethean forces who capture Dr. Halsey. They take her to the Librarian's "shrine", where 'Mdama awaits. Meanwhile, Admiral Serin Osman, head of the Office of Naval Intelligence, orders Captain Lasky to assassinate Dr. Halsey; Commander Palmer departs to execute the order. However, Lasky sends Fireteam Majestic to rescue Dr. Halsey and stop Palmer. Meanwhile, Dr. Halsey successfully activates and enters the Librarian's shrine. The Librarian's essence gives Dr. Halsey an artifact known as the Janus Key, but Jul 'Mdama gets one half of the key. Halsey tosses Gabriel Thorne the other half before she is abducted by 'Mdama.

Believing to have obtained what they were looking for, Jul 'Mdama sends Requiem to be destroyed by a nearby star. Deactivating a slipspace anchor originating from Requiem, the UNSC Infinity narrowly escapes the planet's gravity well. Afterwards, Lasky and Palmer observe as Dr. Glassman studies one half of the divided Janus Key. Meanwhile, aboard a Covenant ship, Dr. Halsey seemingly agrees to collaborate with Jul 'Mdama and his forces, stating that she wants revenge.

Episode list

Each week, players with an Xbox LIVE Gold membership[10] were able to view a new episode of Halo: Infinity,[11] which was then followed by five objective-based missions. The missions offered new content, as well as challenges to complete for each week.[1]

Title Original release date
Departure November 6, 2012
  1. Land Grab — "UNSC joint operations begin on Requiem as Infinity mass deploys Spartan, Navy, Marine, Army and Air Force units."
  2. Sniper Alley — "Covenant operations are reliant on several power stations around Requiem."
  3. The Challenge — "Spartan Fireteams are engaging enemy forces across Requiem. Enemy forces are surprisingly resilient."
  4. Sacred — "Infinity Science requests a Spartan Fireteam scout |a suspicious structure. Caution advised."
  5. Core — "Covenant archeological teams operating on Requiem are searching for something. Infinity Command wants to know what."
Artifact November 12, 2012
  1. Clean Up — "Marine forces have failed to neutralize a Covenant stronghold and are requesting Spartan assistance."
  2. For Science — "An Infinity Science team issued a distress call, then went silent. There has been no contact since."
  3. Hacksaw — "Marine squad Hacksaw is pinned down and requests Spartan assistance."
  4. Pelican Down — "Fireteam Crimson has been shot down."
  5. Gagarin — "Science Team Gagarin, last seen researching location codenamed Refuge, is MIA. No distress call."
Catherine November 19, 2012
  1. The VIP — "Parg Vol, a known Sangheili terrorist and associate of Jul 'Mdama, is confirmed to be on Requiem."
  2. Galileo — "UNSC Science base Galileo requires assistance repelling enemy advances."
  3. Spartan Mountain — "Marine squad Mountain has crashed behind enemy lines and requests immediate evac."
  4. Shootout In Valhalla — "Fireteam Crimson's attempted rescue of Mountain Squad has gone sideways. Situation developing."
  5. Hunting Trip — "Covenant terrorist Parg Vol has been located again. There is no better opportunity to eliminate him."
Didact's Hand November 26, 2012
  1. Hairy Call — "We have discovered Covenant are using a Requiem comm net to communicate secretly."
  2. Rally Point — "Information from comm network tap has led to the possible location of Jul 'Mdama."
  3. Random Transport — "During previous Op, Fireteam Crimson stepped through a portal. Current whereabouts unknown."
  4. The Chase — "Jul 'Mdama continues to flee through Requiem's portal system. Fireteam Crimson is giving chase."
  5. The Didact's Gift — "Although 'Mdama escaped, "the Didact's Gift" was successfully retrieved and is being held at Galileo Base.
Memento Mori December 3, 2012
  1. Spartan Miller — "Infinity Science requests Spartan aid investigating anomalies in Requiem-wide portal system."
  2. Nothing Can Go Wrong — "Infinity Science has begun to understand Requiem's portal system and request assistance in its testing."
  3. Everything Has Gone Wrong — "The Refuge facility is the focus of heavy enemy activity. Additional UNSC forces are being deployed to the area."
  4. The Cauldron Base — "Forward Base Magma has placed a distress call. Fireteam Crimson is responding."
  5. Spartan Thorne — "Spartan Gabriel Thorne has been transported to Requiem, without weapons or comms. His current status is unknown."
Scattered January 21, 2013
  1. Escape Plan - "All contact has been lost with Fireteam Crimson. Last seen facing insurmountable odds, they were either killed or captured. Infinity will continue attempting to establish their status."
  2. All The Secrets - "En route to rendezvous with Infinity, Fireteam Crimson has been forced to land at Covenant control facility. Spartans are investigating structure's purpose."
  3. Need To Know — "Surveillance has revealed an underground Covenant intelligence base. Fireteam Crimson is deployed to dig up information on Covenant Operations."
  4. Search and Destroy — "In reaction to intel extracted from Covenant base designated 'Control', Fireteam Switchback is investigating a Covenant archeological dig while Crimson disrupts a Covenant supply depot."
  5. Switchback - "Covenant employing a Harvester in their search for a mysterious artifact. Spartans are deployed to shut down its operations. "
Invasion January 28, 2013
  1. Backup - "All fireteams are recalled to UNSC Infinity to repel Covenant invasion."
  2. Home Field - "Infinity hangar bay is overrun by with Covenant forces. Fireteam Crimson routed to eliminate hostile force."
  3. Engine of Destruction - "Havok nukes have been detected near Infinity engine rooms."
  4. The Guns of Infinity - "Covenant forces en route to retake Infinity engine room. Spartans are to defend against further incursion."
  5. Victory Lap - "Covenant threat has been neutralized, but scattered hostiles remain onboard Infinity. Fireteam Crimson are volunteered for cleanup duty."
Expendable February 4, 2013
  1. Unfinished Business - "Fireteam Crimson redeployed to finish clearing out remaining Covenant hostiles at Apex."
  2. Majestic Rescue - "Fireteam Majestic faces heavy fire from Covenant artillery and are requesting backup. Fireteam Crimson is being sent in to kick some ass."
  3. Lancer - "Fireteam Lancer has detected some covenant nests in Warrens. Spartans are inbound on their position."
  4. Crystal Ball - "Fireteam Crimson dispatched to investigate how the Covenant have been anticipating UNSC movements."
  5. Glassman - "Dr. Glassman has requested the assistance of Spartans in decoding a map recovered from the Covenant. Fireteam Crimson are inbound to assist."
Key February 11, 2013
  1. The Search for Halsey - "Jul 'Mdama has abducted Dr. Catherine Halsey. All fireteams dispatched to investigate her whereabouts."
  2. Clean Up - "Fireteam Crimson dispatched to back up Boa Squad in holding UNSC base at Covenant Control."
  3. Science Mountain - "Spartans deployed to investigate Halsey transmission at Apex. Scorpion tank drop requested."
  4. Revenge - "Covenant detention facility targeted for shut down. Spartans on the ground to level structure."
  5. The Hammer - "Numerous Covenant forces inbound on Lockup. UNSC ground teams are holding the area and request Spartan reinforcements."
Exodus February 18, 2013
  1. Artifact - "Shield world Requiem highly unstable and on trajectory to collide with sun. Fireteams Crimson and Majestic in pursuit of artifacts needed to halt planet's course."
  2. In One Way - "Fireteam Crimson is on route through Warrens to acquire the replacement Harvester power supply stored at Apex."
  3. Seize the Power - "Numerous Pelicans shot down trying to recover the power supply for the Covenant Harvester. Fireteam Crimson searching for survivors while recovering the replacement part."
  4. Out the Other - "Pelican dispatched to retrieve Fireteam Crimson and the Harvester power supply, but Covenant forces are converging on their location in Warrens."
  5. One Last Time - "Requiem's impact with sun is imminent. Spartans deployed to Covenant Harvester with replacement power supply."


Appearances

Characters

Equipment and technology

Events

Locations

Organizations

Species

Vehicles

Weapons



Production notes

  • Prior to the adoption of the photorealistic CGI used in the final game, Spartan Ops episodes were to be accompanied by stylized motion comics akin to those featured in the Terminals. A sample was produced by Planet Jump, an animation studio based in London.[16]
  • Each episode contains a radio that, when shot, plays the first few notes of the Red vs. Blue theme song. Doing so replaces some of the dialog in the episode with lines from the show's voice actors.
  • In Halo: Infinity, some weapons use models from older builds of the game, as seen in early in-game screenshots. For example, the BR85HB SR is erroneously labeled as the BR55HB SR and the M395 Designated Marksman Rifle lacks a front sight. The use of earlier builds to reference in-game assets might also explain why Commander Palmer's hair color varies between the campaign (reddish brown) and the Epilogue and Spartan Ops (nearly black).

Gallery

  • Early concepts for cutscenes.

    Early concepts for cutscenes.

  • Concept art for the cut animated series, demonstrating the cinematics' original artistic direction.

    Concept art for the cut animated series, demonstrating the cinematics' original artistic direction.

  • An early build of the chapter selection menu for S1E1 Departure.

    An early build of the chapter selection menu for S1E1 Departure.

  • Another early build of the chapter briefing room for S1E1 Departure: Sacred.

    Another early build of the chapter briefing room for S1E1 Departure: Sacred.

  • Final version of the chapter selection menu in Halo 4.

    Final version of the chapter selection menu in Halo 4.

  • A group of SPARTAN-IV recruits preparing to suit up in the introductory cinematic for Spartan Ops.

    A group of SPARTAN-IV recruits preparing to suit up in the introductory cinematic for Spartan Ops.

  • The opening title screen for the cinematic sequences of Spartan Ops.

    The opening title screen for the cinematic sequences of Spartan Ops.

Sources

  1. ^ a b Game Informer (May 2012), pages 46-47
  2. ^ Kotaku Cortana is Dying, Multiplayer Sounds Very Interesting, and Other Pieces of Halo 4 News
  3. ^ a b Game Informer: Special Halo 4 Podcast
  4. ^ Halo 4 Spartan Ops trailer
  5. ^ Joystiq Halo 4's 'Infinity' multiplayer to introduce Spartan Ops, War Games
  6. ^ The Guardian: E3 2012: Frank O'Connor on Halo 4 – Spartan Ops could run for years
  7. ^ a b NYDailyNews.com: SYSTEM UPDATE: Halo 4 preview, with our first glimpse into return of Master Chief
  8. ^ Halo Waypoint: The Halo Bulletin: 3.28.13
  9. ^ Axis Animation: FEATURED WORK - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Ep 1
  10. ^ Halo Waypoint: The Halo Bulletin: 6.13.12
  11. ^ IGN: Halo 4 E3 floor coverage
  12. ^ a b c IGN The Magic Behind Halo 4
  13. ^ MightyApe.co.nz: Halo 4 Limited Edition screenshots
  14. ^ a b YouTube - Halo 4: Spartan Ops Gameplay
  15. ^ "Halo Waypoint - Halo 4 Terminal - Jul 'Mdama"
  16. ^ Planet Jump: Halo 4 Promotional Film
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