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{{Title|''Halo: Reach''}}
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{{Era|RE|RW}}
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{{Ratings}}
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{{Game Info Box
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|name='''''Halo: Reach'''''
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|image=Halo Reach (Standard with ESRB).png
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|Developer=[[Bungie|Bungie LLC]]
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|Publisher=[[Microsoft|Microsoft Game Studios]]
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|US Date Released=[[2010|September 14, 2010]]
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|UK Date Released=[[2010|September 14, 2010]]
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|Genre=[[First-Person Shooter]]
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|Game modes=[[Campaign]]; [[Cooperative Play|Co-op]]; [[Multiplayer]]; [[Firefight]]; [[Forge]]; [[Theater]];
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|ESRB= Mature (M) for Blood and Violence
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|Platform=[[Xbox 360]]
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|Designer =[[Marcus R. Lehto]]<br/>
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[[Luke Smith]]<br/>
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[[Tyson Green]]
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|Writer =
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Peter O' Brien<br/>
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[[Robert McLees]]
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|Composer = [[Martin O'Donnell]]<br/>
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[[Michael Salvatori]]
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|Media=DVD
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|Website=[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Reach/ '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Project Page'']
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}}
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{{Quote|From the beginning, you know the end.|Game tagline<ref>[[Halo: Reach Announcement Trailer]]</ref>}}
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'''''Halo: Reach''''' is a [[Wikipedia:First-person shooter|first-person shooter]] video game set in the [[halo Universe|''Halo'' universe]] and direct prequel to ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', depicting the [[Fall of Reach]]. It was developed by the programing company called [[Bungie|Bungie, LLC.]] and published by [[Microsoft|Microsoft Game Studios]] for the Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 S console only.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Reach/default.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Project Page'']</ref><ref name="worth">[http://worthplaying.com/article/2009/9/16/interviews/68467/ '''Worthplaying.com''' - ''"Halo 3: ODST" Developer Interview'']</ref> It was announced by [[Joseph Staten|Joe Staten]] during Microsoft's Media Briefing at E3 2009; ''Reach'' was released on September 14, 2010 in [[Wikipedia:North America|North America]], [[Wikipedia:Europe|Europe]], [[Wikipedia:Australia|Australia]], and [[Wikipedia:Asia|Asia]] with the exclusion of [[Wikipedia:Japan|Japan]] whose release was a day later.<ref name="bnet">[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=news&cid=26642 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010!]''</ref>
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Upon the first day of release, ''Reach'' grossed over $200 million, surpassing ''[[Halo 3]]''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s record of $170 million.<ref>[http://gameinformer.com/b/news/archive/2010/09/15/how-much-cash-did-halo-reach-bring-in-on-day-one.aspx '''Game Informer''': ''How Much Cash Did Halo Reach Bring In On Day One?'']</ref>
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==Synopsis==
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[[File:Concept 03.jpg|300px|right|thumb|Concept art showing Noble Team interacting with civilians and UNSC Army troopers.]]
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===Characters and setting===
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''Halo: Reach'' takes place in late in the year [[2552]], during the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]] [[Fall of Reach|invasion]] of the [[Human]] colony world [[Reach]], which serves as the main military center of the [[United Nations Space Command|UNSC]]. The game follows [[Noble Team]], a six-man special operations unit of one [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN-II]] and five [[SPARTAN-III Program|SPARTAN-III]] commandos. The player assumes the role of the team's latest member, [[SPARTAN-B312]] or "Noble Six" and will be defending Reach from its ultimate downfall at the hands of the Covenant forces.<ref>[http://previews.teamxbox.com/xbox-360/2503/Halo-Reach/p1/ '''TeamXbox''': ''X10 First Look: Halo: Reach (Xbox 360)'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=personnel '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Project Page'']</ref>
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Over the course of the campaign, the players will visit various locales on and above planet Reach which includes remote civilian homesteads, high-tech ONI facilities such as [[Sword Base]], the metropolitan city of [[New Alexandria]], as well as a segment of space combat in a [[YSS-1000|Sabre]] fighter.<ref>[[Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer|'''Halo: Reach''' ''E3 2010 Trailer'']]</ref> The player will also encounter indigenous creatures such as the [[Moa]] and the [[Gúta|Gúta.]]
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===Plot===
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''Halo: Reach'' takes place on the UNSC fortress world of [[Reach]] during the weeks prior to ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. [[Noble Team]], a squad of [[Spartan|SPARTAN]] supersoldiers, is ordered by Colonel Urban Holland to investigate the sudden loss of transmission from the [[Visegrad Relay|Visegrad Relay Communications Outpost]]. Expecting [[Insurrectionist]]s, the team is baffled to discover that it is the work of the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]], and an invasion becomes apparent. As the Covenant begin their [[Fall of Reach|assault on the planet]], the UNSC begin their heroic yet hopeless attempt to halt the brutal alien invaders. Soon after, Noble Team is deployed to "[[Sword Base]]", an installation belonging to the [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] (ONI), for defensive purposes. [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]], mastermind of the [[SPARTAN-II Program]] and the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor worn by all SPARTAN characters, informs Noble Team that the Covenant at the relay were searching for important information pertaining to the Covenant [[The Great Journey|religion]].
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As the Covenant arrive on the planet in force, Noble Team is dispatched on various defensive missions such as assaulting a Covenant ground base and removing fortified Covenant defenses. One of these defenses was a Spire transporting Covenant forces onto Reach. Noble Five's (Jorge) and Noble Six's mission was to take down the shields protecting the Spire. After Noble Six brought down the shield of the Spire, the [[UNSC Grafton|UNSC Frigate ''Grafton'']] destroys the Spire with [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC Rounds]]. When a massive [[Long Night of Solace|supercarrier]] joins the fight and destroys UNSC Frigate Grafton, Kat comes up with a plan to strike back at the Covenant. Her idea is to sneak a [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine|Slipspace Bomb]] unto a [[Covenant corvette|Covenant Corvette]] which they would then send on a refueling run to the [[Covenant supercarrier|Covenant Supercarrier]] to activate the bomb. [[Jorge-052|Jorge]] and Six infiltrate the Corvette, intending to dock it with the supercarrier and then detonate a makeshift slipspace bomb, but the detonator malfunctions, Jorge sacrifices himself to destroy the carrier; soon thereafter a larger Covenant fleet arrives to continue the assault. Six is thrown out of the corvette by Jorge to fall back unto the planet Reach. Six lands near New Alexandria, which is already besieged by the Covenant. Noble Six regroups with the rest of the team in assisting with the evacuation of the planet, during which Kat is killed by a sniper and New Alexandria is glassed by the Covenant.
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Recalling Noble Team to Sword Base, Halsey shows them an ancient [[Forerunner]] artifact that she believes is key to winning the war. Noble Six, Carter, and [[Emile-A239|Emile]] are entrusted with taking the artificial intelligence, [[Cortana]], and the information she carries, to the {{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}, while Jun is assigned to evacuate Halsey in a Pelican dropship. Charges are detonated in the artifact, ultimately destroying it and any evidence of its information.
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During the journey to the Autumn's dry dock, Carter is hit by Banshee fire and is mortally wounded. Six and Emile jump out of the Pelican and slide down to safety. After they fight out of many caves, they encounter a Scarab, which attempts to kill the Spartans. Carter sacrifices himself and the team's Pelican to destroy the mobile assault platform. Finally, Six and Emile reach the ship breaking yards. Emile takes control of a mass driver to defend the Autumn while Captain Jacob Keyes arrives to secure Cortana. Emile is slain by Elite Zealots, and Six opts to remain on Reach and take Emile's place at the gun while the Autumn escapes. The game depicts the opening scene of Halo: Combat Evolved, in which Cortana discovers [[Installation 04]], followed by the credits and a personal message of thanks from Bungie.
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The post-credits scene puts the player in control of Noble Six's last stand against overwhelming Covenant forces. After sustaining more and more damage, Six's helmet cracks. Then before Noble Six dies, he takes off his helmet and continues to fight, but is overwhelmed by Elites and is killed. Six's shattered helmet is left discarded on the ground in a shot that mirrors the game's opening scene. Over thirty years later, the same helmet rests on the grassy plains of a now-rejuvenated Reach. Life has returned, and recolonization has begun. A narration by Halsey eulogizes Noble Team's sacrifice, which enabled the victory over the Covenant.
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==Gameplay==
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[[File:1INSURGENTWINTERCONTIGENCY.jpg|300px|right|thumb|A gameplay preview of Noble Six and Noble Team questioning a civilian.]]
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''Halo: Reach'' features many new additions to ''Halo'' while still retaining the core gameplay. The player damage system is similar to that of ''Halo: Combat Evolved'' and ''Halo 3: ODST''. The [[Heads Up Display|HUD]] highlights environmental features and overlay information about them, and the [[motion Sensor|motion sensor]] display is three-dimensional. ''Halo: Reach'' also introduces a refined [[equipment]] system known as "[[Armor Abilities]]." Pieces of equipment can now be selected upon respawning (or picked up off the ground for certain gametypes and campaign); armor abilities are reusable with a recharge time between uses. A new [[assassination]] system is also featured, in which holding down the melee button will trigger a context-sensitive, third-person assassination animation. Simply hitting the melee button allows for the old-instant-kill assassination.
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The weapon selection has been streamlined from that of ''Halo 3'', so that every weapon has a specific role. The number of different grenade types has also been reduced from that of ''Halo 3'', and [[Type-3 Antipersonnel/Antimatériel Incendiary Grenade|incendiary grenades]] and [[Type-2 Antipersonnel Fragmentation Grenade|spike grenades]] did not return. Human weapons all hit more or less instantly after pulling the trigger, giving them a more powerful feel. There is no longer dual-wielding available in ''Halo: Reach'', following the same path as ''Halo 3: ODST''. Compensating for this, the weapons that were known as dual weapons in ''Halo 3'' that are now in ''Halo: Reach'' became drastically stronger. The M6G Magnum, for example, is now almost as powerful as the M6D Pistol in ''Halo: CE'', and has an even higher rate of fire.
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Players are able to personalize their character's armor with a greater variety of customization options, and the appearance will be consistent across campaign and multiplayer, unlike in ''Halo 3'' where it would only be seen during multiplayer matches. Like in ''Halo 3'', the armor permutations are only to be cosmetic and will not affect gameplay. The design of multiplayer models in ''Halo: Reach'' differs than those previously used in ''Halo 3''; players are limited to a SPARTAN multiplayer model but given the option of changing their character's gender. Players are given the option to play as an Elite multiplayer model, though only in specific gametypes such as Firefight Versus, Invasion and other Elite-specific gametypes. Both multiplayer models have different gameplay properties; the Elite multiplayer model is physically superior, has a fully recharging health and faster shield regeneration than their SPARTAN counterpart. Overall, their only disadvantage is their massive size which makes them much more noticeable targets. This gives the SPARTANs the advantage of being more nimble and tougher to hit, especially with headshots.
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While the rest of Noble Team accompany the player for most of the game, ''Halo: Reach'' will not feature any kind of tactical squad mechanic. Much like the [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] in ''Halo 3'', the rest of the squad will fight alongside the player, but will not interact with the player, other than certain scripted actions and dialogue. The levels will be more open and teleportation in co-op will be far less strict.<ref name="EDGE">[http://www.edge-online.com/ '''EDGE Magazine'''], ''February 2010''</ref><ref name="GI">[http://gameinformer.com/mag/haloreach.aspx '''GameInformer''']: ''February 2010''</ref>
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As seen in the [[Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer|E3 2010 trailer]], a small section of the ''Halo: Reach'' campaign level [[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]] involves space combat, a new element to the game. This space battle above Reach is the first and only space combat level played in the saga.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJqw6QvSzXQ '''YouTube''': ''E3 2010 Extended Reach Campaign Mission HD'']</ref><ref name="e32010">'''[[Halo: Reach E3 Campaign Demo]]'''</ref>
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===Campaign===
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The campaign in ''Halo: Reach'' consists of eleven levels, ten of which are playable.
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#[[Noble Actual]] - ''"Welcome to Reach."'' (Only cutscene)
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#[[Winter Contingency (level)|Winter Contingency]] - ''"There's a disturbance on the frontier."''
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#[[ONI: Sword Base]] - ''"Covenant are attacking a vital ONI base. Drive the bastards off."''
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#[[Nightfall]] - ''"Move in behind enemy lines and evaluate the opposition."''
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#[[Tip of the Spear|Tip of The Spear]] - ''"Two massive armies clash! Time to go to war against the Covenant."''
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#[[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]] - "''Move up the beach and secure the launch facility. Take the battle to the Covenant Super Carrier."''
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#[[Exodus]] - ''"All is not lost. Evacuate civilians from an occupied city."''
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#[[New Alexandria (level)|New Alexandria]] - ''"Provide air support in a forest of crumbling skyscrapers."''
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#[[The Package (level)|The Package]] - ''"Your orders are to destroy Sword Base... Or are they?"''
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#[[The Pillar of Autumn (Halo: Reach level)|The Pillar of Autumn]] - ''"Deliver Halsey's data package to the Pillar of Autumn."''
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#[[Lone Wolf]] - ''"Spartans never die. They're just missing in action..."''
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===Multiplayer===
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A total of seventeen multiplayer maps are available in ''Halo: Reach'', with nine standard multiplayer maps and eight Firefight maps.
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{{Col-begin}}
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{{col-2}}
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;Multiplayer
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'''Default'''
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*[[Boardwalk]]
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*[[Boneyard]]
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*[[Countdown]]
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*[[Forge World]]
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*[[Powerhouse]]
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*[[Reflection]]
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*[[Spire]]
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*[[Sword Base (level)|Sword Base]]
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*[[Zealot (level)|Zealot]]
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'''Noble Map Pack''' {{Main|Noble Map Pack}}
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*[[Anchor 9 (level)|Anchor 9]]
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*[[Breakpoint]]
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*[[Tempest]]
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{{col-2}}
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'''Defiant Map Pack''' {{Main|Defiant Map Pack}}
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*[[Condemned]]
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*[[Highlands]]
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*[[Unearthed|Unearthed (Firefight)]]
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'''Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary''' {{Main|Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary}}
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*[[Battle Canyon]] (Beaver Creak remake)
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*Unnamed Hang 'Em High remake
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*[[Penance]] (Damnation remake)
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*[[Ridgeline]] (Timberland remake)
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*[[Solitary]] (Prisoner remake)
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*Unnamed Headlong remake
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;Firefight
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*[[Beachhead (Halo: Reach level)|Beachhead]]
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*[[Corvette (level)|Corvette]]
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*[[Courtyard]]
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*[[Glacier]]
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*[[Holdout]]
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*[[Installation 04 (firefight map)]]
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*[[Outpost (level)|Outpost]]
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*[[Overlook]]
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*[[Waterfront]]
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*[[Unearthed]]
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{{col-end}}
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==Features==
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{{col-begin}}
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{{col-2}}
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===Characters===
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*[[Auntie Dot]] {{1st}}
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*[[Avery Junior Johnson]] (Firefight voice only)
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*[[Beta Red Actual]] {{1st}}
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*[[Buckman]]
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*[[Carter-A259]] {{1st}}
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*[[Catherine-B320]] {{1st}}
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*[[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey]]
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*[[Cortana]] (Firefight voice only)
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*[[Duvall]] {{1st}}
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*[[Echo Team]] {{1st}} (Mentioned Only)
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*[[Edward Buck]]
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*[[Emile-A239]] {{1st}}
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*[[Gauntlet Team]] {{1st}} (Mentioned Only)
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*[[Jacob Keyes]]
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*[[Jake Chapman]]
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*[[John-117]] ([[John-117 in cryo|Easter egg]]/Firefight voice only)
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*[[Jorge-052]] {{1st}}
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*[[Jun-A266]] {{1st}}
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*[[Pete Stacker]]
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*[[SPARTAN-B312]] {{1st}}
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*[[Team Beta]] (Mentioned Only)
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*[[Urban Holland]] {{1st}}
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===Events===
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*[[Operation: TORPEDO]] {{Mo}}
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*[[Operation: GUARDIAN LANCE]] {{Mo}}
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*[[Fall of Reach]]
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**[[Battle of Viery]] {{1st}}
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**[[Operation: UPPER CUT|Operation: UPPERCUT]] {{1st}}
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**[[Raid on New Alexandria|Raid of New Alexandria]] {{1st}}
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**[[Evacuation of New Alexandria]] {{1st}}
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===Locations===
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*[[Epsilon Eridani system|Epsilon Eridani System]]
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**[[Fermion|Fermion Remote Scanning Outpost]] {{Mo}}
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**[[Reach]]
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***[[Natural satellite|Moons]]
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****[[Csodaszarvas]] {{1st}}
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****[[Turul]] {{1st}}
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***[[Eposz]] {{1st}}
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****[[Babd Catha Ice Shelf]] {{1st}}
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*****[[Sword Base]] {{1st}}
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*****[[Babd Catha Forerunner complex]] {{1st}}
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***[[Longhorn Valley]] {{Mo}}
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***[[Manassas]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}
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***[[New Alexandria]] {{1st}}
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***[[Orbital Defense Generator Facility A-331]] {{Mo}}
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***[[Sabre Program Launch/Research Range]] {{1st}}
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***[[Ütközet]] {{1st}}
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****[[Szurdok Ridge]] {{1st}}
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*****[[Unidentified hydroelectric power plant]] {{1st}}
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***[[Visegrad]] {{1st}}
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****[[Visegrad Relay]] {{1st}}
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*[[Lambda Serpentis system]] {{Mo}}
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**[[Jericho VII]] {{Mo}}
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*[[Harmony]] {{Mo}}
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*[[Cygnus system|Cygnus]] {{Mo}}
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===Organizations===
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*[[AMG Transport Dynamics]]
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*[[Covenant Empire]]
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**[[Covenant Army]]
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**[[Covenant Navy]]
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***''[[Fleet of Particular Justice]]''
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*[[Jotun Heavy Industries]]
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*[[Traxus Heavy Industries]]
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*[[United Nations Space Command]]
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**[[United Nations Space Command Defense Force]]
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***[[UNSC High Command]]
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****[[Unified Ground Command]]
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*****[[Special Warfare Command]]
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******[[Special Warfare Group Three]]
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*******[[Noble Team]] {{1st}}
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*******[[3 Charlie]]
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*****[[UNSC Army]]
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******[[8th Armored Brigade]] {{1st}}
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******[[34th Infantry Brigade]] {{1st}}
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******[[124th Infantry Brigade (Mechanized)]] {{1st}}
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******[[Military police|Army Military Police]] {{1st}}
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****[[UNSC Marine Corps]]
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*****[[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s
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******[[Bullfrogs]] {{1st}}
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******[[11th Shock Troops Battalion]] {{1st}}
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******[[12th Marine Regiment]] {{1st}}
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******[[22nd Shock Troops Battalion]]
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******[[105th Shock Troops Division|105th Marine Expeditionary Unit (SOC)]]
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*******[[2nd Shock Troops Battalion]]
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*******[[7th Shock Troops Battalion]]
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*****[[M/AAV-20]] {{1st}}
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*****[[VMX-22]] {{1st}}
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****[[UNSC Navy]]
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*****[[Epsilon Eridani Fleet]]
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*****[[Logistical Operations Command]] {{Mo}}
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*****[[UNSC Special Forces|Naval Special Warfare Command]]
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******[[SPARTAN-II Program]]
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*******[[Red Team]] {{Mo}}
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********[[Team Beta]] {{C|Voice only}}
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*****[[Office of Naval Intelligence]]
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******[[Beta-5 Division]]
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*******[[Asymmetrical Action Group]] {{1st}}
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*******[[Military police|Beta-5 Military Police]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}
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*******[[SPARTAN-III Program]]
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****[[YSS-1000|Sabre program]] {{1st}}
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**[[Echo Team]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}
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**[[Gauntlet Team]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}
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===Species===
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*[[Gúta]] {{1st}}
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*[[Human]]
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*[[Huragok]]<ref name="OMUtB">'''[[Halo: Reach ViDoc: Once More Unto the Breach]]'''</ref><ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63_LHQoVyxU&feature=player_embedded#! '''YouTube''': Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight]</ref>
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*[[Jiralhanae]]<ref name="OMUtB"/><ref name="HR overview">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClRHhB6yOMQ '''Youtube''': ''Machinima: Halo Reach- Invasion, Fireteams, Game Editions Overview: Bungie Explains Episode 8'']</ref><ref name="Update">[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_061110 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 06.11.10'']</ref>
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*[[Kig-yar]]
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**[[Skirmisher]] {{1st}}
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*[[Mgalekgolo]] <ref name="Update"/>
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*[[Moa]] {{1st}}
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*[[Sangheili]]
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*[[Unggoy]]
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*[[Yanme'e]]<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_061810 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 6.18.10'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070210 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 7.02.10'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=enemies&cid=28448 ''Halo: Reach'' Intel - Enemies]</ref>
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{{col-2}}
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===Vehicles===
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*''[[Anchor 9]]'' {{1st}}
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*[[Cart]]
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*[[CCS-class battlecruiser]]
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**[[Covenant corvette]]
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**''[[Ardent Prayer]]''
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*[[Covenant supercarrier]]
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**''[[Long Night of Solace]]''
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*[[Covenant assault carrier]]
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*[[Dropship 77-Troop Carrier]]
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*[[GA-TL1 Longsword-class Interceptor|GA-TL1 ''Longsword''-class Interceptor]]
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*[[Halcyon-class cruiser]]<ref name="boneyard">'''Halo: Reach''', level ''[[Boneyard]]''</ref>
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**''{{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}''
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*[[M12 Force Application Vehicle]]
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**[[M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]]
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**[[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]]
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**[[M12R Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]] {{1st}}
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*[[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle]]<ref name="HR overview"/>
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*[[M808B Main Battle Tank]]
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*[[M831 Troop Transport]]<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer|''Halo: Reach'' Video Games Awards Trailer]]''' ''(0:20)''</ref>
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*[[Orbital Insertion Pod]]
  +
*[[S-2 Traxus Cargo Transporter]]<ref>'''[[Halo Waypoint]]''' video ''Fun With Forklifts''</ref>
  +
*[[HuCiv HC1500]]
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**[[Tractor unit|Tractor Unit]]
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*[[Type-26 Assault Gun Carriage|Type-25 Assault Gun Carriage]]
  +
*[[Type-25 Troop Carrier]]
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*[[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft]]
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*[[Type-27 XMF]] {{1st}}
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*[[Type-31 XMF]]<ref name="e32010"/>
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*[[Type-32 Rapid Assault Vehicle]]
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*[[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform]] <ref>[http://i33.tinypic.com/24pbadf.jpg '''IGN''': ''Halo: Reach Screenshot'']</ref>
  +
*[[Type-48 Light Assault Gun Carriage]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-52 Troop Carrier]]
  +
*[[UH-144 Falcon]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Unidentified flatbed truck]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[UNSC frigate|UNSC Frigate]]
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}} {{Mo}}<ref>'''''Halo: Reach''''', level ''[[Overlook]]'', [[Halo: Reach radio conversations|Overlook radio conversation]]</ref>
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Commonwealth}}<ref name="boneyard"/>
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Grafton}} {{1st}}
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Savannah}} {{1st}}
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Saratoga}} {{1st}}
  +
**{{UNSCShip|Stalwart Dawn}} {{1st}}
  +
*[[YSS-1000|YSS-1000 ''Sabre'']] {{1st}}
  +
  +
===Weapons===
  +
*[[Combat knife|Combat Knife]]
  +
*[[H-165 FOM Target Locater|H-165 FOM]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Landmine]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Medusa Missile]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M1024 ASW/AC 30mm ALA Cannon]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M319 Individual Grenade Launcher]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M392 Designated Marksman Rifle]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun]]
  +
*[[M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-Vehicle/Assault Weapon]]
  +
*[[M45 Tactical Shotgun]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M68 Asynchronous Linear-Induction Motor]]
  +
*[[M6G Personal Defense Weapon System]]
  +
*[[M79 Multiple Launch Rocket System]]{{1st}}
  +
*[[M8 Automated Defense System]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade]]
  +
*[[MA37 Individual Combat Weapon System]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]]
  +
*[[MG460 Automatic Grenade Launcher]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Sniper Rifle System 99 Anti-Matériel]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-1 Antipersonnel Grenade]]
  +
*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]]
  +
*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]]
  +
*[[Type-25 Carbine]]
  +
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]]
  +
*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]]
  +
*[[Type-26 Anti-Infantry Stationary Gun]]
  +
*[[Type-31 Rifle]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]]
  +
*[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]]
  +
*[[Type-38 Anti-Aircraft Cannon]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-50 Directed Energy Rifle/Heavy]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-51 Directed Energy Rifle/Improved]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]]
  +
*[[Type-52 Guided Munitions Launcher/Explosive]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Type-52 Special Applications Rifle]]{{1st}}
  +
*[[Unnamed UNSC anti-aircraft turret]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[M6 Grindell/Galilean Nonlinear Rifle|Weapon/Anti-Vehicle Model 6 Grindell/Galileian Nonlinear Rifle]]
  +
*[[mark 2488 Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|15cm Mark/2488 1.1GJ MAC]]{{1st}}
  +
  +
===Equipment===
  +
*[[Active Camouflage]]
  +
*[[Antigravity pack|Antigravity Pack]]
  +
*[[Armor Abilities#Drop Shield|Drop Shield]]<ref>[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/109/1098584p1.html '''IGN.com''': ''E3 2010: Firefight in Halo: Reach – Bigger & Better'']</ref> {{1st}}
  +
*[[Armor Abilities#Hologram|Hologram]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark IV]]
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark IV(G)|Mark IV(G) MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V]]
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V(B)|Mark V(B) MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]] {{1st}}
  +
***[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/UA Multi-Threat variant|UA Multi-Threat variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/K variant|Commando variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/CQC variant|CQC variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[ODST battle armor#Multiplayer Variant|ODST variant]]
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/C variant|CQB variant]]
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/EOD variant|EOD variant]]
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Operator|O variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant|AA variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/FJ/PARA variant|FJ/PARA variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/HAZOP variant|HAZOP variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Military Police variant|MP variant]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/R variant|R variant]]<ref name="Update"/>
  +
*[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI]]
  +
*[[ODST battle armor|ODST Ballistic Battle Armor]]
  +
*[[Sangheili Combat Harness]]
  +
**[[Special Operations Harness]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[Sangheili General|General Harness]] {{1st}}
  +
**[[Sangheili Field Marshall|Field Marshall Harness]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Armor Abilities#Sprint|Sprinting]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Jetpack]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Unnamed shielding attachment|Unnamed Shielding Attachment]] {{1st}}
  +
*[[Portable bridge]] {{1st}}
  +
{{col-end}}
  +
  +
==Development==
  +
{{Quote|Where there will be a full three-year cycle, it's got all-new tech, akin to the change from [[Halo 2]] to [[Halo 3]], not like [[Halo 3: ODST|ODST]], which is just built on top of the foundation.|Bungie Community Manager, [[Brian Jarrard]].}}
  +
''Reach'' has been in development since the completion of ''[[Halo 3]]'', in the tradition of a full three year cycle and will use a completely new game engine created specifically for the game. It was confirmed in October 2009 that [[Martin O'Donnell]], Bungie's lead composer, had begun casting voice actors for ''Reach''.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_101609 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 10/16/2009'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_102309 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 10/23/2009'']</ref>
  +
  +
The [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta]], used to gather information and tweak gameplay features in the game, ran from May 3 through May 20, 2010. The [[Zero-bug release]] milestone in ''Halo: Reach'''s development was reached on June 24, 2010,<ref>[http://www.nobleactual.com/post/733606058/final-stretch '''Noble Actual''': ''Final stretch'']</ref> and the game's audio, including soundtrack, voices and sound effects, was finished on July 15, 2010.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=27328 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 07.16.10'']</ref> As of August 5, 2010, ''Halo: Reach'' has [[wikipedia:Software release life cycle#RTM|"gone gold"]], meaning all development of the game has been completed and mass manufacturing of the game has begun.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_080610 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update''' 08.06.10'']</ref> The game was released on September 14, 2010 as planned.
  +
  +
===Design===
  +
Bungie has taken a new design direction with ''Halo: Reach'', aiming for a more somber and gritty atmosphere. The more serious tone is also reflected in camera angles; instead of long, sweeping shots, the cinematic camera angles are actually made to look as if shot with actual cameras.
  +
  +
In many ways, the character designs, especially those of [[Sangheili]] and human personnel, harken back to ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Models for enemies and allies boast remarkable levels of new detail in form of higher-resolution textures and more polygons. Enemies and allies will have more individual features to denote ranks and provide more visual variety, such as each soldier having an individual name tag in their BDUs.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070210 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 07.02.10'']</ref> Bungie made an effort to make the Covenant feel more alien and threatening; for example, the Covenant will speak in their own languages instead of English.
  +
  +
===Engine===
  +
Bungie is using a completely redone version of the ''Halo'' engine for ''Halo: Reach'', with no component left untouched.<ref name="cvg">[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=261532 '''ComputerAndVideoGames''': ''Interview: Halo Reach'']</ref><ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/>
  +
  +
The environments, while larger than in the previous games, are far more detailed. The graphical effects have been drastically improved, allowing for a new atmospheric effects system and more dynamic lighting for dramatic shadows and moving light sources in interiors. The engine was improved with "imposters" systems; this allows very cheap textures far away, and moving closer will make them improve.<ref name="cvg"/> This was proved with the map, [[Forge World]]. Rain and fogging effects are also improved. ''Halo: Reach'' also features a new animation system, which smoothly blends movement between standing, walking and running as well as jumps, grenade throws and firing. The facial animation system has been completely revamped, including motion capture. Weapon effects are amplified to be more powerful and visceral than before, giving them a more serious tone. Human weapons will sound more powerful and emit smoke and showers of sparks. Plasma bolts now burn through material as they hit, and explosions will throw clouds of dirt and debris around.
  +
  +
''Halo: Reach'''s engine is able to support up to 40 active AI characters and 20 vehicles with AI characters on screen at once, twice as many as in ''Halo 3''. In addition, distant battles between AI characters follow automated behavior models, which convert into scripted behaviors as the player gets closer, and finally convert to full AI.<ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/>
  +
  +
===Audio===
  +
{{Quote|I want it to be more visceral, to have a bigger sense of loss, a personal feeling of sacrifice|[[Martin O'Donnell]], on the audio design of ''Halo: Reach''<ref name="popular">[http://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/digital/gaming/how-halo-reach-perfected-video-game-audio '''Popular Mechanics''': ''How Halo: Reach Perfected Video Game Audio'']</ref>}}
  +
A more serious and realistic approach has been taken in the audio design of ''Halo: Reach'' than in the previous ''Halo'' games.
  +
  +
The music of ''Reach'' was referred to as being more somber and more visceral, as the plot is more character-driven than previous ''Halo'' titles and that it focuses on a planet known to have fallen.<ref name="audio">[http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/27382 '''GameVideos''': ''Halo Reach VGA Interview'']</ref> As of now, it has been stated that the ''[[Halo Theme]]'' will not be heard in the game, but there is some foreshadowing of ''Halo'' themes.<ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/>
  +
  +
The in-game effects such as weapon sounds have also been amplified to sound more powerful and realistic. In addition to various different audio filters for interiors and exteriors, the space environment in the level ''Long Night of Solace'' required an entirely new audio filter to make the environment feel more realistic.<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/episode/gametrailers-tv/102 '''GameTrailers TV''' — Episode 102]</ref> A significant improvement in the game's audio technology allows for more fluid transition between different layers of music; whereas the first Halo could barely manage more than two layers of music at once, ''Reach'' can run seven layers at once, coordinating which ones fade in and out based on relatively minor changes in the player's behavior.<ref name="popular"/>
  +
  +
It was announced by Bungie that the [[Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack|''Halo: Reach'' Original Soundtrack]] would be released on September 28, 2010.
  +
  +
==Matchmaking==
  +
''Halo: Reach'''s matchmaking allows players to compete with each other over the Xbox Live online service or System Link, for 16 players on the Xbox. The matchmaking system has been improved and redesigned from ''Halo 3''; instead of having experience and rank as two separate features, ''Halo: Reach'' combines these two into a credit system where the player is scored on how well they play in each individual performance, instead of a win/loss system. As players gain credits, they achieve higher [[rank (Halo: Reach)|military rank]], and are able to buy [[armor Permutations|armor permutations]] to customize their SPARTAN and Elites character model. A new matchmaking system called the [[Matchmaking#Halo: Reach|Arena]] is introduced for hardcore/competitive players where they will play in month-long seasons and be put into divisions of either Onyx, Gold, Silver, Bronze or Steel, depending on how well they play. Along with this, Bungie has announced that Campaign will also have matchmaking support as well.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_082010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 8/20/20'']</ref> Players will be able to vote on which Campaign mission to play, similar to how voting works in competitive Matchmaking.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=28689 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 9/17/10'']</ref>
  +
  +
The multiplayer mode features standard multiplayer gametypes such as [[Slayer]], [[Capture the Flag]] and [[King of the Hill]], as well as reintroducing [[Race]], a gametype that was once made exclusive only to ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]''. [[Firefight]] mode, a cooperative gameplay mode that was made present in ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'', will be featured in ''Halo: Reach'' with much more customizable features, from the skulls that turn on every round to the very enemies the player will face every wave, as well as having Matchmaking support. ''Halo: Reach'' also introduces new gametypes to multiplayer such as [[Invasion]], [[Stockpile]], and [[Headhunter (game variant)|Headhunter]].
  +
  +
The character models in ''Halo: Reach'' differs significantly than their previous architecture in ''Halo 3''; both character models are now composed of different [[Collision Hull|hitboxes]] and have different gameplay properties. The Elite character models are formidably larger, and physically superior, having faster shield regeneration and the ability to regain health fully over time than their SPARTAN counterpart. SPARTANs are smaller and weaker than their Elite counterpart and would only regain health to thirds over time unless they pick up a health pack. For these balancing issues, only specific gametypes in matchmaking allow SPARTANs and Elites to face each other in team-based games.
  +
  +
==Marketing promotions<!-- and Release -->==
  +
====''Halo: Reach'' Multiplayer Beta====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta}}
  +
The ''Halo: Reach'' Multiplayer Beta was a phase in the development of Halo: Reach, produced by Bungie, LLC and organized by Microsoft Game Studios. The beta was made available to those who bought ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]'' and it was released from May 3 through May 20, 2010. More than 2.7 million players participated in the beta during its three-week run on LIVE. After July 21, 2010, Bungie stopped supporting stats and files from the beta. Players who participated in the beta on their current LIVE accounts receive an Halo: Reach Beta Visual Flair for use with their gamertags, which is represented with an [[MA37 Individual Combat Weapon System|MA37]].
  +
  +
===Trailers===
  +
====E3 2009 Announcement====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach Announcement Trailer}}
  +
Shortly after the ''Halo 3: ODST'' E3 2009 Trailer premiered, it was soon followed up by the first official announcement trailer for ''Halo: Reach''.
  +
  +
====2009 VGA Trailer====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer}}
  +
At the 2009 Spike TV Video Games Awards, the first official in-game trailer was shown. This 2:36 video was an opening cinematic that showed a glimpse of the new characters and graphics.
  +
  +
====Once More Unto the Breach====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach ViDoc: Once More Unto the Breach}}
  +
The Once More Unto the Breach ViDoc focused on the graphical and gameplay changes to the game between ''Halo 3'' and ''Halo: Reach''. This 7:45 video showed the development of the series over the years.
  +
  +
====Carnàge Carnivàle====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach ViDoc: Carnàge Carnivàle}}
  +
The Carnàge Carnivàle ViDoc focused on the new multiplayer in ''Halo: Reach''. This 8:20 video shows the many gameplay enhancements that have been added.
  +
  +
====E3 2010 Demo====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach E3 Campaign Demo|Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer}}
  +
On June 14, 2010, at [[Electronic Entertainment Expo|E3 2010]], [[Bungie]] released a demo displaying a section of campaign in ''Reach''. It introduced various new vehicles, and the new feature of space combat. A shorter gameplay trailer of the same level was also released.
  +
  +
====Firefight 2.0====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach Welcome to Firefight 2.0 Trailer}}
  +
On June 16, 2010, Bungie released a collage of clips from ''Halo: Reach'''s Firefight feature.
  +
  +
====Red vs. Blue ''Halo: Reach'' PSA: Deja View====
  +
{{Main|Red vs. Blue Halo: Reach PSA: Deja View}}
  +
On July 7, 2010, in honor of [[Bungie Day]], [[Rooster Teeth Productions|Rooster Teeth]], the creators of the popular Halo machinima [[Red vs. Blue]], released a special PSA revealing the return of [[Blood Gulch (level)|Blood Gulch]], the classic [[Halo: Combat Evolved]] multiplayer map. The video teases the rest of Forge World in the form of a scene where Sarge stands on a cliff admiring the view and commenting on the map's large size.
  +
  +
====Forge World====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach ViDoc: Forge World}}
  +
The Forge World ViDoc was released July 23, 2010. It was focused on the new multiplayer map, [[Forge World]], the largest map in the ''Halo'' franchise.
  +
  +
====The Battle Begins====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach "The Battle Begins" Campaign Trailer}}
  +
The Battle Begins campaign trailer was released July 29, 2010.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_073010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 07.30.10'']</ref> The 1:06 trailer showcased several cinematic scenes from the campaign.
  +
  +
====A Spartan Will Rise====
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach ViDoc: A Spartan Will Rise}}
  +
The 'A Spartan Will Rise' ViDoc was released August 17, 2010. The ViDoc focused on the characters of the game, with [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Halsey]] acting as the main narrator.
  +
  +
===Viral campaign===
  +
====Birth of a Spartan====
  +
{{Main|Birth of a Spartan}}
  +
On April 26, 2010, a website was created by [[Microsoft]] as part of a viral marketing campaign to promote ''Halo: Reach''. At first, the site merely consisted of a teaser image which showed the UNSC emblem washed out by static, with the words "Augmentation Begins April 28, 2010".<ref>[http://www.welcometonobleteam.com/ '''WelcomeToNobleTeam.com''': ''Homepage'']</ref> On April 28, both the standard and extended versions of the ''Birth of a Spartan'' live-action trailer were released.
  +
  +
====Remember Reach====
  +
{{Main|Remember Reach|Remember Reach Webfilm|Patrol|New Life|Spaceport|Deliver Hope}}
  +
An advertising campaign titled ''Remember Reach'' was launched on August 17, 2010. The campaign includes the website rememberreach.com, as well as several live-action shorts.<ref>[http://www.rememberreach.com/ '''www.rememberreach.com''']</ref>
  +
  +
===Merchandise and promotions===
  +
{{Halo: Reach Versions}}
  +
{{clear}}
  +
''Halo: Reach'' was released in three different versions. The Standard Edition comes with the game disc and manual. The Limited Edition is cased in an ONI "black box" and includes an exclusive Sangheili armor set for use in multiplayer modes and an artifact bag containing [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Halsey]]'s [[dr. Halsey's personal journal|personal journal]] and other classified documents and effects that unravel long-held secrets of the ''Halo'' universe. The Legendary Edition contains everything from the Limited Edition along with extra SPARTAN armor effect for use in the game, along with an exclusive hand-painted and numbered Noble Team statue by [[McFarlane Toys]] in UNSC-themed custom packaging. Those in North America who purchase ''Halo: Reach'' on launch day will receive a new variation of the coveted [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/R variant|MJOLNIR Recon Armor]]. Recon will also be available to any who have pre-ordered the game.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=news&cid=26642 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010! '']</ref> As a bonus, the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/UA Multi-Threat variant|UA Multi-Threat MJOLNIR Mark V(B) Armor]] will be given to customers who pre-order the game at GameStop.
  +
  +
In addition, Bungie has announced that players who have/buy a copy of ''[[Halo PC]]'', can use that same authentication key to obtain a special in-game ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' symbol on their nameplate . Players of Xbox's ''[[Halo 2]]'' before the April 14th, 2010 cutoff (Shutdown of Xbox Live v1 Service) will be awarded a special in-game ''Halo 2'' symbol on their nameplate. If your current gamertag has changed since the last time you played ''Halo 2'', or if your current gamertag never played ''Halo 2'', you will not be receiving this item.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_042310 '''Bungie.net''': ''This is the End'']</ref> ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', Bungie Pro, ''Halo: Reach'' Beta flairs are also displayable in a similar way.
  +
  +
Also, a ''Reach'' themed Xbox has been announced.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/vidaudio.aspx?c=58&i=27383 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Unboxed'']</ref> The Xbox will include a 250-gigabyte hard drive, two ''Reach'' themed wireless controllers, standard wired headset, and a standard copy of Halo: Reach. The ''Reach'' Xbox 360 will also feature exclusive Elite Armor, Waypoint Avatar Gear, and ''Halo: Legends'' episode: "''[[The Package]]''",<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGRW8R-rvWM '''You Tube''':''Unboxing Reach'']</ref> as well as custom ''Halo'' sound effects from the Xbox itself.
  +
  +
In addition the controllers and headset will be sold separately for $59.99 and $49.99 respectively. The controller will also bring a token for a downloadable animated Covenant Banshee avatar item. The theme includes ONI property tags and more, which according to Microsoft, is canon material in the ''Halo'' universe.<ref>[http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2010/07/halo-reach-xbox-360/ '''Wired.com''': ''New Halo: Reach Xbox to Sport 360 Design, Custom Sound''] - ''The imagery and text on the console isn't just gibberish. It will all have meaning for Halo die-hards.''</ref>
  +
  +
The game has brought the proposal for merchandise, such as . [[McFarlane Toys]] had announced that they were planning to release a series of ''Reach'' 5-inch scaled figures in September 2010.<ref>[http://www.spawn.com/news/news6.aspx?id=13664 '''McFarlane Toys''': ''MCFARLANE TOYS TO PRODUCE 'HALO: REACH' ACTION FIGURES'']</ref> [[Square Enix]] has also showcased several figures for their new ''Reach'' line of action figures.
  +
  +
A new comic book series, titled ''[[Halo: Fall of Reach - Boot Camp|Halo: The Fall of Reach - Boot Camp]]'', was released alongside ''Halo: Reach''. ''Boot Camp'' is a graphic novel adaptation of ''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''.
  +
  +
===Soundtrack===
  +
{{Main|Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack}}
  +
Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack was released on September 28th, two weeks after the release of ''Halo: Reach''. The soundtrack features twenty new tracks heard in the game, composed by [[Martin O'Donnell]] and [[Michael Salvatori]].<ref name="soundtrack">[https://www.sumthingdigital.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?albumid=4811 '''SumthingDigital''': ''Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack'']</ref>
  +
  +
==Release and reception==
  +
{{HR Review}}
  +
''Halo: Reach'' received highly critical acclaim. 1Up praised the campaign, calling it "''a grand re-telling of the Battle of Thermopylae, but portrayed from a gritty, ground-level perspective across multiple missions like Band of Brothers, and all done with typical Halo flourish.''<ref>[http://www.1up.com/do/reviewPage?cId=3181331 '''1Up''': ''Halo: Reach Review'']</ref> IGN noted that though the past games had repetitive landscapes and complicated plots, ''Reach'' was an altogether different matter.<ref>[http://xbox360.ign.com/articles/111/1117228p1.html '''IGN''': ''Halo: Reach Review'']</ref> Gamepro stated "''the only thing missing from this impressive entry is a number “4” in the title, because for all intents and purposes, Reach feels like the next big thing in the Halo franchise''".<ref>[http://review.techworld.com/games/3239674/halo-reach-review/?view=verdict&intcmp=rv-ia-tb-4 '''Gamepro''': ''Halo: Reach review'']</ref>
  +
  +
Many reviewers praised the enhanced graphics and audio, calling it "top-notch". Others mentioned that the checkpoints were flawed, with some too far between, and others leaving the player at a major disadvantage.
  +
  +
GamersHell called ''Reach'' the "ultimate multiplayer suite", but critiqued the acting, calling it "abrasive, cliched and campy".<ref>[http://www.gamershell.com/xbox360/halo_reach/review.html '''GamersHell''': ''Halo: Reach'']</ref>
  +
  +
Microsoft listed Reach as an Xbox Live Marketplace download on August 12, 2010, at a price of 99999 Microsoft Points (~US$1250); A spokesperson confirmed the download was for media review purposes, and that there were no plans to distribute the game to the public through Games on Demand. Four days later, hackers managed to access, download, and distribute the game online; Microsoft claimed to be actively investigating the matter.
  +
{{clear}}
  +
  +
==Trivia==
  +
*Bungie has stated that ''Halo: Reach'' will be the last ''Halo'' game being released by them in the foreseeable future, as they are beginning a partnership with Activision, while [[343 Industries]] has taken over the ''Halo'' franchise, already announcing a [[Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary|remake of Halo: CE]] and a brand new trilogy starting with [[Halo 4]].
  +
*It was previously known as "''Halo 4''" by Microsoft Game Studios and [[343 Industries]] marketing teams during the [[ONI Candidate Assessment Program V5.02A]] viral campaign.<ref>[http://cdn.haloodst.xbox.com/odst/index.html ''' ONI Candidate Assessment Program V5.02A''': ''Site Page Info'']</ref>
  +
*Early on in the game's development, before coming up with the idea of a prequel to ''Halo: Combat Evolved'', Bungie considered making a follow-up to ''Halo 3'', with [[John-117]] as the protagonist.<ref>[http://multiplayerblog.mtv.com/2010/06/25/bungie-considered-halo-4-starring-master-chief-instead-of-reach-prequel/ '''MTV Multiplayer''': ''Bungie Considered "Halo 4," Starring Master Chief, Instead Of "Reach" Prequel'']</ref>
  +
*[[Edward Buck|Gunnery Sergeant Edward Buck]], one of the main characters in ''Halo 3: ODST'', appears in ''Halo: Reach'' as a Firefight voice in game and as a cameo in the level [[New Alexandria (level)|New Alexandria]].
  +
*On the project page for ''Reach'', located in the "Multimedia" section, the soundtracks to a couple of Reach trailers, "[[Winter Contingency (music)|Lone Wolf]]" and "[[Both Ways (Remix)|Uphill, Both Ways]]" by Martin O'Donnell, are available for download for free from [[Bungie.net]].
  +
*''Halo: Reach'' has 49 achievements (excluding DLC), which is a reference to Bungie's love of the number [[list of "seven" references in Halo|seven]] (7 &times; 7 = 49).<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070910 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 07.09.10'']</ref>
  +
*All of the Campaign achievement titles, along with many of the others, are quotations from the ''[[Halo]]'' games and books.
  +
*The game's release date, [[2552#September|September 14]], is the same day when Earth's [[Orbital Defense Platform]]s were activated in 2552.<ref>'''Halo: First Strike''', ''page 104''</ref>
  +
*The game's release date itself my be a reference to Bungie's favorite number, 9 &times; 14 &times; 2010 = 253260 &divide; 36180 = 7.
  +
*The release date for the ''Noble Map Pack'' was set to be released 77 days after Halo Reach's release (November 30th) which is another reference to Bungie's love of the number 7.
  +
*Many of the Army troopers and Marines encountered in the game are named after Bungie employees and notable community members.
  +
*The AI of both the enemies and allies in the game is far more advanced than its predecessors. Evidence of this can be seen with how units will take cover often and not by accident, and friendly AI can pull off headshots whereas before they couldn't.
  +
*Almost all Covenant technology, whether it be weapons, vehicles, or even [[Covenant Supply Case|Supply Cases]], have a scale-like pattern on the purple metal that they are constructed of.
  +
*It is the second game to not feature [[Sentinel|Sentinels]] or the [[Flood]], the first being ''[[Halo 3: ODST]]''.
  +
*Halo: Reach has the most customizable Spartans of any of the Halo games.
  +
*Most of the weapons and vehicles in ''Halo: Reach'' have counterparts in the two factions in the game. The only exceptions are the [[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher|Needler]], which has no Human counterpart, and the [[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle|Plasma Rifle]] and [[Type-25 Carbine|Spiker]], which are the counterparts to the Human [[M7/Caseless Submachine Gun|SMG]], which is absent in Halo: Reach.
  +
*The H-165 FOM Target Locater is able to be used in all gameplay modes but multiplayer.
  +
*The forklift and semi truck are drivable vehicles in Campaign, but neither are playable, or selectable vehicles in Forge.
  +
* It has been stated by 343 Industies that a title update will be introduced in September 2011, changing several armor ability effects, modifying the melee system, and making reticule bloom optional.
  +
  +
==Gallery==
  +
===Concept art===
  +
<gallery widths="160" captionalign="left">
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File:Concept 01.jpg|A Sangheili attacks two UNSC infantrymen.
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File:Concept 04.jpg|Landscape of Reach.
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File:Concept 05.jpg|A bridge leading over a canyon.
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File:Doomed.jpg|A battle between Sangheili and SPARTANs.
  +
File:KIuWJ.jpg|Noble Team in combat.
  +
tip-o-spear.jpg|[[Tip of the Spear]] concept art
  +
File:640px-Hreach_concept_2.jpg|An early concept of SPARTANs and other UNSC forces.
  +
File:640px-Hreach_concept_3.jpg|Sangheili in a forest.
  +
reachconceptartwallpaper670x360.jpg|Noble Team
  +
File:HALO Reach Wallpaper065.jpg|An early concept of UNSC forces fighting against the Covenant.
  +
</gallery>
  +
  +
===Screenshots===
  +
<gallery widths="160" captionalign="left">
  +
File:Halo_Reach_-_Alpha_Build_Menu.jpg|The Alpha-Build menu of ''Halo: Reach''.
  +
File:Halo- Reach - Noble Team Battle.jpg|Noble Team in a battle with the Covenant.
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File:Reach Orbit.png|Reach, seen from orbit.
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File:Reach glassed.png|Reach being [[Glassing|glassed]] by the Covenant.
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File:Action_04.jpg|A soldier and Noble Six secure a room.
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Halo Reach Moa.jpg|Some moas in Halo: Reach.
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Gúta.jpg|A Gúta in Halo: Reach.
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</gallery>
  +
  +
==Sources==
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{{Reflist|3}}
  +
  +
==Links==
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===Internal===
  +
*''[[Halo: The Fall of Reach]]''
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*''[[Halo: First Strike]]''
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*''[[Halo: Reach Announcement Trailer|Halo: Reach - Announcement Trailer]]''
  +
*''[[Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer]]''
  +
*''[[Reach]]''
  +
  +
===External===
  +
*[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Reach/default.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Official Halo: Reach'' project page]
  +
*[http://welcometonobleteam.com '''Welcome To NobleTeam''': ''Viral Campaign'']
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*[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E05sbntzSIQ Ending to Halo Reach]
  +
  +
{{Halo Games}}
  +
  +
[[fr:Halo: Reach]]
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[[it:Halo: Reach]]
 
[[Category:Vehicles|Civilian vehicles]]
  
[[Category:Vehicles|Civilian vehicles]]
 
[[category:Action Figures|action figures]]
  
[[category:Action Figures|action figures]]

Revision as of 03:43, 11 September 2011

35#.png


Template:Ratings

“From the beginning, you know the end.”
— Game tagline[1]

Halo: Reach is a first-person shooter video game set in the Halo universe and direct prequel to Halo: Combat Evolved, depicting the Fall of Reach. It was developed by the programing company called Bungie, LLC. and published by Microsoft Game Studios for the Xbox 360 and Xbox 360 S console only.[2][3] It was announced by Joe Staten during Microsoft's Media Briefing at E3 2009; Reach was released on September 14, 2010 in North America, Europe, Australia, and Asia with the exclusion of Japan whose release was a day later.[4]

Upon the first day of release, Reach grossed over $200 million, surpassing Halo 3's record of $170 million.[5]

Synopsis

Concept 03

Concept art showing Noble Team interacting with civilians and UNSC Army troopers.

Characters and setting

Halo: Reach takes place in late in the year 2552, during the Covenant invasion of the Human colony world Reach, which serves as the main military center of the UNSC. The game follows Noble Team, a six-man special operations unit of one SPARTAN-II and five SPARTAN-III commandos. The player assumes the role of the team's latest member, SPARTAN-B312 or "Noble Six" and will be defending Reach from its ultimate downfall at the hands of the Covenant forces.[6][7]

Over the course of the campaign, the players will visit various locales on and above planet Reach which includes remote civilian homesteads, high-tech ONI facilities such as Sword Base, the metropolitan city of New Alexandria, as well as a segment of space combat in a Sabre fighter.[8] The player will also encounter indigenous creatures such as the Moa and the Gúta.

Plot

Halo: Reach takes place on the UNSC fortress world of Reach during the weeks prior to Halo: Combat Evolved. Noble Team, a squad of SPARTAN supersoldiers, is ordered by Colonel Urban Holland to investigate the sudden loss of transmission from the Visegrad Relay Communications Outpost. Expecting Insurrectionists, the team is baffled to discover that it is the work of the Covenant, and an invasion becomes apparent. As the Covenant begin their assault on the planet, the UNSC begin their heroic yet hopeless attempt to halt the brutal alien invaders. Soon after, Noble Team is deployed to "Sword Base", an installation belonging to the Office of Naval Intelligence (ONI), for defensive purposes. Dr. Catherine Halsey, mastermind of the SPARTAN-II Program and the MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor worn by all SPARTAN characters, informs Noble Team that the Covenant at the relay were searching for important information pertaining to the Covenant religion.

As the Covenant arrive on the planet in force, Noble Team is dispatched on various defensive missions such as assaulting a Covenant ground base and removing fortified Covenant defenses. One of these defenses was a Spire transporting Covenant forces onto Reach. Noble Five's (Jorge) and Noble Six's mission was to take down the shields protecting the Spire. After Noble Six brought down the shield of the Spire, the UNSC Frigate Grafton destroys the Spire with MAC Rounds. When a massive supercarrier joins the fight and destroys UNSC Frigate Grafton, Kat comes up with a plan to strike back at the Covenant. Her idea is to sneak a Slipspace Bomb unto a Covenant Corvette which they would then send on a refueling run to the Covenant Supercarrier to activate the bomb. Jorge and Six infiltrate the Corvette, intending to dock it with the supercarrier and then detonate a makeshift slipspace bomb, but the detonator malfunctions, Jorge sacrifices himself to destroy the carrier; soon thereafter a larger Covenant fleet arrives to continue the assault. Six is thrown out of the corvette by Jorge to fall back unto the planet Reach. Six lands near New Alexandria, which is already besieged by the Covenant. Noble Six regroups with the rest of the team in assisting with the evacuation of the planet, during which Kat is killed by a sniper and New Alexandria is glassed by the Covenant.

Recalling Noble Team to Sword Base, Halsey shows them an ancient Forerunner artifact that she believes is key to winning the war. Noble Six, Carter, and Emile are entrusted with taking the artificial intelligence, Cortana, and the information she carries, to the UNSC Pillar of Autumn, while Jun is assigned to evacuate Halsey in a Pelican dropship. Charges are detonated in the artifact, ultimately destroying it and any evidence of its information.

During the journey to the Autumn's dry dock, Carter is hit by Banshee fire and is mortally wounded. Six and Emile jump out of the Pelican and slide down to safety. After they fight out of many caves, they encounter a Scarab, which attempts to kill the Spartans. Carter sacrifices himself and the team's Pelican to destroy the mobile assault platform. Finally, Six and Emile reach the ship breaking yards. Emile takes control of a mass driver to defend the Autumn while Captain Jacob Keyes arrives to secure Cortana. Emile is slain by Elite Zealots, and Six opts to remain on Reach and take Emile's place at the gun while the Autumn escapes. The game depicts the opening scene of Halo: Combat Evolved, in which Cortana discovers Installation 04, followed by the credits and a personal message of thanks from Bungie.

The post-credits scene puts the player in control of Noble Six's last stand against overwhelming Covenant forces. After sustaining more and more damage, Six's helmet cracks. Then before Noble Six dies, he takes off his helmet and continues to fight, but is overwhelmed by Elites and is killed. Six's shattered helmet is left discarded on the ground in a shot that mirrors the game's opening scene. Over thirty years later, the same helmet rests on the grassy plains of a now-rejuvenated Reach. Life has returned, and recolonization has begun. A narration by Halsey eulogizes Noble Team's sacrifice, which enabled the victory over the Covenant.

Gameplay

File:1INSURGENTWINTERCONTIGENCY.jpg

A gameplay preview of Noble Six and Noble Team questioning a civilian.

Halo: Reach features many new additions to Halo while still retaining the core gameplay. The player damage system is similar to that of Halo: Combat Evolved and Halo 3: ODST. The HUD highlights environmental features and overlay information about them, and the motion sensor display is three-dimensional. Halo: Reach also introduces a refined equipment system known as "Armor Abilities." Pieces of equipment can now be selected upon respawning (or picked up off the ground for certain gametypes and campaign); armor abilities are reusable with a recharge time between uses. A new assassination system is also featured, in which holding down the melee button will trigger a context-sensitive, third-person assassination animation. Simply hitting the melee button allows for the old-instant-kill assassination.

The weapon selection has been streamlined from that of Halo 3, so that every weapon has a specific role. The number of different grenade types has also been reduced from that of Halo 3, and incendiary grenades and spike grenades did not return. Human weapons all hit more or less instantly after pulling the trigger, giving them a more powerful feel. There is no longer dual-wielding available in Halo: Reach, following the same path as Halo 3: ODST. Compensating for this, the weapons that were known as dual weapons in Halo 3 that are now in Halo: Reach became drastically stronger. The M6G Magnum, for example, is now almost as powerful as the M6D Pistol in Halo: CE, and has an even higher rate of fire.

Players are able to personalize their character's armor with a greater variety of customization options, and the appearance will be consistent across campaign and multiplayer, unlike in Halo 3 where it would only be seen during multiplayer matches. Like in Halo 3, the armor permutations are only to be cosmetic and will not affect gameplay. The design of multiplayer models in Halo: Reach differs than those previously used in Halo 3; players are limited to a SPARTAN multiplayer model but given the option of changing their character's gender. Players are given the option to play as an Elite multiplayer model, though only in specific gametypes such as Firefight Versus, Invasion and other Elite-specific gametypes. Both multiplayer models have different gameplay properties; the Elite multiplayer model is physically superior, has a fully recharging health and faster shield regeneration than their SPARTAN counterpart. Overall, their only disadvantage is their massive size which makes them much more noticeable targets. This gives the SPARTANs the advantage of being more nimble and tougher to hit, especially with headshots.

While the rest of Noble Team accompany the player for most of the game, Halo: Reach will not feature any kind of tactical squad mechanic. Much like the Arbiter Thel 'Vadam in Halo 3, the rest of the squad will fight alongside the player, but will not interact with the player, other than certain scripted actions and dialogue. The levels will be more open and teleportation in co-op will be far less strict.[9][10]

As seen in the E3 2010 trailer, a small section of the Halo: Reach campaign level Long Night of Solace involves space combat, a new element to the game. This space battle above Reach is the first and only space combat level played in the saga.[11][12]

Campaign

The campaign in Halo: Reach consists of eleven levels, ten of which are playable.

  1. Noble Actual - "Welcome to Reach." (Only cutscene)
  2. Winter Contingency - "There's a disturbance on the frontier."
  3. ONI: Sword Base - "Covenant are attacking a vital ONI base. Drive the bastards off."
  4. Nightfall - "Move in behind enemy lines and evaluate the opposition."
  5. Tip of The Spear - "Two massive armies clash! Time to go to war against the Covenant."
  6. Long Night of Solace - "Move up the beach and secure the launch facility. Take the battle to the Covenant Super Carrier."
  7. Exodus - "All is not lost. Evacuate civilians from an occupied city."
  8. New Alexandria - "Provide air support in a forest of crumbling skyscrapers."
  9. The Package - "Your orders are to destroy Sword Base... Or are they?"
  10. The Pillar of Autumn - "Deliver Halsey's data package to the Pillar of Autumn."
  11. Lone Wolf - "Spartans never die. They're just missing in action..."

Multiplayer

A total of seventeen multiplayer maps are available in Halo: Reach, with nine standard multiplayer maps and eight Firefight maps.

Multiplayer

Default

Noble Map Pack

Main article: Noble Map Pack

Defiant Map Pack

Main article: Defiant Map Pack

Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary

Main article: Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary
Firefight

Features

Characters

Events

Locations

Organizations

Species

Vehicles

Weapons

Equipment

Development

“Where there will be a full three-year cycle, it's got all-new tech, akin to the change from Halo 2 to Halo 3, not like ODST, which is just built on top of the foundation.”
— Bungie Community Manager, Brian Jarrard.

Reach has been in development since the completion of Halo 3, in the tradition of a full three year cycle and will use a completely new game engine created specifically for the game. It was confirmed in October 2009 that Martin O'Donnell, Bungie's lead composer, had begun casting voice actors for Reach.[26][27]

The Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta, used to gather information and tweak gameplay features in the game, ran from May 3 through May 20, 2010. The Zero-bug release milestone in Halo: Reach's development was reached on June 24, 2010,[28] and the game's audio, including soundtrack, voices and sound effects, was finished on July 15, 2010.[29] As of August 5, 2010, Halo: Reach has "gone gold", meaning all development of the game has been completed and mass manufacturing of the game has begun.[30] The game was released on September 14, 2010 as planned.

Design

Bungie has taken a new design direction with Halo: Reach, aiming for a more somber and gritty atmosphere. The more serious tone is also reflected in camera angles; instead of long, sweeping shots, the cinematic camera angles are actually made to look as if shot with actual cameras.

In many ways, the character designs, especially those of Sangheili and human personnel, harken back to Halo: Combat Evolved. Models for enemies and allies boast remarkable levels of new detail in form of higher-resolution textures and more polygons. Enemies and allies will have more individual features to denote ranks and provide more visual variety, such as each soldier having an individual name tag in their BDUs.[31] Bungie made an effort to make the Covenant feel more alien and threatening; for example, the Covenant will speak in their own languages instead of English.

Engine

Bungie is using a completely redone version of the Halo engine for Halo: Reach, with no component left untouched.[32][9][10]

The environments, while larger than in the previous games, are far more detailed. The graphical effects have been drastically improved, allowing for a new atmospheric effects system and more dynamic lighting for dramatic shadows and moving light sources in interiors. The engine was improved with "imposters" systems; this allows very cheap textures far away, and moving closer will make them improve.[32] This was proved with the map, Forge World. Rain and fogging effects are also improved. Halo: Reach also features a new animation system, which smoothly blends movement between standing, walking and running as well as jumps, grenade throws and firing. The facial animation system has been completely revamped, including motion capture. Weapon effects are amplified to be more powerful and visceral than before, giving them a more serious tone. Human weapons will sound more powerful and emit smoke and showers of sparks. Plasma bolts now burn through material as they hit, and explosions will throw clouds of dirt and debris around.

Halo: Reach's engine is able to support up to 40 active AI characters and 20 vehicles with AI characters on screen at once, twice as many as in Halo 3. In addition, distant battles between AI characters follow automated behavior models, which convert into scripted behaviors as the player gets closer, and finally convert to full AI.[9][10]

Audio

“I want it to be more visceral, to have a bigger sense of loss, a personal feeling of sacrifice”
— Martin O'Donnell, on the audio design of Halo: Reach[33]

A more serious and realistic approach has been taken in the audio design of Halo: Reach than in the previous Halo games.

The music of Reach was referred to as being more somber and more visceral, as the plot is more character-driven than previous Halo titles and that it focuses on a planet known to have fallen.[34] As of now, it has been stated that the Halo Theme will not be heard in the game, but there is some foreshadowing of Halo themes.[9][10]

The in-game effects such as weapon sounds have also been amplified to sound more powerful and realistic. In addition to various different audio filters for interiors and exteriors, the space environment in the level Long Night of Solace required an entirely new audio filter to make the environment feel more realistic.[35] A significant improvement in the game's audio technology allows for more fluid transition between different layers of music; whereas the first Halo could barely manage more than two layers of music at once, Reach can run seven layers at once, coordinating which ones fade in and out based on relatively minor changes in the player's behavior.[33]

It was announced by Bungie that the Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack would be released on September 28, 2010.

Matchmaking

Halo: Reach's matchmaking allows players to compete with each other over the Xbox Live online service or System Link, for 16 players on the Xbox. The matchmaking system has been improved and redesigned from Halo 3; instead of having experience and rank as two separate features, Halo: Reach combines these two into a credit system where the player is scored on how well they play in each individual performance, instead of a win/loss system. As players gain credits, they achieve higher military rank, and are able to buy armor permutations to customize their SPARTAN and Elites character model. A new matchmaking system called the Arena is introduced for hardcore/competitive players where they will play in month-long seasons and be put into divisions of either Onyx, Gold, Silver, Bronze or Steel, depending on how well they play. Along with this, Bungie has announced that Campaign will also have matchmaking support as well.[36] Players will be able to vote on which Campaign mission to play, similar to how voting works in competitive Matchmaking.[37]

The multiplayer mode features standard multiplayer gametypes such as Slayer, Capture the Flag and King of the Hill, as well as reintroducing Race, a gametype that was once made exclusive only to Halo: Combat Evolved. Firefight mode, a cooperative gameplay mode that was made present in Halo 3: ODST, will be featured in Halo: Reach with much more customizable features, from the skulls that turn on every round to the very enemies the player will face every wave, as well as having Matchmaking support. Halo: Reach also introduces new gametypes to multiplayer such as Invasion, Stockpile, and Headhunter.

The character models in Halo: Reach differs significantly than their previous architecture in Halo 3; both character models are now composed of different hitboxes and have different gameplay properties. The Elite character models are formidably larger, and physically superior, having faster shield regeneration and the ability to regain health fully over time than their SPARTAN counterpart. SPARTANs are smaller and weaker than their Elite counterpart and would only regain health to thirds over time unless they pick up a health pack. For these balancing issues, only specific gametypes in matchmaking allow SPARTANs and Elites to face each other in team-based games.

Marketing promotions

Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta

Main article: Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta

The Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta was a phase in the development of Halo: Reach, produced by Bungie, LLC and organized by Microsoft Game Studios. The beta was made available to those who bought Halo 3: ODST and it was released from May 3 through May 20, 2010. More than 2.7 million players participated in the beta during its three-week run on LIVE. After July 21, 2010, Bungie stopped supporting stats and files from the beta. Players who participated in the beta on their current LIVE accounts receive an Halo: Reach Beta Visual Flair for use with their gamertags, which is represented with an MA37.

Trailers

E3 2009 Announcement

Main article: Halo: Reach Announcement Trailer

Shortly after the Halo 3: ODST E3 2009 Trailer premiered, it was soon followed up by the first official announcement trailer for Halo: Reach.

2009 VGA Trailer

Main article: Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer

At the 2009 Spike TV Video Games Awards, the first official in-game trailer was shown. This 2:36 video was an opening cinematic that showed a glimpse of the new characters and graphics.

Once More Unto the Breach

Main article: Halo: Reach ViDoc: Once More Unto the Breach

The Once More Unto the Breach ViDoc focused on the graphical and gameplay changes to the game between Halo 3 and Halo: Reach. This 7:45 video showed the development of the series over the years.

Carnàge Carnivàle

Main article: Halo: Reach ViDoc: Carnàge Carnivàle

The Carnàge Carnivàle ViDoc focused on the new multiplayer in Halo: Reach. This 8:20 video shows the many gameplay enhancements that have been added.

E3 2010 Demo

Main articles: Halo: Reach E3 Campaign Demo and Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer

On June 14, 2010, at E3 2010, Bungie released a demo displaying a section of campaign in Reach. It introduced various new vehicles, and the new feature of space combat. A shorter gameplay trailer of the same level was also released.

Firefight 2.0

Main article: Halo: Reach Welcome to Firefight 2.0 Trailer

On June 16, 2010, Bungie released a collage of clips from Halo: Reach's Firefight feature.

Red vs. Blue Halo: Reach PSA: Deja View

Main article: Red vs. Blue Halo: Reach PSA: Deja View

On July 7, 2010, in honor of Bungie Day, Rooster Teeth, the creators of the popular Halo machinima Red vs. Blue, released a special PSA revealing the return of Blood Gulch, the classic Halo: Combat Evolved multiplayer map. The video teases the rest of Forge World in the form of a scene where Sarge stands on a cliff admiring the view and commenting on the map's large size.

Forge World

Main article: Halo: Reach ViDoc: Forge World

The Forge World ViDoc was released July 23, 2010. It was focused on the new multiplayer map, Forge World, the largest map in the Halo franchise.

The Battle Begins

Main article: Halo: Reach "The Battle Begins" Campaign Trailer

The Battle Begins campaign trailer was released July 29, 2010.[38] The 1:06 trailer showcased several cinematic scenes from the campaign.

A Spartan Will Rise

Main article: Halo: Reach ViDoc: A Spartan Will Rise

The 'A Spartan Will Rise' ViDoc was released August 17, 2010. The ViDoc focused on the characters of the game, with Dr. Halsey acting as the main narrator.

Viral campaign

Birth of a Spartan

Main article: Birth of a Spartan

On April 26, 2010, a website was created by Microsoft as part of a viral marketing campaign to promote Halo: Reach. At first, the site merely consisted of a teaser image which showed the UNSC emblem washed out by static, with the words "Augmentation Begins April 28, 2010".[39] On April 28, both the standard and extended versions of the Birth of a Spartan live-action trailer were released.

Remember Reach

Main articles: Remember Reach, Remember Reach Webfilm, Patrol, New Life, Spaceport, and Deliver Hope

An advertising campaign titled Remember Reach was launched on August 17, 2010. The campaign includes the website rememberreach.com, as well as several live-action shorts.[40]

Merchandise and promotions

Features Standard Limited Edition Legendary Edition
Image of contents Halo Reach (Standard with ESRB) HaloReach Limited View2 41wh4B6xHzL SL320
Game disc & manual Yes Yes Yes
ONI-themed case & artifact bag No Yes Yes
Waypoint avatar gear No Yes Yes
Exclusive Sangheili armor No Yes Yes
Exclusive SPARTAN armor effect No No Yes
Exclusive digital content No No Yes
Noble Team statue No No Yes
Large UNSC-themed case No No Yes
UA multi threat chest Yes, Gamestop & GAME pre-order only Yes, Gamestop & GAME pre-order only Yes, Gamestop & GAME pre-order only
Recon helmet Yes, launch day purchase (North America)/Pre-order only (other countries) Yes, launch day purchase (North America)/Pre-order only (other countries) Yes, launch day purchase (North America)/Pre-order only (other countries)


Halo: Reach was released in three different versions. The Standard Edition comes with the game disc and manual. The Limited Edition is cased in an ONI "black box" and includes an exclusive Sangheili armor set for use in multiplayer modes and an artifact bag containing Dr. Halsey's personal journal and other classified documents and effects that unravel long-held secrets of the Halo universe. The Legendary Edition contains everything from the Limited Edition along with extra SPARTAN armor effect for use in the game, along with an exclusive hand-painted and numbered Noble Team statue by McFarlane Toys in UNSC-themed custom packaging. Those in North America who purchase Halo: Reach on launch day will receive a new variation of the coveted MJOLNIR Recon Armor. Recon will also be available to any who have pre-ordered the game.[41] As a bonus, the UA Multi-Threat MJOLNIR Mark V(B) Armor will be given to customers who pre-order the game at GameStop.

In addition, Bungie has announced that players who have/buy a copy of Halo PC, can use that same authentication key to obtain a special in-game Halo: Combat Evolved symbol on their nameplate . Players of Xbox's Halo 2 before the April 14th, 2010 cutoff (Shutdown of Xbox Live v1 Service) will be awarded a special in-game Halo 2 symbol on their nameplate. If your current gamertag has changed since the last time you played Halo 2, or if your current gamertag never played Halo 2, you will not be receiving this item.[42] Halo 3, Halo 3: ODST, Bungie Pro, Halo: Reach Beta flairs are also displayable in a similar way.

Also, a Reach themed Xbox has been announced.[43] The Xbox will include a 250-gigabyte hard drive, two Reach themed wireless controllers, standard wired headset, and a standard copy of Halo: Reach. The Reach Xbox 360 will also feature exclusive Elite Armor, Waypoint Avatar Gear, and Halo: Legends episode: "The Package",[44] as well as custom Halo sound effects from the Xbox itself.

In addition the controllers and headset will be sold separately for $59.99 and $49.99 respectively. The controller will also bring a token for a downloadable animated Covenant Banshee avatar item. The theme includes ONI property tags and more, which according to Microsoft, is canon material in the Halo universe.[45]

The game has brought the proposal for merchandise, such as . McFarlane Toys had announced that they were planning to release a series of Reach 5-inch scaled figures in September 2010.[46] Square Enix has also showcased several figures for their new Reach line of action figures.

A new comic book series, titled Halo: The Fall of Reach - Boot Camp, was released alongside Halo: Reach. Boot Camp is a graphic novel adaptation of Halo: The Fall of Reach.

Soundtrack

Main article: Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack

Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack was released on September 28th, two weeks after the release of Halo: Reach. The soundtrack features twenty new tracks heard in the game, composed by Martin O'Donnell and Michael Salvatori.[47]

Release and reception

Template:HR Review Halo: Reach received highly critical acclaim. 1Up praised the campaign, calling it "a grand re-telling of the Battle of Thermopylae, but portrayed from a gritty, ground-level perspective across multiple missions like Band of Brothers, and all done with typical Halo flourish.[48] IGN noted that though the past games had repetitive landscapes and complicated plots, Reach was an altogether different matter.[49] Gamepro stated "the only thing missing from this impressive entry is a number “4” in the title, because for all intents and purposes, Reach feels like the next big thing in the Halo franchise".[50]

Many reviewers praised the enhanced graphics and audio, calling it "top-notch". Others mentioned that the checkpoints were flawed, with some too far between, and others leaving the player at a major disadvantage.

GamersHell called Reach the "ultimate multiplayer suite", but critiqued the acting, calling it "abrasive, cliched and campy".[51]

Microsoft listed Reach as an Xbox Live Marketplace download on August 12, 2010, at a price of 99999 Microsoft Points (~US$1250); A spokesperson confirmed the download was for media review purposes, and that there were no plans to distribute the game to the public through Games on Demand. Four days later, hackers managed to access, download, and distribute the game online; Microsoft claimed to be actively investigating the matter.


Trivia

  • Bungie has stated that Halo: Reach will be the last Halo game being released by them in the foreseeable future, as they are beginning a partnership with Activision, while 343 Industries has taken over the Halo franchise, already announcing a remake of Halo: CE and a brand new trilogy starting with Halo 4.
  • It was previously known as "Halo 4" by Microsoft Game Studios and 343 Industries marketing teams during the ONI Candidate Assessment Program V5.02A viral campaign.[52]
  • Early on in the game's development, before coming up with the idea of a prequel to Halo: Combat Evolved, Bungie considered making a follow-up to Halo 3, with John-117 as the protagonist.[53]
  • Gunnery Sergeant Edward Buck, one of the main characters in Halo 3: ODST, appears in Halo: Reach as a Firefight voice in game and as a cameo in the level New Alexandria.
  • On the project page for Reach, located in the "Multimedia" section, the soundtracks to a couple of Reach trailers, "Lone Wolf" and "Uphill, Both Ways" by Martin O'Donnell, are available for download for free from Bungie.net.
  • Halo: Reach has 49 achievements (excluding DLC), which is a reference to Bungie's love of the number seven (7 × 7 = 49).[54]
  • All of the Campaign achievement titles, along with many of the others, are quotations from the Halo games and books.
  • The game's release date, September 14, is the same day when Earth's Orbital Defense Platforms were activated in 2552.[55]
  • The game's release date itself my be a reference to Bungie's favorite number, 9 × 14 × 2010 = 253260 ÷ 36180 = 7.
  • The release date for the Noble Map Pack was set to be released 77 days after Halo Reach's release (November 30th) which is another reference to Bungie's love of the number 7.
  • Many of the Army troopers and Marines encountered in the game are named after Bungie employees and notable community members.
  • The AI of both the enemies and allies in the game is far more advanced than its predecessors. Evidence of this can be seen with how units will take cover often and not by accident, and friendly AI can pull off headshots whereas before they couldn't.
  • Almost all Covenant technology, whether it be weapons, vehicles, or even Supply Cases, have a scale-like pattern on the purple metal that they are constructed of.
  • It is the second game to not feature Sentinels or the Flood, the first being Halo 3: ODST.
  • Halo: Reach has the most customizable Spartans of any of the Halo games.
  • Most of the weapons and vehicles in Halo: Reach have counterparts in the two factions in the game. The only exceptions are the Needler, which has no Human counterpart, and the Plasma Rifle and Spiker, which are the counterparts to the Human SMG, which is absent in Halo: Reach.
  • The H-165 FOM Target Locater is able to be used in all gameplay modes but multiplayer.
  • The forklift and semi truck are drivable vehicles in Campaign, but neither are playable, or selectable vehicles in Forge.
  • It has been stated by 343 Industies that a title update will be introduced in September 2011, changing several armor ability effects, modifying the melee system, and making reticule bloom optional.

Gallery

Concept art

Screenshots

Sources

  1. ↑ Halo: Reach Announcement Trailer
  2. ↑ Bungie.net: Halo: Reach Project Page
  3. ↑ Worthplaying.com - "Halo 3: ODST" Developer Interview
  4. ↑ Bungie.net: Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010!
  5. ↑ Game Informer: How Much Cash Did Halo Reach Bring In On Day One?
  6. ↑ TeamXbox: X10 First Look: Halo: Reach (Xbox 360)
  7. ↑ Bungie.net: Halo: Reach Project Page
  8. ↑ Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer
  9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 EDGE Magazine, February 2010
  10. ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 GameInformer: February 2010
  11. ↑ YouTube: E3 2010 Extended Reach Campaign Mission HD
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Halo: Reach E3 Campaign Demo
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 Halo: Reach ViDoc: Once More Unto the Breach
  14. ↑ YouTube: Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 Youtube: Machinima: Halo Reach- Invasion, Fireteams, Game Editions Overview: Bungie Explains Episode 8
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 16.2 Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 06.11.10
  17. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 6.18.10
  18. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 7.02.10
  19. ↑ Halo: Reach Intel - Enemies
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Halo: Reach, level Boneyard
  21. ↑ Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer (0:20)
  22. ↑ Halo Waypoint video Fun With Forklifts
  23. ↑ IGN: Halo: Reach Screenshot
  24. ↑ Halo: Reach, level Overlook, Overlook radio conversation
  25. ↑ IGN.com: E3 2010: Firefight in Halo: Reach – Bigger & Better
  26. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 10/16/2009
  27. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 10/23/2009
  28. ↑ Noble Actual: Final stretch
  29. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update: 07.16.10
  30. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 08.06.10
  31. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update: 07.02.10
  32. ↑ 32.0 32.1 ComputerAndVideoGames: Interview: Halo Reach
  33. ↑ GameVideos: Halo Reach VGA Interview
  34. ↑ GameTrailers TV — Episode 102
  35. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 8/20/20
  36. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 9/17/10
  37. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 07.30.10
  38. ↑ WelcomeToNobleTeam.com: Homepage
  39. ↑ www.rememberreach.com
  40. ↑ Bungie.net: Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010!
  41. ↑ Bungie.net: This is the End
  42. ↑ Bungie.net: Halo: Reach Unboxed
  43. ↑ You Tube:Unboxing Reach
  44. ↑ Wired.com: New Halo: Reach Xbox to Sport 360 Design, Custom Sound - The imagery and text on the console isn't just gibberish. It will all have meaning for Halo die-hards.
  45. ↑ McFarlane Toys: MCFARLANE TOYS TO PRODUCE 'HALO: REACH' ACTION FIGURES
  46. ↑ SumthingDigital: Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack
  47. ↑ 1Up: Halo: Reach Review
  48. ↑ IGN: Halo: Reach Review
  49. ↑ Gamepro: Halo: Reach review
  50. ↑ GamersHell: Halo: Reach
  51. ↑ ONI Candidate Assessment Program V5.02A: Site Page Info
  52. ↑ MTV Multiplayer: Bungie Considered "Halo 4," Starring Master Chief, Instead Of "Reach" Prequel
  53. ↑ Bungie.net: Bungie Weekly Update 07.09.10
  54. ↑ Halo: First Strike, page 104


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