Halo Infinite Gameplay Video
Featured: Game Comparisons
Halo Infinite Key Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Engine | Slipspace Engine |
| Genre | First-Person Shooter, Open World (elements), Sci-Fi |
| Initial Release | 2021-12-08 (Campaign & Multiplayer Full Release) |
| Developer | 343 Industries |
| Publisher | Xbox Game Studios |
| Setting | Zeta Halo (Installation 07), Year 2560 |
| Perspective | First-Person |
| Platforms | PC (Windows), Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S |
| Multiplayer | Free-to-Play (Arena 4v4, Big Team Battle 12v12, Ranked, Custom Games, Forge) |
| Unique Feature | Grappleshot Traversal & Combat, Semi-Open World Campaign on Zeta Halo, Free-to-Play Multiplayer with Seasonal Content, Forge Mode (Extensive Map/Mode Editor). |
Halo Infinite System Requirements
1080p
tune Minimum (Targets 1080p, Low/Medium settings) – Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF (or low if supported by GPU)
tune Recommended (Targets 1080p, High settings, ~60 FPS) – High Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing Low/Medium (if enabled)
1440p
tune High (Targets 1440p, High/Ultra settings, ~60 FPS) – High/Ultra Preset, 1440p resolution, Ray Tracing Medium/High (if enabled)
2160p
tune Ultra (Targets 2160p/4K, High/Ultra settings, ~60 FPS with potential upscaling) – High/Ultra Preset, 2160p (4K) resolution (Upscaling like FSR may be needed for 60FPS), Ray Tracing Medium/High
Halo Infinite Laptop Recommendations
memory Intel Core I5 11400 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 2050 55W
storage 8GB DDR4-3200MHz
749
Model: ASUS TUF Gaming F15 with RTX 2050 and Intel i5
memory CPU: Intel Core I5 11400 H (Score: 499)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2050 (Score: 5130) @ 55W TGP
storage RAM: 8GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 512GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I7 12700 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3070 140W
storage 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
1349
Model: MSI Pulse GL66 with RTX 3070 and i7 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I7 12700 H (Score: 900)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Score: 6600) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I9 13900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4060 140W
storage 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
999
Model: Acer Nitro V with RTX 4060 and i9 13th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 13900 H (Score: 1058)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-5200MHz
save Storage: 512GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I9 14900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 4060 140W
storage 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
1749
Model: Lenovo Legion Pro 5i (i9-14900HX, RTX 4060)
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 14900 H (Score: 1200)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 4060 (Score: 6700) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-5600MHz
save Storage: 2000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1600 (WQXGA)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I9 12900 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3070 TI 150W
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
1397
Model: Asus Rog Strix Scar 15 with RTX 3070 Ti and i9 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I9 12900 H (Score: 1030)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 TI (Score: 7100) @ 150W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I5 12450 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3050 75W
storage 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
645
Model: HP Victus 15 with RTX 3050 and i5 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I5 12450 H (Score: 628)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 (Score: 7220) @ 75W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory Intel Core I5 12500 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3050 TI 80W
storage 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
710
Model: Acer Nitro 5 with RTX 3050 Ti and i5 12th Gen
memory CPU: Intel Core I5 12500 H (Score: 633)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 TI (Score: 7220) @ 80W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 512GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3050 75W
storage 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
799
Model: ASUS TUF A15 with RTX 3050 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 7435 HS (Score: 1655)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3050 (Score: 7220) @ 75W TGP
storage RAM: 32GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory AMD Ryzen 7 680 H
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3060 140W
storage 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
1299
Model: ASUS ROG Strix G15 with RTX 3060 and Ryzen 7
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 680 H (Score: 880)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3060 (Score: 7448) @ 140W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR5-4800MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 1920 x 1080 (FHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
memory AMD Ryzen 9 590 HS
developer_board NVIDIA RTX 3080 100W
storage 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
1489
Model: ASUS ROG Zephyrus G15 Ultra with RTX 3080 and Ryzen 9
memory CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 590 HS (Score: 820)
developer_board GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3080 (Score: 7904) @ 100W TGP
storage RAM: 16GB DDR4-3200MHz
save Storage: 1000GB NVMe
desktop_windows Display: 2560 x 1440 (QHD)
Meets criteria for tier: 1080p - Minimum (Low/Medium Preset, 1080p resolution, Ray Tracing OFF).
-
Core Requirements
- desktop_windowsOperating System: Windows 10 (October 2018 Update or newer) or Windows 11 (64-bit versions only)
A 64-bit version of Windows 10 (RS5/1809 or later) or Windows 11 is required.
- memoryDirectX: DirectX 12 Ultimate
DirectX 12 is required. DX12 Ultimate support is beneficial for features like ray tracing (e.g., for sun shadows, ambient occlusion) and Variable Rate Shading (VRS).
- save_altStorage Note: 50 GB available space (SSD Highly Recommended, NVMe for best experience)
An SSD is strongly recommended for all tiers for faster loading times and smoother texture streaming. An NVMe SSD is ideal for the best performance. Required space may increase with updates.
settings_applications Optimization Notes:
Upscaling: Supports AMD FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR 2.2 reported). Features an in-game dynamic resolution scaler ('Minimum Framerate' setting). Support for other technologies like DLSS or XeSS is not officially confirmed but could be implemented by this date.
Key Settings: Texture Quality, Shadow Quality (especially Ray-Traced Sun Shadows), Ambient Occlusion, Geometry Detail, Reflections, Volumetric Fog, and Anti-Aliasing significantly impact performance. Using the dynamic resolution scaler or FSR is recommended for balancing visual quality and framerates, especially at higher resolutions or with ray tracing.
Halo Infinite: Post-Launch Content / DLC
The multiplayer component has received ongoing support through seasonal content updates, including new maps, modes, weapons, armor customization, battle passes, and limited-time events. Campaign co-op (up to 4 players online) and Forge mode (map editor) were added in major post-launch updates. No major paid story expansions for the campaign have been released as of mid-2024, but 343i has mentioned future 'story drops'.
Halo Infinite: Game Editions
The Halo Infinite Campaign was sold as a standalone purchase or included with Xbox Game Pass. The Multiplayer component is free-to-play. A Collector's Edition was available with physical items like a SteelBook case, art prints, plasma pistol bottle opener, and in-game bonuses. Various cosmetic bundles are sold in the multiplayer store.
Halo Infinite: Cross-Platform / Crossplay
Halo Infinite supports full cross-platform play between Xbox consoles (Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S) and PC (Windows Store, Steam) for its multiplayer modes. Cross-progression for multiplayer (battle pass, customization, stats) is also supported via the player's Xbox account.
Halo Infinite Specific Game Elements
Halo Infinite Weapons
- securityBanished Plasma Weapons (Pulse Carbine, Plasma Pistol, Ravager, Stalker Rifle) (Covenant/Banished Energy Weapons (Plasma))
Energy-based weapons favored by the Banished. Pulse Carbine fires tracking plasma bolts. Plasma Pistol can charge an EMP shot. Ravager fires bouncing AoE plasma. Stalker Rifle is a mid-to-long range precision plasma weapon.
- securityBanished Power Weapons (Gravity Hammer, Energy Sword, Shock Rifle, Disruptor, Mangler) (Covenant/Banished Heavy/Special Weapons)
Gravity Hammer for devastating melee AoE. Energy Sword for lethal melee lunges. Shock Rifle fires an electrical beam that can chain between targets. Disruptor deals damage over time with shock. Mangler is a powerful spike-firing revolver.
- securityEquipment (Grappleshot, Threat Sensor, Drop Wall, Thruster, Repulsor - Multiplayer) (Utility/Traversal/Defensive Gear)
Player-activated abilities with cooldowns. Grappleshot for traversal/combat. Threat Sensor reveals enemies. Drop Wall provides temporary cover. Thruster for quick directional dashes. Repulsor (MP) deflects projectiles/pushes enemies.
- securityForerunner/Sentinel Weapons (Heatwave, Sentinel Beam, Cindershot) (Alien Energy Weapons (Hardlight/Incendiary))
Advanced Forerunner or Sentinel technology. Heatwave fires ricocheting hardlight projectiles (horizontal or vertical spread). Sentinel Beam is a continuous laser. Cindershot launches bouncing explosive projectiles.
- securityGrenades (Frag, Plasma, Spike, Dynamo) (Throwable Explosives/Utility)
Frag for standard explosions. Plasma sticks to targets. Spike fires damaging flechettes. Dynamo creates an electrical field that damages and stuns.
- securityUNSC Ballistic Weapons (MA40 AR, BR75 Battle Rifle, VK78 Commando, CQS48 Bulldog, S7 Sniper, MK50 Sidekick) (Human Firearms (Kinetic))
Standard UNSC firearms. Assault Rifle for general use, Battle Rifle for mid-range precision, Commando for versatile auto/semi-auto fire, Bulldog shotgun for close quarters, Sniper Rifle for long range, Sidekick pistol as a reliable backup.
- securityUNSC Power Weapons (M41 SPNKr Rocket Launcher, Skewer, Hydra) (Human Heavy/Explosive Firearms)
SPNKr for anti-vehicle/large groups. Skewer is a Banished anti-vehicle spike launcher adopted by UNSC. Hydra fires lock-on micro-missiles.
Halo Infinite Vehicles
- directions_carBanished Banshee (Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft) (Aerial Attack/Support Craft)
An agile Banished atmospheric fighter armed with plasma cannons and a fuel rod cannon. Can be hijacked for aerial combat.
- directions_carBanished Chopper (Type-25 Brute Prowler) (Ground Assault Cycle)
A heavily armored Banished ground vehicle with a large front wheel that can shred obstacles and enemies, armed with autocannons. Can be hijacked.
- directions_carBanished Ghost (Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle) (Light Scout/Attack Hovercraft)
A fast, agile Banished hovercraft armed with twin plasma cannons. Can be hijacked and piloted by Master Chief.
- directions_carBanished Phantom (Type-57 Dropship - Enemy Transport) (Dropship / Gunship (AI Controlled Enemy))
Banished dropship used for deploying troops and providing air support. Generally an enemy target rather than a pilotable vehicle for the player.
- directions_carBanished Wraith (Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage) (Armored Mortar Tank)
A Banished hover tank armed with a powerful plasma mortar and a secondary plasma turret. Slow but heavily armored. Can be hijacked.
- directions_carUNSC Gungoose (M290-M ATV with Grenade Launchers) (Armed Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle)
A Mongoose variant equipped with front-mounted grenade launchers, providing light offensive capabilities.
- directions_carUNSC Mongoose (M290 ATV) (Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle)
A fast and agile ATV, primarily for quick transport of one or two Spartans. No inherent weaponry but passengers can fire their own weapons. Can be called in at FOBs.
- directions_carUNSC Pelican (D77-TC / D79-TC - Primarily for Transport/Support) (Dropship / Gunship (AI Controlled for Player))
The Pelican piloted by Echo-216 serves as Master Chief's primary means of fast travel between major discovered locations/FOBs and for specific mission deployments/extractions. Not directly pilotable by the player in free roam campaign.
- directions_carUNSC Scorpion (M808 Main Battle Tank) (Main Battle Tank)
A heavily armored and powerfully armed UNSC tank. Features a main cannon and a coaxial machine gun. Slow but devastating. Can be called in at FOBs (later in Valor progression).
- directions_carUNSC Warthog (M12 LRV, M12R Rocket Hog, M12G1 Gauss Hog) (Light Reconnaissance Vehicle / Light Attack Vehicle)
The iconic UNSC ground vehicle. Standard variant has a chain gun turret. Rocket Hog variant has rocket launchers. Gauss Hog variant has a powerful Gauss cannon. Fast and versatile for traversing Zeta Halo. Can be called in at FOBs.
- directions_carUNSC Wasp (AV-49 VTOL) (Vertical Take-Off and Landing Air Vehicle)
A nimble UNSC aerial vehicle equipped with machine guns and missiles. Excellent for air support and traversing large vertical distances or across islands on Zeta Halo. Can be called in at FOBs (later in Valor progression).
Halo Infinite Characters
- personAtriox (Mentioned / Flashbacks - Leader of The Banished) - Overarching Antagonist Figure
The supreme leader of the Banished. While not directly fought in the main campaign, his presence and past actions (defeating Cortana, taking Zeta Halo) are a driving force behind the conflict. Appears in logs and cutscenes.
- personCortana (Flashbacks / Echoes) - Former AI Companion / Antagonist (Halo 5) / Key Lore Figure
Master Chief's former AI partner. Her actions in Halo 5 and her subsequent destruction by Atriox are central to the backstory and The Weapon's creation. She appears through flashbacks and data echoes.
- personEcho-216 (Fernando Esparza - 'The Pilot') - Ally / UNSC Pelican Pilot
A civilian UNSC contractor pilot who rescues Master Chief. Initially terrified and wanting to escape Zeta Halo, he becomes a reluctant but crucial ally, providing transportation and emotional grounding for the Chief.
- personEscharum - Main Antagonist / War Chief of the Banished on Zeta Halo
The aging but still formidable Jiralhanae (Brute) War Chief leading the Banished forces on Installation 07. He is Atriox's mentor and seeks a glorious final battle against Master Chief, viewing him as a worthy adversary.
- personJega 'Rdomnai - Antagonist / Banished Blademaster / Spartan Killer
An elite Sangheili (Elite) Blademaster serving Escharum, known for his stealth, cybernetic enhancements, and prowess in hunting Spartans. A recurring boss character.
- personMaster Chief Petty Officer John-117 - Protagonist / Spartan-II Super-Soldier (playable)
The legendary Spartan hero. After being defeated by Escharum and presumed lost, he is rescued and embarks on a mission to stop the Banished on Zeta Halo and uncover the secrets of The Endless, while grappling with the legacy of Cortana.
- personThe Harbinger - Antagonist / Emissary of The Endless
A mysterious and powerful alien entity allied with the Banished. She seeks to unleash The Endless, an ancient species imprisoned by the Forerunners on Zeta Halo. Serves as a major antagonist with unique abilities.
- personThe Weapon (UNSC AI - Serial Number CTN 0452-9) - Ally / AI Companion
A new 'smart' AI created as a copy of Cortana, designed to infiltrate Zeta Halo's systems and capture Cortana for deletion. She becomes Master Chief's primary AI companion, providing tactical information, hacking assistance, and undergoing significant character development.
- personTremonius, Chak 'Lok, Bassus (Banished High-Value Targets / Bosses) - Antagonists / Banished Commanders
High-ranking Banished officers that Master Chief confronts as mini-bosses or key targets during the campaign. Each has unique weaponry and combat styles.
- personVarious UNSC Marines & Survivors - Allies (Contextual)
Scattered UNSC Marine forces that Master Chief can rescue on Zeta Halo. Once rescued, they may assist in local skirmishes or can be called in as support at liberated FOBs.
Top 3 Characters (Campaign - Subjective):
Chief (John-117): The iconic Spartan super-soldier, stoic and determined, facing one of his toughest challenges yet as he tries to save humanity and confront his past regarding Cortana. 2. 'The Weapon' (AI): A new AI created to contain Cortana. She is initially naive but resourceful, developing a strong bond with Master Chief and undergoing significant character growth. 3. Escharum: The aging but formidable Jiralhanae War Chief of the Banished forces on Zeta Halo. Serves as a primary antagonist, driven by a desire for a glorious final battle against the Master Chief.
Halo Infinite Missions / Objectives
- flagBanished Outpost Destruction
Objective: Assault and destroy larger Banished facilities and strongholds (distinct from FOBs). These often involve multiple objectives like sabotaging key structures, eliminating commanders, or rescuing captured UNSC personnel. Rewards Valor and clears a significant Banished presence from an area.
- flagCollecting Spartan Cores, Mjolnir Lockers, Audio Logs, Skulls
Objective: Systematically explore Zeta Halo to find all hidden collectibles. Spartan Cores for suit upgrades, Mjolnir Lockers for multiplayer cosmetics, Audio Logs for lore, and Skulls for gameplay modifiers.
- flagExploring Forerunner Structures & Archives
Objective: Discover and investigate ancient Forerunner installations, spires, and data archives to uncover lore about Zeta Halo, the Forerunners, the Flood, and The Endless. Often involves light puzzle-solving or navigating complex environments.
- flagForward Operating Base (FOB) Liberation
Objective: Capture Banished-controlled Forward Operating Bases scattered across Zeta Halo. This typically involves defeating all Banished forces at the location. Liberating a FOB reveals nearby points of interest on the Tac-Map (world map), provides a fast travel point, and allows Chief to spend Valor to call in weapons, vehicles, and Marine support.
- flagHigh-Value Target (HVT) Elimination
Objective: Track down and eliminate specific named Banished leaders or elite warriors designated as High-Value Targets. These are optional mini-boss encounters found in the open world, often with unique weapon variants or abilities. Defeating them rewards Valor and unlocks their modified weapon at FOBs.
- flagMain Story Missions (Campaign)
Objective: A series of linear narrative missions that advance the primary storyline of Master Chief fighting the Banished on Zeta Halo, uncovering the mystery of The Endless, and his evolving relationship with 'The Weapon' and 'The Pilot'. These missions often take place in specific Forerunner structures, Banished fortresses, or unique environmental set pieces within the larger open world zones.
- flagPropaganda Tower Destruction
Objective: Find and destroy Banished propaganda towers broadcasting messages across Zeta Halo. This involves disabling their power source, often requiring some platforming or combat. Rewards Valor.
- flagUNSC Marine Rescue
Objective: Locate and rescue squads of UNSC Marines captured by the Banished or pinned down by enemy forces. Successfully rescuing them rewards Valor and often adds those Marines as temporary AI allies in the immediate vicinity or to FOB garrisons.
Top 3 Missions/Objectives (Campaign - Subjective):
Forward Operating Bases (FOBs): Capturing these Banished outposts reveals nearby points of interest on the Tac-Map, provides a fast travel point, and allows Chief to call in weapons, vehicles, and Marine support. 2. Assaulting Banished Strongholds/Outposts (e.g., The Tower, Excavation Site, Spire): Major story or side missions involving infiltrating and destroying key Banished facilities, often culminating in a boss fight or significant objective. 3. Main Story Missions involving 'The Weapon' and uncovering Forerunner secrets: Missions that delve into the central narrative, exploring Forerunner structures and the evolving relationship between Master Chief and 'The Weapon'.
Halo Infinite Companions / Summons
- groupEcho-216 ('The Pilot' - Fernando Esparza) (Human (UNSC Contractor))
Ability: Rescues Master Chief and pilots the Pelican dropship, serving as his primary means of transport between major landmasses on Zeta Halo (though not directly controllable by the player for free flight). He provides emotional commentary, narrative exposition, and represents the perspective of an ordinary human caught in the conflict. He does not participate directly in combat with Chief.
- groupThe Weapon (UNSC AI - CTN 0452-9) (Artificial Intelligence)
Ability: Master Chief's primary companion throughout the campaign. She interfaces with Forerunner and UNSC systems, provides tactical information, mission objectives, backstory, and emotional support. She can hack terminals, open doors, analyze data, and her developing relationship with Chief is a core narrative element. Not a direct combatant but crucial for progression and understanding the world.
- groupUNSC Marines (Rescued Squads / FOB Support) (Human (UNSC Soldiers))
Ability: Master Chief can rescue squads of captured UNSC Marines across Zeta Halo. Once rescued, they may assist in local skirmishes or can be called in as AI fireteam support (with varying weapon loadouts based on Valor progression) when Chief assaults Banished outposts or requests aid at a Forward Operating Base (FOB). Their effectiveness varies, but they can provide covering fire and draw enemy attention.
Halo Infinite Collectibles
- collections_bookmarkBanished Audio Logs
Location/Use: Data pads from Banished forces (Grunts, Brutes, Elites, Escharum himself). These offer insight into Banished culture, their motivations for being on Zeta Halo, internal conflicts, and their perspective on the war and Master Chief.
- collections_bookmarkForerunner Artifacts (Rings / Archives)
Location/Use: Mysterious Forerunner structures or data archives found across Zeta Halo. Interacting with them provides glimpses into Forerunner history, their conflict with the Flood and The Endless, and the purpose of the Halo rings. Unlocks entries in the Database.
- collections_bookmarkMjolnir Armor Lockers
Location/Use: Green UNSC lockers found throughout Zeta Halo. Each locker contains a unique cosmetic item (e.g., armor coating, emblem, weapon charm, AI color, stance) for use in Halo Infinite's multiplayer customization.
- collections_bookmarkPropaganda Towers (Banished)
Location/Use: Banished communication towers broadcasting propaganda across Zeta Halo. Destroying these towers (by disabling their power source) silences the broadcasts, earns Valor, and reveals nearby points of interest. Not a traditional 'collectible' but a clearable map icon.
- collections_bookmarkSkulls
Location/Use: Well-hidden collectibles, a staple of the Halo series. Each Skull, when activated for a new playthrough or mission replay, enables a gameplay modifier that typically increases difficulty or adds a humorous effect (e.g., Grunts explode into confetti, enemies have more health, no HUD).
- collections_bookmarkSpartan Cores
Location/Use: Found in distinct silver UNSC or Banished crates scattered across Zeta Halo, often in hidden areas or as rewards for minor encounters. Used by Master Chief to upgrade his five core pieces of equipment: Grappleshot, Shield Core, Threat Sensor, Drop Wall, and Thruster.
- collections_bookmarkUNSC Audio Logs
Location/Use: Data pads left behind by UNSC personnel before or during the Banished attack. These provide personal stories, tactical information, and lore about the UNSC's final stand on Zeta Halo and the events leading up to Master Chief's arrival.
Top 3 Collectibles (Campaign):
Cores: Found in UNSC and Banished crates. Used to upgrade Master Chief's five equipment abilities (Grappleshot, Shield Core, Threat Sensor, Drop Wall, Thruster). 2. Mjolnir Armor Lockers: Contain cosmetic items (armor coatings, emblems, stances, etc.) for use in Halo Infinite's multiplayer. 3. Audio Logs (UNSC & Banished): Data pads containing audio recordings that provide backstory on the UNSC's defeat, the Banished occupation, Forerunner mysteries, and personal stories of soldiers and Banished members.
Halo Infinite Armor
- shieldMjolnir Powered Assault Armor (Mark VI [GEN3] - Master Chief's Suit)
Focus/Stats: Master Chief's advanced powered armor. Provides energy shielding (recharges), health (underneath shields), and integrates his equipment (Grappleshot, Shield Core, Threat Sensor, Drop Wall, Thruster). Shield strength can be upgraded using Spartan Cores. Does not have swappable armor pieces for stat changes in campaign; visual customization is for multiplayer.
- shieldMultiplayer Armor Customization (Cores, Helmets, Chests, Shoulders, Knees, Visors, Coatings, Emblems, etc.)
Focus/Stats: In Halo Infinite's free-to-play multiplayer, players can extensively customize their Spartan's appearance. Armor is based on 'Cores' (e.g., Mark VII, Mark V [B], Yoroi, Rakshasa, Eaglestrike) which act as a base. Players then equip various helmets, chest pieces, shoulder pads, knee pads, visors, apply armor coatings (color schemes), and emblems. These are primarily cosmetic and do not affect gameplay stats, promoting a balanced playing field.
- shieldShield Core Upgrades
Focus/Stats: Using Spartan Cores, Master Chief can upgrade his Mjolnir armor's shield generator, increasing the total number of shield segments (effectively more shield health) and potentially shield recharge rate or resilience.
Halo Infinite Clothing / Appearance
- checkroomMaster Chief's Mjolnir Armor (Mark VI GEN3)
Details: In the single-player campaign, Master Chief's Mjolnir armor has a fixed appearance reflecting its latest generation. There are no options to change its visual design or color scheme within the campaign itself. Upgrades are functional (Shield Core, Equipment) rather than cosmetic.
- checkroomMultiplayer Spartan Armor Customization
Details: Halo Infinite's free-to-play multiplayer features an extensive armor customization system. Players customize their personal Spartan using: - Armor Cores: Base armor models (e.g., Mark VII, Mark V [B] from Reach, Yoroi samurai-themed, Rakshasa, Eaglestrike). - Helmets: Various helmet designs for each core. - Visors: Different colors and patterns for the helmet's visor. - Chest Attachments: Additional armor plating or gear for the chest. - Shoulder Pads: Left and right shoulder armor pieces. - Knee Pads: Protective gear for the knees. - Gloves: Different glove designs. - Wrist Attachments: Utility items or cosmetic pieces for the wrist. - Utility/Hip Attachments: Pouches or gear attached to the hip/thigh. - Armor Coatings: Overall color schemes and material finishes for the armor. - Armor Emblems: Decals that can be applied to armor pieces. - Armor Effects: Special visual effects like flames or energy auras (often from events or store). - Mythic Effect Sets: Themed sets that can change helmet, armor, and death effects. These are unlocked through the Battle Pass, in-game events, challenges, or purchased from the store. They are purely cosmetic.
- checkroomVehicle Coatings & Emblems (Multiplayer)
Details: Multiplayer vehicles can also be customized with different paint jobs (coatings) and emblems.
- checkroomWeapon Coatings & Charms (Multiplayer)
Details: In multiplayer, players can apply cosmetic coatings (skins) to their weapons and attach small weapon charms for personalization.
Halo Infinite Other Features & Info
- labelMultiplayer Modes
Halo Infinite's free-to-play multiplayer offers a wide range of modes: Arena (4v4 competitive modes like Slayer, Capture the Flag, Oddball, King of the Hill on smaller maps), Big Team Battle (12v12 objective-based modes like Slayer, CTF, Total Control, Stockpile on larger maps with vehicles), Ranked Arena, Bot Bootcamp (vs AI), Custom Games, and limited-time event playlists. Forge mode allows for extensive user-created maps and game modes.
- labelUser Interface
Classic Halo first-person HUD displaying shields, health (when shields are down), ammo count, grenade count, equipped weapon, and radar (motion tracker). Objective markers and threat indicators are present. Menus for multiplayer customization, campaign map (Tac-Map), upgrades, and database (lore) are accessible. The Tac-Map in campaign is crucial for navigating Zeta Halo.
- labelSound and Music
Original score composed by Gareth Coker, Curtis Schweitzer, and Joel Corelitz, featuring a blend of classic Halo orchestral themes with new, more atmospheric and emotional pieces that reflect the open-world setting and narrative tone. Sound design includes iconic Halo weapon sounds, distinct alien vocalizations (Banished taunts, Grunt screams), vehicle effects, and immersive environmental audio. The classic Halo 'monk chant' theme is prominently featured.
- labelGraphics and Visuals
Developed on the new Slipspace Engine, Halo Infinite showcases detailed environments on Zeta Halo, from lush forests and Forerunner structures to Banished fortifications. It features dynamic lighting, weather effects, and detailed character/weapon models. While the initial campaign visuals received mixed reactions, subsequent updates and the multiplayer's art style have been generally well-received. Ray tracing for sun shadows was added to PC and Xbox Series X post-launch.
- labelAccessibility Features
Offers a range of accessibility options, including full controller and keyboard/mouse remapping, extensive subtitle and caption customization (size, background, speaker names), colorblind modes, options for aim assist strength, options to change hold actions to toggles, UI narration, text-to-speech and speech-to-text for chat, and various visual/audio adjustments.
- labelStory and Setting
Set in 2560, approximately 18 months after Halo 5: Guardians. The UNSC flagship Infinity is ambushed and defeated by the Banished fleet over the Forerunner ringworld, Zeta Halo (Installation 07). The Master Chief, John-117, is defeated by the Banished War Chief Escharum and cast into space. He is later rescued by a Pelican pilot, Echo-216, and teams up with a new AI, 'The Weapon' (a copy of Cortana designed to capture her), to explore the damaged Zeta Halo, rally scattered UNSC survivors, and stop the Banished from reactivating the ring and unleashing an ancient threat known as The Endless. The story explores themes of hope, loss, the legacy of Cortana, and the Chief's enduring purpose.
- labelMap Size and Regions (Zeta Halo)
The campaign of Halo Infinite takes place on a significant portion of Zeta Halo, presented as a large, semi-open world broken into several interconnected islands or landmasses. This is a departure from previous Halo games' linear mission structures. Players can freely explore these zones, discovering main story missions, liberating UNSC Forward Operating Bases (FOBs), destroying Banished strongholds and propaganda towers, rescuing Marine squads, assassinating High-Value Targets (HVTs), and finding collectibles. Key areas include forested regions, mountainous terrain, Forerunner structures, and Banished fortifications. While vast, it's not a fully seamless single map but rather large explorable zones connected by story progression or specific traversal means. Specific sq km is difficult to ascertain, but it's the largest single explorable area in a Halo campaign.
- labelSkills and Upgrades Overview (Suit Abilities, Valor)
Master Chief can upgrade five core pieces of equipment using Spartan Cores found in the open world: Grappleshot (reduced cooldown, electrification, shockwave), Shield Core (increased shield capacity), Threat Sensor (increased radius/duration), Drop Wall (increased strength/size, adds shockwave), and Thruster (reduced cooldown, adds cloak). There isn't a traditional XP-based leveling system or skill tree for combat abilities beyond these equipment upgrades. Valor is earned by completing open-world activities (rescuing marines, destroying propaganda, etc.), which unlocks new weapons, vehicles, and marine variants that can be called in at FOBs.
- labelTop 5 Weapons (Subjective/Iconic)
- 1. MA40 Assault Rifle: The iconic UNSC workhorse rifle, versatile for most encounters. 2. Grappleshot (Equipment): While not a weapon, its utility for traversal, stunning enemies, and grabbing items makes it indispensable. 3. S7 Sniper Rifle: For long-range precision takedowns. 4. M41 SPNKr Rocket Launcher: Devastating anti-vehicle and anti-large enemy firepower. 5. CQS48 Bulldog (Shotgun): Powerful close-quarters shotgun, replacing the traditional pump-action.
- labelTop 3 Gameplay Mechanics
- 1. Grappleshot: A versatile new piece of equipment allowing Master Chief to grapple onto surfaces for enhanced traversal, pull himself towards enemies, grab items (weapons, fusion coils), and stun unshielded foes. 2. Semi-Open World Exploration on Zeta Halo: Players can freely explore large sections of the ring, undertaking main missions, side objectives, and discovering collectibles at their own pace, using vehicles or the Grappleshot. 3. Valor System & FOBs: Liberating Forward Operating Bases allows players to spend Valor (earned from open-world activities) to call in specific weapons, vehicles, and Marine fireteams, providing on-demand support.
Halo Infinite Frequently Asked Questions
- help_outline Is Halo Infinite's campaign open world?Halo Infinite's campaign features a 'semi-open world' or 'wide-linear' design for a large portion of Zeta Halo. Players can freely explore large, interconnected regions, tackle main missions, and engage in numerous side activities like liberating FOBs, destroying Banished strongholds, and hunting High-Value Targets. However, it's not a fully seamless single open world; progression to new major landmasses is often tied to story advancement.
- help_outline Is Halo Infinite's multiplayer free-to-play?Yes, the multiplayer component of Halo Infinite is entirely free-to-play on Xbox consoles and PC. The campaign is a separate purchase or included with Xbox Game Pass.
- help_outline What is the Grappleshot?The Grappleshot is a new piece of equipment for Master Chief in Halo Infinite. It's a wrist-mounted grappling hook that allows him to quickly pull himself towards surfaces, enemies, or objects. It can be used for traversal, stunning unshielded enemies, grabbing weapons or fusion coils, and even hijacking vehicles. It can be upgraded with Spartan Cores.
- help_outline Does Halo Infinite have campaign co-op?Yes, online campaign co-op for up to 4 players was added to Halo Infinite in a post-launch update. Players can experience the main story together, with shared progression for the host.
- help_outline What is Forge mode in Halo Infinite?Forge is a powerful map and game mode editor that allows players to create and share their own custom Halo experiences. It was added to Halo Infinite in a major post-launch update, offering extensive tools for building unique environments, scripting game logic, and designing new modes.
- help_outline Who are The Banished?The Banished are a mercenary faction, primarily composed of Jiralhanae (Brutes), but also including other former Covenant species like Sangheili, Unggoy, and Kig-Yar. They splintered from the Covenant Empire and are led by Atriox (though Escharum leads their forces on Zeta Halo in Infinite). They are known for their brutal tactics and salvaged, heavily modified weaponry.
- help_outline What are Spartan Cores used for?Spartan Cores are collectibles found in the Halo Infinite campaign. They are used to upgrade Master Chief's five equipment abilities: Grappleshot (e.g., reduced cooldown, electrification), Shield Core (e.g., increased shield strength), Threat Sensor (e.g., increased radius), Drop Wall (e.g., increased strength), and Thruster (e.g., reduced cooldown).