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{{Era|RW}}
{{Status|Canon}}
{{quote|This unparalleled, revolutionary battle simulation is where Spartans go to hone their skills in competitive combat.|Halo Waypoint.}}
{{Quote|This unparalleled, revolutionary battle simulation is where Spartans go to hone their skills in competitive combat.|Halo Waypoint}}
[[File:H4-InfinityMode-CareerWelcome.jpg|thumb|right|350px|Introduction to Spartan career in War Games.]]
[[File:H5 - Beta Red vs Blue.jpg|thumb|350px|Blue and Red Teams in competitive War Games.]]
'''War Games''' is a simulated combat training where [[SPARTAN-IV]]s against one another in the advanced combat deck of the {{UNSCship|Infinity}}.<ref name="first look">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6UL63Zo-uo&feature=player_embedded '''YouTube''': ''Making Halo 4: First Look'']</ref> It serves as ''[[Halo 4]]''<nowiki />'s competitive [[multiplayer]] mode.


== Overview ==
'''UNSC War Games''', often shortened as '''War Games''', is a form of [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]] combat training carried out in specialized locations. While frequently undertaken by [[Spartan]]s,<ref name="Grim">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/forums/db05ce78845f4120b062c50816008e5d/topics/canon-fodder-3-21-15-marching-on/bbac6734-f6bb-449e-8c79-0098a02c7884/posts?page=2#post23 '''Halo Waypoint''': '''Canon Fodder 3-21-15 thread''']</ref> War Games events are also held for non-[[Biological augmentation|augmented]] personnel of the [[United Nations Space Command]] armed forces for inter-service training.<ref name="vale">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/characters/olympia-vale '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Olympia Vale'']</ref>
The War Games facility uses pneumatic risers and holographic and hardlight projectors to generate realistic environments, most of which are recreated from actual locations around the galaxy, in which combat simulations are initiated.


{{expand-section}}
==Overview==
War Games exercises can be performed in either live or simulated environments.
===Live training===
Live War Games exercises are done in open environments with watchtowers and other buildings for the instructors to oversee the trainees. These exercises, unlike the simulated versions, are often carried out using live targets and ammunition.<ref name="BTSDMP">[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QpsqbTRYRD4 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Behind the Scenes - Defiant Map Pack'']</ref>


== As a multiplayer mode ==
[[File:H5-Breakout-Red-Jump.jpg|thumb|250px|Red team ready for [[Breakout]].]]
Unlike previous multiplayer modes, War Games is tied with an in-universe explanation, introduced for the first time. In this case the [[SPARTAN-IV Program|SPARTAN-IVs]] (controlled by the players) are training in the ''Infinity''<nowiki />'s combat simulation deck by fighting each other to stay constantly battle-ready. The player progression system is more extensive, allowing players to choose between various modifications which have an effect on gameplay, in addition to aesthetic [[armor permutations]] similar to the prior games.<ref name="Official Site">[http://halo.xbox.com/halo4#!halo-evolved/gameplay/31afe32b-0e07-45c0-9424-3adc6e1eadca '''Halo 4 Official Site:''' ''GAMEPLAY'']</ref> Players are able to customize their [[loadout]]s,<ref>[http://www.gamefront.com/halo-4-demo-report/2/ '''Gamefront.com''': ''Halo 4 Demo Report'']</ref> being able to choose between various [[armor abilities]] as well as new customizable features, known as [[Support Upgrades]] and [[Tactical Packages]]. Multiplayer gameplay is more fast-paced than in the prior games. Weapon pickups on maps are marked on the player's [[heads-up display]]<ref name="venture">[http://venturebeat.com/2012/03/05/11-things-learned-about-halo-4/ '''Venturebeat.com''': ''11 new things we’ve learned about Halo 4 (with video)'']</ref>, and players are able to call in ordnance drops, containing power-ups or weapons, during matches.<ref name="Official Site"/> Power-ups available in Infinity Slayer include [[Overshield]], [[Damage Boost]], and [[Speed Boost]].<ref>[http://halo.xbox.com/blogs/Headlines/post/2012/07/06/The-Halo-Bulletin-7612.aspx '''Halo Waypoint''': ''The Halo Bulletin: 7.6.12'']</ref>
===Simulated training===
War Games chambers<ref name="New Blood">'''[[Halo: New Blood]]''' ''- Chapter 15''</ref> use a combination of [[Holography|holographic]] projectors, millions of pneumatic risers,<ref name="fieldguide">[http://halo.bungie.org/misc/ExpertZone_Halo4_Guide.pdf '''Halo.Bungie.Org''', ''Halo 4 Field Guide'']</ref> props, and simulated sensory information fed through a [[neural interface]] to generate realistic environments in which combat simulations are initiated.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-beta-late-than-never '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Beta Late Than Never'']</ref>  


=== Gametypes ===
Simulated training can be watched by via cameras or specialized areas spread out around the fields,{{Ref/Reuse|New Blood}} and some facilities even have an AI, such as [[Jeff Steitzer|one]] that manages the War Games simulator on the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}} and acts as the games' announcer. [[Sarah Palmer]], the commander of the ship's Spartan contingent, has a low opinion of the AI.{{Ref/Reuse|HE1}}
 
[[File:Infinity Spartan Optic calibration card.png|thumb|left|250px|A Spartan Optic calibration card.]]
On the UNSC ''Infinity'', Spartans have to ensure optics are calibrated before they enter War Games simulations, using specialized [[Information card]]s.<ref>[https://www.windowscentral.com/hololens-halo-5-tour-amazing Microsoft used the HoloLens for their Halo 5 tour, and it was pretty amazing]</ref>
 
War Games simulations sometimes introduce "balancing" to several weapons and AI units. A notable example is the [[M6 Spartan Laser#Selene.27s Lance|M6/E Selene's Lance]], where balancing adds extra recoil to the weapon.
 
==Training and events==
[[File:H4LE WarGamesScoreBoard.png|thumb|250px|A scoreboard showcasing the outcomes of a match between Fireteams Majestic and Castle.]]
[[SPARTAN-IV program|SPARTAN-IV]] fireteams routinely train in War Games simulations to hone their strength and skills. Upon reaching a [[Rank (Halo 4)|Spartan rank]] of level 50, they are given the option to enlist in a [[specialization]] in their field of choice, should they wish, they may also apply for multiple specialist rankings.<ref>'''[[Halo 4 Limited Edition]]''', ''[[Infinity Briefing Packet|UNSC ''Infinity'' briefing packet]]''</ref> Baseline soldiers who perform exceptionally in inter-service War Games events are sometimes picked as potential candidates for the SPARTAN-IV program.{{Ref/Reuse|vale}} The [[ANVIL initiative]] indicates a number of very select joint training engagements between SPARTAN-IVs and [[Sangheili]] of [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]]'s [[Swords of Sanghelios]] aboard [[Anvil Station]].<ref name="Have S'moa">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-have-s-moa '''Halo Waypoint''' - ''Canon Fodder: 2-20-15'']</ref> War Games simulations are not exclusively competitive; in some scenarios the participants train against AI-controlled Covenant<ref name="HE1">'''[[Halo: Escalation]]''', ''[[Halo: Escalation Issue 1|Issue 1]]''</ref> and/or Promethean enemies, and sometimes against AI and Spartans, with some simulations even featuring AI Marines.<ref>'''[[Halo 5: Guardians]] [[Warzone]]'''</ref>
 
[[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers|ODST]] forces also make use of the War Games for their own training and simulation, including simulation for operations against the [[Flood]]. After passing early trials, the UNSC ordered an update to these simulations and a new round of prepatory exercises.{{Ref/Site|Id=FloodfightNotes|URL=https://support.halowaypoint.com/hc/en-us/articles/5178835359380-Halo-The-Master-Chief-Collection-MCC-Update-April-2022|Site=Halo Support|Page=Halo: The Master Chief Collection (MCC) Update - April 2022|D=27|M=08|Y=2022|Quote=The Gravemind’s most fervent wish is for a galaxy united in unlife, where it can look on the stars through every sentient beings eyes and raise a chorus to everlasting victory through their tortured and twisted throats. ODST forces who train to contain and eliminate the Flood have passed their first trials, but the parasite is always adapting, learning, and massing in hidden hives. To prepare for the inevitable return of the thinking dead, the UNSC has ordered an update of the War Games training simulations and a new round of containment exercises.}}
 
==History==
{{Quote|I need you and as many Spartans as possible to hit the sim.|Commander Agryna to a Spartan at the [[Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science]].{{Ref/Game|Hi|Id=Interference|[[Interference]]}}}}
Before the end of the Human-Covenant War, War Games were mostly live training in locations such as the [[Military Wilderness Training Preserve]] on [[Reach]] before the planet's fall.{{Ref/Reuse|BTSDMP}} By January [[2553]], War Games simulations could not support AI-driven targets yet, forcing the need for live targets;<ref>'''[[Halo: Escalation]] Library Edition''' ''- Commentary''</ref> by March [[2555]], AI-driven targets such as Sangheili had been added to the simulations.<ref>'''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]''' ''- Chapter 4 Page 80(Physical edition)''</ref>
 
By February [[2558]], War Game simulations were being used regularly by Spartans on the {{UNSCShip|Infinity}}. Sometime after the UNSC encountered the [[Warden Eternal]] in October 2558 it was added to the [[Warzone]] section of War Games simulations, following the introduction of many other [[Promethean]] constructs to the simulator.
 
Some time in [[2560]] Spartan Commander [[Laurette Agryna]] had several of the Spartans under her command at the Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science participate in War Games to lure out the [[Banished]] AI [[Iratus]].{{Ref/Reuse|Interference}}
 
==Facilities and locations==
===Live training===
The [[Military Wilderness Training Preserve]] in the [[Highland Mountains]] within [[Reach]]'s [[Viery Territory]] was a live War Games training ground most notably used to [[SPARTAN-II training|train]] the [[SPARTAN-II program|Spartan-IIs]] between [[2517]] and [[2525]].
 
===Simulated===
Many locations house War Games combat decks, among them several [[warship]]s including {{UNSCShip|Infinity}},<ref name="needle me this">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-needle-me-this '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Needle Me This'']</ref> the corporate-sponsored [[Munera Platform]]s and other combat training orbitals,<ref name="hwp munera">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/munera-platform '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Munera Platform'']</ref> and [[Anvil Station]].{{Ref/Reuse|vale}}
 
In addition, several terrestrial [[military base]]s also house War Games simulators. The size and scope of each individual War Games facility varies based on the needs and resources of their associated installation.{{Ref/Reuse|needle me this}}
 
==Simulated War Game maps==
Most of the Simulated War Games environments are recreated from either detailed scans, partial records or remote survey data of actual locations around the galaxy, although artistic flourishes may be applied at the simulation designers' discretion. Examples of such conceits include the anachronistic use of given starship, vehicle or emblem designs sometimes encountered in War Games simulations.<ref name="Catalog">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/forums/db05ce78845f4120b062c50816008e5d/topics/halo-5-truth/7c25c1e2-29a4-4ef9-bf84-f9912215a0a0/posts?page=1#post17 '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Halo 5 Truth'']</ref>
 
Problems arose as many departments were stretched thin due to the UNSC's struggle to maintain a cohesive presence across [[Human colonies|colonized space]]. Because of this, the [[UNSC Armed Forces|military]] began the [[UNSC Cartographer Initiative|Cartographer Initiative]] to recruit much needed War Games map designers to help keep the [[Spartan Operations|Spartan branch]] operating efficiently.<ref name="Close Quarters">[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/canon-fodder-close-quarters '''Halo Waypoint''': ''Canon Fodder - Close Quarters'']</ref>
 
===List of known map designations===
====''Halo 2''====
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 036-8 "[[Lockout]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 098-8 "[[Backwash]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 118-3 "[[Ascension]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 201-7 "[[Colossus (map)|Colossus]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 209-4 "[[Relic]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 250-5 "[[Beaver Creek]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 320-5 "[[Desolation]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 320-91 "[[Uplift]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 405-2 "[[Warlock]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 409-3 "[[Turf]]"
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 411-1 "[[District]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 525-5 "[[Foundation]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 622-3 "[[Headlong]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 639-1 "[[Containment]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 680-4 "[[Zanzibar]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 701-5 "[[Coagulation]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 840-5 "[[Gemini]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 950-9 "[[Ivory Tower]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 951-7 "[[Sanctuary]]"
{{col-end}}
 
====''Halo 2: Anniversary''====
*War Games Map_Set/: 209-11 "[[Remnant]]"
 
====''Halo 3''====
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 037-2 "[[Blackout]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 040-44 "[[Foundry]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 420-6 "[[Orbital]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 429-2 "[[Cold Storage]]"
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 550-7 "[[Standoff]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 590-1 "[[The Pit]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 600-3 "[[Rat's Nest]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 673-15 "[[Ghost Town]]"
{{col-end}}
 
====''Halo 4''====
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 232-8 "[[Meltdown]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 259-3 "[[Vortex]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 309-8 "[[Harvest (level)|Harvest]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 389-4 "[[Haven]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 449-2 "[[Impact]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 490-2 "[[Skyline (level)|Skyline]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 505-2 "[[Abandon]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 593-6 "[[Shatter]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 615-3 "[[Complex]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 673-4 "[[Monolith]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 726-6 "[[Adrift]]"
{{col-2}}
*War Games Map_Set/: 755-3 "[[Perdition]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 733-4 "[[Ragnarok]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 773-9 "[[Erosion]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 784-4 "[[Exile]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 822-2 "[[Outcast]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 891-3 "[[Landfall]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 893-3 "[[Wreckage]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 902-5 "[[Daybreak]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 951-3 "[[Longbow]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 982-3 "[[Ravine]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 992-0 "[[Solace]]"
{{col-end}}
 
====''Halo 5: Guardians''====
*War Games Map_Set/: 122-5 "[[March on Stormbreak]]"
*War Games Map_Set/: 769-2 "[[The Rig]]"
 
==Simulated Gametypes==
The following is a list of gametypes which are known to be included in War Games.
The following is a list of gametypes which are known to be included in War Games.
* [[Slayer#Halo 4|Infinity Slayer]]
{{col-begin}}
* [[Capture the Flag]]
{{col-2}}
* [[Grifball]]
*[[Attrition]]
* [[Oddball]]
*[[Slayer#Halo 4|Big Team Infinity Slayer]]
* [[Regicide]]
*[[Team Slayer|Big Team Slayer]]
* [[Flood (gametype)|Flood]]
*[[Breakout]]
* [[Dominion]]
*[[Capture the Flag]]
* [[King of the Hill]]
*[[Dominion]]
* [[Team Slayer|Team Slayer Pro]]
*[[Extraction]]
* [[Slayer#Halo 4|Big Team Infinity Slayer]]
*[[Firefight]]
* [[Extraction]]
*[[Flood (gametype)|Flood]]
* [[Ricochet]]
*[[Grifball]]
*[[King of the Hill]]
*[[Infection]]
*[[Slayer#Halo 4|Infinity Slayer]]
*[[Invasion]]
{{col-2}}
*[[Land Grab]]
*[[Last Spartan Standing]]
*[[Oddball]]
*[[Regicide]]
*[[Ricochet (gametype)|Ricochet]]
*[[Stockpile]]
*[[Strongholds]]
*[[Team Slayer]]
*[[Team Slayer|Team Slayer Pro]]
*[[Team Slayer|Team Snipers]]
*[[Team SWAT]]
*[[Total Control]]
*[[Warzone]]
{{col-end}}


==Trivia==
==As a multiplayer mode==
As its name suggests the War Games most likely take their name from the [[Wikipedia:Military exercise|21st-century counterpart]]. The War Games of the 21st-century is a war simulation program to evaluate, train and to simulate actual war situation.
[[File:H4-InfinityMode-CareerWelcome.jpg|thumb|300px|Introduction to Spartan career in War Games in ''[[Halo 4]]''.]]
War Games was introduced in ''[[Halo 4]]'' as the in-universe framing device for the game's [[multiplayer]]<ref name="first look">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f6UL63Zo-uo&feature=player_embedded '''YouTube''': ''Making Halo 4: First Look'']</ref> and is featured in a similar fashion in the subsequent ''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]'' and ''[[Halo Infinite]]''. [[343 Industries]] writer [[Jeff Easterling]] has suggested that virtually all competitive multiplayer modes throughout ''Halo'''s history could be regarded as War Games exercises. However, he notes that fans should not "start splitting hairs about regarding specific time frames and extrapolating implications" from his statement.{{Ref/Reuse|Grim}} Nevertheless, 343 Industries has assigned canonical War Games-based designations to several ''[[Halo 2]]'' and ''[[Halo 3]]'' multiplayer maps, indicating that they are meant to be seen as part of a War Games simulation.<ref>[https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/locations/new-mombasa '''Halo Waypoint''': ''New Mombasa'']</ref> <br>
 
''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' Firefight was later included when the Flood were added to Firefight in ''[[Halo: The Master Chief Collection]]''.{{Ref/Site|Id=endeavors|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/entrenched-endeavors|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Entrenched Endeavors|D=26|M=5|Y=2022}}
 
While elements of the ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' multiplayer are canonical (such as some gamemodes and vehicles), the overall experience is considered just multiplayer for multiplayer's sake and is not considered canon.<ref>[https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne/status/850181506517540865 '''Twitter''' '' - Grim and Halo Wars 2 Multiplayer'']</ref>
{{clear}}


==Gallery==
==Gallery==
<gallery>
<gallery>
File:War Games early concept 1.jpg|An early concept art of a War Games map.
File:Highlands05.jpg|A War Games field in the Military Wilderness Training Preserve in ''Halo Reach''.
File:War Games early concept 2.jpg|Another early concept art for a multiplayer map.
File:War Games early concept 1.jpg|Early concept art of a War Games map for ''Halo 4''.
File:War Games early concept 2.jpg|Another early concept for a multiplayer map.
File:H4-CTF-SRS99S5AM.jpg|Spartan-IVs participating in a game of Capture the Flag on [[Exile]].
File:H4 SPARTAN-IV in Vortex.jpg|A Spartan-IV hijacking a Ghost on [[Vortex]].
File:HE Invasion.jpg|Sarah Palmer participating in a game of invasion in ''[[Halo: Escalation]]''.
File:Wargames.png|[[Sarah Palmer|Commander Palmer]] and [[Fireteam Jackknife]] inside the simulation deck.
File:Wargames.png|[[Sarah Palmer|Commander Palmer]] and [[Fireteam Jackknife]] inside the simulation deck.
File:HE19-PalmerfinishingHunter.png|Sarah Palmer killing a simulated Mgalekgolo in War Games.
File:Breakout Concept Art.jpg|Concept art of the Breakout arena for ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5-ConceptArt-WargamesSpaceStation.jpg|Concept art of UNSC personnel on the observation deck overseeing the Breakout station in the background.
File:H5GWin.png|Spartan-IVs on Red Team win a match on [[Truth]] in War Games in the ''[[Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta]]''.
File:H5GBBlueTeamHighfives.gif|An animation of Blue Team winning a match on [[Eden]] in the ''Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta''.
File:H5G-SpartansvsPrometheans.jpg|Spartan-IVs fighting each other, Prometheans, and Covenant in a game of Warzone on [[Escape from ARC]] in ''Halo 5: Guardians''.
File:H5-Breakout-Blue-Jump.jpg|Blue team ready for Breakout.
File:H5G-BTBwin.png|Blue Team wins a match on [[Entombed]].
File:HO-Spartans&Elites2.png|Spartan-IVs and Sangheili on Anvil Station in ''Halo Online''.
File:HO-6v1.png|Spartan-IVs on Anvil Station in a game on [[Reactor (Halo Online map)|Reactor]].
File:HLC Arena.png|Spartan-IVs in a War Games simulation on the ''[[Halo Legendary Crate]]'' #11 poster.
File:HINF-11152021.png|The beginning of a match in ''[[Halo Infinite]]''.
File:HINF Fragmentation Vault.png|Spartan-IVs during a War Games match on [[Fragmentation]].
File:HINF-EVAgang.png|The winning team at the end of a match on [[Bazaar]].
</gallery>
</gallery>
==List of appearances==
*''[[Halo 2]]'' {{1st}}
*''[[Halo 3]]''
*''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''
*''[[Halo Reach]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 4]]''
**''[[Spartan Ops]]'' {{Mo}}
**''[[Infinity Briefing Packet]]''
*''[[Halo: Escalation]]''
*''[[Halo 2: Anniversary]]''
*''[[Halo: New Blood]]''
*''[[Halo: Hunters in the Dark]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo 5: Guardians]]''
*''[[Halo Wars 2]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Renegades]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo Infinite]]''
*''[[Halo: Trial of Reckoning]]'' {{Mo}}
*''[[Halo: Flashpoint]]''


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


{{Games}}
[[Category:Multiplayer]]
[[Category:Multiplayer]]
[[Category:Halo 2]]
[[Category:Halo 3]]
[[Category:Halo 4]]
[[Category:Halo 4]]
[[Category:Halo 5: Guardians]]

Latest revision as of 14:55, March 5, 2024

"This unparalleled, revolutionary battle simulation is where Spartans go to hone their skills in competitive combat."
— Halo Waypoint
Blue and Red Teams in competitive War Games.

UNSC War Games, often shortened as War Games, is a form of UNSC combat training carried out in specialized locations. While frequently undertaken by Spartans,[1] War Games events are also held for non-augmented personnel of the United Nations Space Command armed forces for inter-service training.[2]

Overview[edit]

War Games exercises can be performed in either live or simulated environments.

Live training[edit]

Live War Games exercises are done in open environments with watchtowers and other buildings for the instructors to oversee the trainees. These exercises, unlike the simulated versions, are often carried out using live targets and ammunition.[3]

Red team ready for Breakout.

Simulated training[edit]

War Games chambers[4] use a combination of holographic projectors, millions of pneumatic risers,[5] props, and simulated sensory information fed through a neural interface to generate realistic environments in which combat simulations are initiated.[6]

Simulated training can be watched by via cameras or specialized areas spread out around the fields,[4] and some facilities even have an AI, such as one that manages the War Games simulator on the UNSC Infinity and acts as the games' announcer. Sarah Palmer, the commander of the ship's Spartan contingent, has a low opinion of the AI.[7]

A Spartan Optic calibration card.

On the UNSC Infinity, Spartans have to ensure optics are calibrated before they enter War Games simulations, using specialized Information cards.[8]

War Games simulations sometimes introduce "balancing" to several weapons and AI units. A notable example is the M6/E Selene's Lance, where balancing adds extra recoil to the weapon.

Training and events[edit]

The War Games scoreboard included in the Infinity Briefing Packet.
A scoreboard showcasing the outcomes of a match between Fireteams Majestic and Castle.

SPARTAN-IV fireteams routinely train in War Games simulations to hone their strength and skills. Upon reaching a Spartan rank of level 50, they are given the option to enlist in a specialization in their field of choice, should they wish, they may also apply for multiple specialist rankings.[9] Baseline soldiers who perform exceptionally in inter-service War Games events are sometimes picked as potential candidates for the SPARTAN-IV program.[2] The ANVIL initiative indicates a number of very select joint training engagements between SPARTAN-IVs and Sangheili of Arbiter Thel 'Vadam's Swords of Sanghelios aboard Anvil Station.[10] War Games simulations are not exclusively competitive; in some scenarios the participants train against AI-controlled Covenant[7] and/or Promethean enemies, and sometimes against AI and Spartans, with some simulations even featuring AI Marines.[11]

ODST forces also make use of the War Games for their own training and simulation, including simulation for operations against the Flood. After passing early trials, the UNSC ordered an update to these simulations and a new round of prepatory exercises.[12]

History[edit]

"I need you and as many Spartans as possible to hit the sim."
— Commander Agryna to a Spartan at the Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science.[13]

Before the end of the Human-Covenant War, War Games were mostly live training in locations such as the Military Wilderness Training Preserve on Reach before the planet's fall.[3] By January 2553, War Games simulations could not support AI-driven targets yet, forcing the need for live targets;[14] by March 2555, AI-driven targets such as Sangheili had been added to the simulations.[15]

By February 2558, War Game simulations were being used regularly by Spartans on the UNSC Infinity. Sometime after the UNSC encountered the Warden Eternal in October 2558 it was added to the Warzone section of War Games simulations, following the introduction of many other Promethean constructs to the simulator.

Some time in 2560 Spartan Commander Laurette Agryna had several of the Spartans under her command at the Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science participate in War Games to lure out the Banished AI Iratus.[13]

Facilities and locations[edit]

Live training[edit]

The Military Wilderness Training Preserve in the Highland Mountains within Reach's Viery Territory was a live War Games training ground most notably used to train the Spartan-IIs between 2517 and 2525.

Simulated[edit]

Many locations house War Games combat decks, among them several warships including UNSC Infinity,[16] the corporate-sponsored Munera Platforms and other combat training orbitals,[17] and Anvil Station.[2]

In addition, several terrestrial military bases also house War Games simulators. The size and scope of each individual War Games facility varies based on the needs and resources of their associated installation.[16]

Simulated War Game maps[edit]

Most of the Simulated War Games environments are recreated from either detailed scans, partial records or remote survey data of actual locations around the galaxy, although artistic flourishes may be applied at the simulation designers' discretion. Examples of such conceits include the anachronistic use of given starship, vehicle or emblem designs sometimes encountered in War Games simulations.[18]

Problems arose as many departments were stretched thin due to the UNSC's struggle to maintain a cohesive presence across colonized space. Because of this, the military began the Cartographer Initiative to recruit much needed War Games map designers to help keep the Spartan branch operating efficiently.[19]

List of known map designations[edit]

Halo 2[edit]

Halo 2: Anniversary[edit]

  • War Games Map_Set/: 209-11 "Remnant"

Halo 3[edit]

Halo 4[edit]

  • War Games Map_Set/: 232-8 "Meltdown"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 259-3 "Vortex"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 309-8 "Harvest"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 389-4 "Haven"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 449-2 "Impact"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 490-2 "Skyline"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 505-2 "Abandon"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 593-6 "Shatter"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 615-3 "Complex"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 673-4 "Monolith"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 726-6 "Adrift"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 755-3 "Perdition"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 733-4 "Ragnarok"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 773-9 "Erosion"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 784-4 "Exile"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 822-2 "Outcast"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 891-3 "Landfall"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 893-3 "Wreckage"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 902-5 "Daybreak"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 951-3 "Longbow"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 982-3 "Ravine"
  • War Games Map_Set/: 992-0 "Solace"

Halo 5: Guardians[edit]

Simulated Gametypes[edit]

The following is a list of gametypes which are known to be included in War Games.

As a multiplayer mode[edit]

Introduction to Spartan career in War Games in Halo 4.

War Games was introduced in Halo 4 as the in-universe framing device for the game's multiplayer[20] and is featured in a similar fashion in the subsequent Halo 5: Guardians and Halo Infinite. 343 Industries writer Jeff Easterling has suggested that virtually all competitive multiplayer modes throughout Halo's history could be regarded as War Games exercises. However, he notes that fans should not "start splitting hairs about regarding specific time frames and extrapolating implications" from his statement.[1] Nevertheless, 343 Industries has assigned canonical War Games-based designations to several Halo 2 and Halo 3 multiplayer maps, indicating that they are meant to be seen as part of a War Games simulation.[21]

Halo 3: ODST Firefight was later included when the Flood were added to Firefight in Halo: The Master Chief Collection.[22]

While elements of the Halo Wars 2 multiplayer are canonical (such as some gamemodes and vehicles), the overall experience is considered just multiplayer for multiplayer's sake and is not considered canon.[23]

Gallery[edit]

  • A War Games field in the Military Wilderness Training Preserve in Halo Reach.

    A War Games field in the Military Wilderness Training Preserve in Halo Reach.

  • Early concept art of a War Games map for Halo 4.

    Early concept art of a War Games map for Halo 4.

  • Another early concept for a multiplayer map.

    Another early concept for a multiplayer map.

  • Spartan-IVs participating in a game of Capture the Flag on Exile.

    Spartan-IVs participating in a game of Capture the Flag on Exile.

  • A Spartan-IV hijacking a Ghost on Vortex.

    A Spartan-IV hijacking a Ghost on Vortex.

  • Sarah Palmer participating in a game of invasion in Halo: Escalation.

    Sarah Palmer participating in a game of invasion in Halo: Escalation.

  • Commander Palmer and Fireteam Jackknife inside the simulation deck.

    Commander Palmer and Fireteam Jackknife inside the simulation deck.

  • Sarah Palmer killing a simulated Mgalekgolo in War Games.

    Sarah Palmer killing a simulated Mgalekgolo in War Games.

  • Concept art of the Breakout arena for Halo 5: Guardians.

    Concept art of the Breakout arena for Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Concept art of UNSC personnel on the observation deck overseeing the Breakout station in the background.

    Concept art of UNSC personnel on the observation deck overseeing the Breakout station in the background.

  • Spartan-IVs on Red Team win a match on Truth in War Games in the Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta.

    Spartan-IVs on Red Team win a match on Truth in War Games in the Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta.

  • An animation of Blue Team winning a match on Eden in the Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta.

    An animation of Blue Team winning a match on Eden in the Halo 5: Guardians Multiplayer Beta.

  • Spartan-IVs fighting each other, Prometheans, and Covenant in a game of Warzone on Escape from ARC in Halo 5: Guardians.

    Spartan-IVs fighting each other, Prometheans, and Covenant in a game of Warzone on Escape from ARC in Halo 5: Guardians.

  • Blue team ready for Breakout.

    Blue team ready for Breakout.

  • Blue Team wins a match on Entombed.

    Blue Team wins a match on Entombed.

  • Spartan-IVs and Sangheili on Anvil Station in Halo Online.

    Spartan-IVs and Sangheili on Anvil Station in Halo Online.

  • Spartan-IVs on Anvil Station in a game on Reactor.

    Spartan-IVs on Anvil Station in a game on Reactor.

  • Spartan-IVs in a War Games simulation on the Halo Legendary Crate #11 poster.

    Spartan-IVs in a War Games simulation on the Halo Legendary Crate #11 poster.

  • The beginning of a match in Halo Infinite.

    The beginning of a match in Halo Infinite.

  • Spartan-IVs during a War Games match on Fragmentation.

    Spartan-IVs during a War Games match on Fragmentation.

  • The winning team at the end of a match on Bazaar.

    The winning team at the end of a match on Bazaar.

List of appearances[edit]

Sources[edit]

  1. ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder 3-21-15 thread
  2. ^ a b c Halo Waypoint: Olympia Vale
  3. ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Behind the Scenes - Defiant Map Pack
  4. ^ a b Halo: New Blood - Chapter 15
  5. ^ Halo.Bungie.Org, Halo 4 Field Guide
  6. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Beta Late Than Never
  7. ^ a b Halo: Escalation, Issue 1
  8. ^ Microsoft used the HoloLens for their Halo 5 tour, and it was pretty amazing
  9. ^ Halo 4 Limited Edition, UNSC Infinity briefing packet
  10. ^ Halo Waypoint - Canon Fodder: 2-20-15
  11. ^ Halo 5: Guardians Warzone
  12. ^ Halo Support, Halo: The Master Chief Collection (MCC) Update - April 2022: "The Gravemind’s most fervent wish is for a galaxy united in unlife, where it can look on the stars through every sentient beings eyes and raise a chorus to everlasting victory through their tortured and twisted throats. ODST forces who train to contain and eliminate the Flood have passed their first trials, but the parasite is always adapting, learning, and massing in hidden hives. To prepare for the inevitable return of the thinking dead, the UNSC has ordered an update of the War Games training simulations and a new round of containment exercises." (Retrieved on Aug 27, 2022) [archive]
  13. ^ a b Halo Infinite, Interference
  14. ^ Halo: Escalation Library Edition - Commentary
  15. ^ Halo: Hunters in the Dark - Chapter 4 Page 80(Physical edition)
  16. ^ a b Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Needle Me This
  17. ^ Halo Waypoint: Munera Platform
  18. ^ Halo Waypoint: Halo 5 Truth
  19. ^ Halo Waypoint: Canon Fodder - Close Quarters
  20. ^ YouTube: Making Halo 4: First Look
  21. ^ Halo Waypoint: New Mombasa
  22. ^ Halo Waypoint, Entrenched Endeavors (Retrieved on May 26, 2022) [archive]
  23. ^ Twitter - Grim and Halo Wars 2 Multiplayer
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