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![Halo news back](/images/halo.news.back.gif) | August 2010 | ![Halo news forward](/images/halo.news.forward.gif) |
August 2010 Archived News
News August 31 2010
Go get you some Reach Soundtrack If I couldn't find it then most likely neither could you, so I'm posting what advent29 mentioned on the forums. Amazon shows the Halo: Reach [Original Game Soundtrack] release set for September 28, 2010. Update: And yes, it was mentioned in the weekly update (Suite Gig) that this was the date, but no link. (Cybrfrk 22:48:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Dangerous To Go Alone (DTGA) covers Lament AngelicLionheart let us know of his friends release of a music cover for Lament (from ODST). Truly amazing work from a fan out of the community. You can check out Xerjester's other work on his website. (Cybrfrk 22:27:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I'm not going and you can't make me
Red vs Blue Revelation Chapter 18 (Rally Cap) is now live - Sarge can actually be inspiring, if you let him! The end is coming soon... (This isn't it for the news, but it's time for a short break.) (Louis Wu 18:12:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Ultimate Epic Halo Movie Trailer
Laird sent along a link to The Ultimate Epic Halo Movie Trailer, a creation of Bungie.net's TheDarkSilence77 - pretty nice use of predominantly live-action footage! (Louis Wu 18:12:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
What I'm Made Of
CrazedOne1988 put together a really fun montage - he's not trying to show off his MLG skillz, but he HAS collected a bunch of clips showing off quick thinking (or sometimes just plain luck) that will pump you up for some last-minute Halo 3 multiplayer before Reach gets here in a couple of weeks. Go watch! (Louis Wu 18:10:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fan Artwork
Exner23 created some cool Noble Team-based sticker art - you can see it on our forum. (Louis Wu 18:08:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Countdown and Boardwalk, mini-gameplay
IGN has some gameplay of Countdown and Boardwalk - showing off these last couple of Multiplayer maps. They're not long, but they'll give you a tiny taste. Thanks, Exanubisleader. (Louis Wu 18:08:09 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Hidden Fan Goodness GrimBrother One sent along a summary of the posts from our forum that had been overlooked by front-page posters (well, by CYBR and I) in the last week or so - sort of a mini-solution-by-crowdsourcing! Thanks, Grim. I left a couple of things out for various reasons - but here are the rest (these are all before Sunday). - Xbox360Achievements.org got a chance to play Tip of the Spear at Gamescom - they wrote up their impressions last week. (Do we have to tell you that you can't describe a campaign mission without SOME spoilers?) Grim noticed.
- SPU7N1K is looking to win a contest in Singapore and meet some Bungie employees - his entry (showing off his Halo collection) is pretty fun!
- Grim asked the Waypoint guys a while back if they had any large (printable) versions of the image they used for a "box art" shot of the service. (No, Waypoint doesn't come in a box.) GLYPH looked around - but was unable to provide one. However, when he learned of the need, newguy2445 stepped up and created a pair of images - you can pick the one you like the best. Fantastic!
I'm going to go through the forum for the last couple of days and see if there's more. (Louis Wu 18:04:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Get To Know Your HBO This makes six is a series that GrimBrother One has posted in our forums. It's your opportunity to discover interesting tidbits about your forum-mates as well as disclose some about yourself. Interesting stuff, but I'm not sure how well GTKYHBO rolls off the tongue. (Cybrfrk 16:41:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Which character are you? Perhaps I missed this and our search engine is fragged, but it's fun enough to share. Regardless, Archilen is asking the community which character they are. Go into PrepareForReach.ca, and find out. (Cybrfrk 15:53:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Clean community, now with sound That ODST Dude, over at Bungie.net, has started a project to put together an audio collection to go well with Reach. If you have some nice and clean song suggestions, jump on in and play now. (Cybrfrk 15:26:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Prevent slippery fingers If you've put any time on your gaming controller, you've probably uncovered a weakness with the stick controls. KontrolFreek is releasing some FPS Freek Legendary extensions (with grippers) and a sick new twist you'll need to see. (Cybrfrk 01:13:29 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 30 2010
Sardonic view of MLG play Now there are real MLG players and then there is the majority of players online who claim to be MLG players. You can figure out which flavor this humorous expose is aimed at. How to be MLG, presented by ShawtyHullstineFilms. This is the second video presented by him. (Cybrfrk 17:16:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Tangents of online gaming For those who missed it, Xbox Live will be increasing their price on November 1st, after 8 years of fixed rates. There's a bit of buzz internally around this. Initial post was on Major Nelson's blog, which means more money to play Reach online. (Cybrfrk 17:12:23 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Next Phase in Halo Goodies Auction This has been an ongoing auction series from kornman00, since July 8, 2010(1, 2, 3, 4), and now moves into autographed items. (Cybrfrk 17:06:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Recreation Season 7 DVD Sweepstakes The answer was more mysterious than was originally thought. What answer? What mystery? You would have to watch Season 7 of Red vs. Blue Recreation to figure those things out. Or...you can enter Daily Game's Reach sweepstakes for a chance of winning a box set. Enter by by 11:59pm PST on September 30, 2010. (Cybrfrk 15:33:57 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 29 2010
HMB Roundup
Tons of new content at Hawty McBloggy's: And on a related site, Halo 3 Screenshots has a new Top Ten - 'Splat' has some awesome vehicle shots. And with that... I'm out again. (Louis Wu 22:38:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
New Duds
New Reach shirts at MyTeeSpot, according to Bzerker01 - interesting! (Louis Wu 22:38:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Vancouver Halo Reach Event
necro2607 (with video and photos) went to the Vancouver Halo Reach event - go see. (Laird was there too.) (Louis Wu 22:37:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Live Action Ad Collection
Waypoint has posted a 'Halo Live Action Ad Collection' - all the live-action Halo ads, in one place, in hi-def. Pretty cool! Thanks, GrimBrother One. (Louis Wu 22:37:28 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Top Ten Halo 3 Kills on the Pit
Thanks again to Def Guru 7777, who alerted us to Anoj's Top Ten Halo 3 Kills on the Pit. Go watch. (Louis Wu 22:37:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
GamesRadar Campaign Preview
GamesRadar has posted a Reach preview - covers two missions. If you're reading this, you already know there are spoilers. Thanks, Def Guru 7777. (Louis Wu 22:35:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
G4TV Reach Preview Minime637 pointed out a Reach preview at G4 - 10 minutes of firefight, a 10-minute slayer game, and more. Pretty cool! (Louis Wu 22:35:14 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
GTTV 102
The most recent GTTV has Reach content - TravisSch has listed what's in it. As usual, beware of spoilers. (Louis Wu 22:34:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Latest Top 25 list from IGN
IGN posted a new Top 25 Xbox 360 Games list (this is what... #800?) - Halo 3 came in at #5. Thanks, GrimBrother One. (Louis Wu 22:34:16 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Within Reach
Mariachi put together 'Within Reach' - original music inspired by Reach. Good stuff! (Louis Wu 22:33:27 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Deliver Hope Multiplayer Remix
Def Guru 7777 noticed (via a Waypoint Tweet) a cool Deliver Hope remix - nice idea! (Louis Wu 22:32:57 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Spaces
I'm certain I'll miss stuff - but I'm going to whip through our forum and look for interesting bits in the short time I have available. Apologies to anyone I've overlooked. First up: Gravemind put together a few different levels from different Halo games, in order to give you a sense of scale - it's an eye opener! (Louis Wu 22:32:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 28 2010
Noble Six
Eep - one more, for the road (it's worth it): you might remember Rahll, a fantastic artist who's been doing Halo work for a few years. He just sent us a note pointing out his newest creation - Noble Six. All I can say is 'whoa'. (Louis Wu 20:58:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Missives from the Front Okay, that's all I've got time for. I'm hoping someone else picks up whatever's been posted in our forum (or elsewhere) recently - but I wanted to at least clear out the email queue, since it had been restricted to just a couple of people until this morning. Once again, I'd like to apologize for my inability to keep up on Halo news this week, and thank CYBRFRK for his heroic stepping up to the plate. Things MIGHT get better next week. (Maybe.) They'll CERTAINLY get better the week after that. (Louis Wu 20:27:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Gamestop Employee Launch Kit
A few days ago, AfroRyan posted pics of the 'Gamestop Employee Launch Kit' - nice way to package goodies for the workers! (Louis Wu 20:26:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Outpost: Isil Audio Extra Treeskunk Productions' Paul Shelley sent word that they'd released the recording session of one of the actors as a 'Behind the Scenes' peek for Outpost: Isil. Sounds like fun! ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach Deliver Hope Remix
Lrd Van Helsing whipped up a remix of the Deliver Hope short set to a relevant Buffalo Springfield song - works pretty well! Thanks to both LVH and fellow PraetoriaGuard member kilaMOMjaro for the heads-up. (Louis Wu 20:26:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Deliver Hope Wallpapers
PsH Bling whipped up a few wallpapers based on the Deliver Hope short - they're an odd size (1360x768), but they're fun! (one | two | three | four) (Louis Wu 20:25:29 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Weekly update, now with invisible weapons While I was out having a perfectly fine meal, Urk decided to post the Bungie Weekly Update. Are those troop deployments or a game of Chinese checkers? Ok, bad jokes aside, if you are on a *spoiler* diet, then steer clear. Update: this is in our Weekly Update Archive now, too. (Cybrfrk 06:26:26 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 27 2010
And three makes it complete CVG ends its three day article feast of the Reach campaign preview with mission #3. Jorge was *beep* as was *spoiler*, and then there was a *beep* *spoiler*. Wow, who knew that Kat could *spoiler* and *beeping* *spoiler*. (Cybrfrk 17:36:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The search is over As mentioned a month ago, XBox has been "Looking for a Leader." Today that search is over with Lewis Chapman being promoted team captain of the Halo: Reach Elite Spartan Squad. Watch and stand in awe as they try to keep a straight face. (Cybrfrk 17:31:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Spartan Women of the UNSC This is a nice cut above the rest, as RedGrimRune delivers a beautiful poster reminiscent of the 1950's horror movie scene. (Cybrfrk 15:17:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
No one is above the law profhalo noticed that Microsoft, in their rage-induced rampage to control leaked Reach video, has taken down three that are linked within the last Bungie Weekly Update. Perhaps someone should be checking for dead links at Bungie? (Cybrfrk 14:44:58 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Last minutes questions for Chris Carney Two weeks ago we alerted you to a pretty significant giveaway over at Avault. They are still accepting questions for the interview but only until Monday September 6th. The resulting podcast will air on September 9. Go listen for more details in this weeks podcast. (Cybrfrk 14:27:35 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Appurtenant books and Beowulf in space Dina Bass from Bloomberg Businessweek wrote an interesting article about the true value of the Halo franchise. And who knew Frankie played online each night? (Cybrfrk 14:19:21 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 26 2010
The fear of black vans from Seattle Techland delivers a three page summary of 10 hours on the Reach campaign, fully laden with *spoiler* goodness (or is it badness). Evan Narcisse and his AI "partner" feels that September 14th can't get here soon enough. (Cybrfrk 22:14:48 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Wu spotted in the wild If you are wondering where Louis Wu is these days, apparently he's visiting his Grand Pappy (The Elder) in the Pacific Northwest. Oh yes he did. Thanks to Crab for finding off of Ken Taya's tweet. (Cybrfrk 20:18:41 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Armor unlocks with and without bugs MTV's Russ Frushtick decided to take a pause from his 12 hours of Reach gaming to talk a bit about four different armor unlocks. Although this is not the first time these have been discussed, it's still a good read. If you are really avoiding anything related to the game -- walk away *spoiler*. (Cybrfrk 20:10:32 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Everyone needs extra cash Schooly D is polling the community to determine interest in a Reach 1v1 league. If you would like to showcase your mad skillz and show your parents that you can earn some cash using a jetpack, go respond. (Cybrfrk 17:01:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Blowing seven to kingdom come CVG released their spoiler-laden second (of three) parts in their Reach preview. Another campaign mission is reviewed which reveals *spoiler* and *spoiler*. Go take a look if you want more information about *spoiler*. There is mention of the role of music on the game play. (Cybrfrk 14:13:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The future of jetpacks Kotaku Talk Radio released their one hour show detailing their opinion of the role that jetpacks play in games, and yes in Reach. (Cybrfrk 14:07:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Deliver Hope Halo: Reach - Deliver Hope, the latest live-action trailer (following up 'Birth of a Spartan') is now live on both Halo Waypoint's website and YouTube (thanks, GrimBrother One). Reception on our forum seems to be mixed - but I have to say, I liked it, quite a lot. We don't know a lot about the timeframe of this piece - but I'd guess it's just a tiny bit before the game starts. Go make up your own mind! Update: it's available for download (in 720p goodness) from Bungie.net, as well. (And sorry to CYBR, who beat me on this by 3 minutes.) (Louis Wu 14:07:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Out of the ball park For those who have questioned the significance of the live-action trailers for Reach, we now "Deliver Hope." Make sure you grab a drink, change it to HD and enjoy the ride. (Cybrfrk 14:04:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Life of a Spartan
AssaultGodzilla is back with another Halo music video - like all of his work, source material is wide-ranging, and like all of his work, timing is superb. Go check out Life of a Spartan. (Louis Wu 13:57:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Wars Phone
nomis78 is working on a Spirit of Fire interface for his iPhone - nice start! (Louis Wu 13:51:40 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
7-foot Muckle Halo 2 Chief for Sale
This came in a couple of days ago, but travel and internet connections being what they are, it got lost in the shuffle... BARBARIC RAGE let us know about the sale of one of the 7-foot Muckle Halo 2 statues on eBay. This is NOT the American, foam statue - this is a European statue made of Fiberglass. (I have one of the small (12-inch) Muckles, and I have to say, the construction is fantastic.) There are still 6 days left in the auction - if you want to get your hands on one of these gorgeous pieces, here's a chance! (Louis Wu 13:49:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Get your visual flair here Or here. As mentioned in the Bungie Weekly Update, you now have the opportunity to start moving your couch, recliner and posters into your fancy Reach lobby. Don't forget to paint the baseboards. (Cybrfrk 03:48:42 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 25 2010
343 Astroturf ChenK noticed an article yesterday, that had an interview (towards the bottom) with Frankie. The embedded video from Matt Leone (1Up) allows Frankie to explain some statements from SD Comic Con, as well as giving a future timeline for 343 Industries. (Cybrfrk 22:05:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Popular Mechanics analyzes multiplayer systems We've all experienced the virtual psychopaths, boosters and cowards during online multiplayer. PM seems to think that Reach will finally implement a system that fixes what is broken and go so far as to claim that Bungie is fixing the mess they created; good read. Be careful, they are using psychic math and may know what you did last night. (Cybrfrk 21:49:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Marvel at the wonder of boot camp Brian Reed and Frankie talk with Techland about their upcoming Marvel comic series based around The Fall of Reach. This is no copy-paste interpretation, it's an artistic approach some major character expansion (and surprises). No spoilers here folks. (Cybrfrk 21:28:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Elder + GTTV = Spoiler goodness At this point what is not a spoiler? This Friday, 12:30 am, GTTV takes us inside the campaign including behind the scenes live-action footage plus interviews with Bungie (and Marty). Thanks GrimBrother One for the heads up. (Cybrfrk 17:13:57 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More fluid than Gears with staggering AI If I say spoilers, I mean spoilers. CVG continues to discuss campaign content with two more levels. Stay away if you don't want spoiled. (Cybrfrk 17:06:40 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
You can sound like a girl For those wondering if your character will be able to chat-it-up during multiplayer game, head over and read Kotaku brief write up on the role of in-game voice. (Cybrfrk 15:46:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Noble Team
One more before I go - looks like RedGrimRune has a pretty awesome new art piece up in his DeviantART gallery. (I hadn't put his screenname together with his real name, which makes the number of HBO regulars who are among the 9 Evolutions Art Contest winners now 5. That's absurd.) (Louis Wu 14:33:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
That's All I Need Young Street Productions is back with Episode 11 of Forecast the Series - it's not always easy to figure out what to bring on vacation. (Speaking of... that's where I am right now. Thanks a million to CYBR for posting yesterday - and for anyone else who keeps this page filled with news for the next bit - because I have much less of a connection than I'd expected.) (Louis Wu 14:20:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Campaign spoilers for all Joystiq continues the flood of spoiler-laden fun. If you don't want to know, just walk away. The last few missions are covered in their review. Did I mention there were spoilers in the article? (Cybrfrk 01:47:16 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 24 2010
Epic marketing campaign Creativity Online delivers a compilation article covering the major marketing work done for the Halo Reach release. Go read Behind the Work: Remember Reach, and they stated spoilers were removed best they could. (Cybrfrk 21:33:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Speculations, informed insight or detailed spoilers? IGN now gives us the Six Things You Might Not Know About Halo, But Should. This appears to be pure speculation, but some may consider it spoilers; read with that in mind. (Cybrfrk 21:27:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Pirates = sad face Before you go out and download the leaked pre-released Reach, perhaps you should spend some time to consider a potential outcome. Are you absolutely sure your system won't tell Microsoft you were a bad person? If you don't, you may find yourself perma-banned from XBox Live. (Cybrfrk 20:48:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Shifting away from Halo We've all known that Bungie's new partnership and franchise development is shifting resources, now 1Up has helped to uncover just how much. Brian Jarrard and Marcus Lehto help to lift the lid back a bit, as reported by ElzarTheBam here. (Cybrfrk 16:42:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Stay away from the soy sauce bucket Want to see the new Bungie inner sanctum in Bellevue? Downstairs only. 1up provides an walk-through interview with Eric Osborne, followed by a nice tidbit. Thanks to GrimBrother One for the eyes. (Cybrfrk 16:33:24 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide: Data Hive
It's the last one for a little while - but don't blame Tyrant. Data Hive, the latest chapter in his ODST Mythic Difficulty Guide, is now online - this is a pretty massive level, by ODST standards, and Tyrant has done it justice. After reading through his guide, I think maybe even I could work my way through this... maybe. (There's even an alternative method for skipping large chunks of the Bugger Run, if you so choose.) Go read about it, watch the videos for tips, and beat this puppy on your own! (I'm headed out on vacation - in fact, we leave for the airport in about 150 minutes - so his Coastal Highway chapter won't be live until early September. Sorry about that.) (Louis Wu 05:29:15 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Old sections come back online
A million thanks are due Thorshammer, who took some of his free time this week to fix our Interviews and Miscellaneous pages. They're still WAAAAY out of date - but that's not his fault, that's mine. They actually work again, and THAT is wonderful. Poke through them for a view of the early days of Halo fandom! (Louis Wu 05:03:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Defend Reach - Coming Soon
Last week, we mentioned the mini-ARG that Canadians in Vancouver and Toronto will get to experience soon. Looks like things might be kicking off a bit early - Laird snapped these photos (one | two) while wandering around Vancouver today. (Defend Reach isn't happening until Saturday.) (Louis Wu 04:11:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Gettin' it early
IGN's posted a history of Halo leaks, for those who haven't been following for years. Decent summary! Thanks, DancingJesus. (Louis Wu 03:57:48 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
When Bubble Shields Kill
Sometimes, when you're playing with friends, you can get a little frustrated by consistently bad playing. Most of us do one of two things in this situation: we either stop playing with the problem guy, or we accept the headaches philosophically. LtMkilla wasn't satisfied with either route, though - so he made full use of Halo 3's Theater Mode and told the world just what he thought of his friend ArrogantProphet. The language is certainly not safe for work... but MAN is it funny. Thanks, Zeouterlimits. (Louis Wu 03:49:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Don't get him started on #2 pencils. Red vs Blue Revelation is winding down - or maybe up. Just three episodes left, after tonight's - Chapter 17, Tenth Percentile, is now live for everyone. It's a killer of an ep - lots of cool info, some funny jokes, some clever writing. Go watch it. Can't wait for the rest! (Louis Wu 03:37:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Blurring the line between Single and Multiplayer
Germany's HaloBase interviewed Brian Jarrard at Gamescom - if you disregard the silly editing on 'No more Halo games' near the end (and the premise behind the last question), it's a fine interview. Go watch. Thanks, Hypertrooper. (Louis Wu 03:32:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Broad Strokes and Universal Themes Creativity Online has an article about the Remember Reach campaign, and a 3-minute video telling the story of some Reach residents affected by the invasion. It's the first of a series of videos (we saw a 30 second teaser last week), and the story it tells is intriguing... thanks, ElzarTheBam and CYBRFRK. Update: dogcom got some email with links for posters and wallpapers, and a downloadable version of the video. Beautiful!
Update: HD version available on Joystiq. (Louis Wu 01:57:44 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Samsung Halo- er, phone commercial
Wow - the latest Samsung 4G commercial takes more than a few cues from Halo... I'm surprised this made it past the copyright guys. Thanks, GrimBrother IV. (Louis Wu 01:51:23 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fire Team Zulu - maybe for Halo 3?
FyreWulff is running a test challenge for Fire Team Zulu - in Halo 3. Swing by, try it out, leave feedback. (Louis Wu 01:50:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember... something.
Apparently, RememberReach.com is live. (I say apparently, because on half a dozen browsers on a Mac (including all the biggies - Firefox, Safari, Chrome, Opera) it either crashes or does nothing at all.) It requires a Facebook login to use, and some reports of some browsers on some Windows operating systems are positive. Feel free to try it for yourself. shieldtron is very excited about it. (Louis Wu 01:34:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Glory, Glory
Cbwiliams17 put together a Halo Reach campaign trailer recut that really plays on American patriotism. (Louis Wu 01:33:35 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Don't forget to ask for directions.
Been a little while coming, but the next episode in Rooster Teeth's 3-part miniseries for GameStop was released today (you can watch it on their site, or as Gtag=Reluctant Chaos noticed, on their YouTube channel). Cute!
(Louis Wu 01:03:47 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach Ts in the UK
ElzarTheBam noticed some new t-shirts at Play.com - if you live in the UK, check these out! (Louis Wu 01:02:37 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach Achievement References
Caboozel let us know that he'd posted a video showing where the Halo Reach Achievement names came from. Take a look for historical reasons!
(Louis Wu 00:58:06 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 23 2010
The Long Haul: Day One (Pages 7-8)
urk let us know that Adam Susskind's The Long Haul comic has two more pages in its Day One incarnation - you can find links in his Comm Chatter post. (Louis Wu 19:13:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Montage Monday It must be time for more montages... Bungie's Comm Chatter's got three. - Default's getting into the Halo 3 montage business - his first one is 100% MLG.
- Hey is Tranquility's 90 seconds of Halo 3 ownage.
- You is a Halo 2 montage from Rezilient - memories!
Go watch. Update: missed one. Kampy's Halo 3 MGL Heretic FFA Montage is what it sounds like - FFA gameplay on Heretic. (Louis Wu 19:03:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Takes money to make money Microsoft spent $6.5 million to market Halo 3 - according to Advertising Age, Reach will be bigger. (Pretty amazing, given that their ENTIRE media marketing budget for video games in 2009 was $12 million...) Thanks, ElzarTheBam. (Louis Wu 15:21:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Downloadable Reach Icons Stormwing decided to make some Reach icons for his Android - but they're usable anywhere that 72x72 PNG files can be used. Pretty! (Louis Wu 15:20:15 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
When GameStop Workers get Creative
Hawty McBloggy found a very cool Reach Pre-Order display put together in a GameStop in Nebraska. I like those employees! (Louis Wu 15:19:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3 tourney in AZ
Justin Vactor let us know that the Microsoft Store in Scottsdale Fashion Square in Scottsdale, AZ is going to be hosting a Halo 3 tournament next Sunday - 7-9 pm, you must be 17 or older, there'll be door prizes and more. If you're in the area... check it out!
(Louis Wu 15:19:14 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 22 2010
Fan Art Goodies DEEP NNN brought us info of another piece of artwork from 2old2play's BATMANKM - Armor Lock never looked so tasty! And remember that gorgeous Engineer created by TDSpiral we mentioned yesterday? He's created a fantastic widescreen wallpaper for it it's huge (2048x1152), and comes in three variants, depending on where you want the actual Engineer. Glorious. Update: eep, almost missed one. CaptainTony put up a poster inspired by Inglourious Basterds. (Louis Wu 10:51:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach App on Android Thomas Renn let us know he's whipped up a Halo Reach app for Android phones - it shows fans info about Reach, and there's a replica of Reach's Armory, which so far includes what Bungie's released. Check it out! (Louis Wu 10:50:39 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
One Life Remaining, Arby 'n' the Chief
If you're a JonCJG fan, there are two new videos online for you - One Life Remaining Season 2 Episode 7 went live last week (there's more info about the rest of the season on his blog) and Arby 'n' the Chief Season 4 Episode 5 went up yesterday (if you're interested, Jon's posted the production script). Tension is ramping up! (Louis Wu 10:49:35 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember Reach campaign - starts soon!
If you're interested in catching up on the mini-ARG that's set to kick off tomorrow on RememberReach.com, MovieViral.com has a summary. It'll probably be a bit less confusing when the information is coming out the way its creators intended... (Louis Wu 10:48:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Reach Video from Gamescom
DancingJesus pointed out two new vids that contain Reach info - Inside Gaming confirmed that you'll be able to rewind Campaign/Firefight saved films (the Reach section starts about 2:40 into their Day 3 Coverage of Gamescom), while GamerLive TV has a 7-minute interview with Brian Jarrard. Go watch! (Louis Wu 10:48:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Follow Waypoint, Win a Statue
Halo Waypoint has 21,708 followers on Twitter. They put up a note yesterday that when they hit 34,300 followers, they'll give away a signed Reach Legendary statue to one of those people at random. Better odds than Powerball! Thanks, Alienshogun. (Louis Wu 10:46:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Shack looks at Reach
Shacknews put up a preview for Reach - contains some minor campaign spoilers for early levels. Thanks, Deadly Cyclone. (Louis Wu 10:45:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
ZOMG
Today's Grin + Bear It is simply a reminder of how long you have to wait to play Reach. Along with more information about PEZ dispensers than you probably wanted. (Louis Wu 10:45:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember Reach (Fan Recut)
Yet another campaign trailer recut - this one from P40L0. 4:35 long, and using Mothergoat's Fury to Fire as its soundtrack (a reminder of this wonderful piece is one of the best parts of this!)... go watch. (Louis Wu 10:43:44 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 21 2010
Go Deeper.
If you (like me) were unable to attend the recent IBO (HBO) beach party in Long Island, you can at least read about it, courtesy of Jillybean's dulcet pennings, and enjoy photos, courtesy of Jilly and Rets. I haven't seen so much red flesh since the Salem Witch Trials (yes, I was there - I watched from the sidelines with Marty). (Louis Wu 12:54:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide: ONI Alpha Site Daniel 'Tyrant' Morris continues his campaign against the Covenant - his Mythic Difficulty Guide for ONI Alpha Site is now online. (The fact that it wasn't up yesterday is 100% my fault.) This is a difficult level, but Tyrant makes it easier with tips and tricks and video demos of just what you need to do to survive. Go check it out. (Louis Wu 12:13:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Flair Checker
FyreWulff put together a Flair Checker - answer a few questions, and his page will show you what your gamertag can look like in Halo: Reach pregame lobbies. Pretty slick!
(Louis Wu 12:12:21 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Engineered to perfection.
TDSpiral was inspired to paint a Huragok - I'm happy he was. It's gorgeous.
(Louis Wu 12:11:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Building a Light Sculpture, Take 2
Miguel Chavez pointed out the article that goes along with that Kuka Robot Arm video we mentioned yesterday - if you didn't fully understand what was going on (or you were having trouble watching the video because of permissions), check this out on Wired's site. (Louis Wu 12:10:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Family Guy Meets Reach
coreross decided to see what the characters in The Family Guy would look like with Reach armor. Since they don't actually exist in the Reach universe... that means he's DRAWING them. So far, he's got Peter and Stewie, with Brian's helm partially finished. Go see. (Louis Wu 12:10:23 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Video Saturday
More Reach trailer recuts - padraig08 released one, and Littleberu released another. Whee! (And while we're at it, AssaultGodzilla is back with another Halo music video - this one called 'Mad World'. As always, amazing synch job.)
(Louis Wu 12:07:42 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Sketch talks to Gamerspawn
Overdoziz noticed an interview with Brian Jarrard at Gamescom, conducted by the Gamerspawn crew. Go see if you can pick up anything new!
(Louis Wu 12:06:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Hedge REALLY Loves Halo Hedgemony let us know that his photomanip site, "Hedgemony Loves Halo", has passed the 600 image mark. The latest batch of additions (we mentioned the 500 image milestone just over 3 weeks ago) contains some truly gorgeous pictures. Go see. (Louis Wu 12:04:39 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I think we have things in common.
A staff member from ReadyUpLive signed up for a dating service as Master Chief. The nibbles on his profile... might make you laugh. Go see! Thanks, Greenskull.
(Louis Wu 12:03:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Gamescom writeups There's a short preview of Reach from the folks at Destructoid, based on what they saw at Gamescom. Minor campaign spoilers. There's another one at Xboxic. Go see.
(Louis Wu 12:02:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Media Madness from urk
As usual, the Bungie Weekly Update went live last night (it WAS Friday night, after all). Highlights this time around include a summary of Sketch's adventures in Germany, an explanation of the way your gamertag will appear in Reach pregame lobbies (and what you need to modify that), a Q&A about some of the Corvette footage we saw last week, a new pair of high-res gameplay clips showing Firefight footage on Outpost (a map we haven't seen much of yet) and The Cage (a Forge World build), some cool wallpaper, and more. Chock-full, I tell you. It is, as always, available in our Weekly Update Archive, if you have a need for it. (It was there last night - just didn't get around to updating the front page.)
(Louis Wu 10:43:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 20 2010
Intent of Scale
NeoGAF's Salami Inferno noticed a preview of one of the campaign levels over at 1UP - the writeup is designed to give you a sense of scale of the action. Short, but sweet. (Obviously, this contains information about the campaign.) (Louis Wu 22:54:08 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Social Networking - for Spartans
IGN talked to Bungie's Chris Gossett about the new Bungie.net features we'll see rolled out for Reach. Some of this stuff appeared with the Reach Beta this spring - but there's plenty of new goodness (and refined stuff that works even better); it's a mouth-watering read. (Do you like Facebook-style image tags, telling you who's in a picture? Reach will do that for uploaded screens... automatically.) Go read it. Then check the calendar - only 24 more days! (Well, and a little.) (Louis Wu 22:07:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Building a light sculpture
The Remember Reach website shows off a Kuka robotic arm - DHalo points out a Wired-created video showing off how that arm will be used to create a Reach light sculpture. Pretty cool! (Louis Wu 19:35:06 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Free As a Bird
Firestorm12 let us know about 'Free As a Bird', a music video set to the Beatles' song of the same name. Check out the gorgeous vistas of Halo! (Have you ever seen John Lennon dressed in Spartan armor before?) (Louis Wu 19:28:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Life-size Master Chief statue for sale
AcerM just posted his life-sized Halo Master Chief statue on eBay - starting bid is $300, you've got 10 days to decide. Go look! (Louis Wu 19:24:06 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Custom paint job on a 360
shadow8p was nervous about custom-painting a 360... but I'd say that first attempt went pretty well! Check it out. (Louis Wu 18:21:44 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fire Team Zulu: Budget Cuts
FyreWulff has another Fire Team Zulu challenge for you - Budget Cuts is Alpha Site with a really limited weapon set. Are you up for it? (Louis Wu 16:10:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Be A Man
Cortana4ever put together a Halo music video (footage from Halo 3, ODST, and Reach) set to the song 'Be a Man' from the Disney movie 'Mulan'. Well-told! (No comments on the melding of Disney and Bungie...) (Louis Wu 16:09:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
It's out there. Just a warning - looks like Reach is out there in the wild. This time it seems we can't blame the French; apparently, a group of modders figured out how to fool Xbox.com into allowing a download of the copies put up for some press. (Ouch!) Videos and screenshots are already online, and it's likely that if you hang around on forums, you WILL see spoilers. (We'll do our best to keep them off the HBO forum, but we can't guarantee anything... and we certainly can't help with other places on the interwebs.) So if you're looking to play Reach unspoiled... now might be a good time to go dark. (Louis Wu 13:17:08 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Cover Madness Looks like Reach will be adorning more than a few magazine covers in September - Skilotonn pointed out the GamePro cover that showed up on Halo Waypoint's Twitter stream, and DigitalReborn has a copy of the OXM that's coming out in a couple of weeks. Ramping up... Update: New Zealand's Game Console, too.
(Louis Wu 13:16:10 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday Caption Fun, Round 106
It's Friday, so it's time for another round of Friday Caption Fun at Hawty McBloggy's. Great captions from last week's pic, plus a classic pic looking for your fine wit and captioning skills. Go see! (Louis Wu 13:15:17 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday's Fan Fiction Five new pieces up for you this week in the Fan Fiction section - go read! (Louis Wu 13:12:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach Merch
Hedgemony ordered an Emile hoodie today, from Urban Collector - pretty slick!
(Louis Wu 13:10:37 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 19 2010
Pulling off the vision jv247.com (a French gaming site) interviewed Brian Jarrard - questions are in French, but Brian's answers are in English. Nice summary. Thanks, DancingJesus. (Louis Wu 22:05:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Outpost Isil Ep 15, Part 2 now on YouTube
Last week, we mentioned that Treeskunk Productions had released Outpost Isil Episode 15. If you watched it on YouTube, you only saw the first half. (If you watched it on their site, you saw the whole thing.) They've just posted the second half on YouTube - so if you're missing the ending, go watch! (Louis Wu 21:23:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Rocket Hog Action
It's offscreen, but it's still worth watching - VideoGamer.com has put up a video of some Rocket Hog gameplay on Beachhead, recorded at Gamescom. Thanks, Kibbles. (Louis Wu 20:24:11 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Bungie Panel at PAX - Update
If you're planning to be at PAX in a couple of weeks, you might be interested to know that Bungie's finally on the schedule - they've got a panel on Saturday morning, 10 am in the Pegasus Theatre. Be there! Thanks, ElusiveEagle519. (Louis Wu 20:01:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
A market for custom ODST dog tags?
Mid7night is thinking about making custom ODST dog tags, for folks interested in something a little special... but they're not cheap. Go read about it - then weigh in! (Louis Wu 17:32:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fan Coverage in Unlikely Places
Wow. So a website devoted to materials handling, "ForkliftAction.com", has an article about the new forklift in Reach. How's THAT for fan coverage? (You can only read the article if you're a member of the site, so if you're interested, but NOT a part of that industry, we'll save them their bandwidth and the headaches of unnecessary signups and show you this screenshot. Forky Forever! (Louis Wu 17:23:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Virtue and Vice
If you're feeling montage-less this afternoon, don't worry - Bungie's Comm Chatter delivers: Virtue and Vice is a 4-minute Reach Beta montage from Dutchy and ManWithoutModem. Focus is definitely on the editing. (Louis Wu 17:23:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Best Buy Reach Midnight Openings Want to go to a Halo: Reach Midnight Launch Event at a Best Buy near you? Check this list. (But shhhhhh! As it says at the top of the page, it's Top Secret: For Best Buy® Gamers Only.) Update: StUnNeR H2K pointed out that his local Best Buy isn't on the list, but IS doing a Midnight release (sponsored by an outside group) - so you might want to check your local store if they're not on the list. (Louis Wu 16:51:40 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
One For The Books
urk pointed out a truly spectacular Halo 3 campaign jumping vid - some of these jumps are UNREAL. Congrats to everyone who participated... I'm in awe. Watch this. (Louis Wu 16:22:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Also at Gamescom - Outpost
There's no footage of it that I can find, but apparently Outpost was shown at Gamescom, as well - G4TV has a short writeup. (Thanks, DarthYoda19.) If you don't remember which one Outpost is, CVG posted some screenshots a few weeks ago. (Louis Wu 16:05:14 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Double EXP Shenanigans
Tired of playing with the same old boring BR? Want some spice in your Halo Matchmaking life? Try this week's Double EXP playlist - Fiesta. Maybe you spawn with a Sniper and Rocks... maybe you spawn with a single Spiker. You never know! The mayhem kicks off in 2 hours! (Louis Wu 15:54:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Gamescom Resource Compilation
Over at Bungie.net, Homeboyd903 has been keeping a list of media resources around the web devoted to Reach at Gamescom - if you want to make sure you haven't missed anything (you probably have, there's a TON), this is a good place to start! (Louis Wu 15:44:29 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Tung
Looks like IGN interviewed Joe Tung, too - not quite the monster that GameSpot posted, but it's 4 minutes, respectable. If you had ANY doubt that you'd be bored quickly with Reach, Joe's here to convince you you're wrong. Thanks, DancingJesus. (Louis Wu 15:38:56 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
3D Reach? Odd. GrimBrother One pointed out a tiny piece at vg247 - apparently, Reach was available in stereoscopic 3D at Gamescom. (This is the first we're hearing about it, so it's unlikely this is anything more than a tech demo... but it's interesting.) Update: false alarm. It's a Toshiba TV demo. Thanks, Eurogamer (via SleepyGlenn). (Louis Wu 15:29:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach Info - Different Camera
ElzartheBam noticed another version of the Reach intro, this time filmed by Gamersyde. Again, it's Campaign footage - so skip it if you're dark. (Louis Wu 15:28:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo - Done Short (greenbluepurplesleep)
Hawty McBloggy asked fans to summarize Halo in 140 characters or less on Twitter yesterday - swing by to see some of the responses!
(Louis Wu 15:27:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Firefight on Corvette - High Quality
If you're looking for high-quality Corvette footage, swing by Bungie.net (or YouTube directly) - there's a five-minute Firefight match in full hi-res goodness. No more blue, no more REALLY bad playing! Awesome to see a Hunter stand up to some real damage. And MAN Skirmishers are fast! (Lots more comments and observations in this thread.)
(Louis Wu 15:25:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Very well. I accept.
Epyon MX stopped in with a recounting of a Campaign battle in Halo 3 he just revisited - makes me want to take a couple of hours and do the same! Great read. (Louis Wu 15:24:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Joe Tung talks to GameSpot
GameSpot has an extensive (17 minute) video interview with Joe Tung, discussing Reach in depth. This seems to have been recorded in Australia, not at Gamescom - which makes it about a week old... but it's still completely relevant. The majority of this information is already out there... but there are definitely interesting and new bits, and Joe does a fantastic job of hitting the Reach highlights. Campaign Matchmaking was NOT a misstatement - you WILL be able to hook up with other fans you don't know to play coop campaign! Cool. Thanks, Minime637.
(Louis Wu 15:24:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Gamescom Live (Archived)
If you missed the Gamescom streaming presentation yesterday, never fear - it's been archived on Xbox.com. (Many people pointed this out - I think Blinding was first.) The entire presentation is up, so if it's just Reach you're looking for, Brian Jarrard comes out about 28:30 or so - and if you want to skip the beginning section (which is primarily a look at the opening cinematic and a run-through of the beginning of the game, up to just before you engage the first enemy), then jump to 49:45, which is where the Reach Q&A begins.
(Louis Wu 15:23:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Rise Up
Exanubisleader found yet ANOTHER campaign trailer recut - this one focuses on characters, and adds titles (and a bombastic soundtrack) that make this feel like a 70s action TV show. Where's BA Baracus when you need him? (Louis Wu 15:22:15 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
IGN delves into Campaign
IGN posted a short text preview of the campaign, as they saw it at Gamescom - no story spoilers, but the action IS described, so if you want to do it yourself first, pass on this. Thanks, DancingJesus.
(Louis Wu 15:21:47 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 18 2010
PoA kill 'em all speed run
Rockslider's back, with a new film - this one's a Legendary speed-run of Pillar of Autumn. He's not setting any records - but it is a 'kill-em-all' run, so the extra time can certainly be forgiven. Go look! (Louis Wu 22:01:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Operation Anchorage
SpartanSniper619 sent word of 'Operation Anchorage', a Halo 3 machinima remake (the first one was his first machinima). Brings back memories of World War II battles simulated in Halo 2! The creator is French, but this is understandable by all; there is no dialogue. (Louis Wu 21:39:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
PGCR #45 - Reach
SK1LL4XED sent word that the latest Postgame Carnage Report podcast (#45) is full of Reach info - impressions, armor customization discussion, Forge info, and more. Go listen! (Louis Wu 20:00:04 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Art Dump
Sl'askia (another winner in the Halo Evolutions Art Contest) was convinced to display some of her Halo work on our forum - swing by for links. Some really good stuff in there! (Louis Wu 19:18:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Death by staring
More off-screen footage, this time from GamePro - awful color, even worse playing, but hey, you get to see Corvette. Thanks, Minime637. (Louis Wu 19:17:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Wednesday Vid Action
Looking for more montage action? Check out Bittersweet, from True Shot, for lots of quick-reflex action... or maybe Anoj's Top 10 Halo 3 Accidental Betrayals for some funny ohcrap moments. Thanks to urk and Bungie's Comm Chatter for the links. (Louis Wu 19:17:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Hard-to-come-by Concussion Rifle footage
Eye Drop suggested that folks looking for a view of the new Covenant Concussion Rifle in action take a look at a recent episode of 'Headshot' with The Dead Pixel - it's offscreen footage, but about 1:30 into the video is a kill using the gun. (Louis Wu 13:42:39 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Need Backup?
Hawty McBloggy has the latest episode of ODS Steve up - #79 integrates Halo Wars, apparently. (Louis Wu 13:42:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Black Battle-Damaged Spartan for sale
DocOctavius continues to sell older Halo items - he's relisted a Black battle-damaged Spartan at a lower price. Go see! (Louis Wu 13:41:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember
The second live action short in the Remember Reach campaign has leaked - thanks to hotshot revan for pointing it out. If you missed the first one, 'Patrol', it's here (understandable, because it was part of a much larger information dump that was collected during the night on Monday.) (Louis Wu 13:40:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
How You Doin'?
Exanubisleader noticed a new GameStop commercial on YouTube - it shows off a new multiplayer environment we haven't seen before. (It also shows off some "don't do this" behavior.) (Louis Wu 13:39:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More on Mobile Waypoint
Over at NeoGAF, DancingJesus pointed out a Joystiq-hosted video showing off Waypoint on Windows Phone 7. (We mentioned that Waypoint was a launch title for the platform yesterday.) Good news - the app is free (and usable even without a Gold account - that's more than you can say for the Marketplace version!). (Louis Wu 13:38:39 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Corvette Firefight Action
There were a bunch of new videos of Firefight gameplay on Corvette released yesterday - Zen Volta pointed out one at Kotaku, then found a pair at GameTrailers (Part 1 | Part 2). Quality is not the best (nor is gameplay), but hey - it's a new map! (Louis Wu 13:38:11 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 17 2010
I think she wants a sammich. NSFW, but pretty funny - what would XBL be like if the female population was as obnoxious as the male population? Thanks, MoltenSlowa. (Louis Wu 20:27:15 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Top 10 Halo Cutscenes, Supplemental
Eep - too much going on, losing track of news. Maniac (who posted a huge 'Top 10 Halo Cutscenes' video a few days ago) got a bunch of feedback that not enough love was given to Halo 3: ODST or Halo Wars. So he's back with a supplement - 5 more scenes. Go watch. (Louis Wu 19:56:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
HaloDesktops - Halo Wallpaper Central
Looking for cool Halo artwork to adorn your computer screen? Firestream has kicked off HaloDesktops - a collection of some of the best. Check it out - vote for your faves, add your own, make this an amazing crowdsourced site! (Louis Wu 19:46:47 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Well, THAT was unexpected.
Zee-V70 combined a bit from the recent "A Spartan Will Rise" video with a slightly older bit from a famous source of Halo mirth, and the product made me laugh. Go watch. (Louis Wu 19:05:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Corvette, larger
Because you shouldn't have to settle for 720x405-sized shots of Corvette, we're hosting 1080p versions (one | two | three | four | five). Enjoy.
(Louis Wu 13:35:37 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Multilevel Carnage Awesome - 1UP's GameVideos has off-screen footage of Firefight gameplay on Corvette - it's a little blue, but you can get a good sense of the layout and flow. Thanks to butsomuch, over at NeoGAF, for the heads-up. Update: Part 2 is here (thanks, TravisSch).
(Louis Wu 13:26:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Corvette Revealed Over on Xbox UK's Facebook page, there are a few public shots (no Facebook login needed) of a new Firefight map just announced at Gamescom - 'Corvette' looks like a gorgeous Covenant space. Thanks, onebitrocket. (Louis Wu 11:38:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Oh, look - a helmet with an observation tower
Mmm... yum. Halo: Reach cupcakes! Thanks, Hawty.
(Louis Wu 11:37:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I like giraffes.
Red vs Blue Revelation Chapter 16: Standardized Testing went live last night. Tex relives a bad patch in her past, while Grif steps up his game. Go see! (Louis Wu 11:36:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Joyride Figs for Sale
Jayshum stopped in with word of a bunch of auctions being run by a friend of his - lots of Joyride Halo 2 figures. Go see! (Louis Wu 11:36:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Jonah the Headhunter TDSpiral (one of the winners in the Halo Evolutions Art Contest) decided to follow up his Headhunters pic with another depiction of Jonah, a Spartan III from the story. Gorgeous! (Louis Wu 11:34:42 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
TTL - rounding up the troops
XerxdeeJ stopped in with word of a gathering of Halo faithful, preparing for the onslaught of Reach multiplay. Go visit Tied the Leader and see what the heads of the various factions of the Good Game Network are most looking forward to! Great read.
(Louis Wu 11:33:55 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Waypoint - on Windows Phone 7
Whoa, funky. Looks like Halo Waypoint is one of the launch titles for the upcoming Windows Phone 7! You'll be able to get your Halo goodness on your Windows-enabled smartphone... very nice! Thanks, Nick. (Louis Wu 11:32:41 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember Reach
Looks like the Reach marketing campaign is about to swing into full action - before the Bungie ViDoc went live, our forum was pretty active exploring a new website, Remember Reach. A bunch of things were discovered over the course of last night - many of which have been closed down (it seems the folks building the site aren't quite ready to go fully live yet). You can read through the forum thread for details, or check out Dani's nice summary of what's been found so far, over at NeoGAF.
(Louis Wu 11:30:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Play'd talks to Sketch
NeoGAF's Hypertrooper pointed out a German interview with Brian Jarrard, focusing on Halo Reach; the opening of the show is in German, but never fear, the interview itself (and it's a hefty one) is in English. Lots of info that hardcore fans already have... but there are definitely a few new tidbits buried in there. Go watch!
(Louis Wu 11:29:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
A Spartan Will Rise Swing by Bungie.net for the newest treat from our Reach overlords - 'A Spartan Will Rise' is a three-minute thrill-ride into Halo: Reach's campaign. (Will it spoil the game for you? Highly unlikely, since Bungie wants nothing more than for you to be bowled over on September 14. That said - if you're staying Campaign-dark, stay away. Will it whet your appetite for more? Well, if you're anything like me... yeah. Yeah, x1000.) Think you know Noble Team? Speculators... start your engines! (It's up on YouTube, too, if you have an aversion to downloads.) (Louis Wu 10:35:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 16 2010
Evolutions Community Art Contest - Winners Halo Waypoint has announced the winners of their Halo Evolutions Community Art Contest - you can read the announcement on their site, or just browse through the winners in our Winners Gallery. Congratulations to all the participants - but I'd like to toss out a special shout-out to TDSpiral, Sl'askia, Leviathan, and Bryn Casey - all HBO regulars, all winners. Awesome! (Louis Wu 21:15:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Canada's Chance to Remember Reach
Do you live in Canada? If so, you might want to check out this page - looks like there's a mini-ARG of sorts, similar to what took place in Toronto for Halo 3. Thanks, The BS Police. (Louis Wu 20:48:04 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
YOU CAN'T HAVE MY SOUL, CABBAGE.
zwitterion noticed a photograph taken during the wildfires that are eating through Russia right now - it reminded him strongly of something in Halo. Me too. (Louis Wu 19:45:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ritalin Roundup
Couple of montages for you, courtesy of Bungie's Comm Chatter: Velander's Halo 3 Montage 1 has nice gameplay and lots of color changes... while Stobs' Chemical is seriously heavy on the fast cuts. Bring your dramamine. (Louis Wu 18:42:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Marathon for Charity Some folks at the website "Halo: Endurance Evolved" are going to be playing through all of the Halo FPS games (1, 2, 3, ODST) in a row, to raise money for Child's Play. Swing by the site for more information, and a donation link. Thanks to urk for the heads-up. (Louis Wu 18:20:28 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I can't wait for Reach.
Now, I know a lot of you probably echo that sentiment... but likely for different reasons. You see, I'm getting worn out watching trailer remixes... there's so little footage available that everyone's using the same clips. There are two more, just this very morning - crymson nite set it to Eminem, while John_117 set it to Halo 3's Behold a Pale Horse. Less than a month... and folks will be able to make trailers from their OWN footage! (Louis Wu 17:40:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach Console Sounds, Downloadable
Major Nelson posted audio files (in both .mp3 and .m4r (iPhone ringtone) formats) of the Power On and Tray Opening sounds on the Reach special edition console. Go grab your copies! Thanks, Minime637. (Louis Wu 17:22:46 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide: Kizingo Boulevard
Daniel 'Tyrant' Morris continues to illuminate the most difficult corners of Halo 3: ODST's campaign - the latest walkthrough in his Mythic Difficulty Guide will get you through Kizingo Boulevard. Lots of tips, lots of vids - go check it out! (Louis Wu 15:53:09 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Master Chief - Walled
Wow, very cool - Hawty McBloggy uncovered a superb wall mural adorning the bedroom of an 11-year-old (along with pictures documenting its creation). What a view! (Louis Wu 15:41:40 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
In Forky We Trust.
Joe Duplessie whipped up a pretty cool Xbox 360 Dashboard theme from the recent Forklift artwork on Bungie.net - if you're unclear on the details, his post explains how to use it, as well. (Louis Wu 15:38:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
ubald comic - Echoes in the Grave
Tony 'ubald' Marcotte continues his work on a Halo comic; he sent along what started as an attempt for the cover, but ended up a character shot. Either way - pretty cool! (Louis Wu 15:33:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
History of Bungie, on GG
Australian show Good Game recently dedicated most of an episode to the History of Bungie (with a significant portion being given to the Halo series) - mattroe provides direct links to the Bungie segments. Nice! (Louis Wu 15:32:07 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach deals around the world
ElzarTheBam noticed that UK shop Argos is offering Halo 3: ODST for £5 if you order Reach from them. And Hedgemony pointed out a truly ugly web page at Australia's JB Hi-Fi that offers a free t-shirt if you preorder Reach, as well as a chance to win a Halo Reach bomber jacket. (Louis Wu 15:31:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Rat's Nest chapter 28 (and 27)
bloogyo is back with Rat's Nest Chapter 27 and 28 - go catch up.
(Louis Wu 15:30:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Megabloks Halo Armies
Urban Reflex found a pretty cool image someone created, showing off both UNSC and Covenant forces, made of Megabloks - not bad! (Louis Wu 15:29:38 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 15 2010
Glamping? CaptainTony noticed that Halo 3: ODST makes an appearance in the most recent episode of Eureka, a Syfy series. (There's a 30-second clip embedded here.) He was impressed with the super-fast bootup of the game... (Louis Wu 23:59:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach Slayer: Pinnacle
And because we were offline for a day, here's ANOTHER full multiplayer match, courtesy of Waypoint - this one is Team Slayer on Pinnacle (the Forge World remake of Ascension). Dunno who 'Grunty' is - but he nearly won the game for his team, solo! Thanks, ElzarTheBam, for noticing. (Louis Wu 19:23:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ferrex Talks Forge World
FyreWulff sat down with Tyson Green a few weeks ago, with Forge World the topic of discussion. Fascinating interview - go read it! (Louis Wu 19:22:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach Slayer: Zealot
Waypoint has put up another full Reach Multiplayer match - this time, it's Team Slayer on Zealot. There's more than enough footage to show you that Zealot bears almost no resemblance to Midship - but it does, in fact, seem to owe inspiration to the first's game's Derelict. Gorgeous.
(Louis Wu 19:21:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
A Whole New World
padraig08 put together a pretty busy wallpaper from the Forge World concept art Bungie created a while back (and made posters of for ComiCon) - take a look! (Louis Wu 19:20:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
That's Zealot of Crap
Today's Grin + Bear It points out that it's not easy coming up with zingers. (Louis Wu 19:20:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ouch!
slushy sent word of a funtage he co-edited with Anthraxx - Ouch! is nearly 11 minutes of silliness. I could have done with less griefing (betrayals, etc), but some of the funny moments were very funny. It can also be downloaded (it's nearly half a gig!) from Megaupload, if you'd rather have a hi-res .mp4 file. (Louis Wu 19:19:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 14 2010
Out for a spell
And... that's all for a little bit, folks. HBO's gonna be quiet for a while. Enjoy your weekend! (Louis Wu 14:45:58 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Forerunner Font. Usable.
Omega found a site that lets you create fonts easily... so he created a font for the Forerunner alphabet used in the Halo 3 Terminals. To say I'm flabbergasted would be an understatement. Go check this out - it's just plain cool. (Louis Wu 14:41:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Top Ten Halo Screenshots: Pleasurable Pastimes This week's Top Ten Halo Screenshots feature at Halo3screenshots.com is called 'Pleasurable Pastimes' - when I saw that, I cringed, thinking bs angel might have filled it with Spartan Pr0n. She kept it clean, though, and the images are fantastic. Go look.
(Louis Wu 14:41:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Spawn announces Reach Series 2
Dielectric noticed an official press release from Spawn about the McFarlane Reach Series 2 figures - some interesting stuff coming in January! Check it out. (Louis Wu 14:38:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fire Team Zulu: Buck Brawl
Later than usual, but FyreWulff put up a new Fire Team Zulu challenge last night - Buck Brawl is a Campaign challenge on Tayari Plaza. Sounds pretty hard to me - but it could be a lot of fun! Go see.
(Louis Wu 14:36:38 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 13 2010
Emile, sketched
DEEP NNN stopped in with a link to a cool Emile sketch, whipped up by 2old2play denizen BATMANKM. Check it! (Louis Wu 19:10:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Remember Reach
Haven't seen enough recuts of the Battle Begins trailer? No worries - BlueNinja has another one for you. (Louis Wu 19:09:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ataraxia James 'CROSSFIRE' Dubose posted the full version of Ataraxia - you can watch it all the way through on Vimeo, or in two segments on YouTube (Part 1 | Part 2). It's just under 20 minutes long, and REALLY nicely done. Powerful piece. Go watch. (Watch till the end.) (Louis Wu 18:51:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Team Slayer: Reflection (Full Match) Halo Waypoint has put up a full Team Slayer match on Reflection - if you've been interested to see how this gorgeous reimagining looks in more than dribs and drabs, swing by and watch! Thanks, jlm699. (Louis Wu 16:30:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Widow
Pierre Tartaix sent word that TGO GMBH has a new machinima up - The Widow tells the tale of a woman seeking revenge against her husband's killer. No spoken dialogue - just text balloons. (The group is French, and this is an easy way to keep the content international.) Nicely filmed! (Visit their website for more vids.) (Louis Wu 15:21:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Avault Reach Giveaway Mark Turcotte sent word that Avault is giving away 3 bundles of an Xbox 360 Slim AND a copy of Halo: Reach - you can enter if you live in North America. Pretty cool! Halo fans should also check out Episode 98 of their podcast - it's due to air September 9, and will feature Chris Carney as the guest. (We'll certainly remind you ahead of time.) They're considering the idea of community questions for Chris - and if this happens, we'll tell you that, too. For now - go register to win!
(Louis Wu 14:50:11 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide: Kikowani Station The next chapter of Daniel 'Tyrant' Morris' ODST Mythic Difficulty Guide is live - go read his tips for beating Kikowani Station with all skulls on! As always, videos show off the key points to conquering the hard parts. (Louis Wu 13:59:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach AI - now doing K turns
Rampancy.net has a fascinating mini-interview with Max Dyckhoff, the Bungie programmer behind the non-player character AI. Read it, and learn all about how your compatriots will drive in Reach!
(Louis Wu 13:54:26 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday Caption Fun, Round 105
It's Friday again! That means it's time for Friday Caption Fun at Hawty McBloggy's. Last week's pic is up, with some funny captions... and a new, dying-to-be-captioned pic of Spartan tenderness is waiting for you. Go play. (Louis Wu 13:52:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ask Bungie at Gamescom
NeoGAF's Hypertrooper pointed out a Tweet from Xbox UK Community Manager Graeme Boyd; apparently, there's going to be a webchat with Bungie folks during Gamescom next week (Brian and Luke will both be there, I think), and you can participate! (Louis Wu 13:52:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Top Ten Halo Cutscenes
Maniac spent some time with the cutscenes from the Halo series - and put together a 50-minute video outlining his Top 10 Halo Cutscenes, including rationale. A great nostalgic walk! (Louis Wu 13:51:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Dogtags and Joyride Exclusives
DocOctavius is selling off some old, and rare, Halo memorabilia - now price-reduced. Go see!
(Louis Wu 13:48:10 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
20 Questions: Ryan Moyer
Willy stopped in with word of a 20 Questions article for the month of August at CE United - his subject is haloreachbeta.com's Ryan Moyer. Go see what makes someone set up a website devoted to a beta!
(Louis Wu 13:47:37 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday's Fan Fiction
There were no new stories in the Fan Fiction queue last week - and only one this week. I guess the community is slowing down! (Louis Wu 13:41:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Dew Flood Begins
Lots of people remembered the Mountain Dew/Halo tie-ins with both Halo 2 and Halo 3, and have been wondering when the Reach versions would appear - looks like now. Sai-Kun got a message about Honoring the Code last night (here's a right-side-up version, for easier reading). It's not Game Fuel this time around... but you CAN win stuff. (Louis Wu 13:39:47 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 12 2010
His Fear is Your Gain
The Bungie Weekly Update is up... a day early. Why? Well, tomorrow's Friday the 13, and urk's superstitious. Don't argue, though, because it's GOOD. Forge World goodies, flying goodies, assassination goodies, race goodies, landmines... it goes on and on. You can, as always, read it in our Weekly Update Archive if you choose to. (Louis Wu 23:59:33 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Sometimes I love UPS I love them because they bring me cool things. Today I got a package sent by Geoff Chang (you might remember a foamcore BR he built a few years back); some time ago, he'd created a scale foamcore Assault Rifle (MA-5), and he wanted HBO to have it. So now we do. ![](/images/gchang_ar/thumbs/1.jpg) 132k ![](/images/gchang_ar/thumbs/2.jpg) 120k ![](/images/gchang_ar/thumbs/3.jpg) 62k ![](/images/gchang_ar/thumbs/4.jpg) 53k
I apologize for the crappy pictures; it's late, and about to get rainy, there's no good light right now. Rest assured, the rifle is beautiful. (Louis Wu 22:27:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
She likes it.
Heh - RedGrimRune managed to get Kat to endorse his comic... nice job! (Louis Wu 19:59:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
PoA Talk-Through
Rockslider and a friend have released a Pillar of Autumn 'talk-through' - a discussion (written) about the level and how it plays out. Fun! (Louis Wu 19:35:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
One, Two, THREE
One of my favorite unranked playlists (3-Ball) goes live as the Double EXP Weekend list in an hour or so. Go read about it on Bungie.net - I'll see you online! (Louis Wu 16:51:58 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Long Haul: Day One (Pages 5-6)
Adam Susskind's The Long Haul webcomic continues - 'Day One, Part Six' is now up. (This means we missed Part Five, which went live on Monday.) Thanks, urk! (Louis Wu 16:47:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Building the Story Marcus Lehto talked to CVG about the development of Reach's campaign - instead of starting with a story, and building missions around it, they started with mission ideas (lots of them - about 150, according to Lehto), narrowed them down to their favorite 20 or so, then turned THOSE into a story. (Clearly, many were merged, since the Achievement list for Reach suggests roughly 10 campaign missions.) Interesting! (It's unclear if his comment that you'll be able to play campaign 'matchmaking over Live' is a misstatement... or a super-cool feature Bungie hadn't announced before. More when we know it.) Thanks, chess. (Louis Wu 15:41:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Inception: Time
Chris101b put together his own trailer for Reach, using music from the movie 'Inception'. It's a bit less action-packed that others we've seen, but it looks like he's going for a somewhat more introspective feel. Slo-mo to the max... (Louis Wu 15:36:39 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
MLG Pros getting Reach early? Not yet...
So the interwebs have been buzzing with rumors of MLG pros getting early copies of Reach yesterday (Walshy and .FlamesworD. both discussed it on their Twitter accounts) - if you're feeling jealous, don't worry about it. They were just messin' with ya. urk confirmed that they were lying.) (Louis Wu 15:27:59 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Chocolate Spartans... mmm Wow. Someone used a McFarlane Spartan figure to create a silicone mold... and then used that mold to make chocolate Spartans. Hawty McBloggy, of course, makes it all as sexual as she possibly can... but the bottom line is, this is really cool. Check it. Update: apparently, you shouldn't try this at home - 405th bigwig Adam Grumbo chimed into the comment thread with this: "oh boy. rebound 25 is not approved for food consumption. but cool stuff." Hadn't even thought about that! (Louis Wu 15:26:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Halo Goodies on Auction
kornman00 has a couple more rare Halo item auctions up right now - a Legendary helmet signed by some of the voice actors on Halo 3, and some really rare Joyride figures. Go look at the pics, then go bid! (He's added a couple of extra pics of the prototype figure in this post.)
(Louis Wu 15:25:57 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Ataraxia Release Teaser
CROSSFIRE sent word of a release teaser for Ataraxia, a new machinima project from Blood Signature Films. Given their pedigree, I'm looking forward to seeing how this one turns out!
(Louis Wu 15:24:59 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Outpost Isil Episode 15
Paul Shelley let us know that the season finale of Outpost Isil is finally live - go see what happens to the guys! (Louis Wu 15:24:11 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Money where his mouth is
munky-058 was unhappy with the quality of the Bungie-released campaign trailer 'The Battle Begins'. To his credit, though, when he was called on his claim that he "could honestly do SO much better in one afternoon", he sat down and tried. Whether he succeeded is up to you to decide - but I give him props for standing behind his words. (Louis Wu 15:23:38 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Joe Tung expounds on Reach Kotaku Australia has put up a full transcript of the interview they did with Joe Tung last week. It focuses on multiplayer (though it touches most public aspects of Reach), and a couple of the questions were covered in an earlier article... but for the most part, it's a fascinating read with lots of great info. One neat little tidbit: 'Score Attack' is a new Firefight mode where the system tracks you online as you try to beat a friend's score. Go read the whole thing for more! Thanks, mattroe. (Louis Wu 15:21:48 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fanart: Elite Ranger
Zee-V70 whipped up a cool pic of an Elite Ranger - and the post generated some interesting art discussion! Go look. (Louis Wu 15:20:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Now you're dead, jump. What happens when you mash up an epic Halo video with deadpan humor? You get the Halo Reach LITERAL Trailer Parody, from Tobuscus. Got me laughin', that's for sure. Go watch. (Louis Wu 02:28:52 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 11 2010
Extra Life - Gamers Earn for Charity
Remember Extra Life? It's a 24 hour gaming marathon coming up in October; you can pledge money for each hour a gamer participates, and proceeds go to charity (the Texas Children's Hospital). Once again, Achievement Hunter is participating (thanks to Knuckles Dawson for the heads-up) - you should consider sponsoring them! (Louis Wu 20:00:56 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Calling it marketing is a Reach...
Toxic Mayhem pointed out a small comic (and comment) at Zero Lives, lamenting the lack of marketing (so far) for Reach. Frankie says relax. (Louis Wu 19:56:42 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3 Spawns, and You
FyreWulff did some exhaustive testing of Bungie's spawn system, and wrote up his results; it's full of interesting insights and pretty pictures. Go read it... then use the info to dong on some noobs! (Louis Wu 18:03:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
RvB PSA #3: Pro-Tips
We managed to miss this Monday night - but Rooster Teeth posted a new Red vs Blue PSA explaining how to make a successful online video. Those guys are so generous, revealing their secrets for everyone... (Louis Wu 17:27:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
TVG Previews Reach
Kibble's noticed a new Reach preview at Total Video Games - no campaign spoilers, just another viewpoint. Check it out! (Louis Wu 17:22:28 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Montage Mania
Bunch of new vids at Bungie's Comm Chatter (mostly montages): That should keep you busy for a few minutes... (Louis Wu 17:22:08 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
AH's Top 5 Reach Wants
Rooster Teeth's Achievement Hunter has posted a list of the Top 5 Anticipated features in Halo: Reach - I'd go for all of those! Thanks, urk.
(Louis Wu 17:21:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Do Something Uplifting
Boxer's back with another recruitment poster for the UNSC - makes me want to sign up! (As before, the downloadable version is printable at very large size.) (Louis Wu 16:17:21 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I think I see Foehammer
Joshua Stone pointed out a pretty impressive LEGO Halo Pelican he found on Brickshelf - looks like lots of love went into that! (Louis Wu 16:01:35 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo Reach Pre-Launch Figures
If you haven't had a chance to see the newest McFarlane figures in the Halo Reach series, DarthYoda19 has put a video online showing them off. (Louis Wu 15:50:26 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Tell your loved ones you will be in touch.
kaysik noticed a recent blog post by musician John Mayer, discussing how much he misses the original Halo. Not sure I agree with his views on multiplayer, but it's cool to read! (Mayer's always been a fan - we pointed this out in 2004, and again in 2006. Neither video, unfortunately, is still available.) (Louis Wu 15:48:17 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Real Live Jun
rvb18 went to GenCon dressed as Jun - looks great! (Louis Wu 15:47:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Chronicles of ODS Steve: Deja Vu
Hawty McBloggy let us know that the latest ODS Steve (#78, Déjà Vu) is now live - people worry about the oddest things when they're close to death... (Louis Wu 15:45:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 10 2010
Is it Tuesday already?
Some cool videos today in Bungie's Comm Chatter: Go watch! (Louis Wu 17:19:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
They DO know a boar's not a warthog, right?
Heh - skell was playing World at War on Facebook... and acquired a new vehicle, called a 'Razorback'. Looks awfully familiar... (Louis Wu 15:56:11 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Illusory Superiority
Taco Power and friends put together another collection of fun matchmaking clips that AREN'T pro, but ARE quite a lot of fun. I enjoyed this montage. Go watch Illusory Superiority. (Louis Wu 15:55:37 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Cheap Reach for UK buyers
Nomis78 pointed out a limited-time deal for UK gamers who haven't bought Reach yet - with a couple of discount codes, you can walk away with a copy of the game for under £29. Not bad! (For US readers, we're talking about $45.) If you don't feel like actually leaving our forum, ChenK summarized the steps.) (Louis Wu 15:54:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
DA Roundup Metalingus was browsing DeviantART, and came back with a bunch of cool Halo fanart links. Fun way to spend a little time! (Louis Wu 15:52:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Whatever happened to 'brrring'? Whatever happened to 'brrring'?
Free Weights created a really complex ringtone for his phone - I think I'd scare everyone I knew if that sound started coming out of my pocket, but it works for him! Go listen. (Louis Wu 15:51:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 9 2010
Halo Scale Comparison - Revisited, AGAIN
Stephen Loftus wasn't content with his existing scale charts - he went back into the games and measured a whole bunch of new items and objects for his Halo Scale Comparison. The layout for the cascading images has been permanently changed to 1280x720 (he started using this format for his recent overhaul for the Halo Waypoint pages, and stuck with it because it allows more horizontal room for height comparisons). You can navigate the full set of images by starting on the largest items, and drilling down. (Changes begin around the Forerunner Dreadnaught scale.) Some surprises await you! (Louis Wu 20:53:15 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Will he deliver it in a Grunt voice? Wow, nice - looks like Bungie is a headliner at this year's Game Developers Conference Online - Joseph Staten will be giving a speech entitled '10 Years Of Halo Storytelling... And Beyond' at the Austin conference, which kicks off on October 5th. Thanks, Tashi0106. (Louis Wu 18:04:24 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Moving To Reach, part 1
Red vs Blue has posted Episode 1 of a new miniseries - it's a piece of the 3-part video they whipped up for GameStop's Halofest. (It's not yet up on the GameStop page.) (Louis Wu 17:08:05 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide: NMPD HQ
Daniel 'The Tyrant' Morris continues to muscle his way through ODST on Mythic Difficulty - his guide for NMPD HQ is now live. Succinct text, a couple of fun videos... go read his tips, then beat it yourself! (Louis Wu 15:23:41 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Arby, The Chief, and OLR Managed to miss a whole bunch of JonCJG videos in the last couple of weeks - if you watch One Life Remaining or Arby 'n' the Chief, you've got some stuff to keep you entertained! There, now you're caught up. (Louis Wu 14:16:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Theater Mode + Image Enhancement = Beautiful
Tony at Green117 Designs sent word of some photoshopped images he's created using Halo 3 and the Reach Beta. Some gorgeous work here! The pixel dimensions are large enough that these can be printed as posters. Go look! (Louis Wu 12:58:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Stay Classless, Bungie
mattroe noticed an article at Kotaku AU discussing Armor Abilities, and how they differ from 'classes' in other shooters. I'm not sure I follow... you can join in the discussion on our forum. (Louis Wu 12:58:14 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Do Something Noble
Boxer whipped up a pretty cool recruitment poster for Noble Team - and then provided a copy that's printable. Go look! (Louis Wu 12:56:06 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Forge World objects in SketchUp Overdoziz built up a set of pieces that match the Forge World objects we know about - for SketchUp. You can't phase 'em - but you can certainly get started on planning! Update: sorry, misread - Overdoziz just found this, didn't make it himself. (Louis Wu 12:55:26 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 8 2010
Last week's screens, writ big
NeoGAF's Ajemsuhgao pointed out that the new screenshots released recently (70 of 'em, both campaign and multiplayer) are available at Gamersyde. Now, they're available ALL OVER the web, including Bungie.net... but if you want versions that are 3840x2160, Gamersyde is where you should go.
(Louis Wu 15:37:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Spire Base Gameplay
IGN posted another tiny snippet of gameplay - this one shows off the bottom of Spire, an upcoming Invasion map (it's not just a huge tower in the sky, it's got an enormous base area, too). Check out the sound for the 'Yoink!' medal! Thanks, P_40E. (Louis Wu 15:36:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Spartan Laser Comparison
We missed this when it was released (during the Reach Beta), but Viscidbody put together a small film showing the difference between the Halo 3 Spartan Laser and the Reach Spartan Laser. (Again, remember, this is from the Beta; it's quite likely that the release version will be even MORE polished.) Thanks to Kibbles for noticing.
(Louis Wu 15:35:56 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
ODST sounds for your phone Mid7night decided to jailbreak his iPhone to add a particular sound - and figured while he's in there, he might as well go crazy. Tons of ODST sound options you can use, if you'd like (they're in .aif format, so you can convert them to whatever your phone takes, no need for an iPhone). (Louis Wu 15:35:10 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 7 2010
Return of an old friend
Sad that the Blind Wolf never made it into any shipping Halo game? Check out this Halo Custom Edition video. Thanks, Dwood. (Louis Wu 17:39:14 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Top Ten Halo Screenshots: Frozen Even though she's on vacation, bs angel managed to update Halo3Screenshots.com with this week's Top Ten Halo Screenshots. 'Frozen' is the theme - and the screens ROCK. Go see. (Louis Wu 13:37:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Building a life-sized Noble Team
ElusiveEagle519 pointed out a pretty cool video showing the 'making of' the life-sized Noble Team statues GameStop is giving away... fascinating procedure!
(Louis Wu 13:30:57 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Sanctuary gameplay from GTTV
GameTrailers posted new Reach gameplay - it's predominately a Hill game on the Sanctuary remake in Forge World. Lots of little tidbits to be gleaned if you watch carefully! Thanks, P_40E. (Louis Wu 13:30:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
IGN's Halo Timeline
IGN has put up a Halo timeline - in wiki format, so you can help with its fleshing-out. Thanks to GrimBrother One (who points out that there's already a pretty nice wiki-based Halo timeline at Halopedia).
(Louis Wu 13:30:08 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
A Glance at Reflection
If you want a quick look at Reflection (the Ivory Tower remake), IGN's got a short flythrough. Thanks, Minime637.
(Louis Wu 13:29:44 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Asianing It UP The Bungie Weekly Update went live a few hours ago - it's full of lots of new art assets Bungie.net posted today. There's also a mini-interview with Ken Taya which should make you smile, discussion of the other two new Multiplayer maps released this week, and some cool Elite-based Armory stuff. It's been up in our Weekly Update Archive for a couple of hours, but we couldn't put up a newspost because we were headed over to GameStop to watch the festivities. (Louis Wu 02:20:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Gamestop After Hours - Tonight! I totally forgot to post a reminder earlier today - but the Gamestop After Hours event takes place at 9pm (local time) Friday at Gamestops all across the country - if you've got some free time this evening, go participate! Update: there's a landing page for the content surrounding this event - if you've preordered from GameStop, you can enter online to win a life-sized Spartan statue, and video shown at the event will be unlocked over time. (The first piece of the RvB PSA is already online on their site.) Update 2: looks like someone actually recorded it - part 1 is here. (Thanks, Kibbles.) (Louis Wu 00:17:59 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 6 2010
So? Is it for reals? Jumping the gun or what? (Ding 20:54:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday Vids
Last thievery from Bungie's Comm Chatter - a pair of montages. Rezilient released Thunder (a minitage), and a big group released 'A Mile High', a campaign montage. Both were fun to watch! (Well, some of the effects in AMH were headache-inducing...) (Louis Wu 17:26:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Long Haul: Day One (Page 4)
Adam Susskind released The Long Haul, Day One, Page 4 today (geez, urk, it's like I steal all my news from you) - nice to see he's keeping to a schedule! (Louis Wu 17:26:23 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Best of Halo 3's Forge Forge Hub is running another Best of Halo 3's Forge contest - but unlike the ones that have come before, you're not picking from maps released in the last 6 months, you're picking from all maps ever made with Forge. Full rules are up at Forge Hub. Go play! (And again, thanks, urk.) (Louis Wu 17:25:41 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
TRR with Burnie Burns - Rescheduled Looks like The Running Riot podcast, scheduled to air earlier this week, has been rescheduled for next Tuesday, August 9. Don't miss it - Rooster Teeth's Burnie Burns is a funny guy. Thanks again, urk. (Louis Wu 17:24:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Yeah, that black Reach controller? No dice.
Followup on the black Reach controller that surfaced yesterday: we mentioned then that KP (who works as a content manager for Xbox.com) had asked around, found that nobody had heard of it, and called it a probable fake. Well, he's gone a little deeper now - it turns out that screenshots of the device are, indeed, on Microsoft's ProSource site (an official PR site)... but that the Hardware division has no knowledge of it at all (the pictures will likely be coming down soon). KP speculates that it was probably a concept product that accidentally got uploaded. Bummer! (I liked it.) (Louis Wu 16:54:09 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fire Team Zulu: Augustus
FyreWulff has your latest Fire Team Zulu challenge queued up and ready to play: the name 'Augustus' should clue you in that this one is Brute-related. (Bruté-related?) Crater (Day), Silver Skulls, Heroic - get cracking! (Louis Wu 12:24:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Aussie Help Needed for Reach Project Australia fansite Halo Reach is running a nationwide (Australia-wide) project that they need your help with, if you live down under. They want to cover the atmosphere of as many Reach midnight launch events as possible - so they need you to take pictures, or video. Read their news post (and the corresponding thread) for more info - and make Reach's launch in Australia a truly memorable one! (Louis Wu 12:20:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Alone in the Dark
HaloChief89 created a new piece of Spartan artwork - in two versions. Check out Alone in the Dark! (Louis Wu 12:17:42 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Three Red Lights Podcast: Episode 149
A couple of days ago, I spent some time chatting with a few IGN editors on an episode of their Three Red Lights podcast. Yesterday, that podcast was made available to the general public. If you're willing to soldier through some awkward pauses (when I couldn't find the words I wanted) and brain-fart moments, you can listen to me ramble on about bungie.org, the Halo series, and the future. The views expressed on this program are solely those of the speakers and do not reflect the views of the management of HBO. Waitaminute... yes they do. (Master Teeth started a thread in our forum, if you need to vent.) (Louis Wu 12:06:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reflection Reflection
ElusiveEagle519 pointed out a tweet by Ken Taya - and now you know who created (and named) Reflection. (Louis Wu 12:06:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Short and sweet
Having Joe Tung confirm it in Australia yesterday was enough to make it legit - but the fact that Halo: Reach has gone Gold (passed Xbox certification) is now official; check this post on the Reach Developer Blog. (Louis Wu 12:04:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Friday Caption Fun, Round 104 Even though she's on vacation, Hawty McBloggy made sure that this week's Friday Caption Fun went live on her site. Witty captions from last week, and a new pic that made me do a double-take... go give it your thoughts! (Louis Wu 12:02:48 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I think the gun's retractable.
NeoGAF's Ajemsuhgao got his hands on a brand-new vehicle for Reach - amazingly, this hasn't been leaked ANYWHERE yet!
(Louis Wu 12:01:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
New Reach shirts at HT
Darknesshasfallen noticed a couple of new Halo Reach shirts at his local Hot Topic - he could only find one of them online, but he got pics of both in the store.
(Louis Wu 12:00:09 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Zealot, in play Demoncarnotaur had the first notice I saw of an IGN film snippet showing off a little bit of gameplay on Zealot. It's clear, even from just this half-minute clip, that Zealot and Midship share very little except a color palette and a curved outer wall. (Louis Wu 11:57:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
More Reach Coverage
Kibbles noticed a couple of new Reach writeups - Game Informer discussed the three new multiplayer maps revealed recently, and GamePro had a look at the campaign levels Bungie showed to the press. (There are some (very) minor story spoilers in this piece. But then... if you're reading this, you haven't gone dark yet, right? So minor spoilers are okay, right?)
(Louis Wu 11:49:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 5 2010
ubald - now with more webcomic
Tony 'ubald' Marcotte has been threatening to create a comic based on his very cool renders for quite some time - he's started. The first two pages are up - no text yet, but he's got a writer, and that's coming. Enjoy the artwork! (Louis Wu 21:45:23 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Double EXP: Grifball
urk reminded me that the Double EXP Weekend playlist (live now) is Grifball. I think he likes getting hammered. (Louis Wu 21:29:53 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
When you hold it, enemies get tougher.
sqorck created a Mythic skull from paper, bondo, paint, an old Pentium chip, and a Monster can. Looks awesome! (Louis Wu 21:27:22 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I'll take 3. ZaneZavin pointed out a Flickr page with a photo of a black Halo Reach controller... sexy! Update: this might be a photoshopped fake - thanks, KP. (Louis Wu 21:25:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Thursday Afternoon at the Movies A few new vids for you today, courtesy of urk and Bungie's Comm Chatter: - Cone Combat is a cautionary tale about the dangers of underestimating your foes. (A tad too long, but funny.)
- Dutchy released his second (full-length) Halo 3 montage - lots of editing effects.
- Dara255 created his own Halo: Reach trailer, called 'How It Ends' - again, lots of the same clips as other folks who are making these, but different music.
Go watch! (Louis Wu 21:21:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
ODST Mythic Difficult Guide: Uplift Reserve The latest chapter in Tyrant's ODST Mythic Difficulty Guide, covering Uplift Reserve, is now live. This one's pretty straightforward - it's already been shown that the easiest way to run this on Legendary is to simply run it (well, Ghost it, but you get the idea), and adding skulls doesn't make a huge amount of difference. Nonetheless, there's an example video. In fact - there are two (a second video, showing a Mythic run by Rorcin, contains some slick shortcuts and shaves a minute and a half off Tyrant's time). Go read and watch! (In other Mythic ODST news, Gazas and DarkDEVASTAT10N have beaten the entire ODST campaign on Mythic - as a team. All films (including the Mombasa Streets segments) can be found in Gazas' File Share.)
(Louis Wu 15:24:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
PGCR Ep 43
SK1LL4XED sent word that the Post Game Carnage Report podcast Episode 43 (their one year anniversary show) is now live on their website. Topics include the latest campaign trailer, the recent super-huge Bungie Weekly Update, and more. NSFW (as always). Go listen! (Louis Wu 15:23:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach for Cheap dogchow33, via email, and ElusiveEagle519, on our forum, let us know within a couple of minutes of one another that Newegg is offering Halo: Reach (standard edition) for $44.99 with free shipping for the next day and a half. (The offer expires at 11:59 pm Pacific Time on August 6.) If you haven't organized a copy yet, this is a great price! Update: NsU Soldier noticed another deal at Wal-Mart - buy Reach for the standard $59.99, get a $20 gift card. Not EXACTLY $20 off... but close.
(Louis Wu 15:03:36 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
McFarlane Reach Warthog and Ghost
McFarlane has posted official pages for their Reach Warthog and Ghost figures - go look, they should be out next month. (I first heard about this at NeoGAF - thanks, Eye Drop - but there's an interesting thread started by Dielectric on our own forum, too.)
(Louis Wu 15:01:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Sonny, I can't see over the wheel!
EazyB pointed out a video showing off a Halo 3 Warthog first-person mod (the driver gets a first-person view) - I'm really glad Bungie didn't go with this. (I think it should be called the 'Little Old Lady' view...)
(Louis Wu 14:59:20 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Represent. I've been remiss; we got word a little while ago from Technical Sergeant Lionel Gillis from the 169 Air Support Operations Squadron - they've whipped up a new squadron patch... and Halo players might recognize it. Nice! (Louis Wu 14:57:56 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The End
There's a new episode of Master Chief's Pets live at Hawty McBloggy's - I think MC needs to think about a new line of pets. (Louis Wu 14:57:19 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Set up your own battles
Mr.Sci-fi found a Megablocks Halo display in his local Target. Fun!
(Louis Wu 14:56:33 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo: Reach - GOLD
Whoa. Not officially announced, as far as I know, but according to an interview with a Sydney Morning Herald blog, Joe Tung confirmed that Halo: Reach went gold yesterday. (The game was sent out for certification last week - "going gold" means it was approved. Next step: duplication! (Part One of that SMH interview is here. Read both parts - it's a good interview.) (Louis Wu 14:12:13 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 4 2010
Dark Empire
FireDragon04 has tossed his Reach Trailer into the pool - "Dark Empire" uses a lot of the same clips as Winter Contingency, but then how many Reach clips do we HAVE, anwyay? Nice musical synch. (Louis Wu 22:43:50 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Keeper of the Flame
ShawtyHullstineFilms sent word of 'Keeper of the Flame' - if you wondered where flaming helmets came from... wonder no more. (Louis Wu 22:36:56 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Master Chief who?
Play.tm talked to Brian Jarrard and Niles Sankey about Reach - the interview is online at their site. Beefy! (Louis Wu 21:10:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
IGN Video Interview: Multiplayer
Still more from IGN - a video interview with Chris Carney about multiplayer - topics include Forge World, the three new maps, Firefight Versus, Fileshares, and more. Nice summary! Thanks, AllIsOneIsNone. (Louis Wu 20:21:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Packing in all the missed opportunities Marcus Lehto talked to the Seattle Times about Reach - interesting view. Thanks, Oozer3993. (The mistake Oozer was asking about has been fixed in the main story.) Update: Dudley actually posted the interview questions (and Marcus' answers), as well - missed this the first time around. Good stuff! (Louis Wu 19:34:34 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Montagery
Bungie.net's Comm Chatter has a pair of new montages for your viewing pleasure - 'Skittles' is a Halo 3 montage by Orangeclock (looks like it was named because most of it was filmed in multiteam, with four armor colors), and 'Vision' is a Halo 3 montage from ManWithoutModem (pretty heavy on the editing). Less than 5 minutes between 'em... you got time! (Louis Wu 19:28:47 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Wednesday Comic Roundup
Halo comics on the web today: Lots of pictures! (Louis Wu 19:20:04 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Reach Campaign Hands-On from GameSpot
GameSpot put up their own preview of the Reach Campaign - this one comes closer than IGN's to what I'd consider 'spoilers', but is still pretty tame. (You'll learn something about the missions you'll be playing, but nothing about the impetus.) Thanks, Exanubisleader. (Louis Wu 15:12:01 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
iTWire Reach Hands-On
iTWire talked to Joe Tung about Halo: Reach - most of the discussion is common knowledge for hardcore Halo fans, but it's a nice summary of where things stand. Then they played through the first level of the campaign. A couple of tidbits I'd never heard before: the writer noticed some 'graphical tearing' during the cutscenes (uh oh), and Tung hinted that there would be "a small taste of ODST style time-shifts with the story as it plays out over the campaigns length". (This is intriguing - it suggests that any ideas we have so far about how levels fit together might be wrong.) No real story spoilers. (Louis Wu 15:10:59 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
IGN unloads Reach Stuff Today is the day the campaign information embargo ends - and the floodgates have already begun to open. (Once again: if you're interested in a totally pristine Reach Campaign experience, stop visiting Halo sites NOW. We'll do our best to keep story spoilers off the front page, but if you disagree with us about what's considered a spoiler, and you read something you're unhappy with, you have only yourself to blame - we're telling you to stop NOW.) IGN posted a bunch of new content this morning: Go check 'em out! (Louis Wu 15:04:30 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Random Halo Goodies Zen Volta pointed out a couple of Halo links we hadn't seen before - OXM Online posted a list of the Strangest Multiplayer Secrets, and ODST was the first game on their list. (I learned a couple of things.) And some guy on the internet figured out how to kill himself... during the opening sequence of the first Halo game. Wow. (Louis Wu 15:03:24 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
One million strong... and growing
We hit post 1 million last night on our forum - if I did the math right, that's an average of just over 10 posts per hour, every hour, for the last 4087 days. All I can say is 'wonga'. (And 'thanks'.) (Louis Wu 15:00:28 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Winter Contingency
TranscendenceFilms put together a Reach trailer using clips from several Bungie trailers, along with music from Inception. I found it to be really powerful. Thanks, squidhands. (Louis Wu 14:57:51 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 3 2010
Run away! The Incompetent Cartographer makes it to five installments, and looks more competent every day. Great pics, great writeup. Go read. Can't wait to build! (Louis Wu 23:59:54 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
The Fall of Reach - Out Again
According to Halo Waypoint's press release, the reissue of The Fall of Reach is in stores now. There's a bullet list of new material (don't worry, no retconning, just extra goodies like excerpts of ONI interrogations, sketches of cover art, that sort of thing) and a description of the book itself for those who missed it the first time around. Thanks, munky-058. (Louis Wu 19:29:21 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Chad is just gonna spank us.
Bungie's Comm Chatter has an interesting mix of videos this afternoon: a collection of 'WTF' moments (mostly lag-induced) from Anoj, a heavily-edited Halo 3 montage (mostly MLG clips) called Virtue (gameplay from Vip3, editing by Snipetality), and the latest from GutterXShark - 'Forge is Crazy' is an awesome remix of the Forge World ViDoc that MUST be watched. Go watch 'em all. (Louis Wu 19:08:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Wait, he... and then he... what? Goodness. Every time I think Halo 1 tricking is tapped out... someone proves me wrong. Everyone's seen Hog launches to the top of the Towers on the level Halo (heck, those jumps inspired the creation of High Impact Halo!)... but SlYnki found a new twist. Bounce a grenade off a Hog windshield... launch a second grenade off that first grenade... launch a hog off that second grenade. WTF (thanks, NOKYARD)! (Louis Wu 17:39:27 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Goodbye, my friend
NeoGAF's Schmitty put together a Farewell to Halo 3 (maybe a few weeks early, I dunno) - nice clips! (Louis Wu 16:50:00 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
All the time is more than half the time, right? Red vs Blue Revelation Chapter 15 ("Check Your Local Listings") went live last night - Tex is simply not happy with what she knows. And Grif is looking to get his hands on ultimate power. Go watch! (Louis Wu 15:41:58 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3 1v1 Tourney Elders.TV and Average Joe's will be hosting a Halo 3 1v1 Tournament on August 7, 2010 at 4:30 MST (times can be flexible, though). Rules are here, signup is here. Prizes include a 1-Month LIVE card and 1600 MS Points. Read more in the forum post! (Louis Wu 15:39:32 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo 3: ODST Mythic Guide Now Live Daniel 'Tyrant' Morris, the King of Mythic, is back - if you're looking for a way to have a blast in the waning weeks before Reach's release, look no further. He's just kicked off the Halo 3: ODST Mythic Difficulty Guide, and it'll help you through beating ODST's campaign on Mythic. What is Mythic? Well, it's mostly Solo, Legendary, All Skulls On - but there are a couple of additions: no deaths, and no saves. (You'd think the Iron Skull would obviate the need for these rules - but there's a glitch which allows saving with the Iron Skull active.) These runs are much shorter than the Halo 3 runs, because the ODST stages are much shorter. Tayari Plaza is the first level you encounter - and it's the first guide online. Go read, watch the vids, and then try it yourself! (Louis Wu 12:52:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
A Reach Beta Montage
BierWiser put together a 4 minute montage of clips from the Reach Beta - by waiting a couple of months, he's got no competition! Smart. (Louis Wu 12:41:48 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo: OWaW Update
Halo: Out With a Whimper has been improving steadily - newguy2445 stopped by with word of new screenshots (and a slightly older update for folks not keeping up on the day-to-day stuff). Looking fine! (Louis Wu 12:41:18 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Celebratin' PAX... in style Derek 'mantis' Carroll had some very cool buttons made up for PAX - and they arrived yesterday. Nice! Thanks, Hedgemony. (Louis Wu 12:40:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo CE Updates (and some UT3 news too) We got a bunch of Halo CE news updates yesterday - let's see... Dontu told us about a mod he's created called Halo CE Duel Edition. It focuses on melee combat, with a medieval theme (there are fireballs, as well). This thread talks about the mod on Halomaps.org, with another one at Modacity. The pack consists of Tower, Crag, Pit, Zendicon and Ruin, and there's even an instructional video showing off the Dodge feature.) Dennis Powers, who ALSO wrote to us about Duel Edition, suggested a look at a couple of other maps, in addition to DE - Ambry Ce by Newbkilla and Desert Assault by ~JEPR~. And he even pointed out an Unreal Tournament 3 mod of Halo Infinity, by Bret_Hart (video is here, and discussion thread is here). (Louis Wu 12:35:49 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Is nothing off-limits?
Sweet mother of baby zebras. I knew Twitter was going to contribute to the downfall of modern society. (Thanks, both Hawty McBloggy and Kotaku. Geez.) (Louis Wu 12:35:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 2 2010
Doesn't look so incompetent any more urk's back at work at Jurkout (eep, Riptide) - today is spawns and weapons. (And a LOT more architecture.) This map is looking amazing... and the insight into the building process is invaluable. Go read! (Louis Wu 21:38:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Montage Monday Bungie's Comm Chatter has a handful of new montages for you: Five montages, 11 players. How can you go wrong? (Louis Wu 17:17:03 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Pinball Forge Hub has highlighted a pretty cool-looking map - you can play pinball! Thanks, urk. (Louis Wu 17:16:17 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Rockslide Megabattle Videos - Return of a Favorite
Rockslider's back with a trio of new vids - he's messing around on Halo (the level), and the 34 Covenant troops you can put together in the rockslide area. Go watch! (Louis Wu 16:28:10 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo: Reach Preview
Play.tm has a Preview of Reach, based on gameplay last week. Go read. (Louis Wu 15:14:31 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
X360A talks to Bungie
Xbox360Achievements sat down with Brian Jarrard and Niles Sankey to talk about Reach - what changed since the beta, how decisions were made, how multiplayer is being made less available to griefing, what happens AFTER release - tons of interesting info. Small word of warning to folks trying to stay totally dark on campaign stuff - Xbox360Achievements has interspersed video footage throughout the interview. Multiplayer footage from the Beta is certainly spoiler-free - but they also used the recently released Campaign trailer near the end. If you listen to the interview with the window behind something, you'll skip all of the visuals, but still hear all the Bungie goodness. Thanks to both Hypertrooper, on GAF, and ElzarTheBam, on our own forum, for the link. (Louis Wu 14:41:16 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
I love creative Halo fans.
Wow. Swing by Hawty McBloggy's for a really, really cool piece of stained glass art - someone created a version of the Halo Legendary icon. I want. (Louis Wu 14:40:43 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
HBO on Wheels
Heh - GrimBrother One built a Forza car with HBO in mind. The tagline is pretty funny...
(Louis Wu 14:40:02 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
News August 1 2010
Halo on your phone... or not
A GAF denizen posted some screenshots of a mobile phone Halo conversion he pitched some time ago (it was never greenlit) - I'd have bought it! Thanks, Dani. (Louis Wu 21:22:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Battle Scars
Today's Rooster Teeth comic has Master Chief commiserating with friends about the women in their lives. Made me laugh. (Louis Wu 18:05:12 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Easy Does It - for Another Month Morpheus stopped in to remind people that his Easy Does It contest (beat Halo 3/ODST on Easy with as many points as possible) has just one month to go! If you're planning on playing... get playing. (Louis Wu 17:31:25 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Fall of eBay: Summer of Halo Auctions (part 3)
kornman00 continues to sell off cool bits of Halo paraphenalia - his latest auction is for a Legendary helmet signed by a whole bunch of Bungie guys. Go look at the pics, then bid!
(Louis Wu 17:30:45 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
Halo - for the Atari 2600
darthbob pointed out a post at NeoGAF - Ed Fries, the Ed Fries of Microsoft/Xbox fame, wrote a cool little Halo game for the Atari 2600 - and posted the binary at AtariAge, for folks who couldn't make it to Las Vegas this weekend to buy one of the 500 cartridges he made up. If you don't have a 2600 emulator, never fear - there's a Flash version online. The AtariAge thread has a long post from Ed, explaining how it came about - pretty cool!
(Louis Wu 17:26:29 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
HBO Mini Contest - Moar Titlelines, plz
Waypoint was kind enough to give us some Noble Six Avatar Helmet codes to give away - so last night, that's exactly what we did. Forumgoers had 7 hours to come up with new and entertaining title lines for HBO's front page - and they managed to turn in over 400 entries. Our seven favorites are listed in this post. Congrats, folks! And thanks, Waypoint! (Louis Wu 17:24:59 UTC) (permalink) ![spacer](/images/smallringl.gif)
![Halo news back](/images/halo.news.back.gif) | August 2010 | ![Halo news forward](/images/halo.news.forward.gif) |
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