Editing Halo: Reach

{{Era|RW}}

{{Game Infobox

|image= [[File:Halo Reach (Standard with ESRB).png|250px]]

|developer= [[Bungie|Bungie LLC]]

|platform= [[Xbox 360]]

|releasedate= [[2010|September 14, 2010]]<br>[[2010|September 15, 2010]] (Japan)

[[Wikipedia:Computer Entertainment Rating Organization|CERO]]: (D) Ages 17 & up

'''''Halo: Reach''''' is a [[Wikipedia:First-person shooter|first-person shooter]] video game set in the [[Halo universe|''Halo'' universe]] and direct prequel to ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'', depicting the [[Fall of Reach]]. It was developed by [[Bungie|Bungie, LLC.]]  and published by [[Microsoft Game Studios]] for the Xbox 360 console.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Reach/default.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Project Page'']</ref><ref name="worth">[http://worthplaying.com/article/2009/9/16/interviews/68467/ '''Worthplaying.com''' - ''"Halo 3: ODST" Developer Interview'']</ref> It was announced by [[Joseph Staten|Joe Staten]] during Microsoft's Media Briefing at E3 2009; ''Reach'' was released on September 14, 2010 in [[Wikipedia:North America|North America]], [[Wikipedia:Europe|Europe]], [[Wikipedia:Australia|Australia]], and [[Wikipedia:Asia|Asia]] with the exclusion of [[Wikipedia:Japan|Japan]] whose release was a day later.<ref name="bnet">[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=news&cid=26642 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010!]''</ref>

By the 26th century, humanity has expanded beyond the confines of [[Earth]]'s [[Sol system|Solar System]] and now inhabits hundreds of worlds in other star systems under the ultimate control of the [[Unified Earth Government]] and the [[United Nations Space Command]], the Earth government's military and scientific arm. However, colonization did not come without its problems. By the late 25th century, various rebel and secessionist factions commonly known as [[Insurrectionist]]s emerged in the [[Outer Colonies]], actively opposing the UNSC-imposed rule on the outlying worlds. In [[2517]], the [[SPARTAN-II Program]] was initiated by the UNSC to counter the threat of an imminent all-out civil war in the Outer Colonies by producing a group of [[SPARTAN-II augmentation procedures|biologically-enhanced]] super soldiers.

In [[2525]], humanity made first contact with a powerful alien hegemony known as [[Covenant Empire|the Covenant]] on the distant [[Agriculture world|farming world]] of [[Harvest]]. Following an unfortunate [[First Battle of Harvest|chain of events]] set in motion by the contact at Harvest, the Covenant's [[Hierarchs|religious leaders]] deemed humans "unclean beings" and waged an all-out genocidal campaign with the intent of wiping the human race out of existence. In the years that followed, the technologically superior Covenant swept through the Outer Colonies, systematically wiping out human colonies by [[Glassing|plasma bombardment]]. Even with the all-encompassing Covenant threat, many human insurgent movements lived on, forcing the UNSC to fight a two-front war.

In [[2531]], the UNSC initiated another super soldier project known as the [[SPARTAN-III Program]]. The SPARTAN-III commandos, while greater in numbers than the SPARTAN-IIs, were created to assault high-value targets en masse, in suicide missions in which they often succeeded, at the cost of entire companies. However, despite their best efforts, humanity could only slow down the Covenant's advance. By [[2552]], virtually all of the Outer Colonies have been devastated by the Covenant, who now ravage the [[Inner Colonies]]. Reach remains as humanity's last military stronghold and is often considered the only thing that stands between the Covenant and Earth.

The titular planet Reach, located in the [[Epsilon Eridani system|Epsilon Eridani System]] at Earth's metaphorical doorstep, is arguably the UNSC's most important military stronghold and shipyard. With a population of over 700 million, it is also one of the most populous human colonies. A harsh world filled with towering mountain ranges and deserts, Reach's settlements range from remote, self-sufficient farming communities to futuristic metropolitan cities such as [[New Alexandria]]. Reach also has several unique indigenous creatures such as the [[Moa]] and the [[Gúta]], which are interacted with over the course of the campaign.

As the nexus of the UNSC military, Reach is protected accordingly; possessing a grid of 20 [[Orbital defense platform|Orbital Defense Platforms]] and a [[Epsilon Eridani Fleet|defensive fleet]] of over 100 ships at any time. Reach has garrisons of ground forces from all military branches of the UNSC, including the [[UNSC Army]] which serves as the primary NPC ally throughout the game.

===Noble Team===

[[File:Concept 03.jpg|300px|right|thumb|Concept art showing Noble Team interacting with civilians and UNSC Army troopers.]]

{{Main|Noble Team}}

The game follows Noble Team, a six-man special operations unit of one [[SPARTAN-II Program|SPARTAN-II]] and five [[SPARTAN-III Program|SPARTAN-III]] commandos. Serving under [[Special Warfare Command]], Noble Team's SPARTAN-IIIs are among the few that were deemed too valuable to be wasted on suicide missions and were subsequently assigned to serve in other special forces units. Stationed on Reach, Noble Team reports to [[Colonel]] [[Urban Holland]].

The player assumes the role of the team's latest member, [[SPARTAN-B312]] or "Noble Six", a SPARTAN-III from [[SPARTAN-III Beta Company|Beta Company]] with a mysterious past, assigned to the team as a replacement for its [[Thom-293|previous sixth member]]. Other members of the team include [[Carter-A259]], the leader, [[Catherine-B320|Kat-B320]], the intelligence specialist and Carter's second-in-command, [[Jorge-052]], an experienced heavy weapons specialist and only SPARTAN-II on the team, [[Emile-A239]], an audacious assault and close combat specialist, and [[Jun-A266]], the team's talkative sharpshooter.

On [[2552#July|July 24, 2552]], [[SPARTAN-B312]], the player character, arrives at a UNSC outpost on Reach. It is here that the players are introduced to the main cast and given their first mission from Noble Team's [[commanding officer]], [[Colonel]] [[Urban Holland]]. The team is called in to investigate the sudden blackout of the [[Visegrád Relay|Visegrad Relay]], one of the planet's primary communications hubs. Expecting a confrontation with [[Insurrectionist]]s, the team lands in the remote rural area and proceeds to the relay. After interrogating a farmer and finding suspicious signs in the area, it is soon discovered that the loss of communications is the work of the [[Covenant Empire|Covenant]], as the team is engaged by Covenant ground forces. After they have made their way into the relay station, the team are attacked by a [[Sangheili|Elite]] [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealot]] advance team, who were on a mission to steal information from the relay. After the team successfully secures the relay, Carter uses the damaged relay to contact Colonel Holland and explain the situation, leading to the declaration of the planetary emergency directive [[WINTER CONTINGENCY]].

Two days later, on July 26th, Noble Team is called in to [[Office of Naval Intelligence|ONI]] [[Sword Base]] near the [[Babd Catha Ice Shelf]]. As explained to the team by the [[Artificial intelligence|AI]] [[Auntie Dot]], Sword Base is under attack from a [[Covenant corvette]], but due to the sensitive nature of the facility, the use of [[orbital defense platform|orbital MAC rounds]] is prohibited. Noble Team clears the main courtyard of enemies, and is then sent on a mission to re-activate [[Farragut Station]], a communications station they can use to get into contact with command, and [[Airview Base]], where they need to activate [[M71 Anti-Aircraft Gun|an anti-air battery]] to clear the skies. The Spartans move into Sword Base and Noble Six assists [[Emile-A239|Emile]] in driving off several [[Type-52 Troop Carrier|Phantoms]] and [[Type-26 Ground Support Aircraft|Banshees]]. After the skies have been cleared, the UNSC sends in a pair of [[GA-TL1 Longsword|Longswords]] to push the corvette away from the base's immediate vicinity. The Covenant vessel begins to retreat, only to be shot out of the sky by an orbital strike. After the mission, Noble Team is debriefed by [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Catherine Halsey]], who inquires as to the death of [[Laszlo Sorvad|one of her scientists]], who was doing research at the relay. She says he mentioned a "latchkey" discovery and that the information was essential. Learning that he was killed by [[Sangheili Zealot|Zealot]]s, Halsey reprimands [[Carter-A259|Carter]] for not pursuing the leader, as the scientist's research was potentially important to [[covenant religion|their religion]]. Fortunately, [[Catherine-B320|Kat]] had stolen the data module off of the scientist, and hands it over to Halsey.

Two and a half weeks later, Noble Six and [[Jun-A266|Jun]] are sent to perform a night reconnaissance mission to reconnoiter the Covenant "dark zone" in the [[Viery Territory]]. After stealthily eliminating guards at multiple outposts, The two Spartans meet up with a group of civilian militiamen, who guide them to a [[Ütközet hydroelectric power plant|hydro-plant]] further into the dark zone, where the team discovers a Covenant [[stealth pylon]]. After planting an explosive charge on the pylon, the team moves deeper into the dark zone, where they discover a massive Covenant invasion force. Kat then orders them back so they can prepare for the attack on the next day.  

In the morning of [[2552#August|August 12, 2552]], a massive UNSC [[Order of battle (Viery, Reach)|joint assault force]] is put together, with the objective of mounting a counterattack on the Covenant-occupied Viery Territory. As revealed by Auntie Dot in the mission briefing, the Covenant have infiltrated to the region in force, deploying ground forces and installations, including several massive [[Covenant spire|Covenant Spires]]. Noble Team's objective is to destroy one of these spires, designated [[Spire One]]. After pushing through Covenant forces and destroying several Covenant [[Type-38 Anti-Aircraft Cannon|anti-air batteries]], [[Jorge-052|Jorge]] and Noble Six deploy to the spire in a [[UH-144 Falcon|Falcon]]. However, the aircraft crashes after being disabled by the electromagnetic field created by the Spire's shield. After the crash, the pair proceed into the Spire, where it is revealed that the Spires actually contain [[teleporter]]s used to transport Covenant forces to the surface, linked to an unknown source. After proceeding to the Spire, Noble Six utilizes a [[gravity lift]] to reach the top, and disables the shield. [[SPARTAN-B312|Noble Six]] is flown away from the tower by a Falcon containing Carter and Jorge. {{UNSCShip|Grafton}}, a [[Paris-class heavy frigate|heavy frigate]], uses a [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|MAC]] round to demolish the spire. Seconds later, a Covenant [[Carrier|Supercarrier]] uncloaks and fires on the ''Grafton'', completely destroying it.  

Noble Team contemplates how to destroy the Covenant supercarrier, ''[[Long Night of Solace]]'', as the UNSC no longer possess tactical nuclear devices on Reach. Instead, Kat proposes they use a [[Shaw-Fujikawa Translight Engine|slipspace drive]] as a makeshift bomb to destroy the ship. It also becomes apparent that Noble Six was a pilot in the top-secret [[Sabre Program]] at some point. Carter contacts Holland and the plan is approved.

On August 14, Noble Team arrives at the [[Sabre Program Launch/Research Range]], where Noble Six and Jorge commandeer a UNSC [[YSS-1000 Sabre|YSS-1000 "Sabre"]], a recent development intended for Inner Colony orbital defense. They launch into the hostile space over Reach, where they protect a UNSC space station, [[Anchor 9]], until its defenses come back online. Next, they rendezvous with the {{UNSCShip|Savannah}}, which sacrifices its slipspace drive for the mission. They then board the Covenant corvette, ''[[Ardent Prayer]]'', and using its re-fueling course at the supercarrier as an excuse, get close enough to detonate the slipspace bomb and destroy the ''Long Night of Solace''. Unfortunately, the detonator for the makeshift bomb is damaged and Jorge is forced to manually detonate it, sacrificing himself to destroy the supercarrier. However, the victory is short lived: mere moments later, the Covenant [[Fleet of Particular Justice]] arrives, making the destruction of one supercarrier pointless.

Noble Six is flung away from the Corvette by Jorge, falling all the way down into Reach's atmosphere, saved by an [[M-Spec reentry pack|M-Spec Reentry Pack]]. After landing, Six continues to the city of [[New Alexandria]], arriving there on August 23rd. Six then regroups with UNSC forces and assists in the evacuation of [[Traxus Tower]], where many civilians have taken refuge. After, Six helps [[UNSC Army]] troops to activate [[unidentified UNSC missile battery|anti-air missile batteries]], which damage a Covenant corvette, providing the time needed for the massive [[unidentified civilian transport craft|civilian transports]] to escape the city. Kat orders Noble Six to rejoin Noble Team, Noble Six meets Carter on a rooftop in New Alexandria. Kat orders Noble Six to assist in the destruction of several [[Covenant communications jammer]]s in the area, along with several other tasks, including protecting [[Edward Buck|Gunnery Sgt. Edward Buck]]'s Falcon as he is transported to the rest of [[unidentified Shock Trooper squad|his team]], defending different groups of Army soldiers around the city, and assisting in more civilian evacuation. Kat then calls on Noble Six to come to her aid in the evacuation of the [[Olympic Tower|Office of Naval Intelligence HQ]].

Once inside, Noble Team is reunited, in what Emile calls a "family reunion." Colonel Holland makes emergency contact to the team, ordering them to immediately re-deploy to Sword Base to destroy sensitive information. The communications are cut off, and Jun notes several Covenant vehicles leaving the area. Soon afterward, the Covenant begin to glass the city near the building, generating a massive shockwave Noble Team barely manages to avoid. The team takes an elevator down to the bottom level, where they run to an underground radiation bunker as Carter explains that they are to be redeployed to Sword Base to destroy all sensitive data. Just before they get inside, Kat is killed with a single shot from a [[Type-31 Rifle|Needle Rifle]] to the back of her head. Three days later, the team exits the shelter, and a [[Pelican]] arrives to transport them to Sword Base.  

On August 29, Noble Six is deployed with a group of [[Orbital Drop Shock Trooper]]s in order to take out several Covenant anti-air towers around Sword Base, opening the defenses so the rest of Noble Team can be deployed to the base via Falcons. After fighting their way into Sword Base, Noble Team discovers the coordinates they were given to be empty, a last stand full of dead troopers. The coordinates are then revised by an unknown AI, and Noble Team moves into caves below Sword Base. Noble Team rides a cart down the tunnel, and discover that it was Dr. Halsey who ordered them back to the base, despite the existence of reports that she had died. As they descend down the elevator, a massive [[Babd Catha Forerunner complex|artifact]] built by an [[Forerunner|ancient civilization]] in the ice cavern is revealed.  

Halsey asks Noble Team to buy her more time in order to decrypt the artifact's data. Noble Team sets up a defensive perimeter at the entrance to Halsey's lab, deploying [[M8 Automated Defense System|Wolf Spider Turrets]] in the area before fighting off waves of incoming Covenant. After the process is complete, Noble Team falls back to Halsey's lab, where she then shows a fragment of the AI [[Cortana]] to the team and explains that she has been assigned the custodian of the artifact's data, and she needs to be brought to the [[Aszod ship breaking yards]] in order to be deployed onto a UNSC [[Halcyon-class cruiser|Halycon-class Cruiser]] which is being sent on a special mission. Dr. Halsey explains that Cortana has picked Noble Six to be her carrier, and entrusts her to the Spartan.

The pair are blocked by a [[Type-47 Ultra Heavy Assault Platform|Scarab]], but Carter arrives and sacrifices himself, piloting the Pelican in a kamikaze strike on the Scarab. Noble Six and Emile continue towards the ''Pillar of Autumn''. Once there, Emile mans a [[Mark 2488 Magnetic Accelerator Cannon|Mk. 2488 Onager MAC]], while Noble Six fights off masses of Covenant infantry. [[Jacob Keyes|Captain Jacob Keyes]] then arrives and receives the AI from Noble Six. Before the Captain can take off, a Covenant [[CCS-class battlecruiser|Battlecruiser]] arrives, and prepares to fire on the Autumn. Meanwhile, a Covenant Phantom arrives on scene and dispatches a team of Elite Zealots to Emile's location. Emile kills one with a shotgun, before being stabbed through the abdomen by another. The Marines on Keyes's dropship offer that Noble Six board the Pelican, but Six declines, as without cover from the MAC, the ''Pillar of Autumn'' couldn't escape. After fighting through the Zealots, Noble Six takes control of the cannon and defends the Pelican as it returns to the ''Autumn''. As the Covenant ship prepares to fire, Noble Six fires into its [[Energy projector|main weapon]], disabling the Cruiser as the ''Pillar of Autumn'' escapes from the planet.  

After the credits, Noble Six is shown to still be at the ship breaking yards, preparing for a final stand against Covenant forces being deployed in the area. Six fights off several waves of Covenant forces, before succumbing to plasma fire, discarding his/her damaged helmet. Six fights desperately with several Sangheili soldiers until overwhelmed and stabbed by a Sangheili Zealot's [[Energy dagger|Energy Dagger]]. The epilogue, set over 30 years later in the year [[2589]] on a re-[[Terraforming|terraformed]] Reach, shows Noble Six's helmet sitting in what is now a grassy field. Dr. Halsey provides a eulogy to Noble Team as the camera shows [[Unidentified colony ship|a human ship]] landed on the planet, showing the re-colonization of Reach.

In addition to the main storyline, ''Halo: Reach'' features 19 hidden [[data pad]]s which tell a self-contained story of their own. The data pads, found in various locations throughout the campaign, focus on a powerful human [[Artificial intelligence|Artificial Intelligence]] collective known as [[assembly|the Assembly]]. Composed of a [[Assembly Minority|Minority]], [[Assembly Majority|Majority]] and the [[Committee of Minds for Security]], the minds of the Assembly are behind many significant events in human history, having been manipulating humanity in secret since the 24th century.

[[File:1INSURGENTWINTERCONTIGENCY.jpg|300px|right|thumb|A gameplay preview of Noble Six and Noble Team questioning a civilian.]]

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

The weapon selection has been streamlined from that of ''Halo 3'', so that every weapon has a specific role. The number of different grenade types has also been reduced from that of ''Halo 3'', and [[Type-3 Antipersonnel/Antimatériel Incendiary Grenade|incendiary grenades]] and [[Type-2 Antipersonnel Fragmentation Grenade|spike grenades]] did not return. Human weapons all hit more or less instantly after pulling the trigger, as opposed to the projectiles being affected by in-game physics. There is no longer dual-wielding available in ''Halo: Reach'', following the same path as ''Halo 3: ODST''. Compensating for this, the weapons that were known as dual weapons in ''Halo 3'' that are now in ''Halo: Reach'' became drastically stronger. The M6G Magnum, for example, is now almost as powerful as the M6D Pistol in ''Halo: CE'', and has an even higher rate of fire.

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

While the rest of Noble Team accompany the player for most of the game, ''Halo: Reach'' does not feature any kind of tactical squad mechanic. Much like the [[Arbiter]] [[Thel 'Vadam]] in ''Halo 3'', the rest of the squad fight alongside the player, but do not interact with the player, other than certain scripted actions and dialogue. The levels in the game are more open and teleportation in co-op is far less strict.<ref name="EDGE">[http://www.edge-online.com/ '''EDGE Magazine'''], ''February 2010''</ref><ref name="GI">[http://gameinformer.com/mag/haloreach.aspx '''GameInformer''']: ''February 2010''</ref>

As originally revealed in the [[Halo: Reach E3 2010 Trailer|E3 2010 trailer]], a small section of the ''Halo: Reach'' campaign level [[Long Night of Solace]] involves space combat, a new element to the game. This space battle above Reach is the first and only space combat section played in the ''Halo'' saga.<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJqw6QvSzXQ '''YouTube''': ''E3 2010 Extended Reach Campaign Mission HD'']</ref><ref name="e32010">'''[[Halo: Reach E3 Campaign Demo]]'''</ref>

#[[Noble Actual|Noble Actual]] - ''"Welcome to Reach."'' (Cinematic)

#[[Winter Contingency (level)|Winter Contingency]] - ''"There's a disturbance on the frontier."''

#[[Nightfall|Nightfall]] - ''"Move in behind enemy lines and evaluate the opposition."''

#[[New Alexandria (level)|New Alexandria]] - ''"Provide air support in a forest of crumbling skyscrapers."''

#[[The Package (level)|The Package]] - ''"Your orders are to destroy Sword Base... Or are they?"''

A total of twenty-three multiplayer maps are available in ''Halo: Reach'', with fourteen standard multiplayer maps and nine Firefight maps.

*[[Spire]]

*[[Sword Base (level)|Sword Base]]

*[[Zealot (level)|Zealot]]

*[[Anchor 9 (level)|Anchor 9]]

*Unnamed [[Hang em' High]] remake

*Unnamed [[Headlong]] remake

 

*[[Beachhead (Halo: Reach level)|Beachhead]]

*[[Corvette (level)|Corvette]]

*[[Glacier]]

*[[Outpost (level)|Outpost]]

*[[Installation 04 (level)|Installation 04]]

{{main|Armor permutations (Halo: Reach)}}

**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark V (G)]] {{1st}}

**[[Asymmetrical Action Group Operator armor|MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/O variant]] {{1st}}

**[[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/AA variant]] {{1st}}

{{main|Multiplayer Emblems}}

An Emblem is a highly customizable image that appears on the right arm of a Spartan and the back of an Elite during multiplayer matches, they are there to give a player an identity for themselves.

==Features==

{{col-begin}}

{{col-2}}

===Characters===

*[[Auntie Dot]] {{1st}}

*[[Avery Junior Johnson]]

*[[Beta-Red Actual|Beta Red Actual]] {{1st}}

*[[Carter-A259]] {{1st}}

*[[Catherine-B320]] {{1st}}

*[[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey]]

*[[Cortana]]

*[[Emile-A239]] {{1st}}

*[[Jorge-052]] {{1st}}

*[[Jun-A266]] {{1st}}

*[[Pete Stacker]]

===Events===

*[[Fall of Reach]]

**[[Siege of New Alexandria]] {{1st}}

*[[Operation: GUARDIAN LANCE]] {{Mo}}

*[[Battle of Shield 0459]] {{C|Indirect mention}}

===Locations===

*[[Epsilon Eridani system|Epsilon Eridani System]]

**[[Fermion|Fermion Remote Scanning Outpost]] {{Mo}}

**[[Gamma Station]] {{1st}}

**[[Reach]]

***[[Natural satellite|Moons]]

****[[Csodaszarvas]] {{1st}}

****[[Turul]] {{1st}}

***[[Eposz]] {{1st}}

****[[Babd Catha Ice Shelf]] {{1st}}

*****[[Sword Base]] {{1st}}

*****[[Babd Catha Forerunner complex]] {{1st}}

***[[Longhorn Valley]] {{Mo}}

***[[Manassas]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}

***[[New Alexandria]] {{1st}}

***[[Orbital Defense Generator Facility A-331]] {{Mo}}

***[[Sabre Program Launch/Research Range]] {{1st}}

***[[Ütközet]] {{1st}}

****[[Szurdok Ridge]] {{1st}}

*****[[Ütközet hydroelectric power plant]] {{1st}}

***[[Visegrád|Visegrad]] {{1st}}

****[[Visegrád Relay|Visegrad Relay]] {{1st}}

*[[Epsilon Indi system|Epsilon Indi System]] {{Mo}}

**[[Harvest]] {{Mo}}

*[[Harmony]] {{Mo}}

*[[Lambda Serpentis system|Lambda Serpentis System]] {{Mo}}

**[[Jericho VII]] {{Mo}}

*[[Sigma Octanus system|Sigma Octanus System]] {{Mo}}

**[[Sigma Octanus IV]] {{Mo}}

===Organizations===

*[[Covenant Empire]]

**[[Covenant Army]]

**[[Covenant Navy]]

****[[UNSC Army Airborne]] {{First mentioned}}

*****[[UNSC Army Airborne#Pathfinders|Pathfinders]] {{First mentioned}}

****[[Special Warfare Command|Army Special Warfare Command]]

******[[Noble Team]] {{1st}}

***[[UNSC Air Force]] {{1st}}

*****[[Air Mobility Express]] {{1st}}

******[[AMX-4]] {{1st}}

******[[AMX-42]] {{1st}}

****[[Logistical Operations Command]] {{Mo}}

*****[[SPARTAN-II Program]]

******[[Red Team]] {{Mo}}

******[[Military police|Beta-5 Military Police]] {{1st}} {{Mo}}

******[[SPARTAN-III Program]]

****[[YSS-1000 Sabre|Sabre program]] {{1st}}

===Species===

*[[Gúta]] {{1st}}

*[[Human]]

*[[Huragok]]<ref name="OMUtB">'''[[Halo: Reach ViDoc: Once More Unto the Breach]]'''</ref><ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=63_LHQoVyxU&feature=player_embedded#! '''YouTube''': Halo: Reach - 5 Minute Firefight]</ref>

*[[Jiralhanae]]<ref name="OMUtB"/><ref name="HR overview">[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClRHhB6yOMQ '''Youtube''': ''Machinima:  Halo Reach- Invasion, Fireteams, Game Editions Overview: Bungie Explains Episode 8'']</ref><ref name="Update">[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_061110 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 06.11.10'']</ref>

*[[Kig-yar]]

**[[Skirmisher]] {{1st}}

*[[Mgalekgolo]] <ref name="Update"/>

*[[Moa]] {{1st}}

*[[Sangheili]]

*[[San 'Shyuum]] {{Mo}}

*[[Unggoy]]

*[[Yanme'e]]<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_061810 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 6.18.10'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070210 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 7.02.10'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/article.aspx?ucc=enemies&cid=28448 ''Halo: Reach'' Intel - Enemies]</ref>

{{col-2}}

===Vehicles===

*''[[Anchor 9]]'' {{1st}}

*{{Class|CCS|Battlecruiser}}

*{{Class|Halcyon|Cruiser}}<ref name="boneyard">'''Halo: Reach''', level ''[[Boneyard]]''</ref>

**{{UNSCShip|Pillar of Autumn}}

*[[M12 Force Application Vehicle]]

*[[M12 Light Reconnaissance Vehicle]]

*[[M12G1 Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]]

*[[M12R Light Anti-Armor Vehicle]] {{1st}}

*[[M274 Ultra-Light All-Terrain Vehicle]]<ref name="HR overview"/>

*[[M808B Main Battle Tank]]

*[[M831 Troop Transport]]<ref>'''[[Halo: Reach Video Games Awards Trailer|''Halo: Reach'' Video Games Awards Trailer]]''' ''(0:20)''</ref>

*[[Orbital insertion pod|Orbital Insertion Pod]]

*[[S-2 Traxus Cargo Transporter]]<ref>'''[[Halo Waypoint]]''' video ''Fun With Forklifts''</ref>

*[[UNSC frigate]]

**{{UNSCShip|Aegis Fate}} {{Mo}}<ref>'''''Halo: Reach''''', level ''[[Overlook]]'', [[Halo: Reach radio conversations|Overlook radio conversation]]</ref>

**{{UNSCShip|Commonwealth}}<ref name="boneyard"/>

**{{UNSCShip|Stalwart Dawn}} {{1st}} {{Mo}}

*[[Paris-class heavy frigate|''Paris''-class heavy frigate]]

*[[YSS-1000 Sabre|YSS-1000 ''Sabre'']] {{1st}}

===Weapons===

*[[7 wood]]

*[[Class-2 Energy Gun]]

*[[Energy dagger]] {{1st}}

*[[H-165 FOM]] {{1st}}

*[[Landmine]] {{1st}}

*[[Light plasma mortar]] {{1st}}

*[[ST/Medusa missile|Medusa Missile]] {{1st}}

*[[M1024 ASW/AC 30mm ALA Cannon]] {{1st}}

*[[M247H Heavy Machine Gun]] {{1st}}

*[[M247T Medium Machine Gun]]

*[[M319 Individual Grenade Launcher]] {{1st}}

*[[M392 Designated Marksman Rifle]] {{1st}}

*[[M41 Light Anti-Aircraft Gun]]

*[[M41 Surface-to-Surface Rocket Medium Anti-Vehicle/Assault Weapon]]

*[[M45 Tactical Shotgun]] {{1st}}

*[[M512 Smooth Bore High Velocity Cannon]]

*[[M68 Asynchronous Linear-Induction Motor]]

*[[M638 Autocannon]] {{1st}}

*[[M6G Personal Defense Weapon System]]

*[[M71 Anti-Aircraft Gun]] {{1st}}

*[[M79 Multiple Launch Rocket System]] {{1st}}

*[[M8 Automated Defense System]] {{1st}}

*[[M9 High-Explosive Dual-Purpose Grenade]]

*[[MA37 Individual Combat Weapon System]] {{1st}}

*[[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]]

*[[M460 Automatic Grenade Launcher|MG460 Automatic Grenade Launcher]] {{1st}}

*[[Plasma mortar]]

*[[Sniper Rifle System 99 Anti-Matériel]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-1 Antipersonnel Grenade]]

*[[Type-1 Energy Weapon/Sword]]

*[[Type-2 Energy Weapon/Hammer]]

*[[Type-25 Carbine]]

*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Pistol]]

*[[Type-25 Directed Energy Rifle]]

*[[Type-26 Anti-Infantry Stationary Gun]]

*[[Type-31 Rifle]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-33 Guided Munitions Launcher]]

*[[Type-33 Light Anti-Armor Weapon]]

*[[Type-38 Anti-Aircraft Cannon]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-50 Directed Energy Rifle/Heavy]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-51 Directed Energy Rifle/Improved]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-52 Directed Energy Support Weapon]]

*[[Type-52 Guided Munitions Launcher/Explosive]] {{1st}}

*[[Type-52 Special Applications Rifle]] {{1st}}

===Equipment===

*[[Portable jump-jet]] {{1st}}

*[[Armor lock|Armor Lock]] {{1st}}

*[[Drop shield|Drop Shield]] {{1st}}

*[[Overshield|Overshield Power Up]]

{{col-end}}

{{Quote|Where there will be a full three-year cycle, it's got all-new tech, akin to the change from ''[[Halo 2]]'' to ''[[Halo 3]]'', not like ''[[Halo 3: ODST|ODST]]'', which was just built on top of the foundation.|Bungie Community Manager, [[Brian Jarrard]].}}

''Reach'' has been in development since the completion of ''[[Halo 3]]'', in the tradition of a full three year cycle and will use a completely new game engine created specifically for the game. It was confirmed in October 2009 that [[Martin O'Donnell]], Bungie's lead composer, had begun casting voice actors for ''Reach''.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_101609 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 10/16/2009'']</ref><ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_102309 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 10/23/2009'']</ref>

The [[Halo: Reach Multiplayer Beta]], used to gather information and tweak gameplay features in the game, ran from May 3 through May 20, 2010. The [[Zero-bug release]] milestone in ''Halo: Reach'''s development was reached on June 24, 2010,<ref>[http://www.nobleactual.com/post/733606058/final-stretch '''Noble Actual''': ''Final stretch'']</ref> and the game's audio, including soundtrack, voices and sound effects, was finished on July 15, 2010.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=27328 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 07.16.10'']</ref> As of August 5, 2010, ''Halo: Reach'' has [[wikipedia:Software release life cycle#RTM|"gone gold"]], meaning all development of the game has been completed and mass manufacturing of the game has begun.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_080610 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update''' 08.06.10'']</ref> The game was released on September 14, 2010 as planned.  Interestingly, there were 117 days between the end of the Beta and the release of the full game, referencing [[John-117|John 117]], the Master Chief.

In many ways, the character designs, especially those of [[Sangheili]] and human personnel, harken back to ''Halo: Combat Evolved''. Models for enemies and allies boast remarkable levels of new detail in form of higher-resolution textures and more polygons. Enemies and allies will have more individual features to denote ranks and provide more visual variety.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070210 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update: 07.02.10'']</ref> Bungie made an effort to make the Covenant feel more alien and threatening; for example, the Covenant will speak in their own languages instead of English.

Bungie is using a completely redone version of the ''Halo'' engine for ''Halo: Reach'', with no component left untouched.<ref name="cvg">[http://www.computerandvideogames.com/article.php?id=261532 '''ComputerAndVideoGames''': ''Interview: Halo Reach'']</ref><ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/>

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

''Halo: Reach'''s engine is able to support up to 40 active AI characters or 20 vehicles with AI characters on screen at once, twice as many as in ''Halo 3''. In addition, distant battles between AI characters follow automated behavior models, which convert into scripted behaviors as the player gets closer, and finally convert to full AI.<ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/>

The music of ''Reach'' was referred to as being more somber and more visceral, as the plot is more character-driven than previous ''Halo'' titles and that it focuses on a planet known to have fallen.<ref name="audio">[http://gamevideos.1up.com/video/id/27382 '''GameVideos''': ''Halo Reach VGA Interview'']</ref> While stated before release that the ''Halo'' Theme would not appear in ''Reach'',<ref name="EDGE"/><ref name="GI"/> an orchestral re-imagining does indeed appear as the opening segment of the track [[Tip of the Spear (music)|Tip of the Spear]], while certain motifs are also present in several other tracks.

The in-game effects such as weapon sounds have also been amplified to sound more powerful and realistic. In addition to various different audio filters for interiors and exteriors, the space environment in the level ''Long Night of Solace'' required an entirely new audio filter to make the environment feel more realistic.<ref>[http://www.gametrailers.com/episode/gametrailers-tv/102 '''GameTrailers TV''' — Episode 102]</ref> A significant improvement in the game's audio technology allows for more fluid transition between different layers of music; whereas the first Halo could barely manage more than two layers of music at once, ''Reach'' can run seven layers at once, coordinating which ones fade in and out based on relatively minor changes in the player's behavior.<ref name="popular"/>

''Halo: Reach''<nowiki />'s matchmaking allows players to compete with each other over the Xbox Live online service or System Link, for 16 players on the Xbox. The matchmaking system has been improved and redesigned from ''Halo 3''; instead of having experience and rank as two separate features, ''Halo: Reach'' combines these two into a credit system where the player is scored on how well they play in each individual performance, instead of a win/loss system. As players gain credits, they achieve higher [[Rank (Halo: Reach)|military rank]], and are able to buy [[armor permutations (Halo: Reach)|armor permutations]] to customize their SPARTAN and Elites character model. A new matchmaking system called the [[Matchmaking#Halo: Reach|Arena]] is introduced for hardcore/competitive players where they will play in month-long seasons and be put into divisions of either Onyx, Gold, Silver, Bronze or Iron, depending on how well they play. Along with this, Bungie has announced that Campaign will also have matchmaking support as well.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_082010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 8/20/20'']</ref> Players will be able to vote on which Campaign mission to play, similar to how voting works in competitive Matchmaking. On October 25th, Bungie announced in the weekly update that Campaign Matchmaking has been released, and can now be accessed in the Co-op playlists along with Firefight Matchmaking and Score Attack.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&cid=28689 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 9/17/10'']</ref>

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

 

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

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

{{Main|Halo: Reach "The Battle Begins" Campaign Trailer}}

The Battle Begins campaign trailer was released July 29, 2010.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_073010 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 07.30.10'']</ref> The 1:06 trailer showcased several cinematic scenes from the campaign.

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

{{Main|Remember Reach|Remember Reach Webfilm|Patrol|New Life|Spaceport (Remember Reach)|Deliver Hope}}

{{Halo: Reach Versions}}

''Halo: Reach'' was released in three different versions. The Standard Edition comes with the game disc and manual. The Limited Edition is cased in an ONI "black box" and includes an exclusive Sangheili armor set for use in multiplayer modes and an artifact bag containing [[Catherine Elizabeth Halsey|Dr. Halsey]]'s [[dr. Halsey's personal journal|personal journal]] and other classified documents and effects that unravel long-held secrets of the ''Halo'' universe. The Legendary Edition contains everything from the Limited Edition along with extra SPARTAN armor effect for use in the game, along with an exclusive hand-painted and numbered Noble Team statue by [[McFarlane Toys]] in UNSC-themed custom packaging. Those in North America who purchase ''Halo: Reach'' on launch day will receive a new variation of the coveted [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/Mark VI/R variant|MJOLNIR Recon Armor]]. Recon will also be available to any who have pre-ordered the game.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=news&cid=26642 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Launches 09.14.2010! '']</ref> As a bonus, the [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor/W variant|UA Multi-Threat MJOLNIR Mark V(B) Armor]] will be given to customers who pre-order the game at GameStop.

In addition, Bungie has announced that players who have/buy a copy of ''[[Halo PC]]'', can use that same authentication key to obtain a special in-game ''[[Halo: Combat Evolved]]'' symbol on their nameplate . Players of Xbox's ''[[Halo 2]]'' before the April 14th, 2010 cutoff (Shutdown of Xbox Live v1 Service) will be awarded a special in-game ''Halo 2'' symbol on their nameplate. If your current gamertag has changed since the last time you played ''Halo 2'', or if your current gamertag never played ''Halo 2'', you will not be receiving this item.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_042310 '''Bungie.net''': ''This is the End'']</ref> ''Halo 3'', ''Halo 3: ODST'', Bungie Pro, ''Halo: Reach'' Beta flairs are also displayable in a similar way.

Also, a ''Reach'' themed Xbox has been announced.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach/vidaudio.aspx?c=58&i=27383 '''Bungie.net''': ''Halo: Reach Unboxed'']</ref> The Xbox will include a 250-gigabyte hard drive, two ''Reach'' themed wireless controllers, standard wired headset, and a standard copy of Halo: Reach. The ''Reach'' Xbox 360 will also feature exclusive Elite Armor, Waypoint Avatar Gear, and ''Halo Legends'' episode: "''[[The Package]]''",<ref>[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGRW8R-rvWM '''You Tube''':''Unboxing Reach'']</ref> as well as custom ''Halo'' sound effects from the Xbox itself.

In addition the controllers and headset will be sold separately for $59.99 and $49.99 respectively. The controller will also bring a token for a downloadable animated Covenant Banshee avatar item. The theme includes ONI property tags and more, which according to Microsoft, is canon material in the ''Halo'' universe.<ref>[http://www.wired.com/gamelife/2010/07/halo-reach-xbox-360/ '''Wired.com''': ''New Halo: Reach Xbox to Sport 360 Design, Custom Sound''] - ''The imagery and text on the console isn't just gibberish. It will all have meaning for Halo die-hards.''</ref>

Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack was released on September 28th, two weeks after the release of ''Halo: Reach''. The soundtrack features twenty new tracks heard in the game, composed by [[Martin O'Donnell]] and [[Michael Salvatori]].<ref name="soundtrack">[https://www.sumthingdigital.com/AlbumDetails.aspx?albumid=4811 '''SumthingDigital''': ''Halo: Reach Original Soundtrack'']</ref>

{{HR Review}}

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

*''Halo: Reach's'' original achievement set has 49 achievements, which is a reference to Bungie's love of the number [[List of "seven" references in Halo|seven]], since seven times seven is 49.<ref>[http://www.bungie.net/News/content.aspx?type=topnews&link=BWU_070910 '''Bungie.net''': ''Bungie Weekly Update 07.09.10'']</ref>

*Currently, ''Halo: Reach'' has 59 achievements, with '''7''' achievements added during the release of the Noble Map Pack on November 30th, 2010 and '''3''' added with the release of the Defiant Map Pack on march 15th, 2011. This could still be a reference to to '''7''' (5 + 9 = 14, 14 / 2 = 7)

<gallery perrow="4" widths="150">

File:Concept 01.jpg|A Sangheili attacks two UNSC infantrymen.

File:Concept 04.jpg|Landscape of Reach.

File:Concept 05.jpg|A bridge leading over a canyon.

File:Doomed.jpg|A battle between Sangheili and SPARTANs.

File:KIuWJ.jpg|Noble Team in combat position.

File:Hreach_concept_1.jpg|A UNSC facility.

File:Hreach_concept_2.jpg|An early concept of SPARTANs and other UNSC forces.

File:Hreach_concept_3.jpg|Sangheili in a forest.

<gallery perrow="4" widths="150">

File:Halo- Reach - Noble Team Battle.jpg|Noble Team in a battle with the Covenant.

File:Reach-m10 evironment.jpg|Landscape on the level [[Winter Contingency (level)|Winter Contingency]].

File:Reach E310 Firefight Beachhead04.jpg|Firefight on [[Beachhead (Halo: Reach level)|Beachhead]].

File:Gallery pic 3450 0 30040.jpg|A multiplayer match on [[Spire]].

{{Reflist|3}}

==Links==

*[http://www.bungie.net/Projects/Reach/default.aspx '''Bungie.net''': ''Official Halo: Reach project page'']

{{Halo Games}}