Editing Countdown

{{Status|Gameplay}}
{{Multiplayer map infobox
|pagegamelabel=HR
|name=Countdown
|image=[[File:HaloReach - Countdown.jpg|300px]]
|game=''[[Halo: Reach]]''
|devname=<code>45_launch_station</code>{{Ref/File|Id=HREK|HREK|HREK\tags\levels\multi\45_launch_station\45_launch_station.scenario}}
|location=[[Sabre Program Launch/Research Range]], [[Reach]]
|terrain=Interior launch bay for [[YSS-1000 Sabre|Sabre]] fighters
|weapons=
|vehicles=
|equipment=
|power-ups=
|symmetry=Symmetrical
|gametypes=*[[Slayer]]
*[[Capture the Flag]]
*[[Assault]]
*[[Stockpile]]
|playernumber=4-12
}}
{{Article quote|It was only a matter of time before even the most clandestine UNSC operations were thrust into the public eye.<ref name="bnet">[http://halo.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=maps&cid=28532 '''Bungie.net''': ''Countdown Preview'']</ref>}}

'''Countdown''' is a multiplayer map in ''[[Halo: Reach]]''.<ref name="bwu">[http://images3.wikia.nocookie.net/__cb20100811153823/halo/images/9/9a/Grifball.png ''Forge World ViDoc Screenshot'']</ref> 

==Universe and lore==
The map is set in the [[Sabre Program Launch/Research Range|Sabre launch facility]] at [[Farkas Lake]] on the [[Inner Colonies|Inner]] [[Human colonies|Colony]] [[planet]] [[Reach]]. It was the site of the ground component of [[Operation]]: [[Operation: UPPER CUT|UPPER CUT]].{{Ref/Level|HR|[[Long Night of Solace (level)|Long Night of Solace]]}}

==Overview==
===Layout===
<gallery>
File:HMCC_HR_Countdown_Map.png|Countdown Map.
File:Countdownheatmap.ashx.jpg|An overview of the map.
</gallery>
====Callouts====
The following are locations on the map that are so named on the player's [[heads-up display]] during gameplay: 
*Tech Stairs
*Tech Hall
*Balcony
*Pipe Stairs
*Pipe Hall
*Second Floor
*Third Floor
*Big Door
*Launch Pad
*Ventilation
*Big Door

===Strategies===
This spacecraft launch station is circular in shape with three main levels. A fourth level is accessible via [[Series 8 jetpack|Jet Pack]], but only for ten seconds at which point you will be prompted to return to the map. Countdown is a small map with only three power weapons available here, the [[Energy Sword]], the [[Concussion Rifle]], and the [[Shotgun]]. These weapon's locations will be highly contested areas.

The Jet Pack is a great choice here. The stacked, multi-level structure almost requires you to use one. Get to upper and middle tiers before enemies and without having to use the gravity lifts where enemies might be waiting for you. The Hologram is a good tool on this map as well. Firing one off into the center of the map will always attract attention in enemy areas.

The circular layout creates a constant flow of play-keeping players moving throughout it at a fast pace. Use gravity lifts to quickly change elevation and evade enemies. Under the ship are three gravity lifts you can duck into during a battle if you need to recover some health. There are also two lifts located in the inside corners of the central portion of the level.

Beware of enemies camping at the gravity lifts just waiting for you to pop up so they can stab you. Toss a grenade or two up the lift if you can before you jump in. If you are so equipped, try sending your Hologram up the lift, then while the enemy is busy with it, toss a grenade up and finish them off. [[Camping]] the gravity lifts is a little cheap, but can get you some quick, easy kills if you are in need. Use the Energy Sword or Shotgun for best results.

Most of your engagements here will be at close quarters so prepare for that kind of battle. Think about [[Armor lock]] as your [[Armor abilities|Armor Ability]], and don't forget to melee. Don't worry too much about trying to Assassinate players here since while the layout is stacked vertically, it is very open, similar to a stadium. Performing an Assassination that everyone will see will attract attention and focus all eyes on you, possibly resulting in someone stopping you in mid-assassination.

==Remake==
''[[Halo Infinite]]'' features an official [[Forge]] map named [[Dredge]] which takes direct inspiration from Countdown. It was released on [[2023|August 9, 2023]] during [[Season 04: Infection]].{{Ref/Site|Id=Preview|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/august-update-preview|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=August Update Preview|D=04|M=08|Y=2023}}

==Trivia==
The level's name is a reference to the setting, as ships undergo a countdown before being launched.

==Gallery==
{{Linkbox|gallery=yes}}
<gallery>
File:Countdown Sword--article image.jpg|A general view of the lower levels of the map.
File:HR_Countdown_Balcony.jpg|A view of the outside of the building seen from the launch pad.
File:Countdown Shotgun.jpg|The vents.
File:Countdown healthoverlook.jpg|A view of the third floor.
File:Halo reach countdown panoramic.png|A panorama of the ouside of the map.
File:HumanSpawn.jpg|The human spawn side in Infection.
</gallery>

==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}

{{Levels|HR|mode=yes}}